Capt Mark P. McCarthy, 31, was performing a training mission over the Adriatic Sea when his F16C crashed at 8:40 a.m. Jan. 26, 1995 approximately 60 miles east of the Italian city of Comacchio.
McCarthy is survived by his father and mother, retired Air Force Gen. James P. and Alice M. McCarthy, from Monument, Colo.; and his wife, Patti, and three children, Bryan, David and Christina.
The 1985 U.S. Air Force Academy graduate served as the 510th FS's assistant operations officer.
The nine-year Air Force veteran's decorations include the Air Medal, Aerial Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster and the Air Force Achievement Medal.
The McCarthy family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the pilot's favorite charity, Focus on the Family, a non-profit organization that directs its resources to the preservation of home and family.
Squadron Pays Tribute to Pilot
(Editor's note: The following message was submitted by members of the 510th Fighter Squadron. Photo, right, is dedication to McCarthy Memorial in front of Buzzard 65 Shelter).
The United States Air Force lost a beloved member of the 510th Fighter Squadron family Jan. 26. Capt. Mark P. McCarthy, better known as Mac, died while participating in aerial combat maneuvers over the Adriatic Sea. We feel honored to have known and loved Mac and would like you to know and love him, too.
Mac truly made a difference in all our lives. Mac's deep personal commitment to God, his country and his family permeated everything he did.
A devout Christian, Mac's life was a testimony to his faith both on and off duty. His eyes were bright and full of love for his Lord and his fellow man. Mac was always there with a smile, sincerely asking you how you were doing. He was active in the Aviano community. A true witness, he and his beloved wife, Patti, hosted and led a weekly Bible study and fellowship.
A top notch professional officer and respected aviator, Mac was hand-picked to help stand-up the 510th Fighter Squadron as Assistant Operations Officer.
His staunch dedication helped ensure the squadron was able to assume operational commitments three months after activation. In addition, his superb instructional abilities led to the squadron's 100 percent success rate supporting United Nations resolutions by enforcing the no-fly zone over Bosnia-Herzegovina in which he flew more than 60 combat sorties for Operations Provide Comfort and Deny Flight.
His commitment to being the best for his country is also reflected in his exemplary military record; Distinguished Graduate at the Pilot Instructor Course, AT-38 Fighter Lead-In Training, F-16 Training School, and Squadron Officer School, and Squadron "Top Gun" numerous times. In addition, he was twice named Air Training Command "Professional Performer."
Second only to his strong faith was Mac's love for his family. Mac was known as a devoted husband and father. He and his wife, Patti, had a home full of love and commitment to their three children, Bryan, David and Christina.
Despite long days and constantly changing schedules, Mac always made time for his family. Whether it be a Bible reading at bedtime or a trip to Baskin & Robbins, Mac relished every minute with his children. Just a brief look at his desk would tell you how much he adored his family -- pictures surrounded his desk, almost as if he wanted to be continually reminded of their love.
Thank you Mac, for showing us what love and commitment are really about.
