This Veterans Day, Payne Auto Group proudly honors the life and legacy of our founder, Edwin J. (E.J.) Payne, whose story began in service to his country and continues today in the family business he built from the ground up.

From the Skies of Europe to the Heart of South Texas

Before Payne Auto Group became a trusted name in the Rio Grande Valley, E.J. Payne was a dedicated aviator in the United States Army Air Corps (USAAC) during World War II.
Serving in the 79th Fighter Group, he flew over 102 combat missions in the Republic P-47 “Thunderbolt”, providing ground attack, close air support, and combat patrols throughout the skies of the European Theatre from 1944 to 1945.

As a section leader and later Commander of the 85th Squadron, E.J. demonstrated exceptional leadership and courage in the face of battle. After Victory in Europe was achieved in the spring of 1945, he continued to serve as Commanding Officer of the 79th Fighter Group during the occupation of Germany before returning home later that year.

Building a Future in Weslaco, Texas

In 1949, following his military service, Edwin J. Payne established a Dodge Automotive Dealership in Weslaco, Texas. That small-town dealership became the foundation of what we know today as Payne Auto Group — a growing network of dealerships across South Texas that continues to serve communities with integrity, dedication, and respect.

E.J. remained active in the United States Air Force Reserve until his retirement as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1965. His passion for service, leadership, and community became the cornerstone of the Payne family’s mission — values that still define our organization more than seven decades later.

A Lasting Legacy

For his meritorious service as a combat aviator in World War II, E.J. Payne received several distinguished honors, including:

  • Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
  • Air Medal (AM)
  • Europe-Africa-Middle-Eastern (EAME) Campaign Medal with six Battle Stars
  • American Theater Campaign Medal
  • Distinguished Unit Citation (DUC) with two Oak Leaf Clusters

His courage in service and vision in business laid the foundation for a legacy that continues to thrive today — one rooted in the same principles of commitment, excellence, and service that guided him through every mission.

Honoring Our Hero

This Veterans Day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Edwin J. Payne and to all who have served and continue to serve our nation.
Because of their bravery and dedication, we enjoy the freedoms that make stories like ours possible.

💙 From all of us at Payne Auto Group — thank you for your service.