Kiffin Yates Rockwell was a remarkable figure in early aviation history and World War I. Here’s a detailed look at his life and achievements:
Kiffin Yates Rockwell was a pioneering American aviator during World War I. Born on September 20, 1892, in Newport, Tennessee, he became the first American pilot to shoot down an enemy aircraft in the war. This significant event occurred on May 18, 1916, over the Alsace battlefield, for which he was awarded the Médaille militaire and the Croix de guerre12.
Rockwell was a member of the Lafayette Escadrille, an American volunteer squadron formed to support France before the United States officially entered the war2. Unfortunately, he was killed in action on September 23, 19161.
Early Life
Born: September 20, 1892, in Newport, Tennessee.
Family: His father, James Chester Rockwell, was a Baptist minister who passed away from typhoid fever when Kiffin was very young. His mother, Loula Ayres Rockwell, moved the family several times before settling in Asheville, North Carolina12.
Education: Kiffin attended Asheville High School and later enrolled at the Virginia Military Institute. He also spent some time at the United States Naval Academy but eventually joined his brother Paul at Washington and Lee University12.
Career Before the War
Advertising: Before the war, Kiffin worked in advertising, even opening his own agency in San Francisco at a young age1.
Military Service
French Foreign Legion: At the outbreak of World War I, Kiffin and his brother Paul volunteered for the French Foreign Legion. Kiffin was wounded in the leg during a charge at La Targette in May 191512.
Lafayette Escadrille: After recovering, Kiffin joined the Lafayette Escadrille, an American volunteer squadron supporting France. This squadron was formed on April 20, 19162.
Achievements in Aviation
First American Victory: On May 18, 1916, Kiffin became the first American pilot to shoot down an enemy aircraft in World War I, earning the Médaille militaire and the Croix de guerre for his bravery12.
Nickname: He was known as the “Aristocrat of the Air” for his skill and daring in aerial combat1.
Death and Legacy
Killed in Action: Kiffin was killed on September 23, 1916, during a dogfight over Roderen, France. He was only 24 years old12.
Burial: He is buried in Luxeuil-les-Bains Communal Cemetery in France1.
Legacy: Kiffin Rockwell is remembered as a pioneering aviator and a hero who made significant contributions to the early days of aerial combat23.
Kiffin’s story is a testament to bravery and dedication.
