Ralph W. McCool
American politician (1918–2011)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Ralph Wilson McCool (October 28, 1918 – July 21, 2011) was an American politician and military pilot from Maryland. He served as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, representing Cecil County, from 1957 to 1958.
October 28, 1918
Ralph W. McCool | |
|---|---|
| Member of the Maryland House of Delegates from the Cecil County district | |
| In office March 30, 1957 – 1958 | |
| Preceded by | Guy Johnson |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Ralph Wilson McCool October 28, 1918 Elkton, Maryland, U.S. |
| Died | July 21, 2011 (aged 92) |
| Resting place | Bethel Cemetery |
| Party | Democratic |
| Spouse |
Emma Grace McCabe (m. 1946) |
| Children | 3 |
| Occupation |
|
| Military career | |
| Branch | United States Army Air Force |
| Rank | Brevet colonel |
| Unit | 445th Bombing Group |
| Conflicts | World War II |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
Early life
Ralph Wilson McCool was born on October 28, 1918, in Elkton, Maryland, to Marion (née Smith) and George Washington McCool.[1]
Career
McCool served with the 445th Bombing Group during World War II. He flew the Consolidated B-24 Liberator. He flew over 35 missions over Germany. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross following his 25th mission. He was a member of the Maryland National Guard 29th Division Association and retired with the rank of brevet colonel.[1]
McCool was a Democrat. He was appointed to replace Guy Johnson as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, representing Cecil County. He served from March 30, 1957, to 1958.[2][3][4] He served on the Ways and Means committee.[1]
McCool worked at Maryland State Lottery.[1]
Personal life
McCool flew as a hobby after the war. In his 80s, McCool made tandem jumps from 14,000 feet, gaining him a reputation with the United States Parachute Association. One of his jumps was televised on the Outdoor Channel.[1]
McCool married Emma Grace McCabe in 1946.[1][5] They had three sons, Geoffrey Edward, Ralph Wilson II and Findlay McCabe.[1] Later in life, McCool lived in Leeds.[1]
McCool died on July 21, 2011. He was buried at Bethel Cemetery.[1]
