Charles McGee (pilot)

Charles McGee (December 7, 1919 – January 16, 2022) was an American fighter pilot who was one of the last living original Tuskegee Airmen. These airmen were the first African American military aviators in the United States Army Air Corps, later the U.S. Air Force. He was a highly decorated veteran of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

McGee flew 409 combat missions over the course of his three wars. He joined the U.S. Army in 1942 and trained as a pilot at Tuskegee Army Airfield in Alabama. He served with the 332nd Fighter Group of the Tuskegee Airmen in Europe during World War II, flying P-39 Airacobras, P-47 Thunderbolts, and P-51 Mustangs.

During the Korean War, McGee flew F-80 Shooting Stars with the 67th Fighter Bomber Squadron. In the Vietnam War, he flew F-4 Phantom IIs with the 16th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron. He retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1973 with the rank of Colonel.

Throughout his career, McGee received numerous awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross (three times), the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Air Medal (with 25 oak leaf clusters). In 2007, he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal along with the other Tuskegee Airmen. In 2020, he was promoted to the honorary rank of Brigadier General. McGee's legacy extends beyond his military service. He was a strong advocate for education and youth empowerment, frequently speaking about his experiences and encouraging young people to pursue their dreams. He remained active in aviation and community affairs until his death at the age of 102.