Museum Staff
Mark Hurwitz
Museum President & Executive Director
Mike O’Rourke
Vice President
Ron Whetstone
Museum Manager
Ron Whetstone
Facilities Manager
Ron Whetstone
Health and Safety
Shirley Luvender
Membership Manager
Fred Herr
Gift Shop Manager
Virginia Brooke
Historian / Controller
Nick Weremeychik
Restoration Manager
Lee Winz
Restoration Manager
Tom Doerr
Chief Docent
Board of Trustees
Gene Atwell
Board Member (2025)
“Having flown from what was once NAS Willow Grove and living locally, I feel it’s my time to return the sheer joy I experienced during that time in my life by volunteering as a trustee to offer my perspective, skill set and assistance as the Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum moves to the next level.”
Board Member (2025)
- Math degree from the University of Maryland
- Served for 10 years in the Marine Corps on active duty and in the reserves; flew A-4 Skyhawks
- Commercial airline Captain qualified on the Boeing 707/727/757/767/777 and Airbus 330
- Currently flying the Boeing 707 under a government aircraft refueling contract
John (Jack) K. Beaver
Board Member (1987)
“I got involved in 1989 because I wanted to help the Museum, and my continued involvement is to see the Museum grow successful and become even stronger, to ensure that the story of all that has been contributed by the Willow Grove Naval Base and other aviation history is preserved.”
Board Member (1987)
- Bachelor of Science degree in Textile Engineering from Philadelphia Textile Institute (Thomas Jefferson University)
- U.S. Navy active duty for 5 years; reserves for 23 years
- Flew the H-2 Sea Sprite helicopter during active duty; flew the H-3 ASW Sea King and P-2V Neptune in the reserves
- Professional career highlights:
- International Latex Corporation (Playtex) — product development
- Rohm and Haas — fiber research purchasing industrial manufacturing equipment
- Honeywell — electronics purchasing and product management
- Instructor with the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets and Coordinator with the Boy Scouts
- Active in the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars
Robert L. Beavis
Board Member (2011)
“I have flown several of the Museum’s airplane types and felt I could be of help to the Museum [because of that experience]. I love aviation and love our military. The museum was a good fit [for me as a Trustee] as I had many personal contacts who served at Naval Air Station Willow Grove. As long as I can be of help, I will do my best to serve the Wings of Freedom Museum.”
Board Member (2011)
- Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Villanova University (1964)
- Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps (1964), completed flight training (1966) and served as an Active-Duty Fighter Pilot (1964-1969), and continued with Marine Corps reserves through retirement as a Colonel
- Flew the F-8 Crusader, F-4 Phantom II, A-4 Skyhawk, and F-18 Hornet during his military career
- Accumulated 25,000 total hours in the cockpit, including over 4700 combat flight hours, 150 hours of which was flying combat missions supporting Marines on the ground during the Vietnam War
- Served 34 years as a commercial pilot with United Airlines, flying the Boeing 727; Boeing 737; DC-8; DC-10; Boeing 747(100/200/SP); Boeing 747(400) and the Boeing 757
- Received multiple military decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, ten Air Medals, Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal
Joe Cameron Blake
Board Member (2015)
“As a former NAS Willow Grove Airstation Commanding Officer, I worked closely with Museum staff in 2000 to 2002. I developed a strong interest in their vision and development for a future Museum. I provided the piece of land where the existing Museum presides. The world class future Museum will be a great tribute to the legacy of NASJRB Willow Grove, preserving the memory of the hundreds of thousands of personnel who served there over the years. I believe the future Museum will provide an educational resource for the youth of Pennsylvania and source of pride for the citizens of this great State.”
Board Member (2015)
- Graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1977
- Master of Science from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in 2000
- Completed U.S. Naval Aviator training in 1979; 5500 mishap free flight hours, over 300 aircraft carrier-arrested landings, Blue Angels finalist in 1985
- 26 years U.S. Navy active duty; two aircraft carrier deployments (VS-29) in 1981 and 1983 and instructor in S-3 Viking training squadron (VS-41) 1984 to 1988. Served as a Landing Signal Officer during all deployments.
- Officer in Charge (VR-52) 1990 to 1992; Commanding Officer (VR-58) 1994 to 1996; Commanding Officer of Naval Air Station/Joint Reserve Base Willow Grove from 2000 to 2002
- Commander, Naval Air Forces Reserve Logistics Program Manager from 1992 to 1994; Pentagon Chief of Naval Air Reserve Logistics PM from 1996 to 1999
Virginia Brooke
Board Member (2025)
“I developed an interest in aviation while working in Washington, DC, where I supported three major aircraft programs as part of my job. With my love of history and our shared mission to preserve it for future generations, I joined the Board to play an active role to ensure that the stories, achievements, and legacy of aviation remain accessible.”
