Hometown Heroes:
As banners honoring Olney’s heroes are raised along Main Street, one name stands out among the town’s proud veterans: Captain Charles Richard Wainwright. A distinguished flying ace of the U.S. Air Force, Captain Wainwright flew more than 51 combat missions during World War II, earning accolades for his bravery and skill in the skies. His story is one of courage, commitment, and a deep connection to his hometown.
Born on Oct. 22, 1922, in Newcastle, Richard Wainwright grew up in Olney as one of eight siblings. A graduate of Olney High School’s class of 1941, he pursued work at Consolidated Aircraft Corp. in Fort Worth before answering the call to serve his country. Entering the military during World War II, he trained at the Army Air Base in La Junta, Colorado, where he earned his wings and was commissioned as a lieutenant on December 5, 1943.
But before earning his wings, Cadet Wainwright delighted his hometown by flying his B-25 at a low altitude over Olney as he piloted the aircraft cross country from the La Junta base.
Lt. Wainwright soon found himself at the controls of a B-25 Mitchell medium bomber, serving with the Twelfth Air Force’s bombardment group stationed in Corsica. His missions took him over the battlefields of northern Italy and the Balkans, where he played a critical role in the Allied efforts. On D-Day, during the invasion of Southern France, Wainwright and his fellow airmen provided relentless aerial support, striking German strongholds, transportation lines, and artillery positions to weaken enemy defenses.
The B-25 Mitchell group had already been pivotal in the air campaign across North Africa, Tunisia, Sicily, and Italy. The bombers conducted pre-D-Day strikes for eleven days, dismantling German positions with precision. Their efforts directly contributed to the success of the Allied invasion. Lt. Wainwright’s skill as a pilot and leader earned him a rapid promotion to captain at just 21 years old, a remarkable feat reflecting his excellence under pressure.
His service did not go unrecognized. Captain Wainwright received the prestigious Distinguished Flying Cross, the highest aviation award given, along with a gold leaf cluster. He also earned the Air Medal with eight clusters, honoring his extraordinary achievements in aerial combat. Additionally, his unit was commended by the War Department for its “outstanding performance of duty against the enemy,” particularly in the destruction of the Benevento, Italy, marshalling yards, a critical blow to German supply lines. For his role in these missions, Captain Wainwright was awarded the Distinguished Unit Badge.
After completing 51 combat missions in just eight months, he was honorably discharged in 1945 and returned to Olney. Seeking to build a future beyond the war, he pursued studies at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. His keen mind for business led him to a career with Montgomery Ward, where he played a key role in strengthening the company’s merchandising staff. He later relocated to Houston, where he spent over 50 years.
At the age of 96, Captain Charles Richard Wainwright passed away on July 27, 2019. His final journey brought him back to Olney, where he was laid to rest next to his brother, L.L. “Cotton” Wainwright, who served in World War II in the Merchant Marines. The town that shaped him now honors him in return, recognizing his valor and lifelong dedication to service.