Donald McPherson, who scored five aerial victories and was considered the last living American ace pilot from World War II, died this month at the age of 103.

McPherson served as a naval aviator during the war, flying a Grumman F6F Hellcat fighter over the Pacific theater. He died on Aug. 14, according to his family. A funeral for McPherson took place on Aug. 19 at his home town of Adams, Nebraska.

Eight decades ago, in the skies above the Pacific, Ensign McPherson was part of Flying Squadron 83 (VF-83). Over the course of just over a month, he scored five aerial kills, earning him “ace” status. According to the Fagens Fighters World War II Museum and the American Fighter Aces Association, he was the last living American pilot from the war.

Born on May 25, 1922, he enlisted in the U.S.

See Full Page