Nov. 26, 2018
Longtime aviation journalist Jack Elliott Schapiro, a past recipient of NBAA’s prestigious Gold Wing Award for Journalism Excellence, passed away on Nov. 20 at age 94.
Elliott is best known for writing Wings Over Jersey, a column in The Star-Ledger newspaper. Wings Over Jersey appeared each Sunday for more than 38 years, from June 9, 1963 – Dec. 30, 2001. In 2008, he published a book entitled “Adventures in Flying,” which is a compilation of his most compelling columns.
Born in Bayonne, NJ on Jan. 23, 1924, he lived in Brooklyn, NY before his family moved to New Jersey when he was young.
Elliott was a World War II veteran, having served in the United States Army 83rd Chemical Mortar Battalion in Africa, Italy and France. He was part of the liberation of Rome in June 1944, and then flew into Southern France in the back of a Waco CG-4 glider.
After returning from the war, he went to New York University, and began his journalism career at the Long Island Press before joining The Star-Ledger, working his way up to Sunday editor.
After leaving The Star-Ledger, Elliott embarked on a career in aviation public relations while continuing to write Wings Over Jersey, as well as freelance articles. He received the Gold Wing Award for Journalism Excellence in 1996.
“The general aviation community has lost a dedicated, authoritative aviation journalist,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “Jack’s decades of work documenting the industry highlighted the benefits of aviation, including its ability to connect people and communities. His contributions will be missed.”
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to either the Adler Aphasia Center or the Commemorative Air Force B-29/B-24 Squadron.
International Business Aviation Council Ltd.