Washington HR 4626: Honoring Thomas H. Gray for his contributions to engineering.

Bill Text

WHEREAS, Thomas H. Gray has demonstrated an exceptional 1
dedication to the field of aerospace engineering, leaving an 2
indelible mark on the aviation industry through his pioneering work; 3
and4
WHEREAS, Thomas Gray, a graduate in electrical engineering from 5
the University of New Mexico, began his distinguished career at 6
Boeing in 1961, where he played a critical role in the flight testing 7
of groundbreaking aircraft, including the 737, 747, 757, and 767; and8
WHEREAS, Thomas Gray made history as the first nonpilot to fly 9
aboard the 747 initial test flight on February 25, 1969, a milestone 10
event that revolutionized modern air travel and showcased his 11
technical expertise and commitment to innovation; and12
WHEREAS, His extensive contributions to flight testing, 13
particularly in the integration of digital and computer technology, 14
have significantly advanced the safety, performance, and reliability 15
of aircraft worldwide; and16
WHEREAS, Thomas Gray extended his engineering talents beyond 17
aviation to technologies that helped the Navy expand its ability to 18
command the maritime domain, and played a pivotal role in the space 19
shuttle Enterprise landing tests in 1977, further cementing his 20
legacy as a versatile and forward-thinking engineer; and21
WHEREAS, Outside his professional achievements, Thomas Gray has 22
demonstrated a deep commitment to preserving aviation history and 23
HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2025-4626, by Representatives Berg, Dent, Leavitt,
Richards, Pollet, Reeves, Ryu, Corry, Street, Stonier, Taylor, Zahn, Walen,
Jacobsen, Callan, Nance, Bronoske, Salahuddin, Schmick, Morgan, Fey, Parshley,
Santos, Cortes, Fosse, Barkis, Scott, Obras, Dufault, Paul, and Wylie
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inspiring future generations through his volunteer work, amassing 1
over 1,400 hours as a docent at the Museum of Flight since 2013; and2
WHEREAS, His dedication to honoring the legacy of African 3
American aviators through his work with the Tuskegee Airmen's Sam 4
Bruce Chapter has helped correct historical inaccuracies and educate 5
the public on the invaluable contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen; 6
and7
WHEREAS, Thomas Gray's mentorship and involvement in youth 8
programs such as the Michael P. Anderson Memorial Aerospace Program 9
and the Red-Tailed Hawks Flying Club have inspired and nurtured the 10
aspirations of countless young people pursuing careers in aerospace; 11
and12
WHEREAS, At 87 years old, Thomas Gray continues to serve as a 13
beacon of innovation, mentorship, and advocacy, embodying the 14
pioneering spirit that has propelled the aerospace industry forward;15
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House 16
of Representatives honor Thomas H. Gray for his extraordinary 17
contributions to aerospace engineering, his tireless efforts to 18
educate and inspire, and his unwavering commitment to advancing the 19
field of engineering within the State of Washington; and20
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be 21
immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of 22
Representatives to Thomas H. Gray as a token of appreciation for his 23
remarkable achievements and lasting impact on the aerospace 24
community.25
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I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of27
Resolution 4626 adopted by the House of Representatives28
February 28, 202529
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__________________________34
Bernard Dean, Chief Clerk35
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