Tag: frank luke
Frank Luke – American Aviator
by admin on Nov.09, 2009, under Historical Heroes
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 enemy territory during a mission when he was shot down.
Known as the “Balloon Buster”, Frank managed to shoot down many enemy observation balloons. This was a dangerous business, since the balloons, being only balloons, were heavily guarded. Large squadrons, military vehicles, and a healthy number of anti-aircraft weapons surrounded the fragile balloons, and it was his job to get through them.
Really, he was lucky to do this feat once, but Frank Luke managed to down 18 balloons and enemy aircraft in only 18 days.
During one mission (to be his last), Frank was shot down over enemy territory. During that mission he managed to take down 3 balloons and 2 German planes. He was alive when he landed and so he also took 11 German soldiers, wounding others, with him during his last stand.
What an amazing soldier Frank Luke was. He was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroic actions. For more about him, click here.
