As an F-100 "Misty" fighter pilot in Vietnam, Dick Rutan pioneered the use of tactical jets for what became known as Fast Forward Air Control (or FastFAC). He flew 325 combat missions and survived an ejection when his aircraft was hit by enemy fire. For his valor in combat, Dick Rutan was awarded a silver star and FIVE Distinguished Flying Crosses. Following the war, he became a test pilot and ejected a second time when his aircraft suffered an engine failure. In 1986, Dick Rutan achieved what many consider to be the last great terrestrial aeronautical achievement: piloting the Voyager aircraft on the first non-stop, non-refueled flight around-the-world.

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