L R “Salty” Hail USMC 1940 – 1965

He was an Indiana farm boy who left home to join the Marine Corps with a dream of flying. He completed the enlisted pilot program in 1943. For the next 23 years, he flew everything and everywhere for the Marine Corps. He accumulated nearly 15,000 hours in the service of his country.

A long time friend and fellow Marine aviator said it best “Salty never turned down a hop!”

The following comments from his retirement ceremony capture the man and his career: “Your many contributions to Marine Aviation during your long colorful career have made the name 'Salty' Hail well known throughout the Marine Corps. Your exceptional capabilities and conscientious efforts to mold young Marines into officers and professional aviators will long be remembered by those who have been fortunate enough to have served with you.”

He never flew again, “pressing my luck” was his simple explanation