Pearson joined the Royal Flying Corps in 1917, piloting a Sopwith Dolphin. In April of 1918, he was assigned to 23 Squadron at Bertangles. He claimed 33 enemy aircraft, receiving credit for 23 of them. After the war, he founded the J.W. Pearson Textile Company, retiring in 1960. Before his death at age 97 on January 26,1993, he was the last surviving American ace of World War I.

Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
"On October 28, 1918, while leading a patrol, this officer observed a formation of enemy scouts. Diving to the attack, he engaged one and drove it down out of control. He then attacked a second, which he drove down to crash. In all, he has accounted for seven enemy aircraft, settting at all times a fine example of skill and courageous determination." DFC citation, London Gazette, February 1919