The Board of Directors of the Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame proudly announce the 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees
(Press Release Courtesy of: Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame)
- James E. Hall of Signal Mountain
- Donna F. Highers of Lebanon
- Douglas E. Kreulen, A.A.E. of Franklin
- Darrel L. Berry of Camden (Posthumously)
James E. Hall of Signal Mountain, TN
A veteran of the U.S. Army (captain) and an attorney, James E. Hall served as chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board from 1994 to 2001 and has served on the board of Chattanooga Airport (CHA) since 2003, including two terms as chairman.
He is a distinguished public servant whose leadership and vision have profoundly advanced transportation safety and security, particularly in aviation.
Donna F. Highers of Lebanon, TN
As lead instructor of Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) and Inspection Authorization (IA) courses at Baker School of Aeronautics since 1988, Donna Highers has trained, taught and guided thousands of A&P/IAs to FAA licensure.
Her 40 years of teaching and experience has resulted in her being recognized nationally as an expert in the field.
Douglas E. Kreulen, A.A.E. of Franklin, TN
A decorated 27-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force, retiring at the rank of Colonel, Doug Kreulen has served as the President and CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA)—the organization responsible for Nashville International Airport® (BNA®) and John C. Tune Airport® (JWN®)—since 2017.
His vision and leadership have carried BNA through yearslong expansion and modernization projects that have reshaped it into a world‑class airport, significantly increasing the number of domestic and international nonstop destinations and broadening travel options for residents of Tennessee and the surrounding region.
Darrel L. Berry of Camden, TN – Posthumously (1948-2025)
A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Army, Darrel L. Berry was a successful businessman who amassed a significant collection of former military warbirds.
He shared these aircraft with the youth and community members of northwest Tennessee through his museum, locally sponsored airshows and philanthropic efforts.
Berry was also inducted into the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Warbird Hall of Fame in November 2025.
These Inductees will be Honored and Enshrined at the 2026 Enshrinement Gala
Sept. 26, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.
Black Tie Optional – Paid-in-Advance Reservation Required
Open To Public - All Guests Welcome
RSVP—firm reservation deadline is Aug. 25, 2026
On-Line Gala Reservations: www.tnaviationhof.org
Embassy Suites Conference Center
1200 Conference Center Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Reception—Dinner—Ceremony—Silent Auction