First Pilot of SR-71 Blackbird, Capt. Robert Gilliland Sr., Laid to Rest
Capt. Robert Gilliland Sr., the inaugural pilot of the supersonic SR-71 Blackbird, passed away and was interred at Arlington National Cemetery on June 4, 2026. His contributions to aerospace testing and the legacy he left in aviation history are notable.
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On June 4, 2026, Capt. Robert Gilliland Sr., who first flew the SR-71 Blackbird on December 22, 1964, was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. Gilliland logged the most test flight hours at Mach 3 worldwide and was a chief test pilot for Lockheed Martin's Blackbird program.
His significant aviation career began at the U.S. Naval Academy and included service during the Korean War and extensive testing of fighter jets. At his funeral, family members recalled fond memories, while an Air Force honor guard and traditional music honored his legacy. The event was marked by passenger jets overhead, symbolizing his extraordinary achievements in aviation.
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