Frank Monroe Hawks was born on March 28, 1897, in Marshalltown, Iowa, and his life would soon become a testament to his passion for aviation. As an early aviation enthusiast and racing pilot, Hawks' impressive career would span multiple decades, earning him numerous accolades and recognition.
During World War I, Hawks served in the U.S. Army Air Service, rising to the rank of captain, and later became a flight instructor at Love Field in Dallas, Texas. After the war, he transitioned to a professional pilot, pushing the boundaries of speed and innovation in experimental and often perilous new aircraft.
Throughout the 1930s, Hawks held numerous city-to-city speed records, and in 1929 and 1930, he set new transcontinental speed records. His most iconic plane, the Texaco No. 13 Travel Air Mystery Ship, was a sleek racing aircraft built to secret specifications by Travel Air. Hawks piloted the plane in many races and record-setting flights, earning it a place in the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry.
As a charismatic figure, Hawks was a beloved childhood hero to many young air-minded enthusiasts. He supplemented his pilot's pay by endorsing various products and services, including the Marmon Automobile Company. Two fan clubs, Frank Hawks' Air Hawks Club sponsored by Post Bran Flakes and Capt. Hawks Sky Patrol sponsored by a radio network in conjunction with his radio show, were dedicated to his fan base.
In addition to his radio program, Hawks appeared on gum trading cards and in Big Little Books. He even made a foray into Hollywood, starring in the 1932 feature film Klondike and the 15-chapter serial The Mysterious Pilot in 1937.
Despite his impressive achievements, tragedy struck on August 23, 1938, when Hawks was killed in a plane crash while flying a slow and safe Gwin Aircar. His legacy, however, continues to inspire and captivate those who appreciate the thrill and adventure of early aviation.
