Dick Schram Memorial Community Relations Award
Presented annually to a military base that demonstrates an exceptional commitment to community relations in the planning and execution of its air show or air event.
A New Way to Apply
Beginning in 2026, applications for the Dick Schram Memorial Community Relations Award must be submitted through our new online application process. We appreciate your patience as we transition to this new system and work to make the application process more streamlined and efficient.
The deadline to submit an application is October 30, 2026.
If your air show is on or after September 1, 2026, you have the option to submit your application in 2026 or in 2027.
About the Award
The Dick Schram Memorial Community Relations Award recognizes a base that not only considers the needs of its civilian neighbors, but also sets new standards of excellence by actively including the surrounding community in the planning, execution, and benefits of the event.
Recipients are selected by a panel co-chaired by representatives of the United States and Canadian militaries, typically consisting of four committee members.
The Legacy of Commander Dick Schram
The award honors the memory of Commander Dick Schram, a former Blue Angel who served as the U.S. Department of Defense Aviation Support Liaison Officer in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense. Known for his extensive knowledge of the air show industry and his willingness to share it, Schram provided enthusiastic and impartial assistance to established and developing air shows, performers, writers, filmmakers, and others throughout the aviation community.
A second-generation Naval officer, Schram was the son of Captain Dick Schram, known nationwide as the "Flying Professor," who entertained air show audiences for more than 20 years. Commander Schram died of a cerebral hemorrhage on June 29, 1987, at the age of 46.
Past Recipients
See the full list of military bases honored with the Dick Schram Memorial Community Relations Award.