CHARLESTON, W. Va. (WOWK) — A Celebration of Life for Brig. Gen. Chuck Yeager was held Friday at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center.

Vice President Mike Pence attended the Charleston service.

Yeager, a native of Lincoln County, WV, died Dec. 7. He was a World War II fighter ace and the first person to break the sound barrier. He flew combat missions in both World War Two and Vietnam and trained 26 of the nation’s first astronauts. 

Yeager, a native of Lincoln County, WV, died Dec. 7. He was a World War II fighter ace and the first person to break the sound barrier. He flew combat missions in both World War Two and Vietnam and trained 26 of the nation’s first astronauts. 

“General Chuck Yeager was an American hero. West Virginia’s native son was larger than life and an inspiration for generations of Americans. He bravely served our nation as a pilot for more than 30 years in the U.S. Air Force during World War II and Vietnam. When he became the first pilot to break the sound barrier he challenged each of us to test the limits of what’s possible. I am grateful to have gotten to know this legendary West Virginian and to call him my dear friend. Gayle and I are praying for his family and all who loved and admired General Yeager. May his example of courage in the face of adversity inspire us all,” U.S. Senator Joe Manchin said at the time of Yeager’s death.