Honoring Gen. Mckee and all our veterans

There was a birthday last week that went largely unnoticed outside his family and close friends. An American hero and exemplar of the Greatest Generation turned 98.

Seth McKee was born and raised in what is now known as Scott City in 1916. By the time he reached Southeast Missouri State Teachers College, as it was then known, he was in the National Guard. After Pearl Harbor, he ended up in the Army, assigned to the Air Corps. An entire world was at war.

Trained as a pilot, McKee flew throughout the war. On D-Day, 70 years ago this last June 6, he flew dangerous missions over our Allied forces landing on the Normandy beaches. Space doesn't permit a list of all his medals and distinctions, but they include the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit (three) and the Air Medal (11).

After the war McKee remained in service, transferring to the new branch, the U.S. Air Force. Truly a remarkable career it was, as he rose through the ranks, eventually earning four-star rank. At the height of the Cold War, Gen. McKee commanded the air defense of North America (NORAD) in Colorado Springs. In his various commands, Gen. McKee became an intimate of several U.S. presidents. Few are those who have served our country longer, or with greater distinction.

On this Veterans Day, it is my hope that we can all join in honoring our nation's veterans -- and especially this one.

It is past time that we honor Gen. McKee by placing his likeness on our Wall of Fame on the river wall in downtown Cape Girardeau.

Peter D. Kinder of Cape Girardeau is the lieutenant governor of Missouri.