Elliot See

Elliot McKay See Jr. was born on July 23, 1927, and emerged as a prominent figure in the fields of engineering and aviation. He began his journey by receiving an appointment to the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1945, graduating in 1949 with a Bachelor of Science degree in marine engineering. This achievement also granted him a commission in the United States Naval Reserve, leading him to join General Electric's Aircraft Gas Turbine Division as an engineer.

During the Korean War, See was called to active duty as a naval aviator, where he flew Grumman F9F Panther fighters with Fighter Squadron 144 from the aircraft carriers USS Randolph and USS Boxer. His military service was marked by dedication and skill, and in 1954, he married Marilyn Denahy, with whom he had three children.

After his military service, See rejoined General Electric in 1956 as a flight test engineer. His career flourished at Edwards Air Force Base, where he became a group leader and experimental test pilot, flying cutting-edge jet aircraft equipped with GE engines. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Science degree in aeronautical engineering from UCLA.

In 1962, See was selected as part of NASA's second group of astronauts, taking on the role of prime command pilot for the anticipated Gemini 9 mission. Tragically, his life was cut short on February 28, 1966, when he and his Gemini 9 crewmate, Charles Bassett, lost their lives in a NASA jet crash at the St. Louis McDonnell Aircraft plant, where they were preparing for space rendezvous simulator training.