23
H O N O R A B L E M E N T I O N
'Reviewing the circumstances of April 10, 2007, one is
struck by the skill and imagination of Paul Hiel. Simply by hearing clicks on his frequency
and without ever actually receiving a modulated transmission from a Bonanza, Paul was
able to ascertain the pilot was stuck on top and needed to land at Westheimer Airport in
Norman, Okla.
"Apparently though, FAA management was not impressed, taking a month to listen to the
tape and the FAA's only action to recognize Paul's achievement was to provide him skill
enhancement training for alleged phraseology errors. The FAA even refused to provide
Paul a copy of the tape.
"A controller since the age of 20, Paul is often described as one of the most energetic,
compassionate people you will ever meet, often taking personal time to help those in a
less fortunate situation.
"NATCA Southwest Region is privileged today to salute Paul's professionalism and
recognize him for this outstanding achievement."
Darrell Meachum
Southwest Regional Vice President
Jeffrey Peace, Dallas-Fort Worth Tower
Patrick Hable, Houston Center
Jeff Beasley, Amarillo Tower
