1941 Maj. Gen. Henry H. “Hap” Arnold in U.S. Army Glider – Baltimore Sun Archive Photo with COA

This original July 16, 1941 Associated Press Wirephoto captures Major General Henry H. “Hap” Arnold, then Chief of the U.S. Army Air Corps (later the first General of the Air Force), seated in the cockpit of a military training glider following a demonstration flight.

The image was taken during the Army’s early experiments with troop-carrying gliders, months before America’s formal entry into World War II. Gliders were being evaluated for their potential to silently deliver troops and equipment into combat zones — a strategy soon to be used extensively in Europe and the Pacific.

Arnold, a visionary leader and strong advocate for military aviation innovation, was instrumental in developing America’s airborne forces and glider program. This candid shot captures a rare informal moment between Arnold and fellow officers during the formative days of U.S. military glider operations.

The photograph comes with a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) from The Baltimore Sun / Tribune Photo Archives (Photo ID: AFC-142-BS), confirming its provenance as an original archival press photo.

• Date: July 16, 1941 (press stamp)

• Photographer/Agency: Associated Press Wirephoto

• Subject: Maj. Gen. Henry H. Arnold, U.S. Army Air Corps

• Context: Early U.S. military glider program demonstration

• Format: Original gelatin silver wirephoto with full press markings, COA included

• Condition: Very good — editorial retouching visible in the background from press preparation

A rare image of one of America’s most important air power leaders during the experimental phase of U.S. military glider development.