The Cosmos Club takes great pleasure in presenting the 2004 Cosmos Club Award to retired Air Force Brigadier General Charles E. Yeager. The contributions for which he is best known include piloting the first super- sonic aircraft flight in 1947 and in 1953 flying the Bell X-1A at more than twice the speed of sound. General Yeager began his career in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a mechanic and became a pilot during World War II. He enlisted in the military as a private and rose to the rank of brigadier general. Because of an early background in mechanics, his flights were much more than acts of daring. Their success combined courage, piloting skills, and a sound knowledge of the aerodynamic and mechanical capabilities of unique aircraft. Beyond this, his vision, bravery, and ability to lead were recognized by all who served with him in military and civilian capacities. His military contributions have been recognized by the United States and other nations through numerous decorations and awards. He will be remembered as an intrepid leader whose supersonic and high altitude flight skills ushered in the Space Age.
