Congratulations Lt. Col. Alex Pelbath (Class of 2001), winner of the first Sullenberger Award for Courage. The award is presented to an Academy grad who distinguishes himself or herself through a series of events or a singular act of bravery in the military, civilian world, business sector or local community. Pelbath’s leadership and bravery significantly contributed to the successful evacuation of an estimated 124,000 Afghan refugees in August 2021. The award is presented jointly by the Air Force Academy and the USAFA Association of Graduates, in cooperation with Ambassador Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger (Class of 1973), the retired pilot who saved 155 lives on Flight 1549 in 2009 — dubbed the “Miracle on the Hudson.” #longblueline #leadersofcharacter