Donald McCampbell was an American aeronautical engineer and test pilot, known for his significant contributions to aviation. He was born on March 14, 1922, and became a prominent figure in the development of high-speed aircraft. McCampbell was particularly recognized for his work with the NASA and the U.S. Air Force, where he played a key role in various flight tests. In 1953, McCampbell set a world speed record by flying the Douglas D-558-2 Skyrocket at a speed of 2,594 miles per hour. His achievements in aviation helped advance the understanding of supersonic flight and contributed to the development of future aircraft technologies. McCampbell's legacy continues to inspire engineers and pilots in the field of aeronautics.