From those who served with Maj Cox:
Maj George Cox was our Purple Fox XO in 1969. For the Purple Fox pilots and crews, he was much loved and respected. When his daughter Laura notified us of his passing, the emails received in response were all very much in character with just how the family described George.
For us Lieutenants, George was calm under pressure, soft spoken ,easy going and a great pilot. On one or two occasions he would "mingle incognito" with us Lts to keep us out of trouble. Over the years, we all loved reuniting with him at our Purple Fox reunions.
For his heroics Maj Cox received the Silver Star, the DFC, and the Bronze Star.
George W. Cox, Jr. February 28, 1931 - January 11, 2021 Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on January 11, 2021, comforted by the love of his family and the help of Ascend Hospice.
George was born on February 28, 1931 in Kansas City, Missouri, son of George W. Cox, Sr. and Radah Price Cox. He married Sheila Kent Cox after a brief courtship, and they were married 65 years.
George's first career was as a pilot in the Marine Corps. Initially trained on jets as a fighter pilot, he later transitioned to planes as a flight instructor, and moved on to helicopters before being deployed to Vietnam. George flew heroic medevac missions in Vietnam, earning a Distinguished Flying Cross, a silver star and a bronze star, among other awards. George retired as a Major, moved back to Kansas City to be near family, and began a second career with the City of Kansas City, Missouri.
George and Sheila were avid travelers, often taking off with no plans at all, saying they would be back in two weeks or so. They returned from their trips with tales of the best pie, best fried chicken, or the most beautiful vistas. George was a passionate woodworker, using his large collection of antique tools to construct furniture which is treasured by his family. Gardening was another pleasure. He was always happiest when busy with a project.
George was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jim, his wife Sheila, and his son Robert Cox. He is survived by his children George W. "Chip" Cox III, and Laura Cox; 4 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
George requested cremation and didn't want a funeral service or flowers. He would be grateful to be remembered with donations to either of his favorite charities, Toys for Tots or Veterans Community Project.
Maj. George W. Cox's History Index
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