 He was also a project pilot on the YF-12A and YF-12C research program from April 14, 1969, until September 25, 1978.The planes were flown at speeds and altitudes in excess of 2,000 mph and 70,000 feet to acquire flight data for the development of future aircraft.Fulton retired from the USAF in 1966 after a 23-year career.