Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport receives space donation from Cavender’s Boot City

AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – Cavender’s Boot City is donating memorabilia to the Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport that was given to Cavender’s by the crew members of NASA’s STS-96 mission to the International Space Station that included Amarillo Pilot Rick Husband.

According to City of Amarillo officials, back in 1999, the crew wanted authentic western gear so the crew went to Cavender’s Boot City in Amarillo and were presented with cowboy hats. Officials noted to return the favor, the crew gave several mementos to the Cavender’s of their mission and donated several pictures, an STS-96 crew patch, and a signed letter of appreciation from Husband’s mother, Jane.

Officials noted the memorabilia was framed and displayed at Cavender’s for years. Now, it has a new home courtesy of Amarillo native Tex Roberts and Jeff Howell, District 1 Vice President for Cavender’s.

City officials stated that Roberts and Howell, representing Cavender’s, are donating the memorabilia to the airport named in honor of Husband, Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport.

“This is Amarillo history, and we are honored that Cavender’s is donating these items to the

airport that proudly bears Rick Husband’s name,” said City of Amarillo Director of Aviation Michael Conner.

City officials added that the memorabilia will be displayed in the airport meet-and-greet area, near the statue of Rick Husband. Those who wish to learn more about the STS-96 mission are encouraged to visit the NASA website.

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