Frank S. Scott
1883–1912 (age 29)
Soldier
Biography
Frank S. Scott enlisted in the U.S. Army in the early 20th century and became known for his devotion to duty; his life came to a tragic end in 1912 when he became the first enlisted man to die in an airplane crash while participating in a military aviation demonstration. His death highlighted both the bravery of early military aviators and the risks they took to advance the nation’s capabilities.
He is remembered at Arlington National Cemetery as a symbol of the courage required to pioneer new frontiers of defense, and his sacrifice paved the way for the generations of airmen who followed.