Overview

Hobey Baker and aviation grew up together, while Baker achieved fame as a celebrated athlete, aviation was often associated with failures. A Hall of Fame inductee in football and ice hockey, Baker led Princeton University to national championships in both. Baker volunteered to fly in World War I and became engaged to a socialite. But the cheering had stopped, his fiancée was engaged to another, and the adrenaline of the recently ended war had subsided. His life ended at 26 in a mysterious plane crash, on the day he was ordered home. He became a legend. His story embellished, while genuine, inspiring acts were, until now, lost to history. Baker's death raised questions, including: Why did he ignore friends' advice and fly that rainy morning? What motivated his final flight? Did he breach tradition and also violate a fundamental rule of aviation? Without answers, theories emerged: Hubris, pilot error, or the weight of past achievements pushed him to end his life. Those Who Know The Sky: Hobey Baker, the Dawn of Aviation, and the War to End All Wars explores the triumphs and tragedies of early aviation and its pioneers, the Great War, and the life and death of an American icon. The book features uncovered writings, over 50 illustrations and photographs, including previously unpublished crash images. For the first time, a thorough forensic investigation replaces speculation with evidence, answering all of the questions surrounding Baker's untimely death. As facts are revealed, a truth emerges more worthy than legend.

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Thomas F. Margiotti is an accomplished attorney and former homicide prosecutor. He transitioned into academia as a professor of Forensics and Business Law at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. In his youth, Margiotti was an ice hockey player, competing in the United States and Europe, including a tenure with Hobey Baker's former team, St. Nick's. His book, Those Who Know The Sky, weaves captivating narratives from early aviation and World War I, appealing to sports enthusiasts and those interested in history and forensic investigation alike. Margiotti's diverse background enriches his storytelling and insights.

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