Civilian Personnel -- Flight Instructors – World War II Flight Training Museum and the Douglas 63rd Preservation Society, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
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This listing was taken from the Douglas 63rd AAFFTD yearbooks from 1942-1944 and the research of Paul Schlundt, who himself was a flight instructor of the Douglas 63rd. The Class column indicates the graduation year (e.g., 42) and class identifier (e.g., K) of the yearbook(s) where the instructor is found. It is not all inclusive since we do not have yearbooks for every class. The people on this page were hired by the Raymond-Richardson Aviation Company to teach the aviation cadets to fly.
Name
Title, Class and Service
Other and Picture
Amos, Ezra E.
Flight Instructor
After leaving Douglas he flew the "Hump." Later he returned to Macon.
Macon, GA.
License # 88177-41
Birthdate 9/16/1908.
Anders, C. Brisco
Flight Instructor
He instructed Primary in Camden, SC before coming to Douglas about July 1944. He left in Nov. 1944 to instruct French Cadets at Orangeburg SC until Oct. 1946.
Flat Rock, N. C.
License # 92728-41
Birthdate 8/8/1918.
Anderson, Carl F.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D
Was in Douglas from Nov 1941 to Nov 1942 when he joined the Navy Ferry Command at Floyd Bennett Field, NY. Was discharged as a Lt. Commander in 1946.
Of Hartford, Connecticut
License# 35708. Birth Date 1/26/1914.
Anderson, John E.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A. He left Douglas in 1942 to go to the Navy and was in active service until 1951. He became a Captain in the Naval Reserves at Marietta, GA.
Russellville, Kentucky.
Anderson, O. A. "Andy"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Dec. 1943 to Sept 1944. Left to go to A.T.C. Later instructed at Wichita Falls, TX After discharge he instructed at Salem, IL. Went to Abilene TX to cropdust in 1953. Killed in a dusting accident on Aug. 6, 1956 at Cleveland, MS.
Hillsboro Ill.
License # c-40675-40
Birthdate 2/1/1914
Annin, James Lloyd
Flight Instructor
43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44AWas in Douglas from Oct. 1942 until Dec. 1943. He left to spend 2 years in the Air Force. He became a 1st Lt. Also served in Korea.
Won Air Medal and Oak Leaf Cluster.
Miami, Florida
License # 396882,
Birthdate 12/18/1917-2/19/1973
After discharge he flew jets for several airlines.
See
FindAGrave
Ardett, "Lucky"
Ground School Instructor
Shot by mistake in 1943 as he was trying to enter his own apartment.
Arnold, Fred M.
Flight Instructor
He was in Douglas from Feb. 1943 and played the organ at the Pilots' Club. He also instructed in the refresher school during 1944.
Akron, Oh
License # 495605
Birthdate 01/21/1914.
Atkins, Paul G.
Flight Instructor
He started in Douglas in Aug. 1943 and left in Aug. 1944 to go to American Airlines.
Later lived in Long Island, NY
Ayers, John T.
Squadron Commander, Group Commander (of Group "A")
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J,
43K 44A (in Douglas from Oct. 1941 to Dec. 1944).
Bailey, Robert Joseph
Flight Instructor
44A. Started in July 1943 and stayed until Aug. 1944. After leaving went through the Air Corps Cadet Program, Primary at Brady, TX; Basic at Waco; Advance in B-25's at Pampa, TX. then he flew navigator trainees from Selman Field.
Later lived in Pittsburg, PA
Bailey, Willard J.
Flight Instructor
After the War he operated a local flying service at Port Huron, St. Clair County (MI) Airport.
He and his wife were killed in a Cessna at night in bad weather, 15 miles north of Detroit, MI on Mar. 15, 1954.
Barbarow, Clifford A. "Cliff"
Flight Instructor
Started in Douglas with Class 44A in May 1943. He left in Dec. 1944 to go with T.W.A.
Later worked for the F.A.A. in the control towers of Washington, D.C. and Greater Pittsburg.
Barnett, Samuel
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A
Macon, GA. Died by suicide sometime prior to 1961.
Barr, Wayne L.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from July 1943 until Dec. 1944.
Later of Palo Alto, Calif.
Barton, C. K. "Speedy"
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A
Killed doing low acrobatics in a Ryan Trainer in North Augusta, SC shortly after he left Douglas.
Bassee, John
Asst. Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A (from Oct. 1941 to Nov. 1944)
Bassford, Stephan A. "Steve"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from June 1943-Nov. 1944. He left to go with T.W.A. in Feb. 1945.
He flew Boeing 707's between New York and Paris, Rome, Cairo and sometimes Bombay.
Bavis, Elwyn J. "Bill"
Flight Instructor
Instructed Primary at Avon Park FL until that school closed and he came to Douglas in Nov. and Dec. 1944.
He flew for T.W.A. Was living in Fort Lee, NJ
Beach, Stanley S. R. "Red"
Asst. Squadron Commander, Squadron Commander, Group Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Nov. 1941 until Dec. 1944. Left to instruct at Arcadia, FL for 6 more months.
Went with National Airlines. Later moved to Miami, FL.
Beall, Arthur W. Jr.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D. He instructed for Brinckerhoff in College Park, MD and then came to Douglas about June 1942. He left in Nov to instruct at Maxwell A.F.B. and Cape Girardeau, MO.He received his commission in 1943. Was Contract Officer at Jackson, TN. Taught French Cadets at Gunter Field. He was being checked out in B-24's and B-29's as the War ended.
He stayed in the service after the war and was in Air Rescue at Hickam Field, Hawaii, where he started flying helicopters. In 1954 he went to Elmendorf, Alaska as Commander of the 71st Air Rescue Sqdn. Then to Stead A.F.B., Nev; Westover A.F.B., Mass; etc. In 1964 made Inspector General, Hdqts., Air Rescue Service. Was in charge of all Air Rescue in SE Asia during Vietnam War. Colonel
Belk, Frank L.
Flight Instructor
Instructed Primary at Camden, SC before starting in Dougas in Nov. 1943. He left May 1944.
Went to Anderson S.C. with 2 Stearmans that he rebuilt into crop dusters. Later moved to Pahokee, FL where he was airport manager and had a flying service and school.
Bellah, Gordon E.
Flight Instructor, Asst Squadron Commander
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. Started at Douglas in April 1942. Left Dec. 1944 to instruct for 6 more months at Arcadia, FL.
Returned to Stockbridge, GA where he had a farm, airport, a flying school and a sky diving school.
Click
here for his contributions as described upon his induction to the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame on April 26, 2014 (a PDF).
Bitterman, Jesse F. "Brakes"
Flight Instructor
Was in Douglas from Dec. 1943 to Oct. 1944. On June 7, 1944, he had a taxiing accident in a PT-17 (42-16236) at Douglas.
He left to go to the Army Air Corps and was discharged in 1946.
Continued instructing in Air Force Contract Schools. Was a helicopter instrument instructor in Fort Rucker, ALA.
Blankenship, B. Dale
Flight Instructor
Was in Douglas with the Class of 44A in July 1943 and stayed until Dec 1943. Served in military after leaving Douglas.
Later of Vienna, IL.
Boddorf, Noel E.
Flight Instructor
Was in Douglas prior to Aug. 1944 and left in Dec. 1944.
He instructed in the Air Force Contract School at Bainbridge, GA 1952-1960. the instructed at Fort Rucker, ALA in the rotary wing division.
Bowman, Arnold G.
Flight Instructor
Was in Douglas prior to 1944 and left in Dec. 1944.
Later was flying in Rochester, NY for a flying service.
Bradshaw, Charles W.
Flight Instructor
Later lived in Raleigh, NC
Brewster, Robert J. "Bob"
Flight Instructor
Instructed at Helena, Ark Primary School before coming to Douglas in Aug. 1944. He left in Nov. 1944 to go to Waycross, GA to open a flight school.
Bright, William O. "Bottle"
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. Started in Douglas in Oct 1942 and was still there in Dec. 1943.
Continued flying and selling airplanes after the War. Later moved to Opa Locka, FL.
Briles, Fred E. "Pappy"
Flight Instructor, Asst Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from June 1942 to Aug. 1944.
Burckhalter, Billy M.
Flight Instructor
43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Mar 1943 to Dec 1943.
Augusta, GA. He was killed in a Cessna 310, at night, in the flight pattern at Augusta, GA at the end of a flight from Atlanta, about July 1, 1960.
Burnett, Archie C. Jr.
Ground School Instructor. As a crew chief on Aug. 11, 1943, he was involved in a taxiing accident ground collision in a PT-17 (42-16412). The accident involved S. B. Bounds in PT-17 (41-8582), of the civilian line crew.
Burrell, Bill
Flight Instructor
Killed in a DC-4 while in the Service
Buttz, Robert Trippe
Flight Instructor
Of Winchester, VA.
Byington, J. W. "Jake"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Sept 1942 to Oct. 1944. He left to go with the A.T.C. at Cochran Field, Macon, GA.
