05/29/2026
We were saddened to learn of the passing of Flight Lieutenant Garry Gordon Cooper, Royal Australian Air Force (Ret.), on 17 May 2026. Garry joined the Gathering of Eagles as a 2025 Eagle, and we were honored to share his remarkable story with the ACSC Class.
Born in Adelaide, Australia, on 21 January 1938, Garry’s passion for aviation began early. He earned his glider license at age 16 and became a commercial pilot by 19, launching a lifetime dedicated to flight. In 1960, he joined the Royal Australian Air Force, where his career spanned an extraordinary range of assignments, including Antarctic expeditions in the DHC-2 Beaver, service at the School of Aerial Navigation, and fighter operations in the CAC Sabre and Mirage III-O.
Known for his calm demeanor and exceptional skill, Garry successfully recovered from two separate engine-out emergencies while flying fighters and later participated in developmental testing of the Mirage III-O, reaching altitudes above 75,000 feet. His most notable service came in Vietnam as a Forward Air Controller with the 19th Tactical Air Support Squadron, flying the O-1 Bird Dog alongside U.S. Air Force personnel. Armed with little more than a radio, white phosphorus rockets, and a carbine, he played a vital role in supporting combat operations.
Following his military service, Garry continued flying professionally for decades, piloting aircraft such as the Boeing 707 and 747 and later warbirds, including the Mitsubishi Zero. Over a lifetime in aviation, he accumulated more than 25,000 flight hours across 41 different aircraft types.
Garry embodied the courage, skill, humility, and dedication that define our Eagles. We are grateful for the opportunity to have learned from him and to preserve his legacy for future generations of airpower leaders.
Blue skies, Garry. Sock it to ’em, baby!