“Bob’s so selfless and dedicated, we wanted to create a lasting tribute,” expressed Cmdr. Sam Bovington, NAS Operations Manager and Navy Flying Club member.

On Saturday, Sept. 23, Bob Fraser, the chief flight instructor at the Flying Club, got exactly what he deserves for his selflessness and dedication: the flight instruction program at the club was officially dedicated as the Bob Fraser School of Flight.

A shining example of Fraser’s selfless dedication, just one day before the dedication, he was unwittingly hard at work, prepping for the big day. After all his students had received their instruction on Sept. 22, Bob Fraser stayed for eight more hours to mow grass, move aircraft and set up chairs and canopies.

Kept in the dark on the surprise dedication, Bob knew only that the club was hosting an open house on Sept. 23, and that he wanted the club he loves to shine brightly for its guests.

An act like this is kind of like inflating balloons for your own surprise birthday party, and is one more reason why Bob earned the honor.

“Bob is the perfect example of a humble servant,” said John Humphries, Flying Club manager. “He seeks no recognition or glory, yet dedicates his time and energy to serve others in the profession he sincerely yields a life-long passion for … aviation.”

More than dedication to the club, Bob’s first priority is to his students. “In his 26 years at the club, Bob has far and away signed off more students in private and commercial tickets than anyone in its history,” Bovington added. “He’s totally dedicated to helping people achieve their goal of obtaining a pilot’s license.”

“He loves working with his students and watching them succeed,” explained Bob’s wife Donna.

Bob’s expertise comes from a long and storied career in aviation. He joined the Navy in 1949 and earned his naval aviator wings a few years later.

In 1955, he began his instructing career, training new pilots to earn their wings of gold in Pensacola. After serving time in locations such as Alameda and San Diego, Bob reported to NAS Whidbey Island as the first commanding officer of VAQ-132, followed by a career as the commanding officer of VAQ-129.  Bob retired from the Navy in 1980 with over 22,000 hours flown.

Not spending any time away from his lifelong passion, he immediately began his second career at Whidbey Island Navy Flying Club as chief flight instructor, where has continued to teach thousands of young aviators. 

After many years of instructing, Fraser continues to command respect from his students. “He knows what he’s doing up there. He amazes me every time we’re in the air. Being in his presence is an honor,” noted Alex Fulwiler, Fraser’s newest student.

Even experienced pilots are in awe of Fraser’s skill. As part of the dedication celebration, club member Dave Bauer piloted Fraser in his vintage T-38 aircraft. During his days in Pensacola, Bob trained incoming pilots on that same model aircraft. Three decades after Fraser taught so many pilots to perfect their skills on the T-38, in the skies over Puget Sound, Bauer turned the controls over to Bob.

“I couldn’t believe it had been 31 years that he’d been up in that plane. He was steady as a rock,” reported Bauer.

Ever humble, Fraser was immensely thankful for the honor.

“I am speechless,” he began. “This day will be remembered forever… I appreciate what everyone did to make this happen, I just want to thank you all for making this a memorable event for me and my family.”