Later lived in Macon Ga.
Cadle, Allen Eve
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. He was in Douglas until 1944.
Augusta, Georgia
License# 43561
Birth Date 9/8/1902. A native of Hephzibah, Georgia.
After the War, he was a member of the South Carolina CAA examining board and was an operator of Bamberg Flying Service in Bamberg, SC.
He was killed in a dusting accident in September 1955, when his plane's wheels hit a power line. He was killed instantly.
Campbell, A. Bruce
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas during 1942 and the first part of 1943. He left to become an instructor at the Central Instructors' School at Randolph Field, TX. Later to A.T.C. in DC3's and C-46's in the C.B.I. Theater and flew the "Hump".
Returned to Sumter, SC where he operated the Laurens Co. airport. Then flew as personal pilot for commander-in-chief of the V.F.W. National Headqtrs, Kansas City, MO. Continued flying.
Cawley, J. J.
Ground School Instructor
43K, 44A
Later of Pompano Beach, FL
Cerf, Kurt
Flight Instructor
Was in Douglas during 1943 and left to go into A.T.C. in Europe.
Indianapolis, Indiana
License# 207216
Birth Date5/27/1910
Clay, Alphia J. Jr. "Al"
Flight Instructor
Was in Douglas Jan. 1943-Dec. 1944. He left to go to Atlanta to get an instrument rating.
Marshallville, Georgia
License# 81336-41
Birth Date 6/3/1922.
Joined T.W.A. in April 1945. Moved to North Chatham, Mass.
Climer, Clyde H.
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A
Rome, Georgia,
License# 124085 Birth Date 7/16/1912
Killed in a dusting accident in Alabama about 1948
Clise, Darwin M.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Aug. 1942 to Feb. 1943. He may have been at Douglas into 1944, because on Feb 10, 1944 he experienced a stall / spin in a PT-17 (41-8250) at Douglas.
He also instructed in Big Rapids, MI for 6 months and then stopped flying with about 3,000 hours.
Ithaca, Michigan
License# 159218
Birth Date 9/29/1909
Coleman, Jessie Wade
Director of Flight Instructors Refresher School, Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H.
In Douglas from July 1941 to June 1943.
Had a local flight operation in DeLand, FL, but quit commercial flying in 1950.
Compton, Charles S.
Flight Instructor
43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A (Jan. 1943-Dec. 1944). He left to instruct for 6 more months in Arcadia, FL.
Metuchen, New Jersey and Edison, NJ.
License# 97043, Birth Date 1/17/14
Copenhaver, Gayle C. "Red"
Flight Instructor
43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Mar. 1943 to Dec. 1944. He left to go with T.W.A.
Des Moines, Iowa
License# 141257
Birth Date 7/12/1915
Became captain on B-727's based in Cairo then in New York City.
Corkran, Royce
Flight Instructor
44A, 44C, 44G, 44I, 45B and others. Started in Douglas July 1943. Left Dec 1944 to instruct at Arcadia, FL
Woodlawn, MD
License# 6922-40
Born 10/25/1909
Died in 1953 in Arcadia, FL in a pick-up truck accident.
Cormell, Kenneth L.
Flight Instructor. Took over the Instructor Refresher Course in his last year.
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Sept 1942 to Dec. 1944.
Later of Jacksonville Beach, FL
Had a sign shop in Sumter, SC then in Jacksonville Beach.
Cotton, Josiah T. "Joe"
Flight Instructor
43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Nov. 1942 to Dec. 1944. Instructed at Arcadia, FL for 6 more months.
Miami, Florida, the Ft Lauderdale, FL.
License# 196016 Birth Date 5/1/1911.
Instructed in Miami until 1949 then went with National Airlines. Later flew on C-46's for Carco Air Service on Atomic Energy Commission contracts in Las Vegas.
Cox, James W.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas in June 1942 and left in Dec 1943 to teach Basic at Ga Aero Tech at Augusta. This school closed and he joined the Air Force in Oct. 1944. He received his commission and wings in Oct 1946.
Quincy, Florida, and had a restaurant in Douglas, GA.
License# 88873-41,
Birth Date 10/17/1919
He became a 2nd lieutenant and served in Okinawa in Aug 1947. Discharged in June 1948. Became a Major in the Air Force Reserve.
See group picture here.
Crisler, Al L. "Creepy" (nickname)
Flight Instructor
43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Mar. 1943 to Sept. 1944.
Douglas, Georgia then Charlotte, NC
License# 188687,
Birth Date 2/17/1914.
After the War, flew for commercial airlines.
Crosby, Warney L. "Bing"
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D. Left Douglas about Nov. 1942. He was in the Berlin Airlift and the 51st Fighter Group (Wing) in Korea.
At Gieger Field as Commander, U.S.A.F. Fighter Sqdn flying F-105's. Director of Operations Section, 13th Air Force, Clark A.F.B., Phillipines in 1965.
Cross, Albert S., Jr. "Al"
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas Aug 1942-Dec. 1944. Went to Arcadia, Fl to instruct for 6 more months.
Douglas, Georgia
License# 37475 Birth Date 12/8/1911
See group picture here.
Flew with Civil Air Patrol and became a Lt. Col. and group commander.
Culbertson, Charles B.
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H. In Douglas from July 1942 to Mar. 1943 when he left to go to the Civil Air Patrol. Joined the A.T.C. in July 1944 and was in Mohanberi, India flying the "Hump".
Later flew with the S.C. and Georgia National Guards.
Cunningham, Arthur S.
Ground School Instructor, Flight Instructor, Assistant to the Ground School Director (Mar-Nov 1942). He was an instructor at Douglas when he was 19.
Taught classes 42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H. In Douglas from Dec. 1941 to Mar. 1943. Then taught at C.T.D. at Gettysburg, PA. Went into Active Service in Mar. 1944.
For a picture of Cunningham with some of his students,
click here.
Discharged as captain in Aug. 1957. Flew C-47's, C-46's, C-54's and C-124's in M.A.T.S. Also in Air-Sea Rescue. Was in North Africa, India, Europe, Pacific A-Bomb tests and in Korea 1952-1953. Later was flight instructor for the Pennsylvania National Guard in Harrisburg, PA.
In more recent years, he was awarded the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, which recognizes pilots who have demonstrated professionalism, skill and aviation expertise by maintaining safe operations for 50 or more years.
Davidson, Norton Alexander ("Sandy")
Flight Instructor
Davis, C. E.
Flight Instructor
Dial, Edward W.
Flight Instructor
He was with the R.C.A.T. prior to Douglas.
Baltimore, MD
License# S651637
Birth Date 11/14/1921
Dietrich, J. A.
Flight Instructor
Bogota, New Jersey
License#7195-40
Birth Date 9/11/1908
Dillard, William Broadus "Bill"
Flight Instructor43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from 1941 to Dec. 1944. Helped engineer and build auxillary fields and enlarge main field. Left to go to single Engine Cadet school and graduated at Moore Field, Mission, TX. Then to Williams A.F.B. for 1 year.
Dillow, Roy L.
Flight Instructor
Stayed in Douglas until Dec. 1944.
Anna, Illinois
License# S450734
Birth Date 7/1920
Worked for McDonald Aircraft Corp of St. Louis
Doran, Thomas E.
Flight Instructor
43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas Aug. 1942-Sept. 1943 to join the air force. Learned B-17's at Sebring and B-29's at Maxwell. Flew at Lowery Field, Denver and was discharged jan. 1946.
Drummond, James A., Jr.
Flight Instructor42K, 43A, 43C, 43D. In Douglas Jan 1942-Jan 1943. Left to go with the Ferry Div. of A.T.C. and some time with Rescue in Greenland. Discharged as 1st Lt. in Aug. 1945.
Obannon, Kentucky
License# 57171-41 Birth Date 5/18/17
Duke, Willie Joe
Squadron Commander, Group Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. Stayed in Douglas after the War to have a G.I. flight training school for several years.
Montezuma, Georgia
License# 77385
Birth Date 1/20/1907. Then had a Chevy dealership. Died July 30, 1961.
DuPraw, Ashley W. "Ash"
Flight Instructor
43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. He left Douglas to instruct at Parkersburg, WV.
Grand Blanc, Michigan,
License# 154091
Birth Date 12/18/1915
Had a flying service at Flint, MI. Later flew for GM.
Eberhardt, Charles E.
Flight Instructor
He left Douglas to join the army. Discharged in 1946.
Dallas TX. Was a co-pilot for Pacific Overseas Airlines, later Trans Texas Airlines.
Eidson, H. Ragan "Joe"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Sept 1943 to Dec. 1944.
College Park, Georgia then New Orleans, LA.
License #210602
Birth date 10/15/1909.
Epps, Ben T.
Flight Instructor
43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Jan. 1943 to Jan. 1944. He left to join the Army Air Force. He spent 2 years in India in the C.B.I. theatre and flew the "Hump."
