Clinton local earns Ray Aviation Scholarship

By Taylor Hathorn

The Ray Aviation Scholarship is the wind beneath the wings of Clinton High School sophomore John David Hagood, who earned the $10,000 grant earlier this year. 

“It was definitely a prize, but I’m very humble and grateful to have received it,” the recent Eagle Scout said. 

Hagood was nominated for the honor by Flight Chapter 276, based out of the Raymond Airport, and the funds will be used to help the Clintonian earn his pilot’s license. 

“I’m excited about the possibilities [having my license] could hold, like recreation and helping other kids get into aviation,” Hagood remarked of the lessons he’s currently taking at Hawkins Field. 

His love for flight was sparked by his neighbor, Dr. David Wheat, who pilots a Cessna and took the young man and his dad, John, to the EAA AirVenture in Osh Kosh, Wisconsin, in July 2019. Hagood noted that it was the “biggest aviation show in the world,” with a total attendance of 500,000 flight enthusiasts and 800 exhibitors. Sadly, this year’s event was cancelled due to COVID-19.

His time in Wheat’s Cessna aided him once the time came for him to take the controls of his own plane during his lessons. 

“On the first day, I was able to fly it,” Hagood recalled. “Once you get it up in the air, it isn’t hard to control it.”

The part that is difficult, according to Hagood, “is the sheer intimidation of the information I have to know in order to pass [the test].” The Raymond flight chapter proved helpful again, though, as a member offered him their old books to help him study. 

Studying is nothing new for Hagood, as he is a member of the Model United Nations, the Science Olympiad, and the Academic Team. When he’s not hitting the books or sailing the skies, Hagood also enjoys playing the baritone in the CHS band. 

With three years left in his high school career, Hagood is still not certain where he would like to attend college. 

“My dream college is MIT, but doesn’t everyone want to go there?” Hagood quipped.

See: $100 off Fire TV Edition Smart TVs