Col. (ret.) George Vogt

1988 Great Comebacks^® Program Award Recipient

After having his colon removed due to ulcerative colitis, Col. (ret.) George Vogt received the devastating news that he could no longer continue as an Air Force pilot. This Great Comebacks^® Award recipient, however, refused to be grounded and challenged the current policy to regain his wings.

George was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 1985 while stationed in Korea as an F-16 fighter pilot. After undergoing surgery a year later, the Air Force Professional Evaluation Board said George should be “medically retired.” George, however, decided to appeal the verdict. In 1987, after months of hard work and getting testimonies from medical professionals and other people with an ostomy, the ruling was overturned – George was back in the cockpit!

“I didn’t realize the milestone I was passing when I returned to active flying status,” said George, who according to his records is the first pilot in the Air Force to fly without a colon. George went on to command two flying squadrons and oversee all nationwide operations of the Civil Air Patrol, commanding more than 700 people.

Just days after retiring in 2006, George, 55, went on his first date with Marie, whom he met while in charge of the Civil Air Patrol. They were married in October 2008, and recently moved into their newly constructed home in Montgomery, AL.

“I hope that through sharing my story, others realize that having ostomy surgery can’t stop you from competing in whatever walk of life you choose,” said George.