America's last surviving WWII ace Navy fighter pilot Donald McPherson dies at 103 years old
Share and Follow

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Donald McPherson, a World War II veteran considered the nation’s last surviving “ace” pilot from the conflict, has died at the age of 103 in Nebraska.

While serving as a Navy fighter pilot of F6F Hellcat fighters aboard the USS Essex in the Pacific theater, McPherson shot down five Japanese planes — the minimum number required to be considered an “ace” pilot, The Associated Press reported.

McPherson’s daughter, Donna Mulder, said her father reflected on moments in the war that left him feeling like, “Maybe God is not done with me.”

Last WWII Ace Dies

A World War II-era F6F Hellcat taxis after landing at Mather Airport in Rancho Cordova, Calif. Friday Oct. 4, 2019.  (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli)

After the war, McPherson returned home to Adams, Nebraska, and worked as a letter carrier. He helped establish youth baseball and softball leagues and served as a Scoutmaster, as well as in several community leadership roles. 

The local ballfield was later named “McPherson Field” in recognition of him and his wife, AP reported.

He is survived by his daughters Beth and Donna, a son, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, according to the National WWII Museum.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Cold Case Murder From Decades Ago Connected to Infamous Serial Killer

Authorities have now identified the remains of a man discovered on an…

‘Andor’ from the Star Wars series earns 14 Emmy nods, including Outstanding Drama Series

LOS ANGELES — In a galaxy full of heroes, “Andor” proves that…

Micah Parsons Snacks on Nachos and Takes a Time-Out Amid Cowboys’ Intense Contract Saga

Micah Parsons’ contract standoff with the Cowboys took a bizarre turn thanks…

US Plans to Deport Abrego Garcia to Uganda

(The Hill) — The federal government said it would deport Kilmar Abrego…

Vance Confident That ‘Proactive Diplomacy’ Will Resolve Ukraine Conflict

Vice President JD Vance remains confident the U.S. can broker an end…

MSNBC host Jonathan Capehart frustrated with critics attacking Cracker Barrel’s updated logo design

MSNBC host Jonathan Capehart almost lost his cool on Saturday when discussing…

Lawyer Foresees Future Parole for Menendez Brothers

() California state commissioners may have denied parole to the Menendez brothers…

Virginia Giuffre’s Family Unveils New Platform Following Unsuccessful Fundraiser

The family of Virginia Giuffre, a victim of sex trafficking, has promised…