Celebrating 100 Years of the Spirit of St. Louis: A Special Guest at Progress 64 West's 38th Annual Awards Banquet
Erik Lindbergh, grandson of legendary aviator Charles A. Lindbergh, to join regional leaders for a special celebration of innovation, courage, and the spirit of progress.
Nearly 100 years ago, a young aviator with an extraordinary vision and the support of St. Louis business leaders accomplished something that changed the world.
On May 20, 1927, Charles A. Lindbergh departed New York in the Spirit of St. Louis, beginning a daring solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean. Just over 33 hours later, he landed in Paris, completing the first solo nonstop transatlantic flight and forever changing the future of aviation.
But this historic achievement was more than the story of one man's courage. It was also a remarkable example of what can happen when a community of business leaders comes together to support an ambitious idea.
The Spirit of St. Louis carried more than a name. It represented the confidence, investment, and entrepreneurial spirit of a region willing to help turn an extraordinary vision into reality.
A Special Guest for a Historic Milestone
As the world prepares to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Lindbergh's historic flight in May 2027, Progress 64 West is honored to welcome Erik Lindbergh, grandson of Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh, as a special guest at our 38th Annual Excellence in Community Development Awards Banquet on Friday, November 20, 2026.
An accomplished aviator and advocate for innovation, Erik Lindbergh carries forward his family's remarkable aviation legacy. His participation offers our guests a unique opportunity to connect one of our region's most celebrated achievements with the innovation and leadership shaping our future.
A Legacy of Regional Leadership
The story of the Spirit of St. Louis is particularly meaningful to Progress 64 West.
A century ago, St. Louis business and civic leaders recognized the potential of a bold idea and helped make it possible. Their investment demonstrated the power of regional cooperation, entrepreneurial thinking, and a willingness to look beyond the limitations of the present.
Those same principles remain central to the mission of Progress 64 West today.
Through our annual Excellence in Community Development Awards, we recognize individuals, businesses, educators, and community leaders whose vision and commitment continue to strengthen our region.
Honoring the Past. Celebrating the Present. Inspiring the Future.
This year's banquet will bring together leaders from across the region to celebrate achievement, service, and the spirit of progress.
The special appearance by Erik Lindbergh adds a meaningful historical connection to an evening dedicated to recognizing those who are helping shape our future.
One hundred years later, the lesson remains just as relevant: Extraordinary progress begins with a vision, but it takes the commitment of a community to make it possible.
Join Progress 64 West on November 20 as we celebrate the champions of our region, honor a remarkable legacy, and look toward the opportunities ahead.
38th Annual Excellence in Community Development Awards Banquet
Friday, November 20, 2026
Contact info@progress64west.org to reserve your table or sponsor the event.
