In 2003, the Capitol Square Foundation launched the Great Ohioan Award to commemorate the significant role of Ohioans in an event or series of events of lasting significance in World, American or Ohio history.
The foundation’s first honoree for this award is a group of individuals which commemorate Ohio’s role in the birth and development of aviation: the Wright Brothers, John Glenn and Neil Armstrong. It is fitting these Ohioans were honored in 2003, Ohio’s bicentennial celebration as well as the 100th anniversary of powered flight. The foundation hosted a special dinner to pay tribute to these aviation pioneers and celebrated how they have changed our world in so many ways.
