Colonel Ed McMahon, USMCR (Ret.)

6 March 1923 - 23 June 2009

It is with very heavy hearts that the Flying Leatherneck Historical Foundation and Aviation Museum bid a sad — but very grateful — farewell to our dear friend and staunch ally, Colonel Ed McMahon.

Although perhaps best known to the world as Johnny Carson's sidekick on the "Tonight Show" for thirty years, Ed McMahon was most proud of his decorated service as a Marine Corps aviator.

When he visited us for the 2007 Miramar Air Show, the staffer sent to escort him to our chalet once addressed him as "Mr. McMahon." He turned to her saying, "That's COLONEL McMahon ... I'm on a military installation!"

When the USA began gearing up for WWII, Ed wanted to become a Marine fighter pilot. As the Navy's V-5 program required two years of college, McMahon enrolled in Boston College. When the Navy relaxed that requirement, McMahon left school and enlisted. He entered training in early 1943 and received his commission and wings in early 1945.

After completing his training with the Corsair Operational Training Unit at Lee Field, Florida, he became an instructor in the same unit. McMahon received orders to join the Marine carrier program on the West Coast 6 August 1945— the day of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. His orders were cancelled and he returned to civilian life.

He was recalled into the Corps for the Korean War. After training at Miami and El Toro, McMahon arrived in Korea in February 1953. He flew eighty-five artillery-spotting missions in the unarmed Cessna OE "Bird Dog," receiving six Air Medals for his service before returning stateside in September 1953.

We are so grateful to have known this gentle man and proud Marine. Fair winds and following seas, Colonel.

Thanks to Dan Sebby and The California State Military Museum

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