The Candy Bomber Foundation is pleased to announce Gen. (ret.) Mike Minihan as their new Chairman of the Board, effective November 1, 2024. Minihan recently retired from the U.S. Air Force after a distinguished, 34-year career culminating as Air Mobility Command commander. He served as a mobility pilot with 3,400 flight hours, multiple deployments, and years of service overseas, including tours in Germany and the Republic of Korea.
This is Minihan’s first position since his retirement from the U.S. Air Force.
The Candy Bomber Foundation shares Col. Gail S. Halvorsen’s love of aviation and his principles of “service before self, attitude, gratitude and that little things add up to big things.” Halvorsen, who served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during and after World War II and passed away in 2022 at the age of 101, was best known as the ‘Berlin Candy Bomber’ for his intrepid flying of humanitarian supplies into Communist-controlled Berlin in 1948-1949. Halverson began dropping candy to the children of Berlin with no authorization from his superiors, but within months became a hero with support from around the World. Dubbed Operation Little Vittles, Halvorsen dropped more than 23 tons of candy bringing hope and joy to the recipients, for which he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2014.
Through educational activities and displays, the foundation underscores Halverson’s life of service to inspire others to be and to do better. With the assistance of its partners, the foundation highlights the importance of air mobility in humanitarian operations across the years and how we each can be Candy Bombers in our own right.
“We are delighted General Minihan agreed to take a leadership position with the Gail S. Halverson Foundation,” executive director Jim Stewart said. “General Minihan’s reputation for creativity and courage and for taking care of his team echoes Colonel Halverson’s values. He is an excellent representative to carry on the legacy of the Berlin Candy Bomber.”
“I have known Mike Minihan for a few years and can say that he is a great friend of Utah,” said Utah Lieutenant Governor Deidre Henderson. “Mike is an incredible advocate for the mission of the Candy Bomber Foundation. His energy and leadership, especially in encouraging young people toward STEM careers, align beautifully with the spirit of Gail Halvorsen’s legacy.”
“As a young child, I intently listened to my grandfather’s flying stories including his role in the Berlin Airlift,” said Minihan. “Colonel Halverson’s legendary exploits, which carried on well past his actions during the Berlin Airlift, inspired me throughout my career. It is an honor to keep his story alive and hopefully inspiring similar selfless acts of service.”
If you are interested in serving as a volunteer with the Candy Bomber Foundation please contact us at info@thecandybomber.org
Submitted by James Stewart
