He has flown 163 different types/models of aircraft. The most spectacular portion of his flight test career was in a group of Bell, Douglas and Northrop X-series experimental rocket-powered aircraft in which he established numerous speed and altitude records. This series of successful experimental flights led in 1956 to General Everest becoming known as the “Fastest Man Alive.”
He recorded his thrilling experiences in a book of the same name. His work at Edwards was followed in 1959-1973 with a series of other challenging Air Force staff and command assignments primarily related to fighter aircraft. Everest retired with the rank of Brigadier General in 1973 and has lived in Tucson since 1983.