Gone West

An incredible era and an exceptional life lived has ended within our family at The Center of the Aerospace Testing Universe.  Soberly I write this message to inform all of you that Brig Gen Charles E. “Chuck” Yeager, USAF (ret), passed away yesterday at the age of 97.  Many of you know some of his Airman’s story, but I encourage you to read it again.  As but a sliver of what is written of this aviation legend, his official US Air Force Bio is here.  You’ll note, that in addition to breaking the sound barrier on 14 Oct 1947 in the X-1, he flew 155 different types of military aircraft, he was a veteran of four wars, accumulated more than 10,000 military flight hours, and became an ace in WWII.  Many of you may not know that he began his military career by enlisting in the Army Air Corps just three months before the United States officially entered WWII.

My thoughts and prayers go to the entire extended Yeager family.  In honor of Brig Gen Yeager’s Service to Edwards AFB the installation will fly the colors of our Nation at half-staff this Friday, 11 December 2020.  As you see this tribute, take a moment – as I will – to pay homage to a Great American Airman… Gone West.

MATTHEW W. HIGER
Brigadier General, USAF
Commander, 412^th Test Wing (AFMC)