Captain and pilot who made the first solo non-stop transpacific flight from California to Manila in 1931, setting a new record for the longest solo flight.
Ernest Cary Brace is perhaps best known for his extraordinary tale of survival as the longest-held civilian prisoner of war (POW) during the Vietnam War, spending almost eight years in captivity. This decorated Marine Corps fighter pilot and mustang's story is one of courage, perseverance, and redemption.
Brace's military journey began in 1947 when he enlisted in the Marine Corps at the tender age of 15 as an aviation radar and radio technician. He went on to earn his Pilot's Wings and commission as a Second Lieutenant from the Aviation Cadet School, graduating in August 1951. During the Korean War, from April 1952 to March 1953, he flew over 100 missions, earning him the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery.
In November 1952, while assigned to Marine Attack Squadron 121, Brace participated in a daring dive-bombing attack against a Korean hydroelectric plant. Despite facing surface-to-air fire, he managed to fly his damaged AD3 Skyraider clear of the Korean Peninsula, eventually crashing into the Sea of Japan, where he was rescued by the USS Kidd.
Years later, in 1961, Captain Brace's life took a dramatic turn when he crashed his T28 Trojan into a cornfield near Cambridge, Maryland, during a training flight. He fled the scene, only to turn himself in ten days later after his empty flight suit was discovered hidden in the vegetation. This incident led to a court-martial, where he faced charges for deliberately crashing his aircraft and faking his own death. Ultimately, he pleaded guilty to unauthorized absence and was acquitted of the more serious charges.
In 1965, while flying supplies for USAID as a civilian contract pilot, Brace was captured in Laos and held as a POW for almost eight years. Upon his release, he received a Presidential pardon in light of his good conduct during his captivity. This remarkable journey is a testament to his resilience and determination.
Ernest C. Brace's remarkable story serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the importance of perseverance, courage, and redemption. His legacy continues to captivate and motivate, a shining example of the human spirit's capacity to overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Born in 1923
The first test pilot to break the sound barrier, achieving a historic milestone in aviation and paving the way for supersonic flight. This daring feat cemented his status as a legendary figure in the history of flight.
Born in 1896
Led a daring bombing raid on Tokyo in 1942, earning the Medal of Honor for his bravery and helping to turn the tide of World War II.
Born in 1906
A pioneering Air Force general who played a crucial role in shaping the US military's strategic bombing capabilities during World War II and the Cold War. He's also known for his hawkish stance on communism and his influence on US foreign policy.
Born in 1891
Led the US Air Forces to victory in World War II, pioneering the use of strategic bombing and playing a crucial role in shaping the US military's air power.
Born in 1915
Led the Enola Gay bomber that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima in 1945, changing the course of World War II and modern warfare.
