Pilot, U.S. Army Air Corps, WWII

Retired as Lt. Colonel Reserves

Duane (Mac) enlisted in the US Army on September 12, 1941 at Fort Snelling, Minnesota (No. AO 731 890). He was on active duty in the US Army Air Force starting on October 30, 1942 and was honorably discharged on February 2, 1946. At the time of his discharge, he was a Captain in the 310th Ferry Squadron, 302nd Transport Wing. After his active military duties, he served in the Reserves and in 1960 his last listed rank was Lieutenant Colonel. His military education during active duty included 12 weeks of Chemical Warfare training and 24 weeks total of Primary, Basic and Advanced Pilot Training.

His first application to enter into pilot cadet school was denied because he had lead shot remaining in his foot from the hunting accident during his youth. Ultimately, he was accepted and served as a pilot ferrying aircraft from air depots to combat organizations including planes such as the: B-17, B-24, B-26, P- 51, P-47, A-20, C-109s, and numerous other models within the European theater of operations. He had 1100 flying hours at the time of discharge. According to military records, he flew under varying and extremely hazardous flying conditions.

Mac departed for the European Theatre on June 1, 1943 and returned to the United States on October 24, 1945. He served in the following battles/campaigns: Northern France GO 33 WD 45 Ardennes Central Europe, Rhineland GO 40 WD 45. He talked of being in Ireland, England, Africa, Switzerland, Italy, etc. He received the following decorations: American Theatre Service Medal, European African Middle Eastern Theatre Service Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.

Duane (Mac) J McConnell