Remembering Them Forever (RTF)!

Military Information:

• US Air Force
• TVHOF Service Award
• 1-Alpha List
• TVHOF Class of 2025

Dates of Service 1:

Service Start Date: NA Service End Date: NA

Dates of Service 2:

Service Start Date: NA Service End Date: NA

Bio:

Ross Perot Jr. – Military Service and Contributions to Honoring Veterans

Henry Ross Perot Jr. is a distinguished American businessman, philanthropist, aviator, and former U.S. Air Force officer. His life’s work reflects a deep respect for military service, honor, and civic duty—continuing the patriotic legacy established by his father, Ross Perot Sr.
Military Service and Aviation Achievements

Ross Perot Jr. served in the U.S. Air Force for over eight years, flying F‑4 Phantom fighter jets. His military career instilled a lifelong commitment to excellence, discipline, and service to country. At age 23, he became the youngest aviator to circumnavigate the globe by helicopter, piloting the Bell 206L-1 “Spirit of Texas” through 26 countries over 29 days in 1982. The helicopter now resides in the Smithsonian’s Steven F. Udvar‑Hazy Center as a tribute to this remarkable feat.
Contributions to Honoring Veterans
1. Chairman, Air Force Memorial Foundation

For 14 years, Perot Jr. led the national effort to design and build the United States Air Force Memorial in Washington, D.C., dedicated in 2006. The memorial stands as a timeless tribute to all who have served in the Air Force, representing courage, innovation, and sacrifice.
2. Philanthropic Leadership and Veteran Support

Through The Perot Foundation, Ross Perot Jr. and his family have contributed millions to educational, medical, and veteran-focused causes.
3. Perot Family Scholarship for Military Families


4. Recognitions and Honors

Ross Perot Jr. has received multiple national and civic honors for his leadership and service, including:

- Gold Medal Award for Extraordinary Service (President Ronald Reagan, 1982)
- Secretary of Defense Medal for Outstanding Public Service (2007)
- Woodrow Wilson Award for Corporate Citizenship (2007)
- Distinguished Eagle Scout Award (2022)
Civic and Public Leadership

Beyond his military and philanthropic efforts, Perot Jr. has been a driving force for economic development and innovation in Texas. As chairman of Hillwood and The Perot Group, he developed AllianceTexas and Fort Worth Alliance Airport—projects that generate thousands of jobs, including opportunities for veterans.
Legacy

Ross Perot Jr. continues to honor America’s veterans through leadership, philanthropy, and civic engagement. His efforts have strengthened the bond between military service and national progress, ensuring that the contributions of America’s heroes are remembered and respected for generations to come.
 
A leader whose life reflects unwavering patriotism, distinguished military service, and a deep and enduring commitment to those who serve our nation.
A man who has carried forward one of the most respected legacies of support for America's veterans — not merely through words, but through bold action, generous philanthropy, and personal devotion to the well-being of service members and their families.
Ross Perot Jr. represents the very spirit of Texas — strong in duty, unwavering in loyalty, and steadfast in advancing freedom and opportunity for others.
As an officer in the United States Air Force, he demonstrated the courage, discipline, and excellence that define our nation's military. As a business leader, citizen, and philanthropist, he has continued his mission of service — championing veteran healthcare, education, and family support programs; advancing military readiness and national security initiatives; and honoring the legacy of all who wear the uniform of the United States Armed Forces.

For his exemplary service to country and his extraordinary dedication to veterans, military families, and the defense of freedom, the Texas Veterans Hall of Fame proudly presents the Mason-Spears Award to Ross Perot Jr. — a true Texas patriot, a visionary leader, and a devoted advocate for those who stand in defense of liberty.