CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Legendary aviator Chuck Yeager will be remembered in Charleston Friday. The Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center will be the host site for his memorial following his death on December 7, 2020.
Yeager became the first man to break the sound barrier in 1947, flying the Bell X-1 Rocket. His flight proved it could be done and ushered in the era of space flight. He was also an ace fighter pilot in World War II. He shot down 13 German aircraft during his service. He was shot down once himself, but eluded capture to make it back to friendly territory and return to flight.
He once boasted, “There ain’t a German alive that can find a West Virginian in the woods.”
Despite his world wide acclaim, Yeager throughout his life clung to his West Virginia roots and was pleased by the simple things in life. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. He spent his life enjoying those pursuits. His upbringing in the hills of the Lincoln County served as a foundation for his life.
“Chuck truly embodied what it means to be a true Mountaineer,” said Senator Joe Manchin in a video tribute which will be part of Friday’s memorial. “General Chuck Yeager is an important part of our heritage as West Virginians.”
A long list of well known figures is expected to speak about the General during Friday’s event. Due to Covid 19 most will speak via pre-recorded message or via Zoom. However, among the speakers is Vice-President Mike Pence who will be in Charleston for the Memorial Service.
Pence noted Yeager’s passing in an address December 9th to the National Space Council.
“All of us on the Space Council know we literally would not be here today were it not for the contributions of General Yeager and all of those who have been inspired by his courage,” Pence told the council.
Pence also announced plans to rename a military base in the coming months in Yeager’s honor.
Friday’s ceremony begins at noon. The ceremony will be open to the public however, there is a limit on capacity due to the virus. Doors open at 10 a.m. Friday at the Clendenin Street entrance of the Coliseum and Convention Center. All entrants will be subject to security searches.
The services will be carried live on MetroNews flagship station WCHS Radio, 580 AM in Charleston and can be heard live at wchsnetwork.com.