Jan 20

Jan 20 McGee: Our Man Of Honor

Remembering An American Hero: Brigadier General Charles McGee

By M.H. Jim Estepp

Several years ago, I was honored to have attended a luncheon and sat next to Brigadier General McGee. Even though he was of advanced years at the time, General McGee was as inspirational and charismatic then as he had been throughout his career.

I want to commemorate the passing of an American hero, Brigadier General (ret.) Charles McGee. He passed away yesterday at the age of 102. BG McGee was one of the last surviving and oldest remaining member of the Tuskegee Airmen. He has been a long-time resident of Montgomery County where he was yesterday when he was called home.

He spent the last eight decades inspiring young men and women throughout this nation to pursue careers in aviation in service to their country.

His historic career is unlike almost any other, as he successfully completed 409 air combat missions across three wars, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. He served 30 years in active service.

BG McGee has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Congressional Gold Medal in 2007 and the National Business Aviation Association's Meritorious Service to Aviation Award in 2012. He was enshrined into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2011.

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

This American hero and all his fellow groundbreaking colleagues will never be forgotten.

M.H. Jim Estepp is President & CEO, Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable and the Andrews Business & Community Alliance