Kim McClung (1985-2019) overcame all obstacles to become DEA’s first female pilot. Although told she would never be accepted in male-dominated South America, she recalls she was treated with “even more respect” than the male pilots. She flew missions worldwide and served as DEA’s first LEAR jet pilot.
Pictures
Featured in the top photo is the DEA Aviation Operations Center Service Hangar in Fort Worth, Texas, ca. 1990.
Pictured in the second row is Kim, ca. 2019, alongside DEA's first helicopter pilot.
Displayed in the third row is a helmet and flight suit donated by the DEA Air Wing, manufacturer unknown, ca. 2000s, DEA Departmental Transfer, 2019.2.36 and 2019.2.37. This is the same as the uniforms some DEA pilots wear. Helicopter pilots are issued flight suits and helmets for protection. The flame-resistant suit can help a pilot escape injury in a crash or other dangerous situation. The vest has a water-activated light in case of an emergency water landing. The final photo is Kim, ca. late 1980s.