Theodore G. Ellyson
Theodore Gordon Ellyson | |
|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | Spuds |
| Born | February 27, 1885 Richmond, Virginia, U.S. |
| Died | February 27, 1928 (aged 43) Chesapeake Bay, U.S. |
| Place of burial | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Branch | United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1905–1928 |
| Rank | Commander |
| Battles / wars | World War I |
| Awards | Navy Cross |
Theodore Gordon "Spuds" Ellyson, USN (27 February 1885 – 27 February 1928), was the first United States Navy officer designated as an aviator ("Naval Aviator No. 1"). Ellyson served in the experimental development of aviation in the years before and after World War I. He also spent several years before the war as part of the Navy's new submarine service. A recipient of the Navy Cross for his antisubmarine service in World War I, Ellyson died in 1928 when his aircraft crashed over the Chesapeake Bay.