Athens, Georgia
License #92639-41
Birth date 6/27/1916
After the War he returned to Atlanta where he had a fixed base flight operation. Later worked for Southern Airlines.
Fernald, Evon A.
Flight Instructor
Was in Douglas from 1942 to Dec. 1944 to take A.T.C. training.
After his service he went to Benton, Maine and opened up an airport, with student and charter work on wheels and floats.
Formanek, Robert B.
Junior Director of Physical Training
42K, 43A
Fradel, John F.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A and probably 42J. Was in Douglas in Nov. 1941 to Dec. 1942. Left for a job with Eastern Airlines but was drafted one month later. Was in A.T.C. for 3 years flying multi-engine aircraft.
Discharged Feb 1946. Spent several years as flight instructor at Greensburg, PA and then did executive flying.
Fraser, John C.
Flight Instructor
43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A
Of North Augusta, SC.
Fraser, John R., Jr.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A. In Douglas from Oct 1941 to Oct 1942. He left to join the navy at Pensacola, FL. He spent most of his time in the Pacific with the Naval Air Transport Command. Discharged Aug. 1946 as a Lt. Commander. He continued to fly for the Naval Reserve until about 1964.
After the War, returned to Charleston, WV and was a partner with John Bassee in the operation of a sea plane base. Later became a psychiatrist in Louisville, KY and became chief of Psychiatric Social Services.
Fritsche, William M. "Bill"
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A
Pittstown, New Jersey,
License #38911,
Birthdate 5/17/1913.
Owned and operated Alexandria Airport at Pittstown. Also in the National Guard.
Gibson, G. Leonard
Flight Instructor
He was in Douglas from Sept 1944 to Nov 1944. He taught Primary at Americus for 3 years before coming to Douglas.
Montezuma, Georgia
License#88111-41
Birth Date 9/17/1911
He had a flight school at Montezuma after the War.
Gillespie, Eugene W. "Bud"
Flight Instructor43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A.
In Douglas Dec 1942-Nov 1943. He left to join the 3rd Ferrying Group at Romulus, MI.
Flint, Michigan
License # 154207 Birth Date 3/7/1917
In 1951 he started instructing at a Contract school at Kinston, NC, then at Mission TX, then Fort Rucker, AL, and others.
Glassburner, Thomas M.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Aug 1941 to May 1942. He left to go into the Service as an instructor on BT-13's at Shaw Field. In Mar. 1943 he was at Maxwell as the Air Inspector. Then back to Bush Field 6 months later. He had 250 combat hours off Tinian Island in the Pacific.
He remained in the service and served in McDill, FL; Topeka, KS; Savannah, GA; Morocco; Maxwell A.F.B.; the Pentagon; Hunter A.F.B.; Pease A.F.B.; Dover A.F.B.; and finally as base commander Lajes Field Azores. Home was Conway, PA.Commander of the 20th Air Lift Sqdn. in 1966. Achieved the rank of Colonel and retired 1971. Born 1917, Conway, PA.
See Airlift Tanker: History of U. S. Airlift and Tanker Forces By Turner Publishing
at Google books.
Picture of Glassburner at Shaw Field.
Goetzen, George W.
Squadron Commander, Group Commander,
Assistant Director of Flying (43K, 44A)42K, 43A, 43C, 43D.
He was in Douglas almost the full time the school was in operation. He left in Dec. 1944 to instruct for 6 more months at Arcadia, FL.
Union City, New Jersey; later Leesburg, FL.
License#66708
Birth Date 3/15/1916
After the War he worked for Wes Raymond in Orlando, FL flying and selling Taylorcraft and Seabee aircraft, and operating land and sea bases until 1948.
Click here for additional picture
Gooden, Arthur M.
Flight Instructor
Lexington, Virgina
License # C200130
Birth Date 9/14/1901
Goodman, Edward M. "Ed"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Oct. 1941 to April 1942. He left to go into active service in the Ferry Command delivering B-26's overseas. Then he flew the "Hump" for 2 years and 180 missions.
Brooklyn, New York
License #20888-40
Birthdate 2/26/1920
Discharged in 1946.
Goyne, Joe R. Jr.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Oct 1944 and stayed until Dec 1944.
Monroe, LA
License #5294086
Birth date 1/8/1908
Gray, Joseph L.
Flight Instructor, Asst Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. He left in Dec 1944 and returned to Lake City where he had a flight school for many years.
Lake City, Florida,
License #30925 Birth date 3/2/1902.
He managed the Lake City airport after the War.
Haaf, Charles H. "Chick"
Flight Instructor
Worked at Primary for 4 years at Jackson, MS before coming to Douglas in Mar 1944. Stayed through Nov 1944.
Columbus, Ohio
License # 6017
Birth Date 12/19/1905
Hansel, Earl T.
Flight Instructor
He instructed at McBride, MO before coming to Douglas in June 1944. Stayed in Douglas until Dec 1944.
Logan, Ohio
License # 54462
Birth Date 8/4/1902
Flew for several flying services after the War.
Hanson, James L.
Asst. Squadron Commander, Squadron Commander.
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. Was in Douglas in Oct 1941. Left to go to National Airlines.
On Dec. 30, 1943, he had a stall and spin accident in a PT-17 (41-8359) in Douglas.
Harper, Benjamin G., Jr.
Ground School Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A
Harrington, Glenn Terrell, Jr.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Mar 1944 and stayed until Dec. 1944. He then started crop dusting.
Milledgeville, Georgia
License # 9260241
Birth Date 5/8/1918
Death date 10/20/1945
Died Oct. 20, 1945 in an airplane accident. See
findagrave.com
Harris, P. Tilton "P.T."
Flight Instructor
He soloed in 1921.
Douglas classes 43C, 43D, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Oct 1942 to Nov 1944.
Macon, Georgia
License # 45769
Birth Date 7/12/1904; Death date 1964.
Ran a restaurant and display business in Macon.
Hasell, Nathaniel I. "Nat" or "Buddy"
Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Dec 1941 to June 1944. He left to go with Eastern Airlines, later becoming captain and chief check pilot at the Miami base
St. Simons, Georgia
License # 39248
Birth Date Apr 7, 1914
Death Date Oct. 21, 1990
Hayden, Herbert R.
Flight Instructor
He instructed at Helena, Ark. for 3 years before coming to Douglas in June 1944. He stayed until Dec 1944. He left to instruct in Memphis and New Orleans.
Daleville, Indiana
License # 92560
Birth Date 2/9/1903
Went to Vadiver Flight Service in Akron, OH; later joined the F.A.A. and was in the control tower at Youngstown, OH.
Haygood, Guy B.
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H
College Park, Georgia,
License #8337-41 Birth date 5/21/1910
Heard, Wade C.
Junior Director of Physical Training
42K, 43A
Henderson, Elijah N.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Oct 1944 and stayed to Dec 1944. Died of a heart attack while instructing cadets at the Kinston, NC Air Force Contract School about 1953 or 1954.
Maston, North Carolina
License # 257837
Birth Date 8/19/1918
Hester, Earl M.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Dec 1943 to Dec 1944. He then went to active duty with A.T.C. 3rd Ferry Group, Long Beach, CA. Discharged 1946.
Tamas, Michigan
License # 209790
Birth Date 3/6/1914
Hibble, Francis D.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Oct 1944 and stayed to Dec 1944.
On Oct. 20, 1944, he came in to Douglas from an administrative flight from Tuskegee, AL. The winds were gusty. While taxiing his PT-17 (41-25336), another plane cut in front of him, and he applied his brakes suddenly. His plane tipped and the propeller was damaged.
Oak Ridge, Tenn.
License # S244092
Birth Date 3/17/1914
He instructed for Ross Aviation at Fort Rucker, AL to 1962.
Hickerson, H. H. "Jim"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas in its first year of operation. He left to go to the Navy. After discharge he flew for Gulf Oil Co. at Pittsburg and for other companies.
Candler Field, Atlanta, Georgia
License #34751 Birth date 4/20/1906
Higginbotham, James M. or N.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Dec 1943 to Dec 1944. He left to go with Bell Aircraft. In 1945 he joined T.W.A. flying the North Atlantic as a Flight Radio Officer.
Malden, Mass.
License # 1221740
Birth Date 5/21/1911.
Hoefler, Charles H.
Flight Instructor
43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Dec 1942 to Dec 1944.
Orlando, Florida
License # 187500
Birth Date 2/15/1907
Hoffman, Walter H.
Flight Instructor
43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Sept 1942 to Dec 1944. Obtained his instrument rating and became a part owner of Zahn's Airport on Long Island.
Hofstatter, F.
Flight Instructor
Was in Douglas prior to Aug. 1944. Left Dec. 1944.
Little Rock, Ark.
License # C51493
Birth Date 4/3/1924
Holmes, Wendell A.
Asst. Squadron Commander, Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas Oct. 1, 1941 and left Dec 1944. He left to join T.W.A. until Japan surrendered.