Member (2001)
CFO of Operations (2009)
Financial Controller, Historian, Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum (2011)
Board Member (2025)
- Bachelor’s degree from Gwynedd Mercy University
- Served as Financial Controller for a multi-billion-dollar engineering company for 35 years before retiring in 2015
- Involved with the Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum since 2001, volunteering across every department, gaining firsthand knowledge of the museum’s people, structure, and operations
Mark Hurwitz
Acting Vice-Chairman of the Board (2026)
“The museum has provided an opportunity for me to re-engage in my interest in aviation-related activities. Preserving the history of the Willow Grove naval base, the people who served there, and teaching aviation history to future generations is a focus.”
Vice President, Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum (2009)
President, Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum (2015)
Acting Vice-Chairman of the Board (2026)
- Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana University, 1974
- IT Professional Sales, 2013 to 2021
- Deep expertise in telecommunications, manufacturing, small business partnerships and the art industry
- As Museum Vice President and President, Mark has focused on strategic priorities including governance, structural development and long-range planning
- Working alongside the Vice Chairman, fellow Board Trustees, has advanced the Museum’s mission of preserving aviation history and educating the public through interactive community experiences
Charles Meier
Treasurer of the Board (2024)
“Growing up with a Naval Aviator father living on Military Bases around the world, I’ve had an interest supporting the history and future of the US aviation tradition from an early age.”
Treasurer of the Board (2024)
- MBA, Columbia Business School
- Completed coursework in artificial intelligence and technology leadership, complementing a focus on emerging technologies and executive strategy
- Senior executive with more than two decades of leadership experience driving innovation, digital transformation, and strategic growth across global financial services, fintech, payments, and enterprise technology
- Currently Principal — Director of Payments Operations at Medidata Solutions
Ronald K. Nelson
Chairman Emeritus of the Board (2026)
“General Nelson served as a presidential helicopter pilot during President Eisenhower’s administration. During his tenure, he significantly expanded our collection, with the acquisitions of the T-34 Mentor, QH-53 drone, Faulker, F-84 Thunderjet, H-13 Sioux helicopter, A-10 Warthog, and Pitcairn Mailwing. Furthermore, he successfully led the team that negotiated the museum’s current lease agreement with the Horsham Land Reuse Authority (HLRA). The Museum owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to General Nelson for his decades of service and lasting legacy.”
President of the Board (2000)
Chairman of the Board (2014)
Chairman Emeritus of the Board (2026)
- Graduated from Northwestern University in 1954 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Physical Education
- Masters degree from Temple University in Physical Education in 1967
- After completing two summer tours at Parris Island, SC, and Quantico, VA, respectively, in the Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Course, Nelson was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps on June 4, 1954. He graduated from the 4th Marine Corps Basic School Course in February 1955 and was designated as a U.S. Naval Aviator on May 2, 1956.
- In his initial assignment at Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1) Quantico, VA, Nelson served in a variety of billets, earning the distinction of being selected as the first designated UH-34 Helicopter Aircraft Commander to stand White House duty at Naval Air Station Anacostia, Washington, DC, as a presidential helicopter pilot during President Eisenhower’s administration
- Following his tour with HMX-1, he left active duty and joined the Marine Corps Reserve at Willow Grove, PA., where he served with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 772 (HMR-775) and Marine Air Group Forty-Nine (MAG-49) in Marine Corps aviation operations leadership roles including Commanding Officer and Executive Officer of the squadron and air group, respectively, throughout the 1970s
- Nelson retired from the Marine Corps Reserve as a Major General with 36 years of service
- During his tenure as Museum Chairman of the Board, Nelson significantly expanded the museum’s collection with the acquisition of the T-34 Mentor, QH-53 drone, Faulker, F-84 Thunderjet, H-13 Sioux helicopter, A-10 Warthog, and Pitcairn Mailwing.
- Nelson also led the museum team which negotiated the current lease agreement with the Horsham Land Reuse Authority (HLRA) in 2011.
- Between his time in the Marine Corps Reserve and volunteering with the Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum, Nelson has been associated with Naval Air Station Willow Grove for over 60 years
- General Nelson also holds the distinction of having started and leading the Philadelphia Area Independent School Wrestling Tournament (now the Pennsylvania State Independent Tournament). In 1994, the Ronald K. Nelson State Wrestling Tournament Trophy was formed and awarded annually to the wrestler earning the most team points over his tournament career.
Michael A. Olenick
Chief Marketing Officer (2026)
“The local area had a major impact on the nation’s aviation achievements, be they the former [Willow Grove naval] base or region facilities. It’s important to make sure these contributions are not forgotten.”
Chief Marketing Officer (2026)
Board Member (2024)
Museum Docent (2024)
- Bachelor of Science degree from Miami University
- Masters degree from Central Michigan University
- Graduate of the Defense Systems Management College
- Retired U.S. Naval Aviator; served as a P-3C Orion Tactical Coordinator/Mission Commander/Instructor, Battle Group Staff Officer and Program Manager
- 23 years in the electronics industry as a major customer accounts program manager
- Actively involved with the Veterans of a Foreign Wars, American Legion and Bucks County, PA Tour of Honor.
