 Knowing that similar parts from a CH-47A aircraft were being scrapped during the Chinook modernization program, McKeown found out that the scrapped parts could immediately resolve the customers problem.McKeowns actions resulted with a successful mission, making national news including a letter from the Pentagon commending him on his support.He was also visited by Boeings then president Mal Stamper, who presented him with a large cash award for his dedication and thinking out of the box.