born: 1890
died: Apr. 21, 1918
Allies
|
born: 1890 died: Apr. 21, 1918 Allies
|
Involvement in the War:
In May, 1917 Rickenbacker sailed to France as part of the AEF, where he became the staff driver of General Pershing himself because of his knowledge of auto mechanics. He eventually transfered, and in March 1918, Rickenbacker joined the 94th Aero Pursuit Squadron, the famous "Hat in the Ring" squadron, so called because of their insignia. On an interesting side note, Eddie initially had a terrible problem with airsickness. Two months before the end of the war, Rickebacker was named commanding officer of the 94th. He had acheived 26 victories (22 aircraft and 4 balloons) and had received the title "American Ace of Aces." Rickenbacker received the Congressional Medal of Honor for attacking a formation of 5 German planes, downing 2 and chasing the others away. He also received the Distinguished Service Cross, and the French Croix de Guerre. On his return home, he went back into the automobile business by working for GM, and eventually earned control of Eastern Airlines.
Quotes:
"I can see that aerial warfare is actually scientific murder."
"In addition to leading my flight on routine patrols, I emulated Lufbery's example and flew my own lone-wolf missions onver the lines. He always said that it was impossible to shoot down German planes sitting in the billet with you feet before the fire. I heeded this advice so well that I had more hours in the air than any other American flier."