March 5, 1923 – Maywood, Illinois
Frank Seward was born on May 5, 1900 to Thomas and Annie Seward in Ridgeley, Maryland. Seward spent a year at West Point Military Academy and learned flying in the military. He joined the service on March 3, 1923. His flying abilities were not up to rigid demands of the service, and he was dismissed before the month was out.
While serving as an airmail pilot, Seward became friends with fellow pilot John Milatzo, who was released from the service on March 27, 1923. The two joined up together again and established Kokomo Aviation Corporation. The company did not do as well as they hoped for, and in a few months the pair were seeking reinstatement to the Air Mail Service. In a letter to Second Assistant Postmaster General Egge, Seward noted, "Since being relieved as pilot in Air Mail Service, we have been flying for private individuals." He goes on to say, "We deeply appreciate your past interest in us, and only hope that we may have the opportunity of making good on the Air Mail." In spite of his added experience and request, Seward was not rehired by the postal service. John Milatzo was rehired on April 3, 1924. Sadly, Milatzo was killed three years later while flying as an airmail pilot.
