Brigadier General Charles McGee, one of the last surviving Tuskegee pilots, dies aged 102

“McGee is a living legend known for his kind and humble nature who always sees the positive,” the family said in the statement. “He has spent the past half century inspiring future generations to pursue careers in aviation, but equally importantly, he encourages others to be the best they can be, pursue their dreams and persevere through any challenge.”

During his historic career, McGee has successfully completed 409 air combat missions in three wars, World War II, Korea and Vietnam, with a total of 30 years of active service. McGee has received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Congressional Gold Medal in 2007 and the National Corporate Aviation Association’s Distinguished Air Service Award in 2012. inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2011.

“Today, we lost an American hero. Charles McGee, Brigadier General and one of the last surviving Tuskegee pilots, has passed away at the age of 102. While I grieve your loss. I am also deeply grateful for his sacrifice, his legacy, and his character. Rest in peace, General,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a tribute tweet. McGee.

McGee is survived by three children, 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

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“As the nation mourns, the family asks us to remember the importance and significance of the legacy he left behind, all his companions, and all those who played a role in his life. supporting and defending American democracy,” the family statement read.

The Tuskegee pilots were the first Black military pilots in the corps to serve the United States.