The McHenry Family: A Legacy of Service in Aviation by Chris Rozansky, Executive Director, Naples Airport Authority

At Naples Airport, we are proud to be part of a community shaped by aviation pioneers whose passion and service inspire future generations. One of those individuals is retired Col. Chuck McHenry, a former Air Force fighter pilot, mentor and Naples resident whose story is deeply woven into the fabric of our airport and our region.

Chuck’s aviation journey began in 1972 when he entered the United States Air Force Academy straight out of high school.

“I was the first in my area that went to the United States Air Force Academy,” he said. “I passed through the Academy as a Boy Scout, and that just kind of solidified my desire to go.”

That desire led to a distinguished career flying the A-10 Thunderbolt II, with 13 years of active duty and more than 20 years in the reserves, plus a career as an American Airlines pilot. After the birth of the second of his three daughters, he and his family moved to Naples, where he’s resided since 1998.

Today, Chuck continues to serve as a retired reserve officer and admissions liaison for both the Air Force Academy and Air Force ROTC, working with students across Southwest Florida. “I still have a mission to do in the Air Force,” he said. “It’s my way of giving back.”

Chuck’s commitment to aviation is matched only by the accomplishments of his three daughters, each of whom followed in his footsteps. His daughters – Schaeffer, Kate and Emma – grew up with the Air Force Academy experience always a part of their vocabulary.

His daughters have gone on to serve in diverse aviation roles. He said their success is a testament to the opportunities available in Naples and the values instilled in them.

Schaeffer graduated from the Air Force Academy in 2017 and now flies C-17s. Kate earned her private pilot’s license while still in high school, thanks to the James C. Ray Scholarship Foundation in Collier County. She graduated from the Academy in 2020 and is an airfield operations flight commander. Emma graduated from the Academy in 2022 and now works in public affairs for the Air Force F-35
demonstration team.

“We always gave them that goal-oriented approach,” he said. “Think of that college experience as a means to an end.”

Chuck’s own aircraft are a familiar sight at Naples Airport. He co-owns a T-28 North American Trojan, a post-WWII fighter trainer still used in air shows and formation flights.

“Folks always know that airplane is flying because it’s just such a beefy airplane,” he said. “We’re about the only airplanes in Naples Airport that take off in formation like the Thunderbirds do.”

He also flies a 1948 Stinson taildragger, training for future opportunities in WWII-era aircraft, which he called a “very challenging” and different type of flying, saying it requires a different level of focus and thinking about every takeoff and every
landing.

Chuck’s rapport with the Naples Airport Authority is built on mutual respect and collaboration.

“We’ve gone so far as to actually take some of the tower controllers up in our back seats so they have a better understanding of what we’re doing,” he said

His story is one of service, mentorship and family. The Naples Airport Authority is honored to support aviators like Col. McHenry, whose presence enriches the airfield and inspires future generations.

About the Author
Chris Rozansky, C.M., is Executive Director of the Naples Airport Authority.
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