News Summary
The Georgetown community is preparing for a special homecoming as the remains of First Lieutenant Charles ‘Woody’ McCook, a Southwestern University alumnus, are set to return after 82 years. McCook was killed in action during World War II, and his return will be marked by a full honors military funeral. The community is encouraged to participate in honoring his legacy, which includes a procession, a 21-gun salute, and a flyover by the Falcon Flight Formation Team.
Georgetown Community Gears Up for the Return of Fallen Hero
Georgetown, Texas – After 82 long years, the remains of First Lieutenant Charles “Woody” McCook, a local hero and Southwestern University alumnus, will finally be returning home. McCook, who was just 23 years old at the time of his death during World War II, was killed in action on August 3, 1943, while serving with the 22nd Bombardment Squadron, 341st Bombardment Group, 10th Air Force.
His remains were identified on April 18, 2025, after extensive scientific analysis, including DNA testing. McCook’s return is scheduled for August 2, 2025, and a full honors military funeral will be held to commemorate his service and sacrifice. The event will include a 21-gun salute, the playing of taps, and a procession from VFW Post 8785 to the International Order of Odd Fellows Cemetery in Georgetown.
Legacy and Honors
Local residents are encouraged to participate in honoring McCook by lining the procession route, which will be adorned with a “sea of red, white, and blue” along University Avenue. The Falcon Flight Formation Team will also perform a missing man flyover as part of the memorial honors, paying tribute to McCook’s legacy as a dedicated serviceman.
McCook’s journey to recognition began when he was piloting a B-25C “Mitchell” aircraft during a low-altitude bombing raid over Meiktila, Burma. His aircraft was struck by enemy fire, leading to the crash that claimed his life and that of others in his crew. Although two crew members survived and were captured, McCook was initially declared missing in action, and his name was later memorialized on the Walls of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery in the Philippines.
Discovery of Remains
The American Grave Registration Service recovered McCook’s remains in 1947 from a common grave in Burma. However, due to the circumstances of the recovery, his remains could not be identified at that time and were entombed as “Unknowns” at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii.
In a significant turn of events, advances in scientific technology prompted the disinterment of four sets of remains in 2022 for further analysis. Utilizing DNA analysis and other scientific methods, McCook’s remains were finally identified, leading to the planning for his return home to Georgetown.
A Community with a Rich History
McCook’s ties to the Georgetown community run deep. He was a proud graduate of Southwestern University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 1941. At Southwestern, McCook was part of the “Flying McCook Family,” receiving his early aviation training at the university’s aviation field. His father, an administrator at Southwestern, played a significant role in fostering the family’s legacy in aviation and public service.
McCook is remembered not only for his dedication to his country but also for his bravery during the wartime mission that led to his untimely demise. Testimonials from a fellow survivor credit him for his selfless actions that allowed another crew member to escape from the burning aircraft. His commitment to his comrades exemplifies the courage and sacrifice shown by many during World War II.
Community Response and Anticipation
The Georgetown community is rallying around the return of McCook’s remains, with many residents eager to pay their respects and honor a fallen hero. The upcoming funeral events will serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the armed forces, providing an opportunity for reflection and gratitude in the local community.
As the date of McCook’s return approaches, the city of Georgetown prepares to welcome home one of its own, ensuring that his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him or have come to learn of his remarkable story.
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Additional Resources
- Wilcosun: Georgetown Honor Fallen WWII Soldier Homecoming Ceremony
- Wikipedia: World War II
- Fox 7 Austin: WWII Pilot Charles W. McCook Accounted For
- Google Search: Charles McCook
- Houston Chronicle: Charles McCook, WWII Pilot
- Google Scholar: Charles McCook
- CBS News: WWII Pilot Accounted for
- Encyclopedia Britannica: World War II Pilots
- KCEN TV: WWII Pilot Identified
- Google News: WWII Pilot Charles McCook
- Click2Houston: Remains of Texas WWII Airman Identified
