Avelin P. Tacon, Jr.

Who is Avelin P. Tacon, Jr.?

Avelin Paul Tacon Jr. was an American Air Force major general. He received his education from Murphy High School and Spring Hill College in his birthplace of Mobile, Alabama, prior to entering Primary Flying School at Randolph Field, Texas, in October 1936.

After graduation from primary and advanced flying schools at Randolph and Kelly fields, he was rated a pilot in October 1937.

As a second lieutenant, he was assigned to the 3rd Attack Group for a short period and later to the 55th Pursuit Squadron, 20th Pursuit Group, Barksdale Field, La. He served with the 55th for five years, eventually becoming the squadron commander. During that time, the squadron served at Moffett and Hamilton fields, Calif., and was eventually permanently assigned to Drew Field, Tampa, Fla.

In January 1943, then Lieutenant Colonel Tacon was transferred to Westover Field, Mass., to assume command of the newly organized 359th Fighter Group. The group was ordered to Europe in November 1943 and became operational at one of the many bases in England. As commander of his group, he led his men on fighter sweeps against occupied France and Germany and bomber escort missions.

After completion of his combat tour, he became executive officer of the 67th Fighter Wing with headquarters near Peterborough, England.