LEGEND STATUS


BY GRANT KIELCZEWSKI


Flying combat missions is the kind of thing that creates legends among aviators. And while most pilots wish they had a tale or two, there’s one man that is near legend status. Brigadier General Charles McGee holds a record for combat missions flown over three wars as a fighter pilot, with 409 completed during the World War II, Korea and Vietnam conflicts. At 101 years of age, he is also one of the last of the famous Tuskegee Airmen – the all African American military aviation group that fought in World War II.


Although retired today, McGee retains his deep passion for aviation, with a focus on helping young people achieve their dreams in the field. “The young folks are the future of this country,” said McGee recently. “I don’t have too much time left here, so mentoring them is one of the most important things I can do.”


A scholarship named after General McGee has been created to provide financial support for African American college students who pursue STEM degrees at historically Black colleges and universities.


F ALCONER ISSUE 52


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