07/10/96

ATHENS, Ohio -- Ken Holmes, a former U.S. Army aviator, has been appointed director of Ohio University's Airport in Albany. Holmes will begin work July 15.

Holmes recently completed a 20-year career in the Army, where he served as a flight instructor and pilot of helicopters and fixed-wing transport planes. He earned both his bachelor's degree in professional aeronautics and his master of science degree in aviation/aerospace management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla.

While in the Army, Holmes also implemented and managed airfield and aviation safety programs, designed and managed construction on a major airfield expansion, and served as the government's liaison with an aviation maintenance contractor.

"We have found a highly qualified and competent professional to guide the airport into the next century," said Robert Hynes, director of Residence and Campus Auxiliary Services. "Ken brings us a fine educational background, a wealth of flying and leadership experience and superb references from a successful Army career."

The Ohio University Airport serves as a regional airport for Athens County. It also provides a base of operations for the university's aviation and avionics programs and operates an air transport service for the university.

Holmes replaces Gil Peerey, who retired in September after 27 years as airport director.