Billy Mitchell

Billy Mitchell was a pioneering American military officer and aviation advocate in the early 20th century. Born in 1879, he played a crucial role in promoting the importance of air power in warfare after World War I. Mitchell argued that airplanes could be used effectively in combat, leading to major changes in military strategy. He famously predicted that air forces would be vital for national defense. However, his outspoken criticism of the U.S. military establishment led to a court-martial in 1925. Despite this, his ideas significantly influenced future aviation policies and the development of the U.S. Air Force.