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H O N O R A B L E M E N T I O N
'Miami Center air traffic controller David Rivero was working a busy sec-
tor on December 7, 2006 when he caught a glimpse of a VFR target heading towards an
aircraft he was communicating with. After initially alerting the pilot of the traffic, David
noticed the VFR target suddenly turn back towards the aircraft. With both aircraft at the
same altitude, David had to immediately take action in order to prevent a mid-air collision.
"David warned the pilot of the oncoming traffic, and the pilot was able to climb his air-
craft to avoid hitting the VFR target. After the VFR aircraft was clear, the pilot radioed
David to say, 'Thanks for that. I would've hit him.' Every controller issues thousands of
traffic calls each year just for this 'once in a career' opportunity to save lives.
"David's focus and quick response made all the difference that day. His years of experi-
ence as an air traffic controller enabled him to act as quickly and precisely as he did. I am
honored to represent such an outstanding controller and I congratulate David for a job
well done."
Victor Santore
Southern Regional Vice President
Todd Hurta, Orlando Sanford Tower
Tyrone Mercer & Phil White, Atlanta TRACON
Shane Ahern, West Palm Beach Tower
Pat Gancel & Bill Clark, Pensacola TRACON
Cheryl Plumeri, Cincinnati Tower
Lawrence Lee & Thomas Lyens, Raleigh/Durham Tower
