1949
WILLIAM P. LEAR
For development of the F-5 automatic pilot and automatic approach control coupler system.
1948
THE RADIO TECHNICAL COMMISSION FOR AERONAUTICS
For the establishment of a guide plan for the development and implementation of a system of air navigation and traffic control to facilitate safe and unlimited aircraft operations under all weather conditions.
1947
JOHN STACK, RESEARCH SCIENTIST, NACA
For pioneering research to determine the physical laws affecting supersonic flight, and for his conception of transonic research airplanes.
LAWRENCE D. BELL, PRESIDENT, BELL AIRCRAFT CORPORATION
For the design and construction of the special research airplane X-1.
CAPTAIN CHARLES E. YEAGER, U.S. AIR FORCE
For being the first to achieve human flight faster than sound on October 14, 1947 in the X-1.
1946
LEWIS A. RODERT, CHIEF OF THE FLIGHT RESEARCH BRANCH AT THE CLEVELAND LABORATORY OF THE NATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR AERONAUTICS
For his pioneering research and guidance in the development and practical application of a thermal ice prevention system for aircraft.
1945
DR. LUIS W. ALVAREZ
For his conspicuous and outstanding initiative in the concept of, and his contribution to the construction, adaptation and effective use of the ground control approach system for safe landing of aircraft under all weather and traffic conditions.
1944
GENERAL CARL A. SPAATZ, A.A.F.
For demonstrating the air power concept through employment of American aviation in the war against Germany.
1943
CAPTAIN LUIS DE FLOREZ, UNITED STATES NAVY RESERVE
For his contribution to the safe and rapid training of combat pilots and crews.
1942
GENERAL H. H. ARNOLD, UNITED STATES ARMY
For his organization and leadership of the Army Air Forces throughout the world.
1941
THE ARMY AIR FORCES AND THE AIRLINES OF THE UNITED STATES
For pioneering world wide air transportation vital to immediate defense and ultimate victory.
1940
DR. SANFORD A. MOSS AND THE ARMY AIR CORPS
For development of the turbo-supercharger.