William H. Stovall

William Howard Stovall (18 February 1895 – 11 May 1970) was an American flying ace of World War I and an Army Air Forces staff officer in World War II. In civilian life, he was a successful cotton farmer.

Stovall began his military career as a pilot during World War I. He was credited with six aerial victories and achieved the rank of First Lieutenant. He went on to become a successful businessman before serving in World War II. In that war, he served once again with fellow aerial combat veterans from World War I, Frank O'Driscoll Hunter and Carl Spaatz, rising to the rank of Colonel. He also suffered the loss of his namesake son in an aerial battle.

Upon return from the war, Stovall won awards for his agricultural expertise. He died in his sleep at home, aged 75.

Biography

William Howard Stovall was born on his family's cotton plantation in Stovall, Mississippi on 18 February 1895. He was the son of Colonel William Howard Stovall, who had fought for the Confederacy in the American Civil War.

He reported to the 13th Aero Squadron in July 1918. On 1 August, in company with Charles Biddle and two other American pilots, he shot down two German Albatros D.V fighters over Viéville-en-Haye. Then, from 15 September to 23 October 1918, he downed four of the new Fokker D.VII fighters. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.