Albert Hickman (pilot)
Ensign Albert Joe Hickman was a pilot at Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego, California, United States.
On Friday, December 4, 1959 he was flying a F3H Demon that suddenly stalled. He could have ejected and saved his life. However, below him was a school with hundreds of children. He then chose to stay in the cockpit and navigate the aircraft away from the school. Thereby he potentially saved hundreds of children's lives. However, after he had navigated the aircraft away from the school he was too close to ground to be able to eject. He died in the crash.[1]
Recognitions
- American Legion Post, #460 in the Department of California is dedicated to his honor.[2]
- Hickman Elementary School in Mira Mesa, California is named in his honor.
- Navy and Marine Corps Medal (posthumous)