CLARKSVILLE, TN, October 03, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Jim "Monk" Crisafulli has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Crisafulli has established a distinguished career spanning more than five decades in aviation and special operations, marked by leadership, technical mastery and a commitment to service. As chief executive officer and founder of Centurion Contracting & Consulting since 2014 he has dedicated almost three decades to training pilots in special operations aviation, conducting combat mission instruction and evaluating the practical aspects of advanced flight. His responsibilities include guiding students through critical flight operations, landing aircraft in challenging environments, operating sophisticated military helicopters and mentoring aspiring aviators. His expertise in complex special operations and aviation requirements is widely recognized, reflecting his deep knowledge and unwavering dedication to safety and mission success.

In addition to his current role, Mr. Crisafulli served as an instructional developer with International Development and Resources from 2015 to 2017, where he designed and implemented training programs for pilots operating in demanding conditions. From 2013 to 2014, he was an SA-332 Puma pilot for the United States government, further honing his skills in tactical aviation. The preceding year, he also contributed as an MI-17 instructor pilot in Kabul, Afghanistan, providing essential instruction to pilots supporting international missions.

From 1992 to 2013, Mr. Crisafulli was an MH-60 Kilo flight instructor with the Special Operations Aviation Training Battalion at IDR Inc., where he played a pivotal role in preparing elite aviators for high-stakes missions. Concurrently, from 1992 to 2013 he served as a Lima flight instructor within the same battalion, ensuring that pilots met rigorous standards for operational readiness.

His earlier tenure as a flight instructor with the 5th SFGA and 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) of the United States Army from 1985 to 1992 stands out as a formative period. During this time, Mr. Crisafulli trained some of the nation's top helicopter pilots and participated in critical missions that shaped modern special operations aviation. Notably, he successfully rescued three Green Berets trapped behind enemy lines during the events leading up to Desert Storm—a mission that required flying 185 nautical miles at just 10 feet above ground at speeds reaching 160 miles per hour. Piloting the Black Hawk helicopter Lady Godiva, which sustained significant damage during the operation, Mr. Crisafulli ensured the safe return of all personnel despite extreme adversity. This mission remains one of his most impactful achievements and is chronicled in several publications, including Tom Clancy's "Shadow Warriors: Inside the Special Forces" and Michael Durant's "The Nightstalkers", Top secret missions of the U.S. Army's Special Operations Aviation Regiment.

Mr. Crisafulli began his professional journey as a utility and observation helicopter flight instructor with the United States military from 1972 to 1992. Over these two decades, he developed foundational skills that would underpin his later accomplishments in both military and civilian aviation sectors.

Throughout his career, Mr. Crisafulli has been privileged to work alongside exceptional leaders and colleagues. Among his most memorable experiences was flying Vice-President George H.W. Bush during a mission in Honduras—a testament to his reputation for professionalism and skill under pressure.

Mr. Crisafulli's academic background includes a Master of Business Administration from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, earned summa cum laude; a Bachelor of Science in aviation from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, also summa cum laude; and an Associate of Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. These academic achievements provided him with a strong foundation in both technical knowledge and leadership principles that have guided his extensive career.

Mr. Crisafulli's exemplary service has been recognized with numerous awards such as the Distinguished Flying Cross, The Bronze Star, Induction into The Order of St. Michael, The Southwest Asia service ribbon, Good Conduct medals, and Overseas Service Ribbon. He attributes his success to outstanding mentorship, exemplary leadership and steadfast support from his family throughout his professional journey. He entered the field at age 19 by joining the military to attend flight school, a decision that set him on a path toward becoming a pilot for 47 years across various roles with military and government agencies. After nine years of service, he was selected for special operations and went on to serve as flight detachment chief pilot for the Green Berets with the Fifth Special Forces Group.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Mr. Crisafulli has made significant contributions through civic engagement and community service. He has been president and board member of the Montgomery County Antique Tractor and Engine Club since 2013 and was involved as a judge and classic car collector with the International Ford Retractable Club, an organization renowned for its high standards at concours events celebrating Ford Skyliners from 1957 to 1959. His passion for classic vehicles extends to local groups such as Memory Lane Cruisers.

Mr. Crisafulli is also committed to philanthropy through support for organizations including The Order of St. Michael, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Vanderbilt Children's Hospital and local food banks. In honor of his late wife Linda Marie, he established a scholarship program through the Night Stalker Foundation—awarding scholarships to individuals facing hardship while supporting their families.

Outside of his career, Mr. Crisafulli is devoted to his family and enjoys showing antique tractors, collecting and restoring classic cars, displaying vehicles at car shows, donating items to museums and photographing vintage machinery. He values camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts within these communities. Looking ahead, he remains dedicated to contributing to special operations aviation by encouraging excellence among future generations while supporting related initiatives through mentorship and community involvement.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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