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, died on August 14 at the age of 103.
- He served in the Pacific Theater with VF-83 on the USS Essex, flying Grumman F6F-5 Hellcats, and was credited with shooting down at least five enemy aircraft, including kamikazes.
- McPherson was highly decorated, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal, and was later inducted into the Nebraska Aviation Hall of Fame and awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.
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