The Genius of Howard Hughes

de bene esse: literally, of well-being, morally acceptable but subject to future validation or exception

LIFE presents photos from the aviation genius, Howard Hughes - the creator of the largest 'flying boat' ever built and one of the most accomplished and mysterious figures America has ever produced: http://ti.me/18NIk0T

(Photo: J.R. Eyerman—Time & Life Pictures/Getty Images)