Born December 6th, 1896 in Dowagiac, Mich., Ken enlisted into the air service on May 14th, 1917, and graduated from the University of Illinois School of Military Aviation on October 20th. As one of the “300” selected for training with the Royal Flying corps in Canada, he received preliminary flying training in the Canuck (Canadian Jenny with Hisso engine) during October 1917. Ken received his Reserved Military Aviator rating and was commissioned a 2nd Lt. on January 16th, 1918. He was assigned to the 147th Aero Squadron. Ken flew Nieuport 28’s and SPAD XIII’s in combat from June 3rd to Armistice on November 11, 1918.
Ken became the Flight Commander for “C” flight of the 147th Aero Squadron on October 11th, 1918 and was credited with 5 official victories, becoming an Ace on the 12 of October 1918. Ken claimed an additional 3 aircraft and 1 balloon not confirmed.
During WWII, Ken helped develop the hydraulic system for the Martin B-26 bomber. Ken was a frequent guest of Jim Parks. Ken and Jane Parks were known to tease each other quite regularly. Ken was considered one of Jim Parks’ dearest friends.
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