Learning Center Our Enshrinees

Wiley Hardeman Post

• Won the Derby of the National Air Races from Los Angeles to Chicago in 1930.
• Made the first around-the-world solo flight in his aircraft, the Winnie Mae, in seven days, 18 hours and 49.5 minutes in 1931.
• Conceived, aided in the design, and tested the first fully pressurized flying suit and helmet.
• Designed his “Man from Mars” flying suit in 1934 and made an unofficial ascent to 49,000 feet.
• Recognized the importance of biological rhythms to pilot proficiency and fatigue, and was one of the first to conduct human factors research in this area.
• Reached an altitude of 50,000 feet in the super charged Winnie Mae and discovered jet streams.
• Received the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1932 by act of Congress and won the Collier Trophy in the same year.
• Won the Gold Medal of Belgium and the Harmon Trophy in 1934.