H. Frank Gregory
United States of America
1912 - 2003
Col. H. Frank Gregory played one of of the most significant roles in launching the helicopter as a vital part of the US military. He was the first serving member of the US Armed Forces to fly a helicopter and accepted the first helicopter to be assessed by the US miltary.
He subsequently played a significant role in the development of the helicopter operations.
A short biography for Gregory is provided in the AHS 2017 Calendar for the month of February.
| Milestones associated with H. Frank Gregory | |
|---|---|
| July 24, 1940 | First helicopter flight by an American military pilot (VS-300 2nd configuration) |
| April 20, 1942 | Demonstration of the Vought-Sikorsky XR-4 to the US military and Government |
| May 30, 1942 | The US Army Air Corps accepts its first helicopter (Sikorsky XR-4) |
| May 6, 1943 | Col. Frank Gregory performs first shipborne trials with a Vought-Sikorsky XR-4 |
| October 7, 1944 | First Honorary Fellowships of the American Helicopter Society (AHS) awarded |
| October 7, 1944 | First Annual Dinner of the AHS |