25 AUGUST 1947, Major Eugene Carl flew the Douglas D-558/I Skystreak to record-setting speed. He was recorded at 651 miles per hour, establishing a new world record for a conventional aircraft. Maj Carl was a U.S. Marine Corps pilot who attained the distinction of Ace during WW2 being credited with 18.5 kills. He fought in Vietnam, there being promoted to Brigadier General in 1965. In 1967 he received his promotion to Major General, commanding the 2nd Marine Air Wing. Having survived combat, he was shot to death during a robbery in 1998, defending his wife.
Military History Society of Rochester