[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 68 (Thursday, April 25, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E486]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF CARL McGEE, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEVIN BRADY

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 25, 2019

  Mr. BRADY. Madam Speaker, today, I rise in recognition and 
celebration of the life of a fellow Texan and decorated WWII Veteran, 
Carl McGee, Jr. His commitment to his community, the Great State of 
Texas, and the United States of America represents the best of our 
country and I encourage all members to join me in honoring this 
American hero's life.
  In December of 1941, as the world inched ever closer to the Second 
World War, 18-year-old Carl McGee, Jr. made the decision to enlist and 
serve his country. He began training at the Army Air Forces Technical 
School, at Chanute Field III, and was later appointed to the Air Corps 
Advanced Flying School in Lubbock, Texas.
  Following his success in flight school, First Lieutenant McGee 
received his wings on January 14, 1943 and subsequently moved to 
California to join the 450th AAF Base Unit Squadron-A at Hammer Field. 
As a C-47 pilot, Lieutenant McGee operated in the Pacific Theater, 
including the Western Pacific, Southern Philippines, New Guinea, and 
the Bismarck Archipelago. By the remarkable young age of 20, Lieutenant 
McGee had participated in 50 flight missions where hostile contact was 
not only probable, but expected.
  In recognition of his service and dedication, Lieutenant McGee was 
awarded the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross to commend his 
efforts in safely transporting troops and supplies through adverse 
weather, low altitudes, and dangerous mountain terrain. Upon receiving 
this award, he became the youngest member of the Distinguished Flying 
Cross Society. Lieutenant McGee was also awarded the Air Medal, with 
three Oak Leaf Clusters, as well as the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, 
with four bronze service stars, and the American Defense Service Medal. 
His many awards and recognitions serve as important reminders of the 
dedicated years he served our nation.
  Lieutenant McGee then went on to begin his professional career as a 
pilot for Pioneer Airlines, which later became Continental Airlines. 
After many years of service to both our country and the aviation 
community, Lieutenant McGee began his well-deserved retirement on his 
60th birthday in 1983. Lieutenant McGee passed away on April 8, 2019, 
surrounded by his friends and family, beloved by all who knew him. He 
is preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Florence McGee, and his 
son, Patrick McGee. He is survived by his wife, Cinda McGee; and his 
wonderful children, Dennis McGee, Andrew McGee, and Michelle Ciancio.
  Today, it is my honor to celebrate the long life of a decorated 
veteran, devoted father, and extraordinary Texan. He is a member of the 
Greatest Generation, and I know I speak for the entire Eighth District 
of Texas when I say: Thank you for all you have done for our Country, 
you will be deeply missed.

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