Robert L. Scott

Robert L. Scott was a celebrated United States Army Air Forces and later United States Air Force officer, fighter pilot, and author. He is best known for his command of the 23rd Fighter Group, famously nicknamed the "Flying Tigers," in the China Burma India Theater during World War II. His bestselling memoir, God is My Co-Pilot, chronicled his combat experiences and was adapted into a major Warner Bros. motion picture.

Early life and education

Born in Macon, Georgia, he developed a passion for aviation at a young age. He attended Georgia Military Academy before receiving an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. Graduating in 1932, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army Air Corps. His early military assignments included flight training at locations such as Brooks Field and Kelly Field in Texas.

Military career

Following his commissioning, his initial duties involved flying mail routes and serving as a flight instructor. He was assigned to the 17th Pursuit Squadron and later became a test pilot at Wright Field in Ohio. In the years leading to World War II, he also served as a pursuit pilot in Panama and participated in goodwill flights across Latin America. His expertise in fighter aircraft and long-distance flying was honed during this pre-war period.

World War II service

In 1942, he was assigned to the China Burma India Theater under the command of Claire Lee Chennault and the American Volunteer Group. He took command of the newly formed 23rd Fighter Group, the successor unit to the legendary Flying Tigers. Flying the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk from bases in China and India, he engaged in numerous combat missions against the Imperial Japanese Army Air Service. His aggressive tactics and leadership contributed significantly to air superiority efforts in the theater, for which he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.

Post-war life and legacy

After the war, he served in various command and staff positions, including with the Military Air Transport Service and as commander of the 36th Fighter Wing during the Korean War. He retired from the United States Air Force in 1957 with the rank of brigadier general. His wartime memoir, God is My Co-Pilot, became a national bestseller and its 1945 film adaptation starring Dennis Morgan further cemented his public fame. In his later years, he was a frequent speaker and continued to advocate for aviation until his death in Warner Robins, Georgia.

Awards and decorations

His military honors include the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, and the Distinguished Flying Cross. He also received the Legion of Merit, the Air Medal with oak leaf clusters, and the World War II Victory Medal. He was a recipient of the Chinese Order of the Cloud and Banner for his service alongside Republic of China Air Force forces.