Alton C. ‘AL’ Whitley
2024 Gala honoree Col. Alton C. ‘AL’ Whitley Jr., a retired U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, currently resides in Greenville, South Carolina. He was part of the initial cadre of the F-117 program from 1981 to 1985. In August 1990, he took command of the 37th Fighter Wing and deployed for Desert Shield and Desert Storm, showcasing innovative stealth technology and the talents of his unit during the operation.
Col. Whitley served in Vietnam in 1970 and Thailand in 1973. After 26 years of military service, including combat action in Operation Desert Storm, he retired and taught Air Force Junior ROTC from 1994 to 2008. He expresses gratitude to those who guided him and served alongside him, regretting not expressing his appreciation sooner.
