Eugene McDaniel: key obituary facts
Is Eugene McDaniel dead? Yes. Eugene McDaniel died on August 7, 2026, at age 94.
Cause of death: Eugene McDaniel's cause of death was reported as Heart failure.
What was Eugene McDaniel known for?
He was an American naval aviator, recipient of the Purple Heart medal.
More about Eugene McDaniel
Born: 27 September 1931.
Place of birth: Kinston.
Gender: male.
Occupation: United States Naval Aviator.
Nationality: United States.
Education: Elon University, Campbell University.
Awards: Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star Medal, Legionnaire of Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, Silver Star, Navy Cross.
Also known as: Eugene Barker McDaniel, Red McDaniel.
Eugene McDaniel, an American Navy captain and naval aviator, died on August 7, 2026, at age 94; the cause was heart failure.
Born Eugene Barker McDaniel in Kinston, North Carolina, he served in the U.S. Navy and became a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War.
He was released from captivity on March 4, 1973, after six years of confinement. McDaniel, also known as Red McDaniel, received several military honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Silver Star, Navy Cross and Legion of Merit.