The Life and Legacy of Robert “Bob” Wearley — A Journey of Faith, Flight, and Service
Born in the small town of Woodburn, Indiana, Robert “Bob” Wearley learned early the values that would define his life: faith, family, and service to others. Those roots carried him through a remarkable aviation career that spanned the skies of the U.S. Air Force, the private fleet of billionaire Howard Hughes, and international airlines from Singapore to Jordan.
From his first solo flight in a military PA18 Super Cruiser to commanding massive C-141 Starlifters, Bob’s story soars with adventure and purpose. He turned lessons from a near-fatal Lockheed Constellation crash into lifelong safety innovations that changed the way pilots fly today. As Howard Hughes’ Chief Pilot, Bob led with integrity—mentoring copilots into captains and building flight operations that combined precision and compassion.
Yet Bob’s autobiography, Flying for Howard Hughes, isn’t just a book about airplanes—it’s about the man behind the controls. After decades in aviation, Bob came home to Indiana to start his own business, serve on his church board, guide airport development, and minister to those in need. Even in his 90s, he continues to give back.
His book captures not just a lifetime of aviation excellence, but a legacy of leadership, faith, and humanity.
The National Airmail Museum at Fort Wayne’s Smith Field is the visionary project of Bob Wearley, a tribute to the daring men and women who paved the way for modern aviation. Through this museum, Bob seeks to preserve their legacy and inspire future generations to look to the skies with the same courage and curiosity.
Your support helps keep this dream aloft. With a donation of $100 or more, you’ll receive a personally signed copy of Flying for Howard Hughes as a token of our gratitude.
Thank you for helping us celebrate America’s airmail heroes and the spirit of flight that continues to unite us all.
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