Stripes to Bars

Stripes to Bars is a United States public charity that helps veterans start a career in aviation. It is a 501(c)(3) organisation. It gives qualified veterans scholarships so they can earn certificates from the Federal Aviation Administration.

The charity has two goals. One is to help veterans move from military to civilian life. The other is to raise the number of pilots. The site says many service members feel lost during this change, and that aviation can give them challenge and structure.

The charity points to the pilot shortage that comes from more air travel and the retirement of many professional pilots. It says past generations relied on retired and separated veterans to fill pilot jobs. Stripes to Bars wants veterans to fill that gap in both private and professional flying. It offers financial scholarships and mentoring.

The site reports that its 2025 scholarships totalled 52,500 dollars and went to 15 recipients. Earlier winners are listed for 2021 and 2022, and the news section also covers a search and rescue storytelling night. The president says 99 percent of donated funds go to aviation scholarships.

The group is run by volunteers. They include active duty and retired National Guard and Reserve service members, aviation professionals, financial managers and family members. The website has pages to apply, to donate, to read the questions and answers, and to join the mailing list. It also asks companies to sponsor aviation training.