Leading a formation of Martin B-10 bombers, Lieutenant Colonel Henry H. "Hap" Arnold left Bolling Field July 19, 1934, for a mass flight of 4,000 miles to Fairbanks, Alaska. The flight was designed to demonstrate the capabilities of the Air Corps' long-range bombers.

In addition, the crew accomplished critical mapping and survey work upon which future plans for the defense of Alaska were to be based. After completing the entire mission on schedule, they returned to Bolling on August 20 and were greeted by Secretary of War George H. Dern and Major General Benjamin D Foulois, Chief of the Army Air Corps. 

The following year, on April 9, the recently-promoted Brigadier General Arnold was awarded the Mackay Trophy. The honor was bestowed upon the general by Major James  Doolittle, Vice President of the  National Aeronautical Association,  for outstanding leadership of the  Alaskan expedition.