The PenFed Foundation, a national 501(c)3 founded by PenFed Credit Union, brought together two of its valued partners at a Fort Lauderdale airshow to create a memorable experience for a military teen with a passion for aviation. The special day featured a meet and greet with famed aerobatic pilot Mike Goulian and exclusive access to the Goulian Aerosports team.
Ethan Fenelon, age 13, of Parkland, Fla., has received three grants for flight lessons through non-profit Our Military Kids, a charitable organization that provides grants to military children who have a parent that is either deployed with the National Guard or Reserve, or is a post-9/11 combat-injured service member. Ethan’s father, TSG Jacques (Jack) Fenelon is a combat-injured veteran who served in the Air Force Reserve.
The PenFed Foundation recently provided a $50,000 grant to Our Military Kids to help increase access to extracurricular activities. The non-profit bridges the gap for military families who are often located in areas far from military bases and without access to other support resources.
"What an honor to connect two of our valued partners, Our Military Kids and Goulian Aerosports, to provide this memorable experience," said James Schenck, CEO of the PenFed Foundation. "At the PenFed Foundation, we are committed to supporting our military community, and this partnership allowed us to make a meaningful impact on the life of a military child."
Mike Goulian, who has been flying for over 30 years, said, “Meeting Ethan was very inspirational. He has a passion for flying at 13 years old so he is definitely someone to watch for in the future. His dream is to fly an F-22 in the U.S. Air Force.” Goulian added, “There is no doubt in my mind we will be relying on Ethan in the future to keep our country safe.”
The PenFed Foundation, Our Military Kids and Goulian Aerosports share a commitment to supporting our military community and providing opportunities to those who have served our country. The organizations hope that this day will inspire all military children and show them that they are appreciated and valued for their service and sacrifice.
Ethan Fenelon listens to pilot Mike Goulian share his passion for aviation