Hildo de Faria Queiroz was born on 28 March 1921 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as the son of José de Faria Soares de Almeida Queiroz and Maria de Lurdes Fernandes de Faria. At a young age, he embarked on a journey that would lead him to leave a lasting mark on the world of aviation.

After arriving in Portugal, Hildo pursued his passion for flying and enrolled in the pilot-aviator course at the prestigious Military Academy. He excelled in his training and demonstrated exceptional skills as a pilot. Seeking to expand his knowledge and expertise, he furthered his education by undertaking an aeronautical engineering course at Loughborough College of Technology in England.

Hildo's dedication to aviation and his determination to push boundaries became evident when he faced a life-threatening situation. During a harrowing plane crash, he displayed remarkable courage and quick thinking by utilizing a parachute to save his own life. Despite sustaining the unfortunate consequence of breaking both legs upon landing, his actions earned him an esteemed invitation to join the esteemed "Gold Caterpillar Club Award."

This distinguished recognition is reserved for those who have successfully used a parachute in life-saving situations. The club's insignia, a caterpillar-shaped golden pin, symbolizes the significance of silkworms in producing the parachute fabric, celebrating the bravery of individuals like Hildo who demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of adversity.

[My great-grandmother (left), my grandfather (top-centered), my great-grandfather(right)]