First to Down a German Aircraft in WWI Air Combat. Memories by Donald A. Millar, US Army Veteran

The U.S. Air Force Museum was constructed on the site of the former Wright Field in Dayton, Ohio.

Contributor’s Story – May 2021Location: Dayton, Ohio

Timeframe: Early 1970s

Subject: U.S. Army Air Corps, World War I Air Combat

From 1962 through 1987, I lived in a quiet residential neighborhood on the north side of Dayton, Ohio. Just across the street from my home stood a two-story brick house with a screened-in front porch. The man who lived there was named George Miller. He was in his eighties when I knew him, and he was a retired pilot from the U.S. Army Air Corps—one of the brave few who flew in World War I.

George had a gentle spirit. He used to invite my youngest daughter, who was just seven years old at the time, to sit with him on his porch. They’d share iced tea, Kool-Aid, or a light snack. He always walked her safely across the street, back and forth, as if she were family. It was during one of those porch visits that I met his daughter, who introduced herself and shared something remarkable: George had allegedly been the very first American pilot to down a German aircraft in World War I air combat—by dropping a grenade directly into the enemy’s cockpit from his open biplane.

At the time, there was some uncertainty surrounding this claim. The U.S. Air Force was still in the process of verifying whether George or another pilot would ultimately be credited with that historic achievement.

Not long after, I visited the U.S. Air Force Museum—then located at Wright Field in Dayton. Inside, I noticed a modest glass display containing George’s uniform. That was all. Quiet. Unassuming. Waiting for recognition.

Two years later, George was officially recognized by the U.S. Air Force as the first American pilot to down a German aircraft in WWI using a grenade. When I returned to the museum, I found his exhibit had grown. The glass case now proudly showcased not only his uniform but a fuller collection of memorabilia honoring his service and legacy.

George Miller may have lived a quiet life in his final years, but his bravery soared above the clouds—and into history.

If you ever find yourself planning a vacation or looking for a meaningful place to visit, I highly encourage you to pack up the family and make your way to the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. It’s a powerful tribute to the men and women whose courage shaped the skies—and our nation.

Donald A. Millar, Founder of the Usveteransprojectlibrary.us