Charles E. McGee facts for kids

Charles E. McGee, a true American hero.

Charles E. McGee (born December 7, 1919) was an amazing African-American fighter pilot. He was one of the brave Tuskegee Airmen. He spent 30 years as an officer in the United States Air Force. During his long career, he flew an incredible 409 combat missions. He served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. McGee was born in Cleveland, Ohio.

Charles E. McGee: A Hero in the Sky

Charles E. McGee was a remarkable person who lived a long and exciting life. He was known for his courage and dedication. He became a pilot at a time when many people faced unfair challenges. His story shows how important it is to never give up on your dreams.

Early Life and Dreams

Charles Edward McGee was born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1919. His father was a minister and his family moved often. He grew up in different places, including Chicago, Illinois, and Gary, Indiana. Charles was a smart student and loved learning. He went to the University of Illinois and later to Tuskegee University.

Becoming a Tuskegee Airman

During World War II, the United States needed many pilots. However, African-American men were not allowed to fly in the main Air Force. Instead, a special program was created at Tuskegee Army Airfield in Alabama. This program trained African-American pilots. They became known as the Tuskegee Airmen.

Charles McGee joined the Army Air Corps in 1942. He trained to fly fighter planes. He learned to be an excellent pilot. The Tuskegee Airmen proved that African-American pilots were just as skilled and brave as anyone else. They flew important missions protecting bombers.

Flying in Three Wars

McGee flew his first combat missions during World War II. He completed 137 missions in Europe. He flew a plane called the North American P-51 Mustang. After the war, he stayed in the Air Force.

When the Korean War started, McGee was called to serve again. He flew 100 combat missions in Korea. He piloted a Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star. This made him one of the few pilots to fly in two major wars.

Later, in the Vietnam War, McGee flew even more missions. He completed 172 missions in a McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II. This brought his total combat missions to 409. This is a record for any U.S. military pilot.

Life After the Air Force

After 30 years of service, Charles McGee retired from the Air Force in 1973. He had reached the rank of colonel. Even after retiring, he continued to be active. He worked in business and served on different boards. He also spent time speaking to young people. He encouraged them to pursue their goals and overcome challenges.

Honored for His Service

Charles McGee received many awards for his bravery and service. He earned the Distinguished Flying Cross. He also received the Legion of Merit and the Air Medal.

In 2007, he was given the Congressional Gold Medal. This is one of the highest civilian awards in the United States. He received it along with other Tuskegee Airmen. This award recognized their courage and contributions.

In 2020, at the age of 100, McGee was promoted to brigadier general. This was a special honor for his lifetime of service. He was also recognized at the 2020 State of the Union Address. His story continues to inspire people of all ages.

Images for kids

• 

  Portrait of a young Lieutenant McGee

• 

  Lieutenant Colonel McGee (right) served as Commander of the 16th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron in Vietnam; Lieutenant Tom Coney (left) flew as his backseater.

• 

  Official USAF portrait of Colonel Charles E. McGee, circa 2011

• 

  McGee honored at the 2020 State of the Union Address, with his great grandson Iain Lanphier to the left and Second Lady Karen Pence to the right

• 

  USAF photo of Major McGee receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross in Korea in 1951

• 

  McGee, second from left, receiving the Congressional Gold Medal with other Tuskegee Airmen in 2007

• 

  McGee being promoted to brigadier general on February 4, 2020

United States Air Force personnel of the Korean War