Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
Zachary
Lansdowne
December 1, 1888

–

September 3, 1925

Zachary Lansdowne graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1909. After completing his aviation training, he became Naval Aviator 105. He was assigned to duty with the Royal Naval Air Service during and after World War I, to study dirigibles. On 11 February 1924 Lansdowne took command of the rigid lighter-than-air ship, U.S.S. Shenandoah (ZR-1), and was killed when she crashed at Ava, Ohio, on September 3, 1925. His death was the “final straw” for Lansdowne’s personal friend General Billy Mitchell who, upon Lansdowne’s death, began the remarks related to problems in military aviation that led to his subsequent courts martial.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    British Airship R-34

    Action Date:

    July 1919

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Zachary Lansdowne, United States Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession as one of the crew of the British Airship R-34, which in July 1919, made the first successful non-stop passage from England to the United States. The actions of Lieutenant Commander Lansdowne on this occasion were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.