Christopher Findlay Irwin, Jr.
United States Marine Corps Captain • World War II Veteran • U.S. Air Force Officer
October 14, 1918 – March 12,1966
At a Glance
Name: Christopher Findlay Irwin, Jr.
Service Branches: United States Marine Corps (World War II), United States Air Force (Korean Conflict era)
Family Legacy: Great-grandson of Georgia Governor Jared Irwin
Early Life & Family Heritage
Christopher Findlay Irwin, Jr. was born into a family deeply rooted in Georgia history. As a direct descendant of Governor Jared Irwin, he inherited a legacy of public service and civic duty that shaped his life from an early age.
Growing up in Georgia, he developed a strong sense of patriotism, discipline, and responsibility— qualities that would define his military career and his service to the nation.
Christopher Findlay Irwin, Jr. attended North Georgia College, a respected military institution known for producing disciplined leaders. His time there strengthened his commitment to service and prepared him for the challenges ahead.
He later continued his education at the University of Georgia, further broadening his academic foundation before entering active military service.
Notes from his daughter: Major Christopher Findlay Irwin, Jr. in his Marine Corp. whites and my mother Kathleen Albea Chambers married Aug.15,1941 four months before the attack on Pearl Harbor.He was a squadron leader while stationed in California. Among the officers in his squadron were our very own Bill Hall of Sandersville and future astronaut John Glenn. During the war he flew a Corsair bomber plane in the Pacific and received numerous medals including 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses. After the Korean conflict he enlisted in the Air National Guard and died at age 48 on March 12, 1966 while flying a helicopter. He died doing what he loved – protecting our great country and flying. He was a true patriot, wonderful man, father and had he lived would have been a wonderful, loving grandfather and great-grandfather.
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