Wings Over Miami Air Museum sadly announces that our Director Emeritus, Major General Frederick C. “Boots” Blesse, passed away on October 31, 2012.
General Blesse was much beloved by all of us at Wings. Boots, as we called him, was always willing and ready to join in museum activities and often times drove from his home in central Florida to offer his own special touch to our events.
Always smiling, Boots shared his life’s journey with an intensity that left behind an indelible memory on everyone who was fortunate enough to be touched by his charm and charisma.
Boots graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1945. He served in the United States Air Force from 1945 retiring in 1975. Boots served in three conflicts; World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam.
As an aviator he flew several combat tours during the Korean War. He was known for his skills in air combat and even today is considered one of the masters. Boots flew F-51s, F-80s and F-86s during his Korean tour of duty; completing an amazing 223 flight missions. When he returned from his last tour he was considered to be America’s leading jet ace.
Major General Boots Blesse will be greatly missed out at the museum as he was a dear friend to many and certainly a delight to many museum visitors who had the opportunity to meet him. Wings Over Miami was honored to have Major General Blesse serve on our Board of Directors.
Boots final resting place will be Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.
For more information about Major General Blesse:
