Mike McManus
Pararescueman

Obituary: 
Michael P McManus, 81, originally from Trenton NJ passed away quietly with his wife by his side on June 2, 2024 after a short battle with cancer. Mike was born a warrior, and served in the Air Force as a Pararescueman for 42 years. He lived his life by the motto, “That Others May Live”.

Mike is survived by his wife, Deborah, his two daughters Kelly and Kimberly, and son-in-law Trace. Mike will be interred at the Arlington National Cemetery on a date to be determined with a follow-on celebration of life.

Mission Update:

The 212^th Rescue Squadron, Elmendorf AFB, AK and 103^rd Rescue Squadron, Gabreski Field, NY are requesting your support to help honor the service and life of our friend and teammate CMSgt Michael P. McManus. Mike was the first Pararescue Chief of the New York and Alaska Air National Guard units.

The PJ teams have identified and are working with a sculptor to have Bronze Busts made of Chief McManus, which will be displayed prominently at the entryways to both of their facilities.  The cost of creating these busts is approximately $15,000.  We are hopeful we can raise these funds through donations.  

100% of all donations made through the Pararescue Association will be used to pay for the Busts and the Celebration of Life Ceremony when Mike is interred at Arlington National Cemetery, to be announced at a later date.

Pictures of Mike are requested, to assist the sculptor to create a life like representation of this great man.  Please send photographs of Mike to Bill Watson at: bill.watson@pjassociation.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors, all PJ Association Members and all Pararescuemen then and now, we are requesting your generous donations to honor Mike McManus, a Career Field Leader and Legend among legends.

With Respect,
Bill Watson, President
Ryan Beckmann, Treasurer
The Pararescue Association