Feb 4, 2026
From: Greg Gaynor, National President
To: OX-5 Aviation Pioneers Membership
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I am pleased to announce our latest inductee to the OX-5 Aviation Pioneers Hall Of Fame, Mr. Orin Welch (1906-1943). Mr. Welch came to our attention by his great-nephew, Brandon Abel. Some of our members will remember a relative, Drina Welch Abel and her sister Violet, who were OX-5 members in the 80s. Drina authored a book, The Welch Airplane, documenting Orin’s entry in aircraft manufacturing.
While he only lived 36 years, Orin accomplished more than multiple individuals in longer lifetimes. He became an aircraft mechanic apprentice after graduating from 8th grade, soloed in a Curtiss Jenny and received his pilot certificate (signed by Orville Wright) in his early teens. He went on to become a barnstormer, flight instructor, demonstration pilot, air race winner, corporate pilot, airport manager, aircraft designer, inventor, test pilot, and World War II hero.
His full biographical story can be found on the OX-5 website at: http://ox5.org/orin-m-welch-
A plaque honoring Mr. Welch will be added to the Wall of Fame at the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport, NY.
