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Beginning May 18th Welsh made sixteen official flights, and many unofficial trials. All requirements had been met except the loaded climb test of 2,000 feet in ten minutes. In unofficial attempts it was indicated that even under ideal conditions it was barely possible to pass this test. On almost all of his official flights Welsh had carried some officer or enlisted man, and among them was Lt. L.W. Haze thrust, Jr. who asked permission to fly with Welsh as much as possible as a means of getting more air experience. Whenever the weight-carrying tests were conducted shot-bag ballast was secured to the center section of the airplane. On June 10th Welsh made an official climb test carrying Capt. F.B. Hennessy, only reaching 1,500 feet in ten minutes. On june 11th they tried again, reaching 1,827 feet. Later that afternoon Welsh climbed to about 200 feet then dove at a very step momentum to assist the start of his climb. Nearing the ground, as he pulled back on the pitch-control lever, intending to 30cm upward the center section of the airplane gave way, the wings folded upward the airplane crashed to the ground, killing both men instantly.
 Orville and Katherine Wright came at once to attend his funeral, which was the sadder because wibun Wright had died once to attend his funeral, which was the sadder because Wilbun Wright had died on May 30. While at College Park Orville Wright in aide a personal investigation of the accident and found all control wires intact. Welsh was 31 years of age. Married in 1907, he was survived by his wife, a 2-year old daughter and his own immediate family. He was buried in adas Israel Congregation Cemetery at Anacostia, D.C. Welsh was a lover of the arts , an ardent naturalist and a perfectionist at imitating bird songs and calls.
 Flying Pioneer Al Welsh was truly a professional. He never "played the grandstand", firmly believing safe, cautious flying, and had an enviable reputation for his skill and safe flying record. He had taken up hundreds of passengers, trained scores of pupils, and no one ever hesitated to fly with him. He was exceptionally well liked by the Wrights who had high respect for him, both as