Barksdale Air Force Base is named in honor of Lt. Eugene Hoy Barksdale.
Honoring a Pioneer Aviator
Barksdale Air Force Base, a prominent installation of the United States Air Force in Louisiana, carries the name of a courageous individual who made the ultimate sacrifice in the early days of military aviation. Lt. Eugene Hoy Barksdale was an officer in the Air Corps, U.S. Army, whose dedication to flight testing advanced aviation knowledge.
Lt. Barksdale's life was tragically cut short on August 11, 1926. He lost his life while conducting a flight test of a Douglas O-2 observation airplane. The incident occurred over McCook Field in Dayton, Ohio, a significant site for aviation development at the time. His death, in the line of duty, underscored the inherent risks of pioneering new aircraft and technologies.
The naming of the base after Lt. Barksdale serves as a lasting tribute to his contributions and sacrifice. It reflects the Air Force's tradition of commemorating individuals who have demonstrated exceptional bravery and commitment to military aviation.
Key Details About Lt. Eugene Hoy Barksdale
To provide a clear overview of the individual honored by Barksdale Air Force Base, here are the pertinent details:
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Name Honored | Lt. Eugene Hoy Barksdale |
| Branch/Affiliation | Air Corps, U.S. Army |
| Date of Loss | August 11, 1926 |
| Circumstance | Lost life during flight testing a Douglas O-2 observation airplane |
| Location | Over McCook Field, Dayton, Ohio |
The naming of Barksdale Air Force Base after Lt. Barksdale is a testament to the respect and recognition given to those who contribute significantly to the advancement and safety of air power, often at great personal risk.
