Von Karman's Way

摘要

Hungarian-born Theodore von Karman is considered one of the great aeronautical scientists of the 20th century. Yet, his organizational achievements were no less important than his technical eminence. In all the history of aviation there has never been a more productive alliance than that of von Karman and Gen. Henry H. "Hap" Arnold. The results of their efforts did much to bring the United States Air Force to its current state of unmatched capability and power. Von Karman could interpret Arnold's visions of the future, which were not always clearly stated: He gave Arnold new ideas and suggestions even as he established a strong liaison between military leaders, scientists, and academics. Arnold in turn gave von Karman the resources, facilities, contracts, methodology, and approval on a vastly larger scale than would otherwise have been possible. In addition, Arnold gave von Karman the broadest charter with which to shape future military aeronautical requirements and even military organization. This allowed von Karman to make full use of his gigantic talents to guide the Air Force to conform to Arnold's inspired perception.