Dick Fortenberry
Well known for his outstanding record in national and international competition in style and accuracy.
Was the first skydiver to win three consecutive national titles.
First skydiver to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated.
Awarded the Leonardo da Vinci Diploma by the FAI in 1974.
Inducted: 2016
Country: United States
Dick Fortenberry, D-38, is known for his outstanding record in national and international competition in the classic events of style and accuracy. An original member of the forerunner of the US Army Parachute Team, the Golden Knights, he was the first skydiver to win three consecutive national titles. One of his greatest achievements is coaching the American women’s team to a world championship. In 1962, he was the first skydiver to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated. He was awarded the Leonardo da Vinci Diploma by the FAI in 1974.