9/11 AIR FORCE ONE PILOT COL. MARK TILLMAN TO SPEAK IN POLK COUNTY

Colonel (Ret.) Mark W. Tillman served as the nation’s 12th Presidential Pilot during both terms 
George W. Bush was in office, from 2001—2009. His most renowned missions include 
commanding Air Force One during the September 11, 2001, attacks and covertly flying 
President Bush to Iraq on Thanksgiving Day in 2003 so the President could personally thank 
U.S. troops serving in a war zone.

Tillman is a sought-after speaker who shares these high-pressure and significant moments 
in history across the United States. His presentation highlights his use of the “Zero Fail” 
philosophy — the mindset that failure is not an option when the stakes are highest.
Soon, Polk County will be the next stop on Tillman’s tour, as he is the featured speaker for 
Polk Education Foundation’s JROTC scholarship benefit luncheon on March 11, 2026, held in 
Lakeland. The sold-out benefit, Moments in History as Viewed from the Cockpit Window of Air 
Force One, will bring national-level leadership to raise funds for local cadets to expand their 
postsecondary pathways. 

Polk County Public Schools has more than a dozen JROTC programs and over 3,000 cadets
across the district. Colonel Tillman’s message aligns with the values taught to these 
students: courage, discipline, and service. 

Through the upcoming luncheon and the Foundation’s community partners, more cadets will 
be able to pursue college, careers, and military opportunities, opening doors for students who 
aspire to lead — in uniform or in their communities.

ABOUT POLK EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Through philanthropic support, the Polk Education Foundation is able to fund classroom
grants, operate a Free Teacher Market, provide a reading tutoring program for K-3 students
through AmeriCorps Polk Reads, offer an at-risk high school student mentoring program
through Take Stock in Children, and award over $1 million in scholarships to graduating
seniors. The Foundation also supports programs that increase student success and 
recognize and retain teachers and employees and enhance educational experiences.
Contact
Lauren Morrish 
Polk Education Foundation
863-534-0519, Ext: 203
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE