Who holds the title of the first Marine Aviator?

The title of the first Marine Aviator is held by Alfred A. Cunningham. He made significant contributions to the United States Marine Corps by being the first officer to earn aviator wings, achieving this milestone during the early years of military aviation in the Marine Corps. Cunningham's pioneering efforts helped establish the role of aviation in Marine operations and laid the groundwork for future development in Marine aviation.

His achievements are historically significant, as they show the evolution of the Marine Corps’ operational capabilities and the integration of air power into military strategy. This development was crucial in shaping how the Marine Corps conducted missions in subsequent conflicts, emphasizing the need for air support in combined arms operations.