A Harlan Co. native and Kentucky's first Ace, Jesse Creech volunteered in 1917 for service with the Royal Flying Corps. After training in Canada, he served as a flight instructor in Texas. After US entry into the war, he transferred to the aviation section, U.S. Signal Corps, which eventually became the Army Air Service. He was assigned to the 148th Aero Squadron on 4 July 1918.

In action with the 148th Aero Squadron, he shot down nine German planes and was credited with saving the life of his flight leader by destroying two enemy aircraft that were "going in for the kill." On 2 September 1918, two flights of his squadron engaged 15 Fokker D.VIIs of Jasta Boelcke. In the ensuing battle, Creech scored one victory but he and five other Sopwith Camel pilots were shot down. Taking part in his squadron's last patrol of the war, Creech scored his final victory on 28 October 1918.

Creech was awarded the British Distinguished Flying Cross and the U.S. Distinguished Service Medal - our nation's second-highest award - for extraordinary heroism and courage. The DFC reads in part, "This officer has served over four months with his Squadron and has destroyed six enemy aircraft and driven down one out of control. He has often acted as patrol leader and shown great judgment and skill, and his gallantry and devotion to duty have at all times been very noteworthy."

Post-war, Creech operated an insurance agency in Lexington for several years. He served one term as representative from the Lexington legislative district. He was an active member of the Lexington Flying Club at Halley Field and served as a Kentucky Aeronautics Commission member. He moved to London, Ky., in 1935 and two years later went to Louisville.