Navy fighter pilot and final WWII ace in America, Donald McPherson, passes away at age 103
Last Surviving Ace Pilot of World War II, Donald McPherson, Passes Away at 103
Donald McPherson, a World War II veteran and the nation's last surviving "ace" pilot, has passed away at the age of 103 in Nebraska. McPherson, who served as a Navy pilot of F6F Hellcat fighters, shot down five Japanese planes during the war, earning him the prestigious title of "ace" pilot.
Born in 1918, McPherson enlisted in the Navy at the tender age of 18 in 1942. His service during World War II was recognised with the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award in the United States, and he received three Distinguished Flying Crosses.
After completing his flight program and marrying his wife Thelma in 1944, according to AP, McPherson returned home to Adams, Nebraska, and worked as a letter carrier. He was also an active member of his community, helping to establish youth baseball and softball leagues, serving as a scoutmaster, and holding several community leadership roles.
McPherson's daughter, Beth Delabar, stated that McPherson would want to be remembered as a man of faith. His daughter Donna Mulder added that her father often reflected on moments in the war that left him feeling like, "Maybe God is not done with me."
The local ballfield was later named "McPherson Field" in recognition of Donald McPherson and his wife. McPherson's remains were brought home after an 80-year mystery was solved. The Beatrice Daily Sun first reported his death on Aug. 14.
Sophia Compton, a Digital Production Assistant at our website Digital, has reported on this story. Compton has experience as a TV news producer and graduated with a journalism degree in 2021 from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
In a poignant image, a World War II-era F6F Hellcat taxis after landing at Mather Airport in Rancho Cordova, California, on Oct. 4, 2019. This serves as a reminder of the era in which McPherson served and the impact he had on the course of history.
McPherson is survived by his daughters Beth and Donna, a son, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, according to the National WWII Museum. The Fagen Fighters WWII Museum and the American Fighter Aces Association recognised Charles H. MacDonald as the last surviving American ace pilot of World War II. However, with McPherson's passing, a significant chapter in history has come to a close.
This article was first reported by The Beatrice Daily Sun on Aug. 14.
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