Brothers Janković Pioneered Aviation in Indiana’s Gary

Majk Kovačević, an American soldier of Montenegrin descent, lost his life during combat in the Philippines in 1945, while serving in the United States Army’s 161st Infantry Regiment. His sacrifice was recognized with a letter from President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who expressed gratitude for Kovačević’s commitment to freedom. Posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, his remains were later interred at an Orthodox cemetery in Los Angeles.

In the realm of aviation, the Janković brothers, Nikola and Pavle, emerged as significant figures in the development of aviation in Indiana. Born to prominent emigrants in the United States, they were raised in a family that valued both education and service. Their father, Stevo Janković, served as an officer in the Montenegrin army, while their mother, Joša, played a pivotal role in the family’s heritage.

Nikola Janković, born in 1906, became a pilot in 1929. He served as a captain in the transport command during the Second World War, flying missions worldwide. Following the war, he collaborated with his brother Pavle to establish the first airport in Gary, Indiana. Nikola’s son, Robert, followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a recognized American pilot and veteran before passing away in 1993.

Pavle Janković, born in 1916, also made his mark as a pilot. He served in the U.S. Army Air Forces as a captain from 1942 to 1945. Notably, he was one of the first instructors in instrument flight at Bryan Air Force Base in Texas. Beyond aviation, Pavle was active in the Rotary Club and served as treasurer for the Lake County Hospital Board, contributing to the establishment of the Methodist Hospital in Broadway. His diverse interests included hunting, golfing, and traveling with family. Pavle continued to fly until the 1970s and passed away in 2008.

Prior to the war, the Janković brothers founded Calumet Air Service, which became a pioneering aviation company in the region. As the only airline in Lake County and the state of Indiana at the time, they stood out as the first Balkan emigrants to operate their own airport. Calumet Air Service, located on the southern side of Gary near Broadway Street, encompassed approximately 80 acres, featuring an office and a mechanical workshop. The airport was equipped with six aircraft.

Their commitment to aviation and regulatory compliance led to Calumet Air Service becoming a recognized flight school. By 1940, around 200 licensed pilots had graduated from their program. The Janković brothers earned a reputation as top-notch aircraft mechanics, attracting renowned American pilots who sought their expertise for engine inspections and flight approvals. During the summer months, the airport hosted gatherings for over 10,000 aviation enthusiasts from Gary and nearby areas, highlighting the brothers’ impact on the local aviation community.

In 1977, the Janković brothers sold the airport, which continues to operate today as a municipal airport in Gary. Their contributions to aviation remain a proud chapter in the history of the region.

The legacy of individuals like Kovačević and the Janković brothers reflects the rich tapestry of contributions made by immigrants in shaping American history. Their stories serve as a reminder of the courage and determination that characterize those who serve their country and contribute to its development.