The City of Clermont officially recognized March 11, 2025, as Captain Donnie Cochran Day, celebrating the remarkable achievements and service of Captain Donnie Cochran, United States Navy (Retired). Mayor Tim Murry proclaimed in honor of Captain Cochran’s exceptional dedication to his country and his inspiring leadership in both military and civilian life.
A distinguished aviator, Captain Cochran graduated from Savannah State University in 1976 before embarking on a groundbreaking career in the United States Navy. As a fighter pilot, he served aboard multiple aircraft carriers and led Fighter Squadron 111 to be recognized as the top F-14 Squadron in the Pacific Fleet.
Captain Cochran made history in 1985 when he became the first African American pilot selected to join the elite Blue Angels flight demonstration team. He later broke barriers again in 1994 as the first African American Commanding Officer and Flight Leader of the Blue Angels. Throughout his career, he performed more than 300 airshows for millions of spectators, logging over 2,200 hours in the process.
His impressive resume includes more than 6,000 flight hours across nine different types of aircraft and 888 accident-free carrier landings. Following his military service, Captain Cochran continued contributing to aviation as a flight training supervisor for UPS and as a manager at Coca-Cola.
Captain Cochran’s extraordinary service has earned him multiple honors, including two Legion of Merit Medals, the Navy Commendation Medal, and induction into both the Georgia Military Veteran Hall of Fame and the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame.
With this proclamation, the City of Clermont celebrates Captain Cochran’s enduring legacy of excellence and leadership. The honor recognizes his dedication to service and his role in inspiring future generations, both in the military and beyond.
The official proclamation was signed and sealed on March 11, 2025, by Mayor Tim Murry, marking a proud moment in Clermont’s recognition of distinguished veterans and leaders.
