At the first opportunity after graduation from the United States Military Academy in 1914, Carl Andrew Spaatz sought wings in the embryo flying service of his country. In 1915, at the aviation school in San Diego, he was rated military aviator. Combat flying for "Tooey" Spaatz began in 1916 with service on the Mexican border. With his country at war in 1917, he became architect and commander of the American Training Center at Issoudon, France, which provided the pilots and mechanics for the fledgling U.S. Air Service. In just three weeks with the 13th Aero squadron, Spaatz achieved three combat victories. These qualities of leadership and dedication to air power continued in the years between wars, including the record breaking endurance flight of the Question Mark, and support of the Mitchell airpower philosophy: the quest of Air Force autonomy. With his country again at war in 1942, he returned to combat, and formed the 8th Air Force in England, leading the U.S. Strategic Air Forces in the European Theatre of Operations. He designed the plan and forged the structure which through "round the clock" precision bombing, hastened the Allied victory. The war in Europe won, this great air commander moved to the Pacific and applied his genius once more, again in victory. His quest continued in post war peace; and finally, in 1947 as the first Chief of Staff of the United Sates Air Force, he completed the task as planned.
Inducted in 1977.
Portrait Location: Not Currently on Floor