Honoring one of our local heroes: Major McGuire
We are thrilled to announce the completion of a captivating museum-styled wall mural honoring Major McGuire at Sebring Regional Airport. Major McGuire, a local hero, was a distinguished United States Army Major and a highly decorated fighter pilot during World War II. Tragically killed in action, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery and exceptional service. As the second highest scoring American ace of the war, Major McGuire’s legacy is now beautifully commemorated in this mural, serving as a lasting tribute to his courage and sacrifice. We invite you to visit and pay homage to this remarkable figure whose contributions continue to inspire us all.
“We are elated to honor Major McGuire in the airport terminal in perpetuity,” said Mike Willingham.
More about Major McGuire
Elaine Haines at the Sebring Historical Society recounted, “Major McGuire is a true Sebring hero. Tommy lived in Sebring beginning of the age of four. After attending Georgia Tech for three years, he joined the Army Air Corps and, over the next four years, flew a P-38 airplane, becoming the number two American Ace Pilot by destroying 38 enemy planes”. Major McGuire died in combat while attempting to save a fellow aviator and was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor and numerous other medals. These medals are currently displayed at the Sebring Historical Society’s Weigle House Museum at 1989 Lakeview Drive in Sebring.
The Sebring Historical Society also offers a biography of Major McGuire titled The Last Great Ace by Charles Martin, which is available for purchase and at the Sebring Library.
Sebring Historical Society
The Sebring Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Sebring and its notable residents. Located at 1989 Lakeview Drive, the Society offers a range of exhibits and resources for those interested in the local heritage.
Sebring Regional Airport & Commerce Park
Sebring Multimodal Logistics Center is a 2,000-acre commerce park and airport. The airport is a designated Foreign Trade Zone offering many tax benefits and is home to Sebring International Raceway. Sebring has been named in the State Aviation System Plan as the growth airport for South Central Florida.
