[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 146 (Monday, September 8, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H3884]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING DONALD McPHERSON

  (Mr. SMITH of Nebraska asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 
American hero Donald McPherson of Adams, Nebraska, who sadly passed 
away last month as our Nation's last surviving World War II Ace fighter 
pilot.
  In his F6F Hellcat, Mr. McPherson directly faced our enemies in the 
skies to defend our country and preserve our liberty, shooting down 
five enemy aircraft while stationed aboard the USS Essex in the 
Pacific.
  He earned three distinguished Flying Crosses and four Air Medals. In 
2015, I proudly congratulated Mr. McPherson on receiving the 
Congressional Gold Medal for his valiant service to our country.
  After his wartime service, Mr. McPherson was a dedicated volunteer 
with the VFW, American Legion, his local church, and youth baseball and 
softball leagues. He also served as Scoutmaster for Troop 280.
  The legacies of our selfless military heroes, certainly including Mr. 
McPherson, must be celebrated and protected for future generations to 
understand the true cost of freedom.
  On behalf of the people of Nebraska's Third District, I thank Mr. 
McPherson for his service to our country and extend my condolences to 
his family.

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