FRONT OFFICE
Meet the passionate individuals behind Aviation Maintenance Legacy Scholarship Fund, dedicated to making a difference in the lives of aviation maintenance families.
Carlos R. Marcia
Founder & President
Carlos R. Marcia began his naval career by enlisting in 1999, serving in various roles before being commissioned as an Ensign in 2007. As an Aerospace Maintenance Duty Officer, he completed multiple combat deployments aboard the USS Harry S. Truman and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve. His diverse operational career has included tours with Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadrons (VAW) and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) squadrons. In 2017, he was redesignated as a Training and Administration of the Reserves (TAR) officer. Throughout his career, Commander Marcia has held significant leadership positions at Fleet Readiness Centers, Navy Personnel Command, and Naval Air Systems Command.
Most proudly, he is the father of two beautiful daughters, Katya and Mia, who inspire him every day. AMLSF is a testament to the love all veterans share for their children's success paved by their honorable service.
James L. Henson
CEO/Chairman
James Henson is a retired TAR AMDO with over 30 years of service marked by discipline, strategic leadership, and a deep commitment to serving others. His legendary 30 years of service spanned from enlisted Sailor to commissioned officer.
Throughout three decades in uniform, he gained extensive experience in strategic planning, team development, and operational management skills, he now brings to the civilian sector.
After transitioning to civilian life, he became the owner of Corks and Barrels in Fleming Island, Florida, where he has led the business for the past three years. Guided by military core values and an entrepreneurial spirit, James has helped grow the establishment into a strong community partner, contributing more than $45,000 to national and local children’s and veteran-focused charities, and remains dedicated to supporting initiatives such as the scholarship program.
Luke Franco
Senior Director
Luke Franco is a retired Chief Petty Officer of the United States Navy, having completed 24 years of honorable service in naval aviation. Throughout his career, he worked in various aviation specialties, including AMH, AW, AM, and AWF, where he gained extensive hands-on and leadership experience across both aircrew and aviation maintenance communities. His service demonstrates a broad operational background and a strong commitment to mission readiness and team development.
Luke flew and supported a diverse range of aircraft, including the P-3 Orion, A-7 Corsair II, F/A-18 Hornet, H-3 Sea King, H-60 Seahawk, C-9, DC-9, and C-40 Clipper. As a Naval Flight Crewman, he logged over 9,000 flight hours and played a critical role in tactical, rotary-wing, and fixed-wing aviation operations. He holds FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) and FCC certifications, showcasing his dedication to technical excellence, aviation safety, and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of aviation professionals.
AMLSF TEAM
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Together, this blend of military and civilian expertise allows the Aviation Maintenance Legacy Scholarship Fund Team to honor the legacy of aviation maintainers while expanding access to higher education to the next generation.
