Robert "Bob" Bond Cole was born on April 22nd, 1922. He was an adventurous child and an avid reader of Popular Aviation; Bob became very interested in Aviation. After graduating from high school, he worked at several civilian jobs, enlisting in the US Army Air Corp in 1942. He initially was accepted into Aviation Cadet School. However, he did not qualify for pilot training due to its physical guidelines, but de did continue to serve at several military bases during the war as an airplane engine mechanic.

Upon returning home after the War, he continued his flying interest, soloing in a Taylorcraft Airplane. In 1950, he purchased and rebuilt an Aeronca Champ. In 1951, he began his career of working in the airline business at Bluegrass Airport, when he became Station Manager with Eastern Airlines, where he served with the company for 29 years. Two years later, he returned to Bluegrass Field to open Comair's first station, where he remained as Station Manager until 1987.

He and a group of 11 other dedicated individuals, established the Kentucky Aviation Round Table in the late 1970s. The precursor to the Aviation Museum of Kentucky. He was instrumental in the Museum's acquisition of several key exhibits, including the McDonald Douglas A-4 Skyhawk. After obtaining this aircraft, Bob coordinated plans with the US Navy to refinish the plane in the Navy Blue Angel's stunning colors. Arguably this is one of our Museum's finest on display.

From its earliest inception, Bob has been a devoted supporter of the Aviation Museum, having served in many capacities over the years, as evident in serving as a volunteer at the museum until the final week of his life.