Hero of the Game: #NCSUvsCLEM

Today Clemson Athletics and Guy Roofing was proud to honor the Hero of the Game: Lieutenant Colonel Gary Nelson.

Nelson, a 1973 Clemson graduate, participated in the Air Force ROTC and upon graduation he was commissioned as a 2^nd Lieutenant. He then completed pilot training at Reese Air Force Base in Lubbock, Texas.

During his 21-year Air Force career, Nelson served as an instructor pilot on C-130’s in Little Rock, Arkansas, the Hospital C-9 Aircraft in Frankfurt, Germany, and the Gulfstream C-20 Aircraft at Andrews Air Force Base in Washington D.C. The C-20 Aircraft is used to transport congressional leaders, cabinet members and high-ranking government officials. Lieutenant Colonel Nelson was a member of the selection team that chose the current 747, which operates as Air Force One today.

The highlight of his Air Force career was when he was selected as one of four Presidential Pilots to fly all Air Force One missions. During this five year period, he served three years as a pilot for President George Bush Sr. and two years as a pilot for President Bill Clinton. This five year period included over 500 presidential missions to destinations throughout the world. Since returning, he has continued his career in aviation as a captain for United Parcel Service flying internationally.

He is married to Katrina Blair Nelson, a 1976 Clemson graduate. Together they live in the local area and both are avid supporters of Clemson University and Clemson athletics.

Gary Nelson, today’s Hero of the Game: