Submitted Photo Warren Pietsch, center, flanked by family members, was honored with the Sword of Excellence, the highest honor awarded by the International Council of Air Shows during its 2025 convention in Las Vegas, Nevada, in December. Photo by Larry Grace Photography.

Warren Pietsch of Minot recently received the Sword of Excellence, the highest honor presented by the International Council of Air Shows.

The Sword of Excellence recognizes individuals whose lifetime of service has strengthened the air show industry in exceptional ways, according to ICAS information.

Pietsch received the award during the 2025 ICAS convention held Dec. 8-11 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The award places him among a group of leaders who have shaped the direction of the air show community through professionalism, innovation and commitment.

He is the 53rd recipient of the ICAS Sword of Excellence.

According to ICAS information, as a member of a North Dakota aviation and air show family, Pietsch soloed at 16 and flew in his first air show at 21. He has performed solo and formation aerobatics in everything from the Stolp Starduster and Taylor T-craft to the P-51 Mustang and F4U Corsair. He has entertained and inspired millions of air show spectators at hundreds of air shows in the U.S. and Canada during his 46-year career. He is among the top performers of his generation.

His recognition by the ICAS for his lifetime of service not only is as an aviator but also as a museum leader, mentor and advocate. He has contributed to nearly every aspect of the air show world. Audiences know him for his flying skills and his connection to the historic aircraft he operates. Colleagues know him for his integrity, his commitment to safety and his willingness to generously share his knowledge with others. Through his work with the Dakota Territory Air Museum in Minot and generations of aviators, Pietsch has helped preserve not just aircraft but also the culture and stories that accompany them.

He is an honorary Canadian Forces Snowbird, a co-founder of the Dakota Territory Air Museum and member of its Board of Directors, a longtime Aerobatic Competency Evaluator and a past recipient of the prestigious Bill Barber Showmanship Award.