Growing Bolder Community

The "Red-Headed" Air Force captain seen dragging alien bodies out of the woods has been found by Growing Bolder. Wait until you hear his story of what really happened there!

In 1984, Joseph P. Kittinger Jr. made aviation history when he became the first person to cross the Atlantic solo in a balloon. We visit with him to commemorate the event and reminisce with a true American pioneer.

Col. Joe Kittinger is well-known for his legendary leaps forward in aviation. But there was a chapter left out of his amazing ballooning career. For several years, Kittinger was Michael Jackson's private pilot.

In 1972, decorated combat pilot and legendary aviator Joe Kittinger was shot down and imprisoned in the "Hanoi Hilton." The man in the next cell was John McCain. For the first time, Kittinger speaks out on camera about their experiences.

In 1984, at the age of 56, fighter pilot, daredevil and American aviation hero Joe Kittinger completed the first solo trans-Atlantic balloon flight from Maine to Italy. 25 years later, he shares his story with Growing Bolder. Here's a sneak peek.

Decorated combat pilot Joe Kittinger has been pushing the envelope since he jumped out of a high-altitude balloon just past the edge of space. At age 80, he's still flying high and telling remarkable stories about his legendary life.