James D. McEachern
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TX – James D. McEachern, 89, received his eternal wings on February 17, 2010. He was born on June 3, 1920, in Presque Isle, to David and Susan McEachern.
Soon after graduating high school, while working in California, he met the love of his life. After a storybook courtship, J.D. and Barbara were married in 1939. His career relocated them to North Richland Hills, where they raised their three sons.
During 71 years together, they traveled all over the world. If not flying around in their private plane, they could be found later in life rolling in their RV. His passion for flying started at a young age. After receiving his pilot’s license in High School, his aviation career literally took off. He was the test flight engineer for eight different aircrafts including the first flight of the B-36 and B-58. Some of the speed, alititude and distance records that he was a part of still stand today. He retired from General Dynamics after a distinguished 49 years career.
Many of his contributions have been documented on the Discovery and History channels. Whether flying at more than twice the speed of sound or flight testing a bomber with an active nuclear reactor, he truly loved what he did. During a test flight for the B-36, J.D. along with most of the crew had to bailout due to landing gear problems. The ordeal lasted over six hours but the plane landed without incident. It was called “The Crash That Saved the B-36” because it proved the giant bomber could land safely even after being damaged. He was the last man out after maually lowering the plane’s nose gear and broke a vertebra upon landing.
James is survived by his wife of 71 years, Barbara; sister, Francis; sons, Jimmy, Alex and Eric and their wives; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
At James’ request, there will not be a funeral or memorial service. The family received friends to honor his memory from 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, March 7, at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 1319 Brown Trail, Bedford, TX. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.
