Donald McPherson, a World War II Navy aviator believed to be the last surviving American fighter ace, has died. He was 103.
To be an ace, a pilot must have shot down at least five enemy aircraft.
Last American World War II Fighter Ace Dies at 103
Donald McPherson, a Nebraska native and decorated Navy aviator, was one of only 11 aces from the VF-83 squadron.
Key Takeaways:
- Donald McPherson, believed to be the last surviving American World War II Navy fighter ace, has died at the age of 103.
- McPherson served aboard the USS Essex in the Pacific, achieving ace status by shooting down at least five enemy aircraft, including kamikazes, and earned the Distinguished Flying Cross.
- After the war, he returned to Nebraska, working for the U.S. Postal Service and farming, and was later recognized with induction into the Nebraska Aviation Hall of Fame and the Congressional Gold Medal.
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