Charles McGee, one of the last living Tuskegee Airmen pilots, dies aged 102

Brig. General Charles McGee, one of the last surviving Tuskegee pilots, dead sunday. He was 102 years old.

A family spokesman said McGee died in his sleep. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin tweeted that McGee was “an American hero”, and that while he was “grieved for his loss, I am also deeply grateful for his sacrifice, legacy, and character. Rest in peace, General. “

The Tuskegee pilots were the first Black military pilots in the United States corps, training at Tuskegee Army Airfield in Alabama. McGee completed 30 years of active duty, and during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, he successfully completed 409 air combat missions. He received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2007 and was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2011.

In a statement, McGee’s family said he is a “living legend known for his kind and humble nature who always sees the positive. He has spent the past half century inspiring inspiration. for future generations to pursue careers in aviation. To encourage others to be the best they can be, to follow their dreams and to persevere through any challenge.” Family also asks for the whole country. remembering “the importance and significance of the legacy he left behind, all of the friends of the Tuskegee Airmen, and all those who played a part in supporting and defending American democracy.”