F-16 pilot named Best Pilot of Year

Air Force Maj. Jeon Young-gi / Courtesy of ROK Air Force

By Kang Seung-woo

Air Force Maj. Jeon Young-gi of the 19th Fighter Wing has been named the “Best Pilot of the Year” for his versatile performance, according to the Air Force, Wednesday.

The Air Force said it held an award ceremony, presided over by its Chief of Staff Gen. Lee Seong-yong, at its headquarters in Gyeryongdae, South Chungcheong Province, Tuesday.

The award is given to an aviator who accumulates the best record in more than 20 duties including flying hours, operation participation and physical fitness in the span of one year. The 38-year-old earned a score of 735 out of a possible 1,000 for the achievement.

The Air Force also confers the “Top Gun” award to a pilot who exhibits a solid performance in an annual live-firing contest, but the best pilot award is regarded as the more prestigious and emblematic award as it evaluates overall performance for one year.

“I attribute the honor to my fellow pilots and maintenance crew who are working hard to fulfill their obligations,” Jeon said.

“I will try my best to help the Air Force improve its combat capabilities and defend the airspace.”