Edward Peck Curtis

Edward Peck "Ted" Curtis (14 January 1897 – 13 March 1987) was an American World War I flying ace with six aerial victories. Between the world wars, he served as vice president of Eastman Kodak's international division. In World War II he served as the Chief of Staff, U. S. Strategic Air Force in Europe earning the rank of major general. As Special Assistant to President Eisenhower for Aviation Facilities Planning, he earned the 1957 Robert J. Collier Trophy.

Biography Edward Peck "Ted" Curtis was born on 14 January 1897 in Rochester, New York to Mrs. G.T. Curtis. He was a graduate of St. George's School in Rhode Island. He attended Williams College, where he was a member of the Kappa Alpha Society, before dropping out to join the American Field Service and driving an ambulance for the French Army in 1917. After the US entered the war, Curtis served with the 95th Aero Squadron becoming a flying ace by winning six aerial victories. He specifically flew the Nieuport 28. He shared his forth victory with leading ace Eddie Rickenbacker. Curtis was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for a lone scouting flight far into enemy airspace. as Special Assistant to the U. S. President for Aviation Facilities Planning. Curtis realized that separate air traffic control systems for military and civilians was impractical. Curtis was awarded the 1957 Robert J. Collier Trophy by the National Aeronautic Association

Curtis died on 13 March 1987 from pneumonia at age 90.