Col John Charles Wright USAF

Col. John C. Wright was born in San Antonio, Texas in 1930. In 1951, he was commissioned a 2nd Lt and earned his wings upon completing the Aviation Cadet program. He flew 100 combat missions over North Korea in the F-84. Following his combat tour, he trained new pilots in air combat tactics, flew the B-47 from 1959-1962, then selected to fly the first supersonic bomber, the B-58 Hustler. In 1965, he transferred to the F-105, earning a "Top Gun" award during aircraft training. He commanded an F-105 squadron on Okinawa, leading the first USAF fighters in response to the North Korean capture of the USS Pueblo in 1968. Immediately thereafter, he deployed to Southeast Asia, flying 140 combat missions over Laos and North Vietnam. He was then assigned as a B-52 squadron commander, followed by a tour as a B-52 wing Deputy Commander of Operations. He retired in 1976, having accumulated 12,000 flying hours. His decorations included the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, and 13 Air Medals.

After his active duty career, Col. Wright established and for 17 years led a high school AF JROTC program, winning multiple unit awards and recognition as Outstanding Instructor by the Governor of Texas. He was a Certified Flight Instructor and trained civilian pilots. Upon retiring as a high school instructor, he participated in mentoring junior USAF pilots. Late in life, Col. Wright published his memoirs, The Thunder in Me, the title of which alludes to both his favorite aircraft, the F-105 Thunderchief, and his faith as a born-again Christian.

Col. Wright was part of the pioneering generation of Jet Age combat pilots during the early years of the USAF. As a senior officer, combat pilot, educator, mentor, and author, Col. Wright dedicated his entire life in service to his country, the USAF, and the advancement of aviation.