The late John, “Jack” McGee, 1885-1918, was a celebrated aviator whose accomplishments and bravery as a pioneering pilot at the turn of the 20th century became legend in his chosen profession. A native of Central Falls he grew up in the Blackstone Valley area and became a famous as a barn-storming test pilot who foresaw the possibility of Trans-Atlantic flight and the use of the airplane by the military. Credited with several deeds of heroism during his career, his accomplishments were chronicled in the Smithsonian Institution.