The historic X-1 rocket plane not only gave the world supersonic flight, but also solved many engineering problems, allowing modern aircraft to be designed.
BLUEFIELD — Seventy-four years ago, a native West Virginian climbed into the cockpit of a rocket-powered aircraft and proved that he had “the right stuff” by becoming the first pilot
Pence speaks at Yeager memorial service
By John Raby - Associated Press
Vice President Mike Pence speaks during a memorial service for the late Air Force Brig. Gen. Chuck Yeager in Charleston, W.Va., on Friday, Jan. 15, 2021. Yeager died last month at age 97. The West Virginia native in 1947 became the first person to fly faster than sound. (AP Photo/Chris Jackson)
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) Retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Chuck Yeager was remembered at a memorial service Friday as a hero, legend and friend who would go out of his way to help others.
Vice President Mike Pence started the service in Yeager’s home state of West Virginia by calling him “America’s greatest aviator” during a 15-minute address that detailed Yeager’s military career.