10 June 1969: The U.S. Air Force donated the first North American Aviation X-15, serial number 56-6670, to the Smithsonian Institution for display at the National Air and Space Museum. The first of three X-15A hypersonic research rocketplanes built by North American for the Air Force and the National Advisory Committee (NACA, the predecessor of NASA), 56-6670 made the first glide flight and
“The general began his military career in the U.S. Air Force in 1958 as an aviation cadet. Following pilot training, he was assigned at Lincoln Air Force Base, Nebraska. He was released from active duty in 1965, when he joined the Iowa Air National Guard in Des Moines. He has served in numerous command and staff positions, from squadron pilot to director of operations.
He commanded the 113th Fighter Wing, District of Columbia, prior to being appointed as the Commanding General of the District of Columbia. He was appointed vice chief of the National Guard Bureau in December 1995.”
In addition to his Service decorations, General Russell C. Davis was awarded:
1956–1958: University scholar, Tuskegee University
1969: Jury Award, Drake University Law School
1984: NAACP Roy Wilkins Achievement Award
1985: Air Force Association Service Award, Air Force Association Headquarters
1985: Tuskegee Airmen Achievement Award
1987: Tuskegee Airmen Achievement and Service Award
1988: Ira Eaker Fellow, Tony Anthony Chapter, AFA
1990: Howard Kacy Flying Safety Award, District of Columbia ANG
1992–1998: Drake University Board of Trustees
2012 Carver Medal, Simpson College
