Learning Center Our Enshrinees

Ira Clarence Eaker


  • Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1926 for his participation in a Pan-American goodwill flight to South America.
  • Chief pilot of the Question Mark in 1929 which set an in-flight refueling record of 150 hours.
  • Made the first blind transcontinental flight in 1936.
  • Organized the VIII bomber command and led the first heavy bomber raids over Europe during World War II.
  • Commanded the Eighth Air Force, which then consisted of all U.S. Army Air Forces in the United Kingdom.
  • Led the Mediterranean Allied Air forces during the invasion of Italy and southern France in 1944.
  • Became deputy commander of the Army Air Forces and Chief of the Air Staff.

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