James Connell McMonigal
James Connell McMonigal
Years of Service:
11
Highest Rank:
O-3
Medals & Awards:
Air Force Commendation Medal 1
Career Highlights:
CAPTAIN JAMES CONNELL "MAC" MCMONIGAL
U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 1959
Cadet Squadron 10
Born in Berlin, Wisconsin, James Connell McMonigal entered the inaugural class of the United States Air Force Academy through a congressional appointment. Affectionately known by his classmates as "Mac," he was assigned to Cadet Squadron 10.
During his cadet years, Mac was recognized for his sharp wit, great sense of humor, and quiet understanding of his peers. He served on class committees and represented the Academy as a member of the golf team. Mac also etched a unique spot in Academy lore by becoming the very first cadet to walk a tour of the Air Force Academy.
MILITARY SERVICE & FLYING CAREER
Following graduation in 1959, McMonigal embarked on primary and basic pilot training at Graham Air Base, Greenville Air Force Base, and Randolph Air Force Base, earning his pilot wings in 1960.
Upon completing flight training, he was assigned to Lockbourne Air Force Base, Ohio, serving as a KC-135 Stratotanker pilot with the 32nd Air Refueling Squadron. During his military tenure, he logged thousands of hours supporting strategic air refueling operations. For his meritorious service and performance, he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal.
COMMERCIAL AVIATION & CIVILIAN LIFE
Captain McMonigal resigned his military commission in 1966 to join Trans World Airlines (TWA) as a commercial airline pilot. Flying out of Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, Mac enjoyed a distinguished 26-year career with TWA before retiring from commercial aviation in 1992.
SERVICE ASSIGNMENTS
1959–1960: Pilot Training, Graham AB / Greenville AFB / Randolph AFB
1960–1966: KC-135 Pilot, 32nd Air Refueling Squadron, Lockbourne AFB, OH
1966–1992: Airline Pilot, Trans World Airlines (TWA), O'Hare International Airport, Chicago, IL
