BREAKING NEWS: Brig. Gen. Robert Scott, midstate war hero, dies at 97. Fighter ace wrote 'God is My Co-Pilot' By Gene Rector Telegraph Staff Writer
WARNER ROBINS - Retired Brig. Gen. Robert L. Scott, who packed more adventure in his life than any 10 people, according to his closest friends, died early this morning, a Robins Air Force Base official said. He was 97.
Scott, a native of Macon who grew up along Napier Avenue, rose to nationwide prominence during World War II, first as a fighter ace in the China-Burma-India theater then as author of "God is My Co-Pilot," an account of his wartime exploits. The book was later made into a 1945 feature-length movie.
Scott - who retired from the Air Force as a brigadier general - never lost his "fighter ace" prominence and later used that fame to great effect in supporting Middle Georgia's Museum of Aviation.
"He's been our resident hero, cheerleader and biggest fan," said Pat Bartness, museum foundation president and chief operating officer. "He's been the biggest drawing card we've had. Without him, the museum would just be a different place and not as exciting. He will be sorely missed."
When Scott joined the museum staff in the mid-1980s, he had accomplished more than most people dream of, according to museum director Paul Hibbits.
"Because of that, his impact has not only been local but national," said Hibbits. "I've run into people all over the country who have asked me about him. His being part of the museum has opened a lot of doors for us. He's added a lot of credibility. He put us on the map."
The Macon Telegraph
