Tag Archive
The Missing Man Formation
The “Missing Man” formation is a touching memorial to those lost in the airforce. It is a rare thing for those not in the military to witness. It is performed by the pilots flying in formation, just as if the lost man were still there. It is believed that the tradition started in Britain at... »
Frank Luke – American Aviator
Some men just seemed destined to be great, and when it comes to wartime greatness, I have to admit, it sure seems like a little crazy is necessary. American aviator Frank Luke flew during World War I and has an incredible record to show for it. Sadly though, Frank didn’t make it out of... »
Fighter Pilot Returns The Favor To His Native Saviors
This is pretty cool. A WWII American fighter pilot crashed in the jungles of Papua New Guinea, and after a harrowing 31 days lost in the jungle, the native people found him and cared for him until he could be sent home. Years later, and after that the rest of his life, the pilot... »
After 18 years, pilot’s remains come home
Navy Capt. Michael Scott Speicher was the first person to be killed in the Persian Gulf War in 1991, but his body was never found. He shot down over the desert west of Baghdad while flying a F/A-18 Hornet. The wreckage was recovered, and searches for his body proved fruitless. For years his status... »
Marine Aviator Remembered
Fighter pilot who fought in three wars died this past June at the age of 89. Our pilots certainly are extraordinary people! Retired Marine Corps Col. Kenneth L. Reusser, 89, a highly decorated aviator who was shot down in three wars, died June 20. He lived in the Portland, Ore., suburb of Milwaukie.Col. Reusser flew... »
Angel In The Sky
Being a hero means a person does what they think is right, regardless of possible consequences. In wartime, doing the right thing becomes even harder. Often a person’s life is endangered if they were to step up to the proverbial plate. Or maybe they risk punishment at the hands of their superiors is they... »
UK’s Blue Plaque Awarded to WWII Fighter Pilot
Sir Douglas Bader was a pilot who fought against all odds. In a tragic aircraft accident in 1931 Bader lost both of his legs. He was unable to fly for some time, but when World War II broke out, he insisted on flying. He became a flying ace – shooting down 23 enemy aircraft.... »
A Real Ace
William “Bill” A. Shomo was truly an amazing pilot who flew for the United States Air Force during World War I. While flying an armed photo reconnaissance in his P-51 Mustang, he and his wing mate spotted 13 enemy planes. Despite being incredibly outnumbered, they immediately executed an Immelman turn and engaged the planes... »