William C. "Billy" McDonald III presents The Shadow Tiger: Billy McDonald—Wingman to Chennault

5:00 p.m. Reception  |  6:00 p.m. Presentation  |  7:00 p.m. Book Signing

Join us for an exciting evening hearing about the man who served as the wingman to Louisiana's own Claire Chennault and his “Flying Tigers.”

Billy McDonald of Birmingham, Alabama, had an adventurous and dangerous career as a pilot in the golden age of flight and into World War II. He jumped from military cadet to wingman in Chennault’s famed aerobatic flying group, Three Men on a Flying Trapeze. In China, he moved from instructor for the Chinese Air Force to combat pilot flying Chennault’s legendary Hawk 75 Special against the Japanese over Nanking in 1937. He began by ferrying world-famous passengers like Ernest Hemingway and high-value cargo like gold for the China National Aviation Corporation. He then flew gasoline and gunpowder over The Hump (Himalayas) for Chennault’s Flying Tigers and the Chinese Army.

Through it all, Chennault, controversial and legendary, remained his mentor, often his boss, and always his friend, indelibly shaping his life.

This is the story of a remarkable career, and a man who bore witness to some of the 20th century’s historic events and pivotal characters. Mac tells us the tale in his own words through newly-discovered photos, correspondence, and manuscripts.

Register for this event online or over the phone at 504-528-1944 x 412.

Can't make it to the Museum? Watch the event live.

Come see finalists compete for a headlining spot at BB’s Stage Door Canteen! Singers will perform a song written or recorded in the 1940s, either with an accompaniment or a cappella. The winners of each preliminary round will perform in the finale on August 15 for a $1,000 cash prize!

For more information visit stagedoorcanteen.org or call 504-528-1944 x 267.