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James Smith McDonnell



James Smith McDonnell

James Smith McDonnell
JAMES SMITH MCDONNELL
Aeronautical Engineer - Industrialist
Born Denver, Colorado, 9 April 1899. Graduated with honors in physics from Princeton University in 1921 and earned an MS in Aeronautical Engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1925. Believing an aero engineer should be able to fly, he joined the Army Air Corps and received his wings in 1924 -- and embarked on a career in American aircraft industry which spanned 56 years -- from design engineer to Chairman of the McDonnell-Douglas Corporation.

Founded McDonnell Aircraft Corporation in 1939. Most notable among his design productions were the first carrier based jet fighter -- the FH-1, America's first manned spacecraft -- Mercury, the acclaimed F4 jet fighter in service for 28 years. After merging his corporation with Douglas Aircraft he produced the DC-10 wide body jet transport and the premier F-15 Eagle Fighter. Retired as Chairman of the McDonnell Corporation in 1972. Died 22 August 1980.

Elected to the International Aerospace Hall of Fame 1981