Obtained his law degree and practiced in Waterloo, Iowa. He retired in 1994 and died in 2002.
Holohan, Edmund P.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Oct. 1944 and stayed to Dec. 1944.
Miami, Florida
License # 92345
Birth Date 7/25/1913
Hood, Bert B.
Flight Instructor
44C. In Douglas from Aug 1943 to Dec 1944.
North Carolina
License # 461368
Birth Date 7/2/1911
Horton, Edward T.
Group I Commander
42K, 43A. In Douglas from July 1941 to Sept 1942. He left to go with National Airlines.
Citra, Florida
Howell, Robert D.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Sept 1943 to Nov 1944. Called to active duty as a private and sent to multi-engine school in Las Vegas, NV. Discharged as a corporal a year later.
Summerville, Georgia
License # 312932
Birth Date 2/1/1916
Death Date 1/3/2013.
Instructed at G. I. School at Trion, GA, for 14 months.
Howren, Hillman V. "Butch"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas in July 1943 to Dec. 1944. He was 6 months in Miami as a mechanic when he was drafted. Spent 1 year in the A.A.F. as private.
Hapeville, Georgia
License # 94839
Birth Date 2/5/1924.
Returned to Atlanta and owned / operated Flightways, Inc., Aircraft Parts Corp. and AirRefuel, Inc.
Jackson, J. M. "Jim"
Flight Instructor
Left Douglas to join the A.A.F. as a cadet. He was discharged as he graduated from Advanced Flying School.
Rock Hill, South Carolina
License #161966
Birth Date 12/22/23
Became a mechanical engineer in NC
Kalec, George L.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas May 1942-Nov 1944.
Hyattsville, MD,
License #25640 Birth Date 5/12/09
Returned to the Times-Herald Newspaper in Washington, DC where he flew for them and was their photographer
Kennedy, Cecil A.
Flight Instructor
Left Douglas to instruct for Wes Raymond at Griffin, GA. Then manager of an Army Indoctrination School at Rome, GA. Then W.T.S. at Athens, GA and Bell Aircraft at Marietta, GA. He joined the Navy and was discharged in 1946.
Waycross, Georgia
License #81804-41
Birth Date 9/21/1915
Had an airstrip 1 mile east of Jasper. Was in the pulpwood business.
Kirk, Joseph Henry
Flight Instructor
In Douglas to Dec 1944. On Oct. 20, 1944, he was taxiing PT-17 (41-7931) in soft dirt in gusty weather in Douglas, and the nose went up damaging the propellor.
He taught French cadets at Orangeburg, SC after leaving Douglas.
Macon, Georgia
License #56070
Birth Date 11/11/1920
Knox, John Blair
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. Was in Paris, France with Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) for several years flying generals all over Europe and Africa. Major.
Chester, South Carolina
License #89720-41
Birth Date 9/8/1917.
Went on to fly Air Force I for the presidents up through Pres. Richard B. Nixon.
See group picture here.
Kops, Lang B.
Flight Instructor
Flew a Twin Bonanza for the Caterpillar after the War, ending up at Ziegler Caterpillar in MN.
Louisville, Kentucky
License #28340-40
Birth Date 4/18/1920
Koughan, John P. "Jack"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Nov 1943 to Dec 1944. He left to go to T.W.A. and made over 1,000 Atlantic crossings.
Newtonville, Mass.
License #172246
Birth Date 6/5/1920 Retired to a position as Jet Ground School Instructor for T.W.A. in Kansas City.
Kuehner, Walter F.
Flight Instructor
43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas Apr 1943 to Dec 1944. After leaving he instructed R.C.A.F. Cadets at Clewiston, FL. Then instructed under the G.I. Bill.
Lamb, J. C.
Flight Instructor
Instructed at Jackson, Miss. Primary and then came to Douglas in April 1944 to Dec 1944.
Lexington, Kentucky
License#157307
Birth Date 3/1/1907
Landis, Kenneth E.
Flying Instructor
43K, 44A. In Douglas from April 1943 to Dec. 1944.
York, PA
License #171667
Birth Date 4/12/1912.
Went with F.A.A. and became Chief of Control Tower at Williamsport, PA.
Lape, Robert F. "Bob"
Flight Instructor, Director of Flying, Chief Check Pilot
43K, 44A. In Douglas from Oct. 1941 on. Left to fly at Ocala, FL until that school closed.In 1950 he went to the Air Force Contract School at Bainbridge, GA. Flew there until 1957 when he was grounded because of his heart.
Miami, Florida
License#8766 Birth Date 4/29/1903. After the War, flew for a flying service in Ohio.
After Bainbridge, he became auditor for the Korean Veterans Bonus (Ohio), then accountant for Doctors Hospital in Columbus, OH.
Lardin, Daniel C.
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F. In Douglas during 1942. He joined the A.A.F. and was killed in a flying accident in a C-47 in England on Dec. 23, 1943. 2nd Lt. S/N: O-521760.
Click here for obituary.
Lillich, James A. "Jimmy"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Oct 1944 and stayed until Dec 1944.After the War he did flying, dusting and aerial photo.
Cartersville, Illinois
License#3594-41
Born Mar 6, 1916.
Died August 24, 1988. Never married.
Litoff, Albert "Al"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from May 1943 to Dec 1944. After leaving he took an instrument course and flight test in NC. Went into real estate after the War.
Washington, DC, later of Silver Spring, MD.
Was George Brinckerhoff's 1st student in Maryland. Soloed in 1928 on an old OX-5 engine. License#10040
Birth Date 6/12/1914
Littlefield, Howard G.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A. Was in Douglas Dec 1941 to Sept 1942 to join the Ferry Command as a civilian pilot. Commissioned in Nov. 1942. Sent to African Div. of A.T.C. at Accra and Casa Blanca. Then to M.A.T.S. until discharge.
University City, MO
License #84067
Birth Date 6/20/1919. Died Feb. 12, 1967.
After the War he flew for American Airlines and Standard Oil. Flew with the Flying Tiger Line and was in the Korean airlift.
Lockyer, Jesse L. "Jess"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from July 1943 to Oct 1944. He left to become a service pilot. After getting an accounting degree in 1947, he returned to the service. Assigned to Wright-Patterson A.F.B., 3 years in Germany, Sheppard A.F.B. in Texas, 1 year in Pakistan, 3 years in Germany. Became a Capt. and taught R.O.T.C. at Central Washington State College.
Gillespie, Illinois
License#420670
Birth Date 12/13/1921
Lonnegan, George W.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Dec 1943 to Dec 1944.
New Orleans, LA
License#165018
Birth Date 2/16/1907
Went into contracting business after the War.
Lovelace, Cecil K.
Flight Instructor
Had about 1,200 hours when he stopped flying in 1953.
Lawrenceburg, Indiana
License#S-258619
Birth Date 9/27/1909
Lowe, James T.
Squadron Commander
42K, 43A. He left in 1942 to join the navy. He later operated Lowe Aviation Service, Piper Dealers, on Cochran Field in Macon.
Shirley Hills, Macon, Georgia
Luebbers, William E. Karl
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Oct 1944 and stayed until Dec 1944.
Baltimore, MD
License#18799-40
Birth Date 3/2/1907
Lynam, E. H. Jr. "Billy"
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F. Operated Sumter Airways and was manager of the airport there after the War.
Read an entertaining article by one of his students at Douglas, who describes his flying experience with Lynam. The article appeared in the June 1971 Air Force Times magazine, and the author is Col. Cal Carpenter, who retired from the Air Force in 1966. (The article will open in a new window.)
Marley, Dan
Flight Instructor
Martens, Forrest F. (sometimes spelled Martins) "Forrie" or "Bud"
Flying Instructor
He was in Douglas from April 1943 to Dec. 1944. He went into crop dusting with Stearmans after the War.
Bellevue, Ohio, later of Miami, FL
License #48462
Birth Date 1/10/1920
Martins/Martin, E.
Flight Instructor
May have been killed after going to the A.T.C. and flying the "Hump."
Curtiss-Wright Airport, Baltimore, MD
Massey, Joseph T.
Ground School Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F. In Douglas from Dec 1941 to May 1944. He then went through the Cadet Program and was discharged in 1946.
Macon, GA
Died Sept 1968.
McDonald, Lewis J.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Aug 1943 to Dec 1944. On June 20, 1944, he had a landing accident in a PT-17 (42-16160) at Kight Aux Field, Douglas, GA.
Port Huron, Mich.
License#63912-41
Birth Date 4/13/1912. Flew for a local operation in St. Paul, MN. Died about 1956.
McDonald, Roy S. E.
Flight Instructor
43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas Jan 1943 to Dec 1944. After leaving he had 10 months active service in the a.A.F. Discharged, he worked for Wes Raymond in Orlando on the G. I. Bill. In 1951 he instructed at a Contract School at Spence Field, Moultrie, GA.
