Bachelor of science in aeronautical engineering from University of Minnesota, 1949; two honorary doctorate degrees; Major, USAF Reserve; 56 combat missions over Europe und 7 combat mission over Japan during World War II; was assigned for a Mercury flight, but grounded by NASA from 1963-1969, because of heart problems; later Vice Chairman of the Board and President, Space Services, Inc., Houston; hobbies: Hunting, fishing, skiing; died from complications of a brain tumor.