Born in Decatur, IL on February 12, 1920. Early schooling in Chicago, IL. Flew for the first time in 1927 on a plane piloted by his second cousin, Stanley “Dutch” Hammond in Owosso, MI. Entered University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1938. Member of the Alphas Tau Omega Fraternity.
Hired by United Air Lines in April 1941 in a ground position. In 1942, enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps Cadet Program. Went to training in 1943 and earned his wings in February, 1944 at Marfa Field, TX. Trained to fly B-17s, sent to Polebrook, England assigned to the 351st BG. Flew 35 combat missions over Germany and France. Received additional training on A-26 and B-24 aircraft.
Following the war, was rehired by United as a co-pilot on DC-3s. Checked-out as Captain with United in 1951 and in that position flew DC-3, DC-4, DC-6, DC-7, DC-8, DC-10, Convair 240/340/440 and B-747 aircraft. Retired in 1980 at age 60.
Outstanding husband, father, pilot and warrior.