Thomaston, Georgia
License#280993,
Birth Date 10/8/1916
In 1963 he worked for Ross Aviation Inc. at Fort Rucker, AL. In 1966 he qualified in helicopters and transfered to the rotary wing, instrument division.
McGrath, Richard M. "Dick"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from May 1943 to Jan 1944. Went with the A.T.C. and was in the C.B.I. Theatre including 9 months flying the "Hump". Discharged in Mar 1946.
Elmira, NY
License#14275-40
Birth Date 10/18/1918
McLaren, Cameron R.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas until Dec 1944.
Forest Hills, New York. Later of Bridgeville, PA
License#2085340
Birth Date 4/27/1912
McLendon, Cleom H. "Mack"
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Mar 1942 to Dec 1944.
Miami, Florida
License#39683-40 Birth Date 3/19/1911.
Owned a Stearman after the War and did instruction.
McPhillips, Joseph A. "Joe"
Flight Instructor
Instructed for 2 years at Ocala, FL before coming to Douglas in July 1944. Left in Nov 1944 to return to Flint, MI to fly for the Bishop Flying Service.
Flint, Michigan
License#65283
Birth Date 11/7/1913
Later owned McPhillips flying Service at Charlevoix, MI.
McRoy, Clark Lincoln
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A. Left Douglas about Nov. 1942 to join the A.A.F.
Northville, Michigan
License#101602
Birth Date 2/12/1911
Killed on Nov. 25, 1945 while testing a plane in Van Nuys, CA.
Miles, Caesar
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. He left to fly A.T.C. until the end of the War.
Brooklyn, NY,
License #47117 Birth Date 1/22/1913. After the War he flew for Mohawk Airlines and Modern Airlines. In 1961 he worked for Bendix Aerospace Div. at South Bend, Ind.
Miller, Herbert A. "Herb"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to and after Oct 1943.
Miller, Walter E.
Flight Instructor
43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas in Feb 1943 until some time after Mar. 1944.
York, PA
License #173158
Birth Date 10/15/1916, Died Feb. 13, 1965 in Florida.
Moore, Donald M.
Flight Instructor
Was in Douglas until Dec 1944. Then he had a flying and crop dusting service and managed the local airport in Morrilton, Arkansas.
Hornersville, Missouri
License #44497-40
Birth Date 2/26/1901
Mulvey, Edward Henry "Eddy"
Flight Instructor
Natick, Mass.
Birth Date 11/25/1921
Murr / Muir, John
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A.
Americus, Georgia
License # 26741-41,
Birth Date 9/5/1919 Died of a heart attack in 1955 while instructing cadets at Bainbridge, GA Air Force Contract School.
Murray, Ray Emory
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H. He left Douglas to go into the 6th Ferry Group and to fly 120 missions over the "Hump." After the War he had a G.I. Flying School in Alma, GA.
Millwood, Georgia
Birth Date 7/2/1911
Death Date Jul. 11, 1993.
Buried Waycross, GA
Formerly a Georgia State Trooper
Myers, Samuel B.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D. Worked for George Brinckerhoff at College Park, MD prior to coming to Douglas. He left to join the Navy in Nov 1942. He was based at the Naval Air Sation at Atlanta, GA. He crashed in 1944.
Washington, DC.
License # 39507.
Birth Date 11/24/1910
Death date 1944.
Myers, Wilson F.
Flying Instructor
43K, 44A. In Douglas from Jan 1942 to Dec 1944.
Griffin, Georgia
License # 378673
Birth Date 6/18/1911
Nance, John H. Jr.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F
Columbia, South Carolina,
License #70219,
Birth Date 9/17/1912
Nelson, R. Merrill
Flight Instructor
He is believed to be in this picture:
(click here to see picture).
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Oct 1942 to Dec 1944. Went to Reidsville selling auto parts.
NeSmith, Culver
Flight Instructor, Asst. Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A.
In Douglas from Oct 1941 to Oct 1943. He left to instruct Basic at Bush Field, Augusta, GA for 11 months. Then to A.T.C. and was all over the U.S. and then to Guadalcanal, Phillipines and Australia. He was discharged as a 1st Lt. in Dec 1946.
Ashburn, Georgia
License # 42597
Birth Date 3/15/1912
Click here for a group picture.
After the War he crop dusted for 3 seasons at Beaumont, TX. Then flew for a pipe line contractor in Tulsa. In 1956 he set up his company "Aero Service Corp" in the North Tulsa Airport.
Newman, Roland C.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Aug 1941 to Apr 1942. He helped get the school organized and was a squadron commander. He left to go with the C.I.A. in NC for 3 years.
After the War, was back with Wes Raymond's school in Macon for several years. Then he flew C-46's for airlines in Miami for 8 or 9 years.
Newton, Albert D.
Civilian Steward
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J. He was in Douglas prior to May 1942 and was there until after Oct. 1943. He was in charge of the mess hall and canteen.
Nichols, Barry E.
Flying Instructor
43K, 44A. In Douglas in Apr 1943 until Dec 1943.
Screven, Georgia
License # 278647
Birth Date 6/28/1907.
Killed when riding in a car that was hit by a pulpwood truck about 1959.
Nix, Walter E.
Flight Instructor
Marietta, GA. After the War was a Piper distributor for the State of Georgia and Manager of Parkaire Airport in Marietta.
Nixon, Freeman Walker "Nick"
Asst Squadron Commander, Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D.
He left Douglas in 1942 to go to the Navy. He received his Navy wings.
Hepzibah, Georgia
License#93437-41 Birth Date 7/23/1917
Flew for Western Co, Western Hatcheries and then Southland Corp.
North, Wayne P. or L.
Flight Instructor, Asst. Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas prior to Jan 1943 and left after Oct 1943 to instruct Basic at Bush Field, Augusta, GA. Went into crop dusting and a charter operation that flew Twin Beeches and B-17's between Florida and the islands.
Oliveros, Jose J.
Flight Instructor
43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas in Jan 1943 and still there Dec 1943. Later was in the Air Transport Command. Then Capt on a South American Airline and then flew for Texaco Oil in Bogota.
Port Washington, NY, later Bogota, Columbia.
License # 125178
Birth Date 1/15/1912. Married a Douglas girl.
Page, Norman W. "Stoney"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Oct. 1943 and stayed until Dec 1944. After the War he continued flying charters and instructional flying.
Atlanta, Georgia
License # 172660
Birth Date 5/8/1925
Palmer, William F. "Speedy"
Squadron Commander
42K, 43A. In Douglas Oct 1941 to Oct 1942.
He left to go to Air Transport Command where he made the rank of Capt. Was discharged in 1946.
Eustis, Florida
License #39841 Birth Date 1/20/1901
Operated an instrument flying school at Eustis. Then went into motorcycle speeddrome operation.
Pearce, Franklin "Frank"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to and after Oct. 1944.
Peele, Vernon
Ground School Instructor (aircraft engines instructor)
43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Dec 1941 to Dec 1943. He left to become 1st Lt. U.S. Marine Air Reserve Personnel Officer at Quantico, VA, Cherry Point, NC and El Toro, CA until 1946.
Returned to Columbia College, Columbia, SC as Registrar and Professor of English until 1948. Then went to Old Dominion College of Norfolk, VA. as Dean of Arts and Letters.
Pennington, Paul E.
Flight Instructor, Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. Left Douglas to instruct Basic at Augusta, GA.
Matthews, Georgia
License #68501
Birth Date 5/26/12
Pickett, H. B. "Bud"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas Aug. 1943 to at least Dec 1943.
Pomeroy, Ohio
License #175859
Birth Date 1/25/1911.
Killed while landing on his own airstrip in his own PT-23 on June 24, 1951.
Pierce, Orville E.
Flight Instructor
He is believed to be in
this group picture.
43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Dec 1942 to Jan 1944. He left to spend 2 years in the Air Transport Command with 11 months in Burma and India. After discharge he went to work for Embry Riddle Flight Training School in Miami, FL as flight instructor.
Pihl, David A.
Flight Instructor
He stayed in the Service, going to Ferry Command after leaving Douglas. He retired as Lt. Col. having flown B-52, V.C. and Fighters.
East Salt Lake City, Utah
License #109557
Birth Date 7/13/1918
Plaginos, Paul C.
Flight Instructor, Asst. Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Dec 1941 to Oct 1943. He left to go into the Service.
Gainesville, Georgia
License #59510
Birth Date 5/30/1915.
Married Jane Kent, who worked in front office at Douglas.
Porter, Charles R.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F. He stayed in the Service, becoming a Major and was with S.A.G.E.
Presley, Reubin Frank
He started flying in 1935. Before the War, in 1941, he was in the Georgia State Defense Corps as a pilot. See the
Thomaston Times, Oct. 9, 1941.
He came to Douglas in July 1942. At the Douglas 63rd, he was Flight Instructor, Asst Squadron Commander, and Squadron Commander.
He taught classes 42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A.
