Colonel Donald James Matthew Blakeslee - September 11, 1917 - September 3, 2008 - The Greatest American Fighter Pilot Has Passed Away

[Mark Copeland]

Hello All!!

I can tell you that their will be no published obituary in any newspaper,
namely the MIAMI HERALD. It was his wish not to "public announce" his passing in the paper. It just wasn't his style. Colonel Blakeslee was a very private individual and basically kept to himself due to his very modest character.

I was very close to Colonel Blakeslee for over 15 years and I knew him quite well. He was like my second father. He protected his honor and intergrity more than anyone I have ever known.

I can assure you that his wishes are being honored here gentlemen.

Mark Copeland
National President - Eighth Air Force Historical Society
Associate Member - Fourth Fighter Group