Georgetown, August 9, 2025
News Summary
First Lieutenant Charles ‘Woody’ McCook was honored with full military honors in Georgetown, Texas, after being laid to rest 82 years after his death during World War II. The ceremony recognized his bravery as a pilot who saved crew members during a bombing mission over Burma. His remains, identified through advanced DNA technology, were finally returned home, giving closure to his family and the community. Veterans and local organizations played key roles in this heartfelt tribute to McCook’s legacy.
Georgetown, Texas Honors First Lieutenant Charles “Woody” McCook with Full Military Honors
On August 2, 2025, First Lieutenant Charles “Woody” McCook was laid to rest in Georgetown, Texas, 82 years after his tragic death during World War II. McCook’s service as a pilot with the U.S. Army Air Forces and his courageous actions in combat were commemorated with a heartfelt ceremony attended by over 100 community members, veterans, and family members.
At just 23 years old, McCook was killed on August 3, 1943, during a dangerous bombing mission over Burma. His B-25C Mitchell bomber was attacked by enemy fire, leading to a catastrophic crash. Demonstrating remarkable bravery, McCook enabled two of his crew members to parachute to safety before the plane went down. For his selfless actions, he was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal, and the Purple Heart.
After the war, McCook was reported missing in action, and it remained uncertain for many years what had happened to him. His remains were eventually found in Burma in 1947, but it wasn’t until 2022 that the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) exhumed these remains for further identification. Advanced DNA technology confirmed his identity on April 18, 2025, finally allowing his family and community to close a painful chapter that had lingered for over eight decades.
The ceremony honoring McCook’s life featured a procession that included a flyover and a 21-gun salute, culminating in a route adorned with flags leading to the IOOF Cemetery, where he was buried next to his parents. His name was also inscribed on the Walls of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, symbolizing his identification after being missing for over 80 years.
The military honors at the funeral were presented by veterans from Fort Hood, who performed a ceremonial presentation of a folded American flag to McCook’s relatives, underlining the esteem in which he is held. Attendees reflected on McCook’s courageous service, particularly noting how his heroism in combat was instrumental in saving the lives of other crew members during the tragic bombing mission. John Boyd, one of the surviving crew members, expressed gratitude for McCook’s piloting abilities that facilitated their successful escape from peril.
The community effort to honor McCook’s legacy was spearheaded by the Georgetown Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 8587, and was supported by numerous local organizations. This initiative provided not only recognition for McCook’s long-overdue return home but also closure for his family and the wider Georgetown community.
First Lieutenant Charles “Woody” McCook’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and the importance of recognizing their contributions to history.
FAQ
Who was First Lieutenant Charles “Woody” McCook?
First Lieutenant Charles “Woody” McCook was a U.S. Army Air Forces pilot who was killed in action during World War II at the age of 23.
What happened to Charles McCook during WWII?
McCook was killed during a bombing mission over Burma when his B-25C Mitchell bomber was struck by enemy fire. He displayed exceptional bravery by assisting two crew members in escaping the aircraft before it crashed.
How was McCook honored after his remains were identified?
McCook was honored with a full military ceremony in Georgetown, Texas, where he was laid to rest next to his parents. The event included a flyover, a 21-gun salute, and a presentation of the American flag to his family.
How long was McCook considered missing?
McCook was reported missing in action for over 80 years until his remains were positively identified in 2025.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | First Lieutenant Charles “Woody” McCook |
| Age at Death | 23 |
| Date of Death | August 3, 1943 |
| Location of Death | Burma |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, Purple Heart |
| Identification of Remains | April 18, 2025 |
| Funeral Date | August 2, 2025 |
| Community Involvement | Georgetown VFW Post 8587 and local organizations |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Georgetown, TX Honors WWII Hero First Lieutenant Charles “Woody” McCook
Georgetown Community Honors WWII Hero with Military Burial
First Lieutenant Charles W. McCook Laid to Rest in Georgetown, Texas
Southwestern University Community Honors Fallen Hero’s Return
Additional Resources
- Stars and Stripes
- Wikipedia: Charles McCook
- The Williamson County Sun
- Google Search: Charles McCook
- CBS News
- Google Scholar: Charles McCook
- Hello Georgetown
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charles McCook
- Statesman
- Google News: Charles McCook
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