Merian C. Cooper Biography

Fast Facts

• Was awarded the Polish Cross of Valour and the Silver Cross of the Order of Vituti Militari for his military service in Poland
• A leading pioneer in aviation, he was one of the founding members of the Board of Directors of Pan American Airways
• Stared out in Hollywood as a documentary film producer for Paramount Pictures
• Often collaborated with film producer Ernest B․ Schoedsack on various projects
• His first name on the star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is misspelled
• Developed the idea for the film "King Kong" from a dream he had about an ape destroying New York City
• Served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Service during World War I and World War II