Oregon War Pilot Inducted Into Hall of Honor

“Staryl is a true American hero, and I for one am proud that he calls Oregon his home. His service to his fellow veterans and his country has been unwavering and it is right that he receive this honor.” - Oregon Governor

Staryl C. Austin

(SALEM, Ore.) - One of Oregon’s aviation “Finest,” and a past Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, will be inducted into Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum’s Hall of Honor at 1:00 PM on Sunday, October 21st at the museum in McMinnville.

Brigadier General Staryl C. Austin, Jr., a native Oregonian, completed 58 combat missions while flying the rugged P-47 Thunderbolt. His unit’s mission was air to ground support while destroying key German ground targets to pave the way for the Allies’ advance across France, Belgium and Germany.

In 1953, Austin joined the Oregon Air National Guard and eventually served as the 142nd Fighter Group’s Air Officer, Chief of the Administrative Division and as Assistant Adjutant General until his retirement in December 1981.

Former Governor Victor Atiyeh named Austin as Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, and the Senate confirmed him on January 9, 1981. He retired from the position in December of 1984. “Staryl Austin has served veterans, active military and indeed, our country most admirably over his career.

As Director of this agency he set a high bar on what is, and what should be expected from a Director. We are very proud of Staryl, and happy for this honor,” said Jim Willis, current Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Austin became famous flying the P-47 Thunderbolt during his service in the second world war

During his military service he earned the Air Force’s Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Air Medal with seven oak leaf clusters and the European-African-Middle East Campaign Medal with four battle stars.

Said Governor Ted Kulongoski, “Staryl is a true American hero, and I for one am proud that he calls Oregon his home. His service to his fellow veterans and his country has been unwavering and it is right that he receive this honor.”

In October of 2005, Governor Kulongoski presented Austin with a special Governor’s Commendation Award in recognition of more than 60 years of military and public service. At age 87, he has completed nearly two full four-year terms serving on the Governor’s Veterans’ Advisory Committee.