Heroes and Leaders: George E. Day

Name, rank, serial number … and the aftermath. Medal of Honor recipient George “Bud” Day was born in Sioux City, Iowa, in 1925. He grew up during the Depression and after dropping out of high school and joining the Marines...

Heroes and Leaders: Benjamin O. Davis Jr.

Career Airman who served proudly. Our armed forces have not always been integrated. Although Blacks served, they did so in specialized units commanded by White officers and suffered institutional discrimination in the 1940s and beyond. Racial inequality was both pervasive...

Heroes and Leaders: William W. Momyer

Mr. Tactical Airpower. William Momyer, known as “Spike,” was an outstanding tactician who was instrumental in developing and implementing air doctrine throughout his career. After graduating from the University of Washington in 1937, he became an aviation cadet and won...

Heroes And Leaders: Claire L. Chennault

A “Tiger” who showed his teeth without biting his tongue. Chennault was a well-known and heroic figure in America during World War II, due largely to his command of the Flying Tigers in China. The American Volunteer Group—its official name—suited...