Don McPherson in the cockpit of an F6F Hellcat. (Photo US Navy)
A chapter in aviation history was closed on August 14, 2025, when Donald Melvin McPherson passed away at the age of 103. Don McPherson, the last living American ace of World War II, leaves behind not just a legacy of aerial valor but also one of faith, humility, and heartfelt community dedication.
Born on May 25, 1922, in Adams, Nebraska, Donald “Don” McPherson joined the U.S. Navy in early 1943 through the V‑5 Aviation Cadet Program. He earned his wings by August 12, 1944, embarking soon after on a tour of duty aboard the USS Essex as part of Fighter Squadron VF‑83, piloting the famed Grumman F6F Hellcat.
By April 6, 1945, amid the chaos of the Battle of Okinawa, McPherson downed two Aichi D3A “Val” dive bombers. A month later, on May 4, he shot down three Yokosuka K5Y “Willow” floatplanes, thus acquiring the coveted title of ace.
He was decorated with three Distinguished Flying Crosses and four Air Medals, and later received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2015.
Despite his wartime achievements, McPherson’s greatest wish was to be remembered not for his medals but as a man of faith. His daughter, Beth Delabar, emphasized that faith, family, and community marked the true pillars of his life.
After the war, back in Adams, Nebraska, he devoted himself to the local community. McPherson served as a rural mail carrier, farmer, Scoutmaster, youth baseball and softball coach, and leader in the United Methodist Church, the American Legion, and the VFW. In honor of his and his wife’s commitment, the town named its ballfield McPherson Field after them.
At the time of his death, on August 14, 2025, McPherson was recognized by both the American Fighter Aces Association and the Fagen Fighters WWII Museum as the final surviving American ace of World War II.
His funeral on August 19 featured full military honors and a flyover, held shortly after a tribute at the Fagen Fighters WWII Museum’s “Victory at Sea” event.
We would like to express our condolences and deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Don McPherson.
Sources :
1 comment
One after the other, all these witnesses of the past leave us… It is important not to forget that they risked their lives for our freedom. And many of their comrades have left their lives there… It’s up to us to maintain the duty of memory.