Brig Gen Robert B. AND Judith Maguire Scholarship

Aviation had a lasting impact on the lives of both Brig Gen Robert “Bob” Maguire and his wife, Judith “Judy” Maguire. Born on December 5, 1924, Bob Maguire was too young for military service during WWII, but dreamed of one day having a future as a military pilot. He earned his wings at age 19 and soon began flying B-26, B-24, and B-17 aircraft stateside. This was just the start of what would become a legendary career in aviation.

In 1947, Bob moved to Hawaii, where he joined the Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG) to fly P-47 fighters. In 1950, he became a pilot with Hawaiian Airlines. Sixteen years later, in 1966, he ferried the state’s first inter-island jet, a DC-9, to Honolulu and managed the airline’s transition to jets as Director of Flying (later VP of Operations).

In 1972, he was promoted to Brigadier General and became Commander of HIANG, a position he held until retiring in 1976.

Judy’s interest in aviation began while working as the manager of Inter Island Restaurant Operations for Host International at the Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu. It was here that she met Bob Maguire, her future husband. She soon became a ticket sales agent for Continental Airlines, where she shared Bob’s passion for aviation and helping others.

Bob and Judy were married for 43 wonderful years. Because of their commitment to and love for aviation, Judy wanted to honor Bob’s legacy through a special fund at the Museum. With their generous gift, the Brig Gen Robert and Judith Maguire Scholarship Fund was established. Through this scholarship, both Judy and Bob hope to help young people pursue their dreams of flight.