04/20/2026
Our April EAA meeting included perfect weather, an amazing breakfast, and honoring the life of Sid Burks, Vice President and Secretary of EAA Chapter 1116, Palm Springs Wings.
If you didn’t know Sid personally, it wouldn’t take more than a quick Google search to find that he was a passionate advocate for aviation, education, and history. A student of desert, aviation, and military history, he dedicated countless hours to learning and sharing his knowledge with others throughout the Coachella Valley. Whether through community lectures or conversations at the hangar, Sid had a remarkable ability to bring history to life and inspire those around him.
He served for many years in the California Community College system as both an instructor and administrator, and later continued his work in education as a full-time lecturer at California State University, San Bernardino, where he taught Career Technical Studies. His impact in the classroom was profound and reflected in the deep respect and admiration of his students, many of whom praised his passion, knowledge, and dedication.
Sid was known as a serious enthusiast of military, aviation, and desert history, and he shared that enthusiasm generously with the community. His presentations across the Coachella Valley enriched countless lives and helped foster a deeper appreciation for the history that surrounds us.
Perhaps the biggest legacy he leaves with our chapter, besides our fond memories with him, is coming up with the idea of connecting us to Chaffee College and working with them and Betty Davidow to form the Davidow AMT Scholarship Program, that has already supported four students, and will continue to in perpetuity. This is the ONLY program of its kind in the entire country of EAA chapters, as featured in the August 2025 edition of the EAA magazine.
Beyond his accomplishments, Sid will be remembered for his kindness, his willingness to share, and his unwavering commitment to education and aviation. In addition to being a great pilot, and one of the most dedicated members our chapter has ever seen, Sid volunteered his time driving blood around, and also leading a widow care program in his church.
He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Blue skies and tailwinds, Sid.
The meeting also included some information on future Young Eagle events by coordinator, Robby Phillips. Stay tuned for more planning coming on that around September.
Thank you to all who came and shared in the meaningful morning with us!
*Special thanks to Mike Shear and Elizabeth Witte for keeping the eggs, bacon, and pancakes coming. Thank you Melissa Witte for your assistance in setting up and breaking down, along with keeping the coffee, drinks, and food flowing. Sloan’s restaurant provided their delicious pancake batter and member, Julian, provided fresh eggs from his very own chickens.
