Larry McDonald

Larry McDonald

Larry McDonald

Larry McDonald (April 1, 1935 – September 1, 1983) was an American politician and physician who served as a Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives from Georgia's 7th congressional district from 1975 until his death in 1983. He was known for his staunch anti-communism and conservatism.

Early Life and Education

Larry McDonald was born in Atlanta, Georgia. He attended Davidson College in North Carolina before transferring to Emory University in Atlanta, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree. He later received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the Emory University School of Medicine.

Medical Career

After completing his medical degree, McDonald served as a urologist in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1961. Following his military service, he practiced medicine in Cobb County, Georgia.

Political Career

McDonald was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1974. He was a member of the House Committee on Armed Services and the House Committee on Internal Security. McDonald was a vocal critic of the Soviet Union and an advocate for a strong national defense.

John Birch Society

Larry McDonald was an active member of the John Birch Society, a conservative advocacy group. He served as the society's national chairman from 1983 until his death. The organization is known for its anti-communist stance and promotion of limited government.

Death

On September 1, 1983, Larry McDonald was a passenger on Korean Air Lines Flight 007, which was shot down by the Soviet Air Forces after it strayed into Soviet airspace. All 269 passengers and crew on board were killed. McDonald's death was a significant event during the Cold War and led to increased tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Legacy

Larry McDonald is remembered for his strong anti-communist views and his dedication to conservative principles. His death highlighted the dangers of the Cold War and the ongoing conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union.

See Also

• John Birch Society
• Korean Air Lines Flight 007
• Cold War
• United States House of Representatives

External Links

Larry McDonald at Find a Grave

|- style="text-align:center;"

|style="width:30%;" rowspan="1"|Preceded by

John W. Davis

| style="width: 40%; text-align: center;" rowspan="1"| Member of the [[List of United States representatives from {{{state}}}|U.S. House of Representatives]]
from [[{{{state}}}'s congressional district]]
1975–1983

| style="width: 30%; text-align: center;" rowspan="1"| Succeeded by

George Darden

|-