Demler, Marvin C. (Marvin Christian), 1909-2002

Marvin Christian Demler (b. 1909, North Tonawanda, N.Y.-d. July 26, 2002), U.S. Air Force officer, graduated from New York University's School of Aeronautics in 1931 and the following year received his pilot wings. After serving on active duty for two years in the Air Corps Reserve as pilot and engineering officer, he was employed by a private company as engineer and test pilot on new aviation projects. After commission in the Regular Air Corps and early in World War II he was assigned as chief of the Propulsion Section, Air Corps Headquarters where he monitored development of the first jet engines. He visited Los Alamos in 1943, resulting in the project to modify B-29 aircraft for delivery of atomic weapons. He also served in Okinawa with a B-29 bombardment wing as chief of staff. Following the War, General Demler was active in the rapid development of a jet Air Force, finally assuming command of the Research and Technology Division at Bolling Air Force Base in 1963. Later in the 1960s he served with the U.N. Command, Korea before assuming command of the Chanute Technical Training Center, followed by assignment as special assistant for arms control, Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He retired in November 1971.