Rickenbacker, Eddie
Rickenbacker, Eddie (1890–1973), born Edward Vernon Rickenbacher in Columbus, Ohio, changed the spelling of his name in 1918.A famed racing car driver before World War I, he joined the army after the United States entered the war in 1917. After serving as Gen. John J. Pershing's personal driver and an engineering officer, he became a combat pilot. Rickenbacker shot down twenty‐two German planes and four balloons and became America's Ace of Aces. To younger aviators, “Captain Eddie” loomed an intriguing hero, neither cold nor overly friendly, one who inspired by simple grace in action. As commander of the famous 94th (“Hat‐in‐the‐Ring”) Squadron, he flew against Baron Manfred von Richthofen's “Flying Circus.”
After the war, Rickenbacker worked with automobile companies and shared ownership of the Indianapolis Speedway (1927–45). He became president of Eastern Airlines, 1938–59,...
[The entire page is 236 words long]
Join eNotes
Over 3,500 study guides, question and answer forums, literature criticism, reference content, and much more!
Oxford University Press Titles
