Leslie Albert Powell Jr.

He grew up in the small farming town of Marion, Kansas. At 7 years old, the little red head won 1st Place in a freckle contest and was later nicknamed “Speck". His father took him to the edge of town to watch a fellow flying and selling plane rides. That was when Les decided he, too, would become a pilot. While attending classes at Kansas University, he applied to the Air Force Aviation Cadet Program, was accepted and in 1955 was commissioned. After becoming jet qualified, he was selected for the B-47 Stratojet, which was the first swept wing bomber and backbone of the Strategic Air Command at the time. Les completed the Nuclear Weapons Delivery Course and was on “Stand-By" several times during the Cold War. Having heard of the mysterious U-2 Program, he persevered until granted an interview. His stellar flying record, and numerous medals earned, allowed his entry into the program, which required much more than just flying skills. During this period he became a Command Pilot and OL Commander. Captain Powell earned a Bronze Star for accompanying US Army Special Forces on a ground operation to locate a downed U-2. When the crash site was located, Les identified and destroyed highly sensitive equipment that could not be carried out of the jungle. During his distinguished service he was awarded the following medals, most with one or more Oak leaf clusters: Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Air Medal, Air Force Commendation, National Defense Service, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship, Air Longevity Service, Combat Readiness, Republic of Viet Nam Campaign, and Viet Nam Service.

Les retired in 1974 as a Lieutenant Colonel. He flew for a civilian aerial survey company then worked as a business accountant. He took up running, completing six marathon's, including the Boston Marathon. He enjoyed cycling, once riding from Arizona's Northern border to the Southern border. To keep his flying skills intact, he built and flew an Ultralight. Les also volunteered with the Pima County Sheriff's Dept., at the Casa De Los Ninos, The Pima County Air Museum, his church, and the Elks.

Les took his last “High Flight" on 26 April of this year 2024. He is survived by his wife Marianne, three children, seven grandchildren, and 13 Great-grandchildren, his sister Donna, and niece Denee.