Oversaw the construction of a flying school at Yuma, Arizona, during World War II where he earned his wings and helped to develop the vastly superior “curve of pursuit” training method, which revolutionized gunnery results.
Participated in ferrying fighter planes to Europe and as the chief pilot flying supply routes to the China-Burma-India Theater.
Elected to the senate in 1952 and co-sponsored legislation creating the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Was a U.S. Presidential candidate in 1964.
Supported NASA research programs, all-volunteer military, the National Air and Space Museum, recognizing WASP pilots as World War II veterans, and building a Vietnam War Memorial.