In Memoriam · Spaatz #1120
Bomber Aviator · Commander · Mentor
15 June 2026 · TORCH11 · B-52 Stratofortress
Colonel Watson served his nation with more than 3,200 flight hours in the B-52 and a career defined by developing those around him.
In His Memory
Colonel Gregory Watson, Spaatz #1120, was a master combat systems officer, Air Force reservist, and weapons school graduate who spent the better part of his career at Barksdale Air Force Base, where he commanded the 343rd Bomb Squadron assigned to the 307th Bomb Wing.
He began his Air Force career in 2001 and went on to support numerous combat deployments, lead at the command level, and mentor a generation of aviators and airmen who carry his influence forward. At the time of the TORCH11 accident at Edwards Air Force Base on June 15, 2026, he was serving as a weapon systems officer with Boeing while continuing his Reserve assignment to 10th Air Force.
"From leading the 343rd Bomb Squadron to guiding our Airmen in numerous leadership roles across the Wing, he was a mentor, a leader and a true friend to so many of us."— 307th Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base
Colonel Watson is survived by his wife, Michele, and his children: Kaitlin, Amanda, Emily, Allison, Eric, and Alex Watson. He was a member of the Krewe of Gemini and a beloved figure in the Shreveport-Bossier community.
We have the opportunity to ensure that Colonel Watson's legacy of service, leadership, mentorship, and aviation excellence continues to inspire future generations. Every contribution will support deserving Civil Air Patrol cadets with life-changing leadership, aerospace, character development, and training opportunities that might otherwise be beyond their reach. Through these young leaders, his commitment to serving others will continue to shape the future.
Col. Watson with his son, Eric, upon Eric's receipt of the Civil Air Patrol Wright Brothers Award.
The Scholarship
Established by the Carl A. Spaatz Association, this scholarship honors Colonel Watson's legacy by supporting Civil Air Patrol cadets in educational, leadership, aerospace, and character development activities. Priority consideration is given to the Louisiana Wing Summer Encampment. As funding permits, the scholarship may also support other cadet program activities consistent with Colonel Watson's life of service.
The fund may additionally facilitate participation by members of the Watson family in scholarship presentations and recognition events.
Varies annually based on available funding.
Civil Air Patrol cadet activities approved by the TSA Scholarship Committee, with priority consideration for the Louisiana Wing Summer Encampment.
Must be a Civil Air Patrol cadet demonstrating financial need.
Applicants from Louisiana, or those with a shared interest in bomber aviation, military service, or service in the Air Force, Air Force Reserve, or Air National Guard.
Application Requirements
Essay Prompt
Write an essay discussing the meaning of service and how you can live a life of service inspired by the legacy of Colonel Gregory "Evil" Watson, USAFR.
Essays must be the applicant's original work. Submitted essays may be reviewed using available tools and methods to verify authenticity and originality.