Learning Center Our Enshrinees

Holden Chester Richardson

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Pilot

Born: December 7, 1878 in Shamokin, Pennsylvania
Death: September 2, 1960
Enshrined: 1978

Graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1901 and was designated Naval aviator #13.

Served as the Navy’s first engineering test pilot.

Aided in the development of seaplane floats, flying boat hulls, and the first successful catapult which enabled aircraft to go to sea with warships.

Participated in the first transatlantic crossing of the Curtiss NC flying boats as a pilot in 1919 and was made an officer of the Order of the Tower and Sword by the Portuguese government for this feat. Richardson was also awarded the Navy Cross.

Instrumental in creating carrier-based aircraft and patrol planes.

Served as the first secretary of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics.