March 7, 2022

Col. Ernest C. Pearson
Wing Headquarters
California Wing

No obituary

Note:

We have lost a great member - Col. Ernest Pearson.

It is with great sadness that Col. Nelson announces that Col. Ernest (Ernie) Pearson passed away on Thursday (17 Feb.) following a long illness.

He joined CAP as a cadet in Old Baldy Squadron 87 in the 1950s. He left CAP for a while, but rejoined in the 1970s and was a member of Bishop Composite Squadron 66, and later Cable Composite Squadron 25.

During his long CAP career he served as Cable Squadron 25 Commander, San Gabriel Valley Group 15 Commander, California Wing Safety Officer, California Wing Standards & Evaluation Officer, and California Wing Director of Cadet Programs. In 1990 he became the California Wing Commander and moved wing headquarters from the north to southern California. In 2000 and 2001 he was director for the National Staff College. He served two terms as Pacific Region Commander.

Col. Pearson also served on a number of national committees.  He was both a CFI and CFIG and was instrumental in establishing the California Wing High Altitude Flight Training School, and was director of the California Wing Glider Flight School.

His awards include the Gill Robb Wilson (No. 553) and eight Distinguished Service Awards.

Comments from Col. Nelson:
"I considered him as both a great friend and a mentor, and I am sure many of you did also.  Pacific Region and California Wing were made better through his efforts, and he will be missed."
Col. Virginia Nelson, PCR Commander Interim.

Charles Wiest