Pensacola, Fl. (November 2, 2023) – The Naval Aviation Museum Foundation (NAMF) is honored to announce the appointment of retired Vice Adm. Robin Braun as the NAMF Board Chair. A groundbreaking figure in U.S. military history, Vice Adm. Braun is renowned as the first female commander of the U.S. Navy Reserve and the first woman to lead any Reserve component of the U.S. military.

The official transition took place during the joint Board of Directors meeting held in Pensacola on Thursday, Nov. 2. Retired Vice Adm. Dave Buss passed the ceremonial gavel to Vice Adm. Braun, marking her new role as Board Chair.

Rear Adm. Kyle Cozad, NAMF’s President and CEO, expressed his confidence in her appointment, stating: “As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Women in Naval Aviation, I can’t think of anyone with more passion or experience to guide our Foundation into the next decade.”

The daughter of a career Naval Aviator, Vice Adm. Braun was born in Pensacola and graduated from Northern Arizona University. She was commissioned into the Navy in 1980 and designated a naval aviator in 1981. Over her distinguished military career, she amassed over 5,800 flight hours in Navy aircraft and received numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

In August 2012, Vice Adm. Braun reached the rank of vice admiral when she assumed the role of Chief of Navy Reserve, marking her historic achievement as the first female commander in that position. She retired from the Navy in September 2016.

“I’m very honored to serve as Chairman of the Board for the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation. It’s an exciting time at the Museum now that the public, once again, has access to our incredible collection of historic aircraft and aviation memorabilia,” said Vice Adm. Braun.

“Along with our outstanding team at the Museum and the National Flight Academy, we’re looking forward to showcasing new exhibits and programs that highlight the history and heritage of Naval Aviation and tell the inspirational stories of the dedicated men and women who have served our great nation.”

Media Note: For more information about the National Naval Aviation Museum or Foundation, contact Hannah Pennell at (850) 453-2389 or hpennell@navalaviationmuseum.org.

About the National Naval Aviation Museum

The National Naval Aviation Museum features nearly 350,000 square feet of displays and is one of the world’s largest aviation museums. Located aboard Pensacola Naval Air Station, the facility boasts more than 150 beautifully restored aircraft representing Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard aviation. Be sure to visit Hangar Bay One, displaying aircraft of the post-WWII era including presidential helicopter, Marine One. Among the countless things to touch, see and experience are thrilling HD flight simulators. Don’t miss the drama and power of the new laser-powered Giant Screen digital theater. The Cubi Bar Café offers a unique dining experience, and the Flight Deck Store is the perfect place to find a souvenir that captures the spirit of Naval Aviation. Museum admission is FREE.