Thompson receives standing ovations, and Air Show Sword of Excellence

Minden resident and Former Minden-Tahoe Airport Director Bobbi Thompson received two standing ovations and the International Council of Air Shows Sword of Excellence for her contribution to airshows in Western Nevada and across the nation.

Thompson was honored at the council’s Dec. 4-7 convention in Las Vegas.

During the 13 years she worked for ABS, the Carson Valley airport was featured military acrobatic air displays by the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds.

She is being credited for her part in convincing the Blue Angels to return Oct. 5-6 to Western Nevada along with the Canadian Snowbirds to Reno Stead Airport.

Thompson has served on the board of the National Championship Air Races for five years.

The organization is currently seeking a new home for its annual air races.

“While her efforts in aviation span many countries, it's her work with the National Championship Air Races in recent years that has left a tremendous impact on our day to day lives,” according to organizers. “Bobbi joined the board in 2018, and despite all of her obligations outside of that role, she has been an extremely caring and active member since day one and most recently was able to convince the Blue Angels, Canadian Snowbirds and many more

to return to Northern Nevada in October 2024, at the Reno Stead Airport.”

Since 1981, the Sword of Excellence has been givenb each year to recognize outstanding service and personal contributions to the air show industry.

During the last four decades, 47 different recipients have received the honor.

“The single common characteristic of these air show performers, event organizers, military representatives, government officials and air show industry activists is their selfless commitment to improving and contributing not just to their own air show businesses, but to the entire air show industry,” organizers said.