He left in Dec 1944 to instruct at the Miami Aviation Center for 2 years.
In 1948, he opened an aviation school in Thomaston, GA, where he gave flying instructions and sight seeing trips. See the Thomaston Times, Nov. 19, 1948. He also flew float planes in Orlando and was manager of the Reginald Grant Airport at Thomaston from 1948 until the late 1970's.
In 1969, he was pictured as he was preparing to fly to the Apollo 11 launch.
Price, Harry T.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Oct 1944 and stayed to Dec 1944. Became a co-pilot for National Airlines.
Valley Stream, NY, later Miami, FL
License #24515-40
Birth Date 5/17/1918
Pruitt, Clyde A.
Flight Instructor
Instructed for 3 years at Alabama Institute of Aeronautics at Tuscaloosa before coming to Douglas in Oct 1944. Left in Nov 1944 to instruct at Gadsden, AL.
Attalla, Alabama, later of Chattanooga.
License #83279-41
Birth Date 9/5/1916.
After the War organized G.I. flight schools in FL. Did some crop dusting. Then was at Air Force Primary school at Columbus, MS, and contract school in Mission TX. Later flew officials of N.A.S.A.
Puryear, James R., Jr.
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D
Of Hopewell, VA.
He was killed along with student, Robert W. Post, when practicing forced landings.
Rainey, Robert L., Jr.
Flying Instructor, classes 43K, 44A.
On July 19, 1943, he had a Taxiing Accident due to weather in PT-17 (42-16347).
Miami, Florida, later in Minneapolis MN.
After Douglas flew for Texaco Petroeum in Bogota, Columbia and for an airline in Panama.
License #S285894
Birth Date 1/26/1916
Rainville, H. Ben Jr. "Benny"
Flight Instructor, Asst. Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A
Spartanburg, South Carolina,
License #92981-41, Birth Date 12/3/1920
Raymond, Wesley N., Jr.
Flight Instructor, Asst. Squadron Commander
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. He remained in Douglas until Dec 1944. After the War he flew for National Airlines flying DC-8's.
License #88109-41
Birth Date 10/5/1922
Of Miami Springs, FL.
Reed, Dudley
Squadron Commander, Group Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J,
43K, 44A.
In Douglas from Oct 1941 to Dec 1944. After leaving he instructed at Arcadia, FL for 6 months.
Stockport, Ohio
License #8480
Birth Date 4/16/1900
After the War he flew in Jacksonville, FL, then taught a Mechanics School at Gainesville, FL. Then worked full time making and repairing violins.
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Rice, Lawrence J. "Larry"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Mar 1944 to Dec 1944. In Feb 1945 went with Pan American Airlines flying DC-8's. Flew extensively between England to Hong Kong and New York to Europe.
Bronx, 57, NYC. Later lived in Toms River, NJ.
License #420240
Birth Date 7/14/1921
Ritter, James C.
Ground School Instructor, Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A.
Roberts, Albert "Al"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas in June and July of 1942. Instructed in Ballenger, TX for one year prior to Douglas. After Douglas he joined the Air Transport Command as a Flight Officer and was discharged in 1945.
Bronx, NY. Later was in Livonia, MI. After the War was Chief Pilot for a G.I. Flight School at Rockaway, L.I., N.Y. Flew for various airlines after that. In 1966 volunteered for a tour in Saigon, South Vietnam and was back in U.S. in 1967.
Rochette, Edward R. "Ed"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas in Oct 1943 and left Nov 1944.
Detroit, Michigan, later of Orlando, FL.
License #154427
Birth Date 12/15/1915
Roman, Theodore E. "Ted"
Squadron Commander, Asst. Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Oct 1941 to Dec 1944.
Perth Amboy, NJ,
License #41449,
Birth Date: 4/19/1919. After the War he returned to NJ where he operated a sea plane base. Then to Florida and the crop dusting business. Also instructed at Embry Riddle Institute of Aeronautics at Daytona Beach.
Ross, Harry L.
Flight Instructor
43E, 43F. In Douglas from Feb 1942 to Feb 1943. Left to get a commission. He taught Basic at Gunter Field, AL. Then Operations Officer and C.O. of Hdqts. Flight of the Allied Expeditionary Forces during the Normandy Invasion.
Brightwaters Long Island, NY
License #93248
Birth Date 6/26/1901
After the War, was Senior Contract Rep for the V.A. for 6 years. Retired to New Port Richey, FL.
Ruark, James B.
Flight Instructor
Park Ridge, Illinois. Possibly moved later to High Point, NC
Rumpler, Raymond E.
Flight Instructor
43G, 43H
New Jersey
License #9642
Birth Date 5/17/1907
Rundlett, Rufus T.
Flight Instructor, Asst Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. After Douglas closed went to Arcadia, FL to instruct for 6 mos. Then he went with National Airlines flying
Port Henry, NY or Douglas, Georgia
License #20439-40
Birth Date 8/30/1919.
Married Dorothy Hall of Douglas, GA.
Sager, William F. "Bill"
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H. He stayed in the service after leaving Douglas. Later assigned to Hdqts. N.O.R.A.D. at Ent A.F.B., Colorado Springs, CO. Was a command pilot flying jets and piston aircraft. Transferred to Thailand and returned to Hickham Field Hawaii.
Lewiston, Pennsylvania
Schlundt, Paul D.
Flight Instructor, Asst. Squadron Commander, Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Dec 1941 to Dec 1944. After the closing went to Embry-Riddle Primary School at Arcadia, FL and instructed 6 months.
Schultz, Vincent H. "Bud"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to and after Oct 1943.
Owooso, Michigan
License #57343-41
Birth Date 10/9/1914.
Schwartz, Roman A.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas in Aug 1943 with the class of 44C. Although it is said that he left Douglas after Dec 1943 to go to Ferry Command, on July 14, 1944 he had a forced landing in PT-17 (42-16236) due to engine failure 6 mi SE of Douglas, GA. Perhaps he went to Ferry Command in Dec 1944.
St. Paul, Minnesota.
After the War went to U of MN forestry school and joined Forestry Service.
Scott, Tom W.
Dispatcher and Ground School Instructor - Engines.
Was at Douglas prior to and after Oct 1943.
Sewell, Mike L.
Flight Instructor
classes 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas starting in Dec 1942.
On May 29, 1944, he was killed in stall/spin accident in a PT-17 (41-25503) 2.5 mi NW of Dorniney Field, Douglas, GA.
From The Atlanta Constitution (Atlanta, Georgia), Wed, 31 May 1944, Page 4: "Mike L. Sewell, 38, formerly of a west end address, was killed Monday while instructing pilots at the Raymond Richardson flying field in Douglas, GA. ... Burial will be in West View Cemetery. ... In addition to his wife, he is survived by his mother, Mrs. M. H. Sewell, of Atlanta ... . Sewell was a lifelong resident of Atlanta until two years ago when he went to Douglas to train pilots."
Sheldon, Westley E.
Flight Instructor
43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Jan 1943 to Dec 1944.
Peterborough, New Hampshire
License # 43722
Birth Date 12/22/1908
After the War worked for the State Dept and was in Teheran for several years. Later lived in Washington DC
Sherrill, Charles H.
Flight Instructor, Asst Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from May 1942 to Dec 1944. Went to Arcadia FL to instruct. Then flew for Trans-Tropic charter.
Hendersonville, NC
License # 89516-41,
Birth Date 5/16/1916
Shipe, Earl G.
Flight Instructor
After the War became a draftsman for Westinghouse in Baltimore. Then did some instructing at Fort Meade Flying Club.
Martinsburg, West Virginia, later Reisterstown, MD.
License # C-45319
Birth Date 3/24/1916
Siegman, John R.
Flight Instructor
43K, 44A. In Douglas from Jan 1943 to Dec 1944.After the War got his instrument rating and crop dusted. Then Civil Service at the Great Lakes Naval Air Station in electronics supply.
Waukegan, Illinois
License #210304
Birth Date 1/25/1916
Got optometry degree and practiced out of his home.
Sineath, John Q.
Flying Instructor
43H, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from from Feb 1943 to Dec 1944. Then went with Pan American Airlines and spent 4 years in San Francisco flying Pacific routes, 2 years in Miami flying South American runs and 1 year in New York flying to Europe.
Valdosta, Georgia
License #188685
Birth Date 1/13/1916
Slate, Whitcomb H. "Whit"
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Mar 1942 to Mar 1944. He left to become a Flight Officer in A.T.C. Flew C-46's in the Pacific area and C-47's in Europe. Discharged in 1946.
Philadelphia, PA
License #4869-40 Birth Date 9/8/1907
Click here for a group picture.
After his service he bought and sold aircraft. then joined Boeing-Vertol as a mechanic, later crew chief.
Smallwood, James M. "Maxie"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from June 1943 to Dec 1944. He left to spend 6 months in A.T.C. in Miami, FL. Then 3 months instructing G. I. students at Griffin, GA. then he was drafted into A.A.F. Spent 1 year at Keesler Field, Miss. and was discharged.
