Solomon Lee Van Meter Jr. (April 8, 1888 - November 3, 1937) was an American inventor, famous for inventing the first successful backpack parachute.
After its successful testing, the United States Army allowed the Irving Air Chute Company to build parachutes for government use.
In the meantime, Van Meter was assigned to McCook Field in Dayton, Ohio, where he was sent to improve his invention.
Solomon Lee Van Meter Jr. married Lois Chapin on June 2, 1924, in Falls Church, Fairfax County, Virginia.
[3] They had four children, three daughters and one son: Solomon Lee Van Meter Jr. retired from the military, with the rank of captain.