Retired Air Force Gen. Seth McKee was awarded France’s highest military decoration on Nov. 5. McKee, the oldest living US four star general at 100 years old and a former commander of the North American Aerospace Defense Command, received the National Order of the The Legion of Honor in Scottsdale, Ariz., according to a 56th Fighter Wing release. During World War II, McKee flew cover during D-Day, and took part in Saint-Lo, Falaise Gap, and Battle of the Bulge bombing missions. During his career, McKee took part in 69 combat missions and is credited with downing two enemy aircraft. He retired in 1973. Brig. Gen. Vincent Cousin, the French embassy’s defense attache, presented the award. McKee’s “outstanding bravery and dedication to his country makes him the perfect man for this fitting tribute,” he said, according to the release.
The Air Force is requesting about $141 million for initial enlistment bonuses in its fiscal 2026 budget, while Space Force wants $13 million.
