Retired Col. George Caldwell dies

Retired Col. George M. Caldwell died Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009, at the age of 87.

He served in the Utah Air National Guard from 1953 to 1974. He was commander of Air Services during the last several years before he retired and personally flew Govs. Calvin Rampton, Norm Bangerter and Scott Matheson, as well as other state leaders, to meetings in Washington, D.C., and other locations.

During World War II, he entered the service in the Army Air Corps, where he learned to fly and became a flight instructor. He flew many aircraft including the B-17, P-47 and P-51s. During the Korean conflict, he served as a jet fighter pilot instructor, taking his family with him while based in Yokohama, Japan. Upon his return, he went to work for the Hershey Chocolate Corp., for a time, returning to military duty with the Utah Air National Guard in 1953. He was soon appointed squadron commander flying F-86 jet fighters, eventually becoming base commander.

The Air Guard transitioned from jet fighters to a cargo mission to a mid-air refueling mission during his leadership, flying several different models of aircraft. The Air Guard received the Outstanding Unit Award more than once during this time. He retired from military duty in 1974.

Caldwell participated in local community events and was an avid supporter of Ballet West. He served almost 20 years in the Salt Lake Temple and held many leadership positions in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Survivors include his widow, Jean Caldwell of Salt Lake City, four children and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 23, with viewing one hour prior at the Salt Lake Stake Center, 142 W. 200 North.