Appreciation for Army Aviation

Enterprise Man Connects the Wiregrass to Military History Through Service

Sam Baker pilots helicopters, curates artifacts, and is active in other volunteer endeavors to connect people with the legacy of Army aviation — past and present.

“It’s all about showing the community what Army aviation is and how it touches their lives,” says Baker, a retired Army pilot living in Enterprise. “Everyone in the Wiregrass is affected by it because helicopters fly over their houses.”

Baker began his career as a military police officer before attending flight school to become a Huey and Chinook pilot. After a decadeslong military career, he retired in 2020 and joined the Friends of Army Aviation, a nonprofit that educates the public about the Army’s aviation history and supports families of fallen soldiers.

As a volunteer, Baker wears many hats. “I do whatever is needed. I sweep the floors, I fly the helicopters. I’m kind of like the curator for the artifacts — no one else touches this except me,” he says, gesturing to the pieces of history surrounding him. His work transformed an empty corner of a hangar into a replica of a tactical operation center filled with donated memorabilia of old missions, uniforms, and artifacts. Visitors can view maps from the Vietnam War, equipment from the war on terror, and displays that recreate soldiers’ barracks.

One of Baker’s most meaningful contributions is the graduation flight program, which started 3 and a half years ago when a flight school graduate asked to give his family a ride in a Huey helicopter.

“We made it happen, and it was such a hit that we’ve done it every two weeks since,” he says. “It’s just awesome watching family members get off a helicopter that flew 50 years ago. They’re just so excited.”

The program gives families an appreciation for the mission of Army pilots, as many graduates go on to serve for at least a decade. “It’s about connecting families to the mission and giving them an inside look,” Baker says.

Members of the public can also catch a ride for a $60 fee to cover expenses.

Beyond the hangar, the Friends of Army Aviation offers helicopter rides at community events in places like Apalachicola, Florida, and Orange Beach. Baker and other pilots also perform flyovers at veteran funerals and ceremonies.

“We don’t profit from this,” Baker says. “Every dollar goes back into maintaining the helicopters and keeping the mission alive.”

In addition to his work with Friends of Army Aviation, Baker serves with organizations like the Army Aviation Association of America and the U.S. Army Warrant Officers Association. He also volunteers with the Foundation for Hospital Art and the U.S. Heritage Foundation at Fort Novosel.

Baker’s contributions recently earned him recognition as the latest Silent Heroes of the Wiregrass recipient. The award, a partnership between Wiregrass Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round Up Foundation and WTVY, honors individuals quietly making an impact in their communities.

“I think Mr. Baker’s efforts inspire a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices of service members and their families,” says Stevie Sauls, WEC’s vice president of member services and communication. “We’re grateful he’s a part of our community.”

About his award, Baker says, “It’s an honor. I hope it inspires others to appreciate military aviation and the work at Fort Novosel.”