Julian D.Sawyer - Mobile native Julian D. Sawyer began primary flight training in June 1948 as an aviation cadet in the United States Air Force. During his twenty-six year military career, Sawyer served in numerous capacities, including the Air Training Command as a flight instructor in T-6, T-28 and T-33 training aircraft. Sawyer also served as a flight commander in the F-86 Sabre Jet, F-84 Thunder Jet and F-100 Super Sabre fighter aircraft. During three tours of duty during the Viet Nam war. Sawyer completed 463 combat missions as Commander of the 615th Tactical Fighter Squadron and Wing Commander of the 366th Tactical Fighter Wing. During his military career. Sawyer received numerous military decorations including the Silver Star, Soldier's Medal and Distinguished Flying Cross. Sawyer graduated from the National War College in 1969 and achieved the rank of Colonel. His final assignment before retirement was Deputy Director for Operational Command and Control in the Pentagon.
Following retirement, Sawyer relocated to Demopolis, Alabama to begin a second aviation career as an airport manager, fixed based operator and flight instructor. Under Sawyer's leadership, the Demopolis Airport was transformed from a neglected facility facing closure into a major economic resource for Marengo County. Sawyer continued to promote the growth of general aviation as a flight instructor by providing basic and advanced flight training to pilots in the Demopolis area. During his tenure as Airport Manager, Sawyer served in numerous capacities to promote the growth and development of general aviation in Alabama.
Julian D. Sawyer was inducted into the Alabama Aviation Hall of Fame at the Southern Museum of Flight on the 26th of March 2011
