Born: May 11, 1906 (Pensacola, Florida)
Died: 1980
Biography:
Jacqueline Cochran, born on May 11, 1906, was an American pilot and business executive who played a vital role in pioneering women’s aviation as one of the most prominent racing pilots of her generation. Throughout her life, she achieved numerous records and made significant contributions to the field of aviation, breaking barriers and inspiring generations of women.
Born as Bessie Lee Pittman in Pensacola, Florida (some sources indicate DeFuniak Springs), Jacqueline Cochran was the youngest of five children to Mary and Ira Pittman. Her father worked as a skilled millwright, which required the family to frequently relocate and set up or rework sawmills. Although her family was not wealthy, Cochran’s childhood in small-town Florida was typical for the era, with food always on the table. Contrary to some accounts, Cochran was not adopted, as she often claimed, but she maintained a connection with her family and supported them financially over the years.
In her early teenage years, Cochran married Robert Cochran, and at the age of thirteen or fourteen, she gave birth to a son named Robert. Sadly, he passed away in 1925 at the age of five. Even though her marriage ended, Jacqueline Cochran retained her married name and started using the name Jacqueline or Jackie as her given name. She pursued a career as a hairdresser and secured a job in Pensacola before eventually relocating to New York City.
In New York City, Cochran utilized her charisma and determined personality to land a position at a prestigious salon in Saks Fifth Avenue. Despite her attempts to distance herself from her past and family, she remained in touch with them and provided for their needs. Some of her family members even relocated to her ranch in California after she remarried, although they were instructed to present themselves as her adopted family. Jacqueline Cochran aimed to conceal the early chapters of her life from the public and succeeded in doing so until after her death.
Later on, Cochran encountered Floyd Bostwick Odlum, the founder of Atlas Corp and CEO of RKO in Hollywood. Odlum, who was fourteen years older than Cochran, was reputed to be one of the ten wealthiest men in the world. A mutual attraction developed between them, and Odlum offered his assistance in establishing a cosmetics business.
Cochran’s interest in aviation was sparked when a friend offered her a ride in an aircraft. This experience inspired her to take flying lessons at Roosevelt Airfield in Long Island during the early 1930s. To her astonishment, Cochran learned to fly an aircraft within just three weeks and soloed shortly after. Within a span of two years, she obtained her commercial pilot’s license.
After divorcing his previous wife, Jacqueline Cochran married Floyd Bostwick Odlum in 1936. Odlum, known for his astute financial skills and marketing expertise, became a driving force behind Cochran’s aviation endeavors. With his support, Cochran went on to achieve numerous aviation records and milestones.
During World War II, Cochran’s significant contributions to the war effort were recognized when she was appointed the wartime head of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) in 1943. Under her leadership (alongside Nancy Love), approximately 1,000 civilian American women were employed in non-combat roles, ferrying planes from factories to port cities. Cochran’s dedication and determination further proved the capabilities and value of women in aviation.
Even after the war, Cochran continued to play a prominent role in aviation. She became a sponsor of the Mercury 13 women astronaut program, supporting the efforts of women to enter the field of space exploration. Her dedication to breaking barriers and advocating for women’s participation in traditionally male-dominated fields showcases her enduring legacy.
One of Cochran’s most remarkable achievements came on May 18, 1953, when she became the first woman to break the sound barrier. This groundbreaking accomplishment further solidified her position as a trailblazer in aviation history.
Throughout her life, Jacqueline Cochran received recognition and accolades for her contributions to aviation and women’s advancement. Her remarkable achievements earned her numerous awards and honors, including induction into the Aviation Hall of Fame and the International Aerospace Hall of Fame. She was also awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Legion of Merit.
Jacqueline Cochran’s unwavering determination, passion, and trailblazing spirit inspired generations of women to pursue their dreams and break through barriers. Her legacy as one of the most prominent racing pilots and advocates for women’s involvement in aviation remains a testament to her enduring impact on society.
Awards:
– Distinguished Flying Cross
– Legion of Merit
– Induction into the Aviation Hall of Fame
– Induction into the International Aerospace Hall of Fame