Wed, Jun 08, 2011
WWII Ace, Korea Veteran Died On The Anniversary Of D-Day
Maj. Gen. John R. Alison, USAF (Ret.) (pictured), a highly
decorated World War II combat ace and Korean War veteran, died on
Monday, June 06, 2011, at his home in Washington, D.C. He was 98
years old. Alison's wartime achievements include seven confirmed
and numerous probable kills while flying with, and commanding, the
75th Fighter Squadron "Flying Tigers." Additionally, he was
co-commander of an Air Commando Force – the first in military
history – which fought behind Japanese lines in Burma in
World War II. He also is known as the father of Air Force special
operations.
After World War II he became the youngest-ever assistant
secretary of commerce for aeronautics. He returned to the service
during the Korean War and later retired as a two-star general in
the Air Force Reserve. He also served as the national president of
the Air Force Association (AFA), an independent nonprofit
organization that promotes aerospace power and education, from 1954
to 1955. He was AFA's chairman of the board from 1955 to
1956, and remained an active, engaged director emeritus throughout
his lifetime.
In 2005, he was enshrined in the National Aviation Hall of
Fame.
"General Alison was one of the greatest military aviators the
U.S. has ever seen and a true asset to our country. He personified
the achievements and principles of the armed forces' youngest
branch through his extraordinary skill as a pilot and warrior,"
said Sandy Schlitt, AFA Chairman of the Board. "We extend our
sympathies to the Alison family as they remain in our thoughts and
prayers."
"AFA had the great benefit of Gen Alison's leadership and will
truly miss this extraordinary man, who never faltered in his
commitment to the ideals of this country," said Mike Dunn,
President and CEO of AFA. "He devoted his life fighting for our
country, and we will always cherish the wisdoms he left behind. He
was a true icon for the Air Force Association and Airmen
everywhere, leaving a tremendous legacy of significant impact on
the USAF."
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