John Frederick Hutchinson

FIRST LIEUTENANT JOHN FREDERICK HUTCHINSON, JR.
U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 1959

First Lieutenant John Frederick Hutchinson, Jr. is remembered as a dedicated officer, a skilled pilot, and an enduring part of the United States Air Force Academy’s foundational legacy. Born on September 13, 1937, in Massachusetts, John—affectionately known as "Hutch" by many of his peers—embarked on his military journey when he entered the gates of the newly established Air Force Academy.

As a member of Cadet Squadron 12, John stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the historic vanguard of the Academy: the Class of 1959. He navigated the rigorous physical, academic, and military trials of the "First Class," helping to forge the traditions that shape the cadet wing to this day. His commitment culminated on June 3, 1959, when he walked across the stage to receive his diploma and commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force.

Following graduation, Hutchinson immediately pursued his dream of military flight. From 1959 to 1960, he completed undergraduate pilot training, refining his stick-and-rudder skills at Graham Air Base and Webb Air Force Base. Upon earning his silver wings, he was assigned to the 50th Troop Carrier Squadron based at Sewart Air Force Base, Tennessee. Flying tactical transport missions, John quickly adapted to the demanding requirements of airlift operations, earning his promotion to First Lieutenant.

Tragically, his promising life and military career were cut short. On January 6, 1962, John was killed in a private aircraft accident near Murfreesboro, Tennessee, at the age of 24. His sudden passing marked one of the Class of 1959’s very first losses, deeply felt by his classmates and family, including his parents, Dr. and Mrs. John F. Hutchinson. Lieutenant Hutchinson is remembered as a pioneering graduate who answered his country's call at the dawn of the aerospace age, leaving behind a legacy of service, camaraderie, and flight that remains etched in the history of the Long Blue Line.


EDUCATION & TRAINING


Bachelor of Science United States Air Force Academy (CS-12) 1955 – 1959
Undergraduate Pilot Training Graham Air Base / Webb Air Force Base 1959 – 1960


SERVICE ASSIGNMENTS

Student Pilot Pilot Training (Graham AB / Webb AFB) 1959 – 1960
Pilot 50th Troop Carrier Squadron (Sewart AFB, TN) 1960 – 1962


MEDALS AND AWARDS

National Defense Service Medal
Air Force Longevity Service Award
Air Force Wings (Pilot Badge)


Gone but never forgotten. May he rest in peace.