MUSEUM NEWS 

06 AUGUST 2005

The Members McChord Air Museum Foundation would like to pass on our deep condolences to the family of Col. Joe Rogers who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 81. The Legendary Pilot set the World’s Absolute Speed Record in 1959 flying a F-106A Delta Dart. The then Captain flew the Museum’s F-106 during the two week project code named “Project Firewall” until maintenance problems forced the aircraft out of “Firewall” project, Rogers piloted a replacement F-106 to the new Speed Record on the first flight.

In the early 80’s the Retired Colonel attended a celebration given by the 318 FIS at McChord for the soon to be replaced F-106, in 2000 Rogers was reunited with F-106 –0459 at the Museum during a reunion of the 8th FW at the Base. In 2001 opened a display covering the events of  “Project Firewall” and Col Rogers legendary Air Force career.

Col Joe Rogers and his Family are in our thoughts and prayers.