Simler, George B. (George Brenner), 1921-1972

George B. Simler (b. 1921, Johnstown, Pa.-d. Sept. 9, 1972), U.S. Air Force officer, received his commission in 1942. He served two combat tours in Europe during World War II, and in 1944 was shot down, successfully returning to Allied lines two months later. After the War he became the first Professor of Air Science and Tactics at the University of Maryland, where he completed his own degree in 1948. Following assignments as commander, 86th Fighter-Bomber Group and 355th Fighter Group, he was assigned to the U.S. Air Force Academy as director of athletics. In the 1960s, General Simler commanded the 18th Tactical Fighter Wing in Okinawa, then became director of operations, 7th Air Force in Southeast Asia, flying combat missions in various tactical strike aircraft. He later served as director of operations, U.S. Air Force HQ, and then vice commander, U.S. Air Forces in Europe. He assumed command of Air Training Command in 1970. General Simler was killed in the crash of a T-38 jet trainer.