Ace Pilot Eddie Rickenbacker and the Dawn of the Age of Speed

Eddie Rickenbacker was one of the most successful American fighter pilots of World War I, and his life story is a fascinating tale of adventure, courage, and innovation. Born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1890, Rickenbacker began his career as a race car driver before turning to aviation. He quickly became one of the top pilots in the United States, and when the United States entered World War I in 1917, Rickenbacker volunteered to serve.

Enduring Courage: Ace Pilot Eddie Rickenbacker and the Dawn of the Age of Speed

by John F. Ross

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6376 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	400 pages

FREE

Rickenbacker was assigned to the 94th Aero Squadron, and he quickly proved himself to be a skilled and fearless pilot. He flew over 100 combat missions, and he shot down 26 enemy aircraft—more than any other American pilot during the war. Rickenbacker's exploits made him a national hero, and he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and the Croix de Guerre.

After the war, Rickenbacker continued to fly. He set several world speed records, and he helped to develop new aircraft designs. He also became a successful businessman, and he served as the president of Eastern Air Lines for many years.

Rickenbacker died in 1973, but his legacy lives on. He is considered one of the greatest aviators of all time, and his story continues to inspire people today.

Rickenbacker's Early Life

Eddie Rickenbacker was born Edward Vernon Rickenbacker on October 8, 1890, in Columbus, Ohio. His father was a German immigrant, and his mother was of Swiss descent. Rickenbacker's family was poor, and he had to work from a young age to help support his family.

As a child, Rickenbacker was fascinated by machines. He loved to take things apart and put them back together, and he often got into trouble for tinkering with his father's tools. When Rickenbacker was 12 years old, he got his first job as a mechanic's helper at a local garage. He quickly learned how to fix cars, and he soon became one of the best mechanics in the shop.

In 1908, Rickenbacker left his job at the garage to pursue his dream of becoming a race car driver. He raced for several years, and he won many races. In 1916, Rickenbacker won the Indianapolis 500, the most prestigious race in the United States.

Rickenbacker's Military Service

When the United States entered World War I in 1917, Rickenbacker volunteered to serve. He was assigned to the 94th Aero Squadron, and he quickly proved himself to be a skilled and fearless pilot. He flew over 100 combat missions, and he shot down 26 enemy aircraft—more than any other American pilot during the war.

Rickenbacker's exploits made him a national hero, and he was awarded the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and the Croix de Guerre.

Rickenbacker's Post-War Career

After the war, Rickenbacker continued to fly. He set several world speed records, and he helped to develop new aircraft designs. He also became a successful businessman, and he served as the president of Eastern Air Lines for many years.

Rickenbacker died in 1973, but his legacy lives on. He is considered one of the greatest aviators of all time, and his story continues to inspire people today.

Rickenbacker's Legacy

Eddie Rickenbacker was a true American hero. He was a skilled and fearless pilot, and he made a significant contribution to the Allied victory in World War I. After the war, Rickenbacker continued to serve his country, both in the business world and in the public eye. He was a tireless advocate for aviation, and he helped to make the United States the world leader in air travel.

Rickenbacker's legacy is one of courage, innovation, and service. He was a pioneer in the field of aviation, and he helped to shape the world we live in today.

Enduring Courage: Ace Pilot Eddie Rickenbacker and the Dawn of the Age of Speed

by John F. Ross

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6376 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	400 pages

FREE