Members of the newly formed SC Aviation Commission were sworn in March 9 by SC Rep. Robert Walker (R, Landrum), the author of the bill which created the commission. Pictured above are (l-r) Bo McMillan, Jeremy Bauer, Michael Marlowe, Joe Frasher, Jim Hamilton, and Rep. Walker.

The SC Aviation Association (SCAA) recognized the newly formed SC Aeronautics Commission at its Legislative Day Wednesday, March 9. Newly elected commissioners include Steven Edwards, publisher of Seneca Journal , Third Congressional District; Jeremy D. Bauer, airport manager of Sumter Airport, Fifth Congressional District; Joe Frasher, Esq., airport director of Greenville Downtown Airport, Fourth Congressional District; Jim Hamilton, airport manager of Columbia Owens Downtown Airport, Second Congressional District; William “Bo” McMillan, marketing director of Florence Regional Airport, Sixth Congressional District; and Billy Michael Marlowe, general aviation manager of Myrtle Beach Aviation, First Congressional District.

Ken Holt, president of the SCAA, welcomed legislators and friends of aviation to the occasion. Speaker of the House of Representatives David Wilkins said, “The guy who pushed this bill into law is Bob Walker. Those of us who appreciate aviation in SC, thank him.” SC Senator Phil Leventis, a sponsor of the bill, said, “Aviation will help this state move ahead.”

The legislation to create the SC Aeronautics Commission became law January 13, 2005. Through this legislation, the commission will assist the Department of Commerce in its operations and oversight of the Division of Aeronautics. Governor Sanford will soon appoint an at large member with the advice and consent of the Senate, who will serve as chairman.