Matthew Edward Duke
American pilot
About Matthew Edward Duke
Lived 1914 – 1960 (aged 45–46). Matthew Edward Duke was an American united States Naval Aviator.
Matthew Edward Duke (4 February 1915 – 12 May 1960) was an American pilot, once married to tobacco heiress Melody Thomson. Duke, who was described by relatives as an "anti-communist crusader", eventually turned to making a living by off flying anti-Castro Cubans to U.S. exile for $1,000 a job. In May 1960, he was ambushed by police after touching down on Highway 15 west of Havana, and was killed after they opened fire as he attempted to return to the sky.
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Important facts
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Contemporaries
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Matthew Edward Duke?
American pilot
When was Matthew Edward Duke born?
Matthew Edward Duke was born in 1914.
When did Matthew Edward Duke die?
Matthew Edward Duke died on 12 May 1960.
What was Matthew Edward Duke's occupation?
Matthew Edward Duke was a united States Naval Aviator.
What nationality was Matthew Edward Duke?
Matthew Edward Duke was American.
Sources & further reading
· Wikipedia: Matthew Edward Duke
· DBpedia: Matthew Edward Duke
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Matthew Edward Duke. https://biography.guide/matthew-edward-duke/
MLA: "Matthew Edward Duke." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/matthew-edward-duke/.
Chicago: "Matthew Edward Duke." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/matthew-edward-duke/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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