Paul David Manson

General Paul David Manson (August 20, 1934 – July 1, 2023) was a Canadian Forces officer, fighter pilot and businessman.

Early life and education

Born in Trail, British Columbia, Manson attended both Royal Roads and Royal Military College of Canada. He was appointed Cadet Wing Commander in both colleges and the Sword of Honour at RMC.

Military career Manson received his wings in 1957 and subsequently served as a fighter pilot in Germany, France and Canada. He flew the CF-100, F-86 Sabre, the CF-104 Starfighter and the CF-101 Voodoo. He served as Commanding Officer of 441 Tactical Fighter Squadron before becoming Program Manager of the New Fighter Aircraft Program in 1977, which led to the selection of the CF-18 Hornet. He went on to be Commander 1 Canadian Air Group in 1980, Commander, Air Command in 1983 and Assistant Deputy Minister in the Department of National Defence in 1985. In 1986, Prime Minister Brian Mulroney appointed him Canada's Chief of the Defence Staff, a position he held until his retirement from the military in 1989. He was Chairman of the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada and Canada's Aviation Hall of Fame.

Death Manson died on July 1, 2023, at the age of 88.

Honours In 1980, Manson was invested as a Commander of the Order of Military Merit. In 1987 he became an Officer of the Order of St. John, and in 1989 he became a Commander of the United States Legion of Merit. "for achievement in the fields of planning, policy-making and leadership in aeronautics and space". In 2003, he was a recipient of the Vimy Award, which "recognizes Canadians who have made outstanding commitments to Canadian security and defence and towards preserving our democratic values." In 2009, Manson was added to the Wall of Honour at the Royal Military College of Canada, General Manson is the recipient of honorary Doctorate of Military Science degrees from both Royal Roads and Royal Military College.