Hapeville, Georgia
License #83380
Birth Date 1/22/1920
After discharge he joined Southern Air Charter in Atlanta for 6 years. Then flew Test Pilot for Aero Corp for 5 years.
Smith, A. Guy, Jr. "Hisso"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from Sept 1941 to Oct 1942. He left to go to National Airlines. Later he flew jets to Los Angeles and back.
Smith, H. E., Jr. (shown as A. G. Smith, Jr. in 42K and 43A yearbook, but as H. E. Smith Jr. in 43C, 43D yearbook)
Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D
Snow, Samuel G. "Sam"
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Aug 1942 to Dec 1943. Operated a machine shop and did some flight instruction after the War.
Snyder, Stanley W. "Stan"
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D. In Douglas from Oct 1941 to Oct 1942. Left to go to the Navy where he received his Navy Wings. Discharged in 1946.
Great Neck Long Island, NY
License #52732
Birth Date 11/30/1909
After the War flew charters out of LaGuardia, NYC. Then in Iceland with Lockheed Aircraft Corp and also flew air rescue there. Went to contract school at Spence Field at Moultrie, GA
Sokol, Louis B. "Lou"
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A. In Douglas Oct 1941 to Oct 1942. Went with American Airlines and flew in the overseas division for 3 years. Later flew jets and had over 22,000 hours flying.
Brooklyn, NY
License #61605
Birth Date 5/14/1915
Soloman, Elbert H. "Solly"
Flying Instructor
43K, 44A. In Douglas in Jan 1943 to Dec 1944. He returned to Rock Hill, SC.
Augusta, Georgia
In 1951 started flying for Southern at the Contract School at Bainbridge, GA. Later was flying an Aero Commander for Shepard Const.
Sponsler, Victor T.
Asst. Squadron Commander
42K, 43A. In Douglas from Aug 1941-Oct 1942. He left to go to the Central Instructor School at Maxwell Field. Then to Ft Meyers gunnery school. He was commissioned and went to N. Africa and the C.B.I. Theater. Then to Bolling Field, Washington, D.C. He commanded the 1402 Sqdrn at Andrews A.F.B. until discharge as a Major in 1958.
While in Florida, he obtained a baby lion from a girl whose father raised lions for Ringling Bros. When the lion grew big enough to be a burden Vic sent the lion to Arthur S. Cunningham at Douglas. The lion was named "Baby" and ate the scraps from the kitchen since rationing was so tight. The lion was said to have gone everywhere the pilots did. After the War, the lion ended up on a farm in Douglas with Caesar Miles' girlfriend. Caesar eventually killed the lion after the lion had killed one of his pigs.
License #8805 Birth Date 4/9/1909
He remained in the Reserves after discharge.
Of Upper Marlboro, MD.
Stadler, August
Flight Instructor
Flew at Nashville, Tn, Darr Aero at Albany and Augusta prior to coming to Douglas in Sept 1944. He left in Dec 1944 to work at the Manteno State Hospital (Kankakee County, Illinois) power house.
Waukeegan, Illinois
License # 63248-41
Birth Date 11/18/1914
Stanton, Charles A.
Flight Instructor,
classes 42K, 43A, 43C, 43D.
In Douglas from Dec. 1941 until Dec 1942. He married Gloria King of Douglas. After leaving Douglas he joined the Naval Reserves and continued training cadets as an Instructor Pilot. During the war he was stationed at several Naval bases around the States. After the war he continued serving with the Naval Reserve until the mid-1950s; he joined General Motors in 1951 as a pilot and stayed until his retirement. Both he and Gloria have passed on now.
Detroit, Michigan
License #63248-41 Birth Date 10/29/1920
Stephan, Charles A.
Flight Instructor
He was in the Civilian Pilot Training program and then instructed Primary at Bennettsville, SC before coming to Douglas in Nov and Dec 1944.
Bergenfield, NJ
License # 46276
Birth Date 1/18/1920.
After the War he flew DC-3s for T.W.A. Then he instructed on the G. I. Program at Teterboro, NJ. Then he flew for the Shulton Corp.
Stewart, Robert G.
Flight Instructor
Was in Douglas prior to and after Oct 1943.
Kenosha, Wisconsin
License # 159555
Birth Date 8/5/1918
Strutz, Harold A.
Instructor
Instructed Primary at Americus, GA from 1942 until coming to Douglas in June 1944. He left in Dec 1944 to instruct British cadets at Clewiston FL until Aug 1945.
Jacksonville, Florida
License # 161452
Birth Date 7/20/1907.
Operated the airport at Trenton SC, instructed under the G.I. Bill for 3 mos and bought the G.I. flight school at Alma GA. Continued working in contract flying schools ending up at helicopter school in Fort Walters, Mineral Wells, TX
Stubbs, Thomas P. "Tommy"
Flight Instructor
He came to Douglas in Aug 1943 and left in Dec 1944, going into the lumber business in Douglas, Ga.
Douglas, Georgia
License # 71976
Birth Date 4/3/1924
Sullivan, Michael F.
Flight Instructor
Flew anti-submarine patrol (Civil Air Patrol base #18) from Cape Cod, Sept 1942-Oct 1943, when he came to Douglas. He left in Dec 1944 and returned to C.A.P. tow target sqdn #22 at Rehoboth Beach, Del.
Palmer, Mass.
License # 19215-40
Birth Date 6/24/1904
In Mar. 1945 he started instructing at airports in PA and MA. In 1946 he went into the trucking business.
Sweetman, Charles F., Jr. "Fred"
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A.
In Douglas from Oct 1941 to Sept 1942. He left to join Ferry Command and was made a 2nd Lt. in Dec 1942. Checked out in B-29's. Did ferry work of all types across the U.S. and North and South Atlantic. Then to C.B.I Theatre, stationed at Tezgaon India flying the "Hump". Left the service in Jan 1945 as a Captain
St. Louis, Missouri
License #1535-40 Birth Date 6/9/1917
After the War did charter and flight instruction at Kansas City, MO. Then joined Arabian-American Oil Co., located in Dahra and Bierut, then New York City. Then worked for Aramco in Lebanon.
Thalman, John J. "Joe"
Flight Instructor, Asst Squadron Commander, Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. At Douglas from Dec 1941 to Dec 1944.
Baltimore, MD
License #18501-40
Birth Date 8/22/1917
He joined T.W.A. in Feb 1945 flying 727's across U.S. Previously flew in Cairo, Lisbon, Madrid, Paris, Rome, Bombay and Ceylon for 9 years.
Thompson, David L. "Lonnie"
Asst Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D. Instructed at Parks Air College, St. Louis, MO and Orangeburg SC before coming to Douglas in July 1941. He left in Oct 1942 to join the Navy at Atlanta where he instructed instruments for 2 years. Then went to a PBY squadron.
Charleston,
West Virginia
License # 47421
Birth Date 6/21/1919
In Oct 1948 to June 1949 flew the Berlin airlift. Then flew a V.I.P. squadron and other duties. Discharged Lt. Comm. in 1957. After discharge worked for the F.A.A. on supersonic transport aircraft.
Thompson, Spence O.C. "O.C."
Flying instructorIn Douglas from Apr 1943 to Dec 1944.
After leaving he went to work for the Chattanooga Warehouse and Cold Storage Co. doing air conditioning work. Did charter and instructional flying during spare time. Later flew full time for Harry Porter Flying Service and other companies.
Thurman, John Ben, Jr.
Flying Instructor
43K, 44A.
In Douglas from Mar 1943 to Oct 1944. Went into active duty. Was discharged in 1946.
Midville, Georgia
License #S-490679
Birth Date 2/6/1918
Todd, Sam J.
Ground School Instructor, Asst Director of Ground School
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J. Taught Meteorology and Aircraft Identification.
After Douglas Sam ended up in Rock Hill, SC to work for a lumber company.
Married to dispatcher Neely M. Todd.
Topous, Sam
Flight Instructor
43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A.In Douglas from Oct 1942 to Nov 1943. He went to A.T.C. as a civilian pilot. In Aug 1944 became a Flight Officer and flew the "Hump" for 1 year (received an Air Medal).
Detroit, Michigan
License # 63242-41,
Birth Date 6/17/1916
After the War he instructed for Baker-Eberly at the Detroit City Airport, then flew for the J.B. Webb Co.
Toy, William W. "Bill"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas from June 1943 to Nov 1944. Then established a local flying service at Gulfpoint, MS, mainly flying Seabees to service off shore oil wells.
Evansville, Indiana
License # 118259
Birth Date 4/24/1925
Treadaway, Force O’Rear
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from Oct 1941 to late 1942. He left to become a Service Pilot, then took Officer Candidate School and instructed at Randolph Field, TX until 1944. Then at Goodfellow Field until the end of the War.
