(NewsNation Now) — General Chuck Yeager, WWII fighter pilot and first person to break the sound barrier has died, He was 97.

His wife Victoria announced his passing on Twitter:

“It is w/ profound sorrow, I must tell you that my life love General Chuck Yeager passed just before 9pm ET. An incredible life well lived, America’s greatest Pilot, & a legacy of strength, adventure, & patriotism will be remembered forever.”