After reading about Patient Air Lift Services (“PALS SkyHope offers a lifeline for medical patients across Maine, especially in rural areas,” Oct. 13), it was clear that the contributions of Jim Platz were understated.

No one in this state has done more for providing transportation to our medically challenged residents than Jim. He has dedicated his efforts to piloting the flights, putting together an organization to manage those flights as well as acquiring additional pilots and aircraft to help with the demand.

This would be the commercial equivalent of establishing an airline, staffing it with volunteers, and being on first call to fly missions.

I think we should recognize Jim’s contributions in making this transportation available, but also for his efforts to improve our airport over the past 30 years. He has built reasonably priced hangars, provided input to airport management through his attendance at airport board meetings, volunteered to instruct young pilots on the airport’s simulator and even sponsored “Hot Dog Fridays” for local pilots, mechanics and airport enthusiasts who can meet and discuss airport issues.

My thanks to Jim.

Ron Russell, Auburn

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