Eleanor A. O’Rangers
Board Member (2026)
“I am an aerospace enthusiast as well as an avid supporter of historical preservation, particularly associated with the greater Philadelphia region. I aim to apply those interests and my creative energies to help the Wings of Freedom Museum achieve its long-term goals.”
Board Member (2026)
- Graduated with a Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy in 1990
- Completed a Cardiovascular Therapeutics Fellowship with the University of Connecticut in 1992
- Served as a clinical pharmacist with the Veterans Administration before transitioning to the pharmaceutical industry as a medical director for a major pharmaceutical brand and also served as a field-based scientist for several companies.
- Continues to work as a scientific strategist/content expert consultant for a number of pharmaceutical clients.
- Volunteers at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. where she has been a docent since 1995.
- Manages the non-profit, The Southeastern Pennsylvania Cold War Historical Society, focused on preserving Cold War/Space Race history in southeastern Pennsylvania
Boyd Parker
Board Member (2026)
“I accepted the opportunity [to serve as a Museum Trustee] to honor the memory of my late wife, a retired Air Force pilot, whose passion for aviation began right here in the Delaware Valley. We both believe deeply in giving back to our community and making a positive difference in the lives of others. I see this role as a meaningful way to continue that legacy. I want to help the museum continue to grow as a vibrant community resource while expanding its educational programs, preserving local aviation heritage, and remaining a place where people of all ages can share the spirit of American aviation.”
Board Member (2026)
- Graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences
- Master’s degrees in National Security Studies from California State University, San Bernardino, and National Resource Strategy from National Defense University
- Retired USAF Major General; over a distinguished military career spanning more than three decades, served in a variety of operational, command, and strategic leadership positions. Has flown the T-37 Tweet, T-38 Talon, C-12 Huron, KC-10 Extender, B-727, MD-80, B-737, A-330, and A-319/320/321 aircraft, with extensive experience as an instructor and evaluator pilot
- Currently serves as an Airbus A320 Captain for American Airlines.
- Boyd brings proven aviation expertise along with executive leadership, strategic planning, organizational governance, team development, and decades of experience leading complex organizations in both military and civilian environments.
John C. Rehfuss
Acting Chairman of the Board (2026)
“I have had a lifelong passion for aviation history and preservation which naturally drew me to the Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum. Having served with the Marines at MAG-49, I also have a deep personal commitment to maintaining and honoring the history of Naval Air Station Willow Grove, as well as the units and personnel who served there.”
Executive Director of the Board (2000)
President of the Board (2009)
Vice Chairman of the Board (2010)
Acting Chairman of the Board (2026)
- Business degree from Pennsylvania State University
- Veterans Administration OJT Engineering Program
- Holds various technical certifications and has completed multiple professional development courses
- Served in the United States Marine Corps from 1972-1995 in both Active Duty and Reserves
- For 45 years, John has worked with global large enterprises, including ROLM, IBM, Siemens, Campbell’s Soup, Godiva and Medidata Solutions and has built a reputation for driving operational excellence. He has successfully overseen large-scale service delivery models, managed multi-million-dollar asset portfolios, and held pivotal roles focused on technical infrastructure and project execution
- John is currently a Senior Manager, UC AG Medidata Solutions, where he leads high-performing teams to deliver specialized cloud-based technology solutions and operational support for life sciences and clinical research
- John’s contributions have included modernizing the Museum’s operational framework, spearheading community outreach initiatives, and expanding structured educational and docent training programs to preserve the legacy of the historic Naval Air Station Willow Grove
Scott A. Sumner
Board Secretary and Trustee (2023)
“I endeavor to bring the constructive experience and practical lessons learned from my prior and current employment to help sustain and expand the mission and goals of the Wings of Freedom Museum.”
Board Secretary and Trustee (2023)
- Following education at the University of South Dakota and the University of Connecticut, completed graduate work at Stanford University and Oxford University
- Served for nearly a decade with the US Navy, deployed on Nuclear Fast Attack submarines
- Following military retirement, held various senior management roles in several large organizations
- Current tenure has been part of a large, multinational aircraft and ship supplier
- Served on the boards for both profit/not-for-profit entities and participated in preparing a number of those ventures for IPO or sale
Steven R. Williams
Board Member (2025)
“Aviation changed my life. It opened up experiences in education, travel, culture and friendships. [The Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum] has a chance to kindle a flame within visitors and alter their lives in an exciting and positive way.”
Board Member (2025)
- Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management and Flight Operations from Daniel Webster College
- Completed post-graduate work in Aviation Technology at San Juan College
- Holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification, as well as Instrument and Multi-Engine ratings
- Former commercial airline Captain for US Airways Express flying the Beech 1900D; maintained a perfect safety record and accumulated over 2,100 flight hours
- Experienced aviation management professional with a comprehensive background in commercial flight operations, aircraft systems, aviation safety management, aviation history and a passion for historical preservation