Chuck Yeager is a retired test pilot and U.S. Air Force general. In 1947, Yeager was the first pilot to break the sound barrier.Academy of Achievement: Chuck Yeager Profile
Fast Facts:
- Full name: Charles Elwood YeagerAcademy of Achievemet: Chuck Yeager Profile
- Born: February 13, 1923
- Birth place: Myra, West VirginaAcademy of Achievemet: Chuck Yeager Profile
- Service: U.S. Air ForceU.S. Centennial Of Flight Commission: Chuck Yeager
- Rank: Brigadier General (retired)West Virginia Wesleyan College: Chuck Yeager Biographical Information
- Wars: World War II, Vietnam War
- Other work: Flight instructor
Background
A few months after he graduated from high school, Chuck Yeager entered the Air Force with the intention of becoming a mechanic. In the summer of 1942, he enrolled in the "Flying Sergeant Program" and earned his wings. He was transferred to England shortly thereafter, and in early 1944, shot down his first enemy plane.U.S. Centennial Of Flight Commission: Chuck Yeager
Awards and Honors
Chuck Yeager won the Collier and Machay trophies in 1947 for breaking the sound barrier. In 1953, Chuck Yeager received the Harmon trophy for twice exceeding the speed of sound. He was enshrined into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 1973. National Aviation Hall of Fame: Charles Chuck Yeager On December 25, 1975, Chuck Yeager received the Congressional Medal of Honor for Bravery from Gerald Ford.ChuckYeager.org: Congressional Medal of Honor He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1985.Medal of Freedom.com: Chuck Yeager In 1990, Yeager was honored by the Aerospace Walk of Honor.Aerospace Walk of Honor: Honorees 1990
