William & Mary Executive MBA alumni honor President Carter with historic flyover
On the morning of President Jimmy Carter's funeral, a poignant and powerful tribute took place over his hometown of Plains, Georgia. A 21-plane flyover executed a "missing man" formation, a symbol of respect and remembrance, honoring the late President's life and legacy, including his Navy service. Among those taking part in this historic moment were three distinguished alumni from the Raymond A. Mason School of Business's Executive MBA Program at William & Mary.
Captain James "Spacecamp" Huddleston EMBA '23, Commander Andy "sMedium" Carlson EMBA '22, and Commander Peter "Smelly Cat" Daniels EMBA '23 were part of the flyover team that carried out the ceremonial tribute to President Carter. Their involvement in such a momentous occasion was a testament to their leadership, military service, and the deep connections they formed during their time in William & Mary's Executive MBA program.
A Humbling Experience
For the three William & Mary alumni, participating in the flyover was both an honor and a deeply personal experience.
"Participating in the flyover for President Carter's funeral was incredibly humbling," said Commander Carlson. "We were a small part of 21 Jets coming together to honor his legacy, and it was a privilege to contribute to such a meaningful tribute. In addition to his Naval service, I only recently learned that President Carter's third and pivotal presidential debate was held at William & Mary in 1976, making the crossroads of our connections very meaningful."
The flyover, which took place shortly before President Carter's casket was removed from the hearse at Maranatha Baptist Church, was conducted by a team of naval aviators, including these alumni, who share a strong professional and personal bond.
The Role of William & Mary's Executive MBA Program
The skills and values ingrained in the alumni during their time in William & Mary's Executive MBA program played a key role in the success of the flyover. The program's emphasis on leadership, collaboration, adaptability, and strategic thinking directly translated into the precision and teamwork required for this complex operation.
"The Executive MBA program at William & Mary helped shape how we operate and communicate as a team," said Commander Carlson. "The lessons we learned about adaptability and strategic thinking were something we relied on as we coordinated with a larger team of 21 jets."
For Commander Daniels, the value of teamwork and communication stood out. "One of the most memorable aspects of the flyover was being one of 30 total F-18s representing more than 10 Oceana-based Squadrons. There was a mutual respect and shared sense of purpose among us, which made the experience very patriotic."
Camaraderie and Connection: The "Tribe" at Work
At William & Mary, the concept of the "Tribe" extends far beyond the classroom, fostering a deep sense of community that lasts long after graduation. For these alumni, that spirit of collaboration and mutual support played a crucial role during the flyover.
“Being a part of the Tribe, to me, is about striving for excellence in an environment forged of earned mutual respect and focusing our efforts, in the words of Dean Pulley, towards “Principled Achievement,” said Huddleston. "As fellow alumni, and serving alongside each other as Naval Aviators, our sense of unity and mission is underpinned by a profound shared experience from our time together during the Executive MBA Program.”
Their bond as alumni and naval officers was especially evident in their shared connection with Carrier Airwing 3 (CVW-3), where they currently serve together. "We are all stationed in the same Airwing, and our shared William & Mary experience has strengthened our teamwork and leadership skills," said Carlson.
Reflections on William & Mary's Influence
Looking back, the alumni agree that William & Mary's Executive MBA Program, including the flyover, had a lasting influence on their professional lives.
Carlson reflected, "The lessons we learned during our time at William & Mary were present during the flyover, and they continue to guide us in our careers daily."
For Huddleston, Carlson, and Daniels, the values of leadership, teamwork, and adaptability instilled by William & Mary remain foundational to their service and professional success.
Service Beyond the Flyover
In addition to their involvement in the flyover, the alumni continue to serve their country with distinction. Huddleston serves as the Deputy Carrier Air Group Commander, Carlson is the Airwing Operations Officer, and Daniels is the Executive Officer of VFA-34 "Blue Blasters."
Huddleston recalls, "Representing Naval Aviation and the William & Mary community is an honor. We're proud to serve together as a team, and it was a privilege to pay tribute to President Carter in this way."
Daniels, who is currently deployed aboard the USS Harry S. Truman, exemplifies the selflessness and dedication that William & Mary instills in its alumni. "Peter volunteered to augment this deployment, and his commitment to service reflects the leadership and character that the William & Mary community fosters," said Carlson.
A Tribute to a Lifetime of Service
As the planes soared overhead in a final salute to President Carter, the alumni reflected on the
significance of their role in the flyover.
"Reflecting on the event, it was a profound experience. We were airborne, as two of 21 F-18s and three William & Mary Alumni. We were honored to be included in this tribute to President Carter," said Carlson.
The 21 jets, in perfect formation, paid a fitting tribute to President Carter—a man whose impact on the country and the world was immeasurable. For these William & Mary alumni, their participation in the flyover was a poignant reminder of the values of service, leadership, and community that the university continues to inspire in its graduates.
