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Frank EverestAmerican pilot
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Frank Kendall Everest Jr. - American Aviator
- Early Life and Career
- World War II Combat
- Post-War Service
- Test Pilot Accomplishments
- Command Positions
- Legacy
Frank Kendall Everest Jr. - American Aviator
Frank Kendall Everest Jr., an American aviator, served with distinction in World War II and became a renowned test pilot for the United States Air Force.
Early Life and Career
Born in Fairmont, West Virginia in 1920, Everest graduated from Fairmont State College and West Virginia University, where he studied aviation. He joined the USAF in November 1941 and completed his flight training in July 1942.
World War II Combat
Everest flew a P-40 in North Africa, Sicily, and Italy, completing 94 combat missions and shooting down two German aircraft. He commanded the 17th Fighter Squadron in China, Burma, and India, where he notched four more aerial victories. However, his P-40 was shot down in 1944, leading to his capture as a prisoner of war.
Post-War Service
After the war, Everest became a test pilot at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio in February 1946. He set an unofficial altitude record of 71,850 feet in the Bell X-1. He then served at Edwards Air Force Base in California as a lead test pilot responsible for evaluating numerous aircraft, including the X-1, X-2, and B-52.
Test Pilot Accomplishments
On October 29, 1953, Everest set a world speed record of 755.149 miles per hour at low altitude in a YF-100. He also participated in the development of the F-100, F-101, F-102, and other aircraft.
Command Positions
In the later stages of his career, Everest held command positions, including leading the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service, the Military Airlift Command, and Scott Air Force Base in Illinois.
Legacy
Brig. Gen. Frank Kendall Everest Jr. passed away in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of service and innovation in the field of aviation. He was a skilled test pilot and a dedicated leader who made significant contributions to the advancement of military aircraft.
