On May 31, 2025, The Hangars by Crownair Aviation – Event Venue, San Diego’s premier event space, hosted an unforgettable afternoon retirement celebration for Kelly Forman, a legendary flight nurse whose 30-year career with Air Methods’ Mercy Air program transformed pre-hospital care. From 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, over 150 coworkers, friends, family, and major players in San Diego County’s emergency services, public safety, and hospital support communities gathered to honor Kelly’s remarkable legacy. The event, covered by Fox 5 San Diego, featured a dramatic landing by an AIRBUS H135 helicopter, setting the stage for a heartfelt tribute to a true San Diego hero.
A Grand Entrance and a Venue to Match
The celebration began with a breathtaking moment as an AIRBUS H135 helicopter, powered by two Safran turbine engines and equipped for both VFR and IFR flight operations, landed gracefully outside The Hangars by Crownair Aviation – Event Venue. The sleek aircraft, a symbol of Kelly’s lifesaving missions, drew gasps from the crowd and set a soaring tone for the afternoon. The venue’s industrial-chic design, with its expansive indoor-outdoor spaces and modern amenities, provided the perfect backdrop for this milestone event. The open layout seamlessly accommodated the large gathering, allowing guests to mingle across the stylish interior and the outdoor area, where the helicopter stood as a striking centerpiece.
Honoring a Trailblazer’s Legacy
Kelly Forman, often hailed as the “godmother of air medical services in San Diego,” dedicated over three decades to advancing emergency medical care. Starting as a ground nurse in 1986, she became one of Mercy Air’s first flight nurses, completing thousands of missions with unmatched expertise and compassion. Her influence extended beyond patient care; she mentored countless colleagues, shaped training programs, and earned admiration across the region. Representatives from Life Flight San Diego, alongside leaders from San Diego County’s emergency services, public safety, and hospital support sectors, attended to pay tribute to her extraordinary contributions.
The Hangars by Crownair Aviation – Event Venue showcased Kelly’s career through a curated display of memorabilia, including flight gear, awards, and photos from her early days to her final missions. Digital screens, a hallmark of the venue’s cutting-edge technology, presented a timeline of her milestones, while framed certificates and heartfelt messages from colleagues adorned the walls, creating a moving tribute to her journey.
An Afternoon of Joy and Connection
The afternoon kicked off with a lively reception, featuring a signature mocktail, “The Forman Flyer,” inspired by Kelly’s precision and care. Bekkers Catering, renowned for its exceptional cuisine, delighted guests with a locally inspired menu that reflected San Diego’s vibrant food scene. Highlights of the afternoon were heartfelt toasts as well as a lively roast where coworkers shared stories of Kelly’s legendary composure during high-stakes missions and her infectious humor.
One colleague recounted a tale, echoed in Fox 5 San Diego’s coverage, of Kelly navigating a stormy flight with such calm that the patient assumed it was a routine trip. The crowd erupted in laughter, celebrating the warmth and professionalism that defined her career. The venue’s versatile spaces ensured the 150-plus attendees could connect effortlessly, with the outdoor area glowing under modern lighting as the afternoon unfolded.
A Helicopter Haven and Lasting Tributes
The AIRBUS H135 helicopter, parked prominently outside The Hangars by Crownair Aviation – Event Venue’s expansive hangar doors, was more than decor; it was a testament to Kelly’s high-flying career. Guests posed for photos with the aircraft, sharing stories of missions flown alongside her. As the sun lowered, everyone gathered as a group, symbolizing Kelly’s radiant impact, while guests raised a toast to her next chapter.
The Hangars facilitated a digital memory book, where attendees contributed messages and photos, presented to Kelly as a cherished keepsake. A symbolic “torch-passing” ceremony honored her mentorship, with a young flight nurse receiving a ceremonial stethoscope, signifying the continuation of her legacy.
A Celebration Elevated by The Hangars
The Hangars by Crownair Aviation – Event Venue’s reputation for flawless event execution made it the ideal choice for Kelly’s retirement party. Its customizable spaces, advanced technology, and dedicated team ensured every detail; from the helicopter landing to the memorabilia display; was perfect. As one guest remarked, “The Hangars turned Kelly’s retirement into an afternoon that felt as monumental as her career.”
Kelly Forman’s retirement party was a soaring celebration of a life dedicated to saving others, amplified by the presence of San Diego’s emergency services community and Life Flight San Diego. The Hangars by Crownair Aviation – Event Venue was proud to host this historic afternoon, bringing together over 150 guests to honor a true hero. Here’s to Kelly, her extraordinary career, and the adventures awaiting in her well-earned retirement.
For more information on hosting your next event at The Hangars by Crownair Aviation – Event Venue, visit thehangars.com.
