Ex-Chamber chief Thompson dies at 92

Joseph "Tiger Joe" Thompson, a decorated World War II pilot who later built a Nashville life insurance career spanning more than 60 years and led the Nashville Chamber of Commerce, died Friday at age 92.

Thompson's passing — he had been diagnosed with dementia and was in hospice care — came just days after the government of France honored him with its highest honor, the Legion of Honor, for his role in liberating France from Nazi Germany. Thompson also was awarded the American Distinguished Flying Cross and the French Croix de Guerre for his work in the 67th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron and 109th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron of the 9th Air Force.