Wilmer Stultz

Wilmer Lower Stultz was a brave pilot who lived from April 11, 1900, until July 1, 1929. He is remembered for two big achievements in aviation history. First, he made the very first non-stop flight between New York City and Havana, Cuba. This was a long and difficult trip, and Wilmer helped show that flying between these two places was possible.

Another important moment in Wilmer’s life was when he flew with Amelia Earhart. She was a famous pilot, and with Wilmer’s help, she became the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean. This was a huge step for women in aviation and inspired many people around the world.

Sadly, Wilmer’s life ended when his plane crashed in 1929. Even though his time on Earth was short, his brave flights helped open new paths for pilots and changed the way people thought about flying. Today, he is remembered as an important figure in the early days of aviation.

Biography

He was born in Williamsburg, Pennsylvania on April 11, 1900.

Stultz joined the United States Army Air Force on 22 August 1917 and was assigned to the 634th Aero Supply Squadron, reaching the rank of Sergeant. He was discharged on 31 March 1919. Stultz then joined the United States Naval Air Service in December that year, training at Pensacola, Florida. He served at Hampton Roads, Virginia, testing the F5L flying boat.

He married Mildred Potts of Middletown, Pennsylvania on August 4, 1919.

On March 5, 1928, Stultz, Oliver Colin LeBoutillier, and Mabel Boll on an improvised seat, made the first non-stop flight in the Columbia between New York City and Havana, Cuba.

Stultz was the pilot of the Fokker Trimotor "Friendship" on June 18, 1928, when Amelia Earhart became the first woman passenger to cross the Atlantic Ocean by airplane.

Legacy

A place called Stultz Field in Tipton, Pennsylvania was named to remember Wilmer Stultz for his achievements.