Determination- strength- sense of adventure courage- confidence- optimisim. These are just some the words that describe the late Captain James E. Cross. Because of his character and accomplishments, he fully deserves the honor of being forever remembered and memorialized on this special Wall of Honor at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

JAMES E. CROSS was born on November 25, 1914 in Bayard, Nebraska. He was happy growing up in this small midwestern town, but he was never your ordinary midwestern farm boy. From the time he was young, Jim knew he was destined for something bigger. And that something had to do with his love of flying and a passion and interest in aviation.

Known by many as "Smilin' Jim" for his charming and ever present radiant smile, Jim started flying small aircraft in his teens in Bayard while working several jobs to help his family and to pay for his flight instruction. Through hard work, perseverance and his strong will, Jim earned his pilot's license.

Jim was a true pioneer. He was one of the original commercial airline pilots when the industry was in its infancy, long before the age of technology such as radar, computerization and advanced communications. In addition to working in the commercial airline industry, he also served the country by flying for the Civil Air Patrol in WWII.

He was hired by United Airlines (aka Capital Airlines at the time) in 1941. He served as a Senior Captain for United Airlines for many years where he later went on to study at Stanford University and was then promoted to Regional Director of Flight Operations in Detroit and Chicago. He also served as Director of United Airlines' Flight Training Center in Denver, sharing his experience and knowledge while teaching and inspiring many of today's current Airline Pilots.

Jim was married for over 50 years to the love of his life, Eloise McCann Cross. Together they had three children, Thomas, Barbara, and David. After his 35+ year career for United Airlines, Jim and Eloise retired to San Diego, CA where they shared many happy years traveling, golfing, and enjoying friends and family before Eloise's passing in 2000 and Jim's passing in 2006.

Jim will be remembered for his contribution to Aviation History. His pioneering spirit, strength and bravery were an inspiration to so many others.