Ralph W. McCool

Ralph Wilson McCool was born on October 28, 1918, in Elkton, Maryland, to Marion (née Smith) and George Washington McCool.[1]

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]

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 two sons, Geoffrey Edward and Ralph Wilson II. He married Gloria. He had another son, Findlay McCabe.[1] Later in life, McCool lived in Leeds.[1]

McCool died on July 21, 2011. He was buried at Bethel Cemetery.[1]