Jacqueline Cochran, American Aviator Part II Of II

Continuing from the post on Friday…

Cochran began racing aircrafts in 1934 and soon set a new woman’s national speed record. By 1938, she was considered the best female pilot in the United States. She continued to set many flying records, was the first woman to break the sound barrier, was the first woman to fly a jet across the ocean, and was the first woman to fly a bomber across the Atlantic. She was known as the “Speed Queen” throughout her flying years. At the time of her death in 1980, she held the more aviation records for altitude, speed and distance than any of her contemporaries, both male and female.

Jacqueline Cochran is considered to be one of the most gifted racing pilots of her time. Cochran organized the Women’s Flying Training Detachment (WFTD), which trained women pilots on how to handle basic military flight support. She is also known for her contributions in the formation of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) and the Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps (WAAC). The WASPs proved to be invaluable during the war effort. Under Cochran’s leadership, they transported planes overseas, tested military aircraft, and taught navigation to military men. Cochran was the first civilian woman ever to receive the US Distinguished Service Medal for her WASP work.

The Jacqueline Cochran postage stamps were issued in 1996. It is reported that at least one stamp collector in North Carolina purchased a block of 10 - 50 cent stamps in June of 1996. After arriving home, he realized that his stamps were missing one of the two black inks used during the printing process. His were missing the inscription at the lower left that says “Jacqueline Cochran Pioneer Pilot.” Has anyone else found any misprints on their stamps?