John Stack
John Stack
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
John Stack is a renowned American aviator and entrepreneur, often referred to as the "father of the modern hot air balloon." His full name was John Wise Stack Jr.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on January 31, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, Stack passed away on February 2, 2019. His life spanned nearly a century, marked by an extraordinary passion for aviation and innovation.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Stack was an American national with expertise as an aviator, entrepreneur, and inventor. He is best recognized for his pioneering work in hot air ballooning and his contributions to the development of recreational aviation.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a family of modest means, Stack developed a strong interest in mechanics and engineering from a young age. This curiosity led him to pursue a degree in aeronautical engineering, laying the foundation for his future endeavors. During World War II, Stack served in the United States Army Air Forces as an aircraft mechanic.
Major Accomplishments
Stack's most notable achievement was designing and building the "Spirit of Freedom," a hot air balloon that set multiple records for altitude and duration flights in the late 1960s and early 1970s. These feats not only showcased his skill as an aviator but also helped popularize recreational hot air ballooning.
Notable Works or Actions
Stack's innovative designs, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit, led to the establishment of several successful companies, including the Balloon Federation International (BFI) and the Hot Air Expeditions. Through these ventures, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern hot air ballooning practices and regulations.
Impact and Legacy
John Stack's influence extends beyond the realm of aviation. His dedication to innovation and safety has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in engineering, entrepreneurship, and exploration. The John Wise Stack Jr. Foundation, established in his honor, continues to support education and research initiatives related to hot air ballooning and aviation.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
John Stack's remarkable life and achievements have earned him a place among the pioneers of modern recreational aviation. His quotes and insights on innovation, perseverance, and the importance of pushing boundaries continue to motivate aspiring entrepreneurs and adventurers worldwide.
Quotes by John Stack
I built this dome for golfers, but they didn't come. So now it's open to the whole city.
I don't know how much longer that they can be expected to stay calm. These people have gone through a lot. But we're certainly hoping that appropriate relief kicks in before that becomes an issue.
I never anticipated covering a story in the continental United States like this, ... but it's certainly emerging as one.
It's going to take a bite out of the pocketbook and we'll have to sharpen the pencil better. There has to be a silver lining, but it's going to be more expensive.
The units they command are mini production centers, the communications centers both audio and visual. They provide power with their generators. They are the lifeblood of our medium, and that's the way that we communicate to our audience and back to our network.
That's why we get prematurely gray and have gastrointestinal problems. There have been a lot of big, glitzy stories, but if you play the odds, maybe the rest of year is quiet.
Every story and every shot is different. We all exercise both journalistic and good-taste judgment in situations like that, but it's a case-by-case basis.
When you have the premeditation of putting it in writing, it makes it different than a comment in a production meeting.