Dick Rutan

Military aviator and record-setting pilot

Dick Rutan - Military aviator and record-setting pilot
Born

1938
87 years ago

Died

May 3rd, 2024
0 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

A military aviator and aerospace engineer, contributed significantly to aviation history. Gained prominence as the pilot of Voyager, the first aircraft to fly around the world non-stop without refueling. This historic flight took place in December 1986, covering approximately 26,000 miles in 9 days, 3 minutes, and 44 seconds. After retiring from the U.S. Air Force, engaged in various aerospace projects and played a vital role in developing new aircraft technologies. Rutan also authored multiple aviation-focused publications, providing insights into his experiences and innovations in flight.

Piloted Voyager on a non-stop flight around the world

Contributed to the development of innovative aircraft technologies

Other People Who Died on May 3rd

Adolphe Adam

French composer of ballet music
Born
July 24th, 1803 221 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1856 168 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent French composer, contributed significantly to the world of ballet and opera in the 19th century. Composed the well-known ballet Giselle, which premiered in 1841, showcasing the Romantic style of the era. Also wrote the score for the opera Le Postillon de Lonjumeau, which enjoyed considerable success. Worked as a music critic and published articles on various musical topics, enhancing the understanding of music during his time. Held a position at the Paris Conservatoire where he influenced upcoming musicians.

Continue Reading

Ferdinando Paer

Italian composer and conductor
Born
July 1st, 1771 253 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1839 185 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1771, significant contributions to opera and sacred music marked a prolific career. Composed over twenty operas, with 'I Fuorusciti' as one of the major highlights. Conducted orchestras in various Italian theaters, influencing musical styles during the early 19th century. Later, worked in Paris, further developing composing techniques and exploring collaborations with other musicians, notably gaining recognition for theatrical works. Departure from mainstream Italian operatic forms helped pave new paths in compositions.

Continue Reading

Zakir Husain

Indian politician and academic leader
Born
February 8th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1969 55 years ago — 72 years old

An influential academic and politician, served as the 3rd president of India from 1967 until death in 1969. Earned a reputation as a key figure in education and administration, contributing significantly to India's development in these areas. Also held the position of vice president of India prior to the presidency and was instrumental in various educational reforms.

Continue Reading

Branko Vukelić

Croatian politician, Minister of Defence
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2013 11 years ago — 55 years old

Served as the 11th Minister of Defence for Croatia, overseeing military reforms and operations during a critical period in the country's post-war development. Participated in various government initiatives aimed at strengthening national security and defense capabilities. Engaged in international defense collaborations to enhance Croatia's position within NATO and European Union frameworks. Actively involved in the legislative process, contributing to the framework of laws pertaining to national defense.

Continue Reading

Wally Schirra

Astronaut and Apollo 7 commander
Born
March 12th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2007 17 years ago — 84 years old

A captain, pilot, and astronaut, this individual became a prominent figure in the early years of human spaceflight. Selected as one of the original seven astronauts for NASA's Project Mercury, he flew on Mercury-Atlas 8, performing six orbits of Earth in 1962. Later, he commanded the Apollo 7 mission in 1968, the first manned flight of the Apollo program, which tested crucial systems for future lunar missions. Throughout a distinguished career with NASA, he also contributed to the Gemini program and helped develop space shuttle technology.

Continue Reading

Samuel Ogle

English-American politician and governor
Born
1692 333 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1752 272 years ago — 60 years old

Served as a captain in the military and held political office in colonial Maryland. Elected as the 5th Governor of the Restored Proprietary Government, overseeing various administrative duties and colonial policies. Played a key role in developing the colony during the 18th century.

Continue Reading