Retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Rucie Moore (’98), who was a professor and the helicopter program chair at Embry-Riddle, died April 16, 2019, in a private helicopter crash near Fountain Hills, Arizona. Prior to becoming a full-time faculty member in 2018, Moore spent five years as an adjunct professor. He was also a past member of the College of Aviation Industry Advisory Board. Before joining Embry-Riddle, Moore was a decorated helicopter test pilot for the U.S. Army.
“Our dear colleague, Rucie Moore, was an outstanding pilot, an Army veteran and a distinguished faculty member with deep experience in the flight test arena,” said Prescott Campus Chancellor Frank Ayers, in an announcement following the crash. “His many contributions to the education of our students, including his extensive real-world experience, was immeasurable. The entire Embry-Riddle family, our faculty, students and staff, feel his loss.”