Henry Harley Arnold

Graduating from West Point in 1907, he began his career in the U.S. Army but soon moved into aviation during its experimental years. He learned to fly from the Wright brothers' circle and became one of the Army's earliest pilots, building a reputation as an energetic advocate for air power.

During World War II, he commanded the U.S. Army Air Forces and played a central role in the huge expansion of American military aviation. His leadership helped shape strategy, aircraft development, and long-range bombing operations, making him one of the key architects of U.S. air strength in the war.

Known by the nickname "Hap," he was widely respected for both his vision and his drive. In 1949, he became the only person in U.S. history to hold the five-star rank of General of the Air Force, a fitting capstone for a career that helped define modern air warfare.