Rome Georgia, then Uvalde, TX
License # 45945
Birth Date 2/22/1915. Died 3/25/1995.
In 1946 he had a G.I. flight school at Uvalde, TX. Then instructed at an Air Force contract school from 1951-1959.
Treadaway, Lloyd J.
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. Left Douglas in Dec 1944. Returned to Cedartown, GA where he owned and operated a G.I. Flying school.
Cedartown, Georgia
License # 89228-41
Birth Date 11/26/1914; Died 01/12/2001.
In 1949 started instructing in the Air Force contract school at Columbus, MS; then to A.F. contract school in 1952 at Mission, TX; then to Fort Rucker Army flight school at Dothan in 1960.
Tribble, James W. "Jim"
Flight Instructor
He instructed at Camden, SC before coming to Douglas in Oct 1944. He stayed through Nov 1944.
Greenville, South Carolina
License #67673
Birth Date 10/7/1915
Unger, Elmer F.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas about Oct 1942 to Dec 1944 to go into the Air Force, taking up radio and Radar, eventually electronics. Discharged in 1946.
York, PA
License #173133
Birth Date 5/8/1912
After the War did charter flying, crop dusting.
Updike, Gale W.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to July 1943 until Dec 1944. Became an airport manager for East Coast Flying Service and later Air America in the Far East.
St. Martinsburg, West Virginia
License #100765
Birth Date 12/13/1918
Walker, Paul M. F.
Flight Instructor, Asst. Squadron Commander, Squadron Commander
Was at Douglas for the entire time the base was used to train cadets (1941-1944). Went into A.T.C. for 9 months.
Chester, South Carolina
License# 63668
Birth Date 11/29/1915
Then flew for Brown's airport in Miami and began building homes in Miami.
Wall, Jack C.
Flight Instructor
Eastman, Georgia. Deceased as of July 9, 1963
Warmack, C. L.
Flight Instructor
Wheelus, Richard E.
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H. Went into the A.A.F. and was killed in a C-46 in flying accident in Iran.
1st Lt.
Motomoras, Pennsylvania
License #97650-41 Birth Date 9/21/1915, Death Date Feb. 18, 1945.
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White, Gerald O. "Skip"
Group II Commander
42K, 43A. In Douglas from June 1941 to Nov 1942. Left to go with National Airlines. Did about 12 months of ferrying service during the War flying the "Hump."
Jacksonville, Florida
In 1946 he started flying back in the U.S.
White, Sion W. "Snow"
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas July 1942 to Sept 1944. Spent 12 months in A.T.C. and flew the "Hump."
Whitehead, John B. Jr. "J.B."
Asst Director of Flying; Director of Flying (43I, 43J,43K, 44A)
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D. One of the first 10 instructors at Douglas in July 1941. Left in Oct 1943 to go on active duty with the Army Air Corps. Returned to civilian status in Oct. 1945.
Widerman, Milburn E. "Ed"
Squadron Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas Oct 1941-Nov. 1944. Returned to Baltimore where he instructed on the G.I. Program.
Woodlawn, Maryland
License# 4892-40
Birth Date 11/9/1919
Worked with heavy machinery. On the side he performed in air shows with a clipped wing Monocoupe Cub and 450 HP Stearman.
Wilber, Samuel G.
Flight Instructor
Soloed in 1935 and instructed for 3 years at Avon Park, FL Primary school before coming to Douglas in Nov to Dec 1944. He left to go to Moultrie, GA where he instructed in the G.I. program for 2 years and was also a flight examiner.
Stone Ridge, New York
License #7182-40
Birth Date 2/12/1909
Later did crop dusting, then to New York where he flew to do power line inspection. Became an Industrial Engineer with I.B.M.
Married Mary Elsa Van Aken in Kingston, NY. Jan. 9, 1960.
Willcox, Carlton M.
Flight Instructor
Instructed for 2 years at Avon Park, FL before coming to Douglas in Oct. 1943. Left in Nov 1944 to go to Orlando, FL where he flew and did maintenance work for a local fixed base operator.
Parma, Ohio
License#36318
Birth Date 9/6/1916
In 1948 went to Cleveland Ohio where he joined American Airlines as a mechanic. Later moved to Tulsa, OK.
Williams, Ernest A.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Oct 1944 and stayed until Dec 1944.
Graniteville, South Carolina
License# 40997
Birth Date 3/10/1910, Death date before Oct 1962.
Williams, Guy E.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas prior to Oct 1944 and left Dec 1944. Later he managed Cumberland airport for several years and then started a body and fender shop in Cumberland.
Cumberland, MD
License#178344
Birth Date 3/7/1908
Willis, George J.
Flight Instructor, Asst. Flight Commander
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D. Left Douglas in 1942 to join the Navy. After his discharge he had the Willis Motor Court at Griffin, GA.
Cochran, Georgia
License # 79582 Birth Date 8/8/1917
Wilson, George C.
Ground School Instructor
Taught meteorology at Douglas prior to and after Oct 1943. He left to work for Piedmont and Northern Railway Co. in Greenville, SC
Wilson, Robert W.
Flight Instructor
43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas Jan 1943 to Dec 1944.
McClure, Illinois or Cicero, Illinois
License# 101530
Birth Date 7/9/1918
Windham, Roy H.
Flight Instructor, Director of Refresher School, Director of Maintenance.
42K, 43A, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A.
Started in Douglas Dec. 5, 1941 and stayed until Dec 1944.
Based on accident reports, he had some kind of a mid-air collision in a PT-17 (41-25335) in Douglas on Aug 21, 1943.
Went to work in the Bell Bomber Plant at Marietta, GA. Returned to Douglas to operate a chenile bedspread plant in hangar 2 until summer of 1948. Also flew for Willie Joe Duke on the G.I. program.
Sumter, South Carolina
License# 65952 Birth Date 4/23/14
Click here for additional picture
Click here for additional picture
In about 1950 worked at Spence Field, Moultrie, GA as flight instructor, eventually being promoted to Asst Director of Flying. Went to Fort Rucker and became a helicopter pilot, staying at Fort Rucker as Director of Safety.
Witt, Truman L.
Flight Instructor
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas from about Nov 1942 to Dec 1944.
Wolcott, George A.
Flight Instructor
Instructed at Ocala, FL Primary School before coming to Douglas in Oct 1944. Left in Dec 1944.
Daytona Beach, Florida
License #54172
Birth Date 11/21/1917
Wood, Robert F.
Flight Instructor
In Douglas Dec 1942-Feb 1943. He left to teach Basic at Greenville, Miss. Became a 2nd Lt. in the 8th Air Force, 1st Fighter Wing, as an experimental Test Pilot. Also became a Sqdn Commander with service in Normandy, Paris and Germany.
Newport, Rhode Island
Became a Colonel and was Commander of the Air Force Reserve in SE New England.
Woods, J. M. "Barefoot"
Flight Instructor
In Douglas in July 1943 and stayed until at least Dec 1943. He was killed in a DC-3 while in the Service.
Waycross, Georgia
License#S304218
Birth Date 4/29/1924
Workman, Hayne B.
Flight Instructor, Asst. Squadron Commander.
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H, 43I, 43J, 43K, 44A. In Douglas since 1941. On Aug. 13, 1943, he had a landing accident in a PT-17 (40-1761) in Douglas.
He left to join the Air Force and had a tour of duty in India.
Goldville, South Carolina
License#80843-41
Birth Date 5/3/1916
Wydetic, George L.
Asst. Squadron Commander, Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D, 43E, 43F, 43G, 43H. In Douglas from about Oct 1941 to Mar 1943 when he went to the C.A.A. (Now F.A.A.).
Bessemer, Michigan
Married Eunice Meeks of Douglas, GA
Went with National Airlines in 1950.
Wyndham, Roy H.
Flight Instructor in Charge of Instructor School
43C, 43D, 43E, 43F
Yadven, Arthur "Yardbird"
Flight Instructor
42K, 43A, 43C, 43D. In Douglas Sept 1941 to Nov 1942 to join the Navy. He received his Navy Wings, was a full Lt. Discharged Dec 1945.
Brooklyn, New York
License# 53947 Birth Date 6/27/1918
Death date 2/21/2012
After the War he did flight instruction and then went with Trans Caribbean Airlines and flew DC-8s to Puerto Rico, Aruba and Europe from New York.
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Youngblood, Melvin W.
Flight Instructor
Soloed in 1931. Instructed Primary at Helena, Ark from Mar 1942 to July 1944 when he came to Douglas. Left in Dec 1944 to go to Charleston, SC to operate a local flying service.
Charleston, South Carolina
License#33360
Birth Date 3/20/1908
Zimdars, Edgar E. "Ed"
Flight Instructor In Douglas in Oct 1944 to Dec 1944.
Worked at Northwest Airlines after the War, flying DC-6's and DC-7's to Chicago, NY, Washing, Seattle and Winnepeg.
Watertown, Wisconsin
License#62669-41
Birth Date 7/23/1918
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