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Richard "Dick" Ira Bong (September 24, 1920 – August 6, 1945) was a United States Army Air Forces major and Medal of Honor recipient in World War II. He was one of the most decorated American fighter pilots and the country's top flying ace in the war, credited with shooting down 40 Japanese aircraft, all with the Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter.
Greatest American Ace. Unveil the story of Richard Bong, America's WWII flying ace! Discover how this pilot achieved legendary status with 40 enemy aircraft shot down.
Oct 25, 2021 · America’s Best Fighter Pilot Of World War II Downed 40 Planes – And Died In A Simple Training Mission. Richard "Dick" Bong was one of the most successful fighter pilots his commanding officers had ever seen before dying in a test flight in August 1945.
Known as the “Ace of Aces” for his rank as the top American flying ace during World War II, Major Richard Ira Bong is credited with the downing of an impressive confirmed total of 40 enemy aircraft over the course of his career as a fighter pilot. In December 1944, Bong received the Medal of Honor from General Douglas MacArthur for his service.
Nov 7, 2016 · Richard Ira Bong shot down 40 Japanese aircraft and "ruled the air from New Guinea to the Philippines" on his way to becoming America's Ace of Aces. The top-scoring American ace of World War II, Richard I. Bong was credited with 40 aerial victories. (National Archives) Major General George C. Kenney had had enough.
May 23, 2024 · MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Searchers announced Thursday they’ve discovered what they believe is the wreckage of World War II ace Richard Bong’s plane in the South Pacific.
Delve into the life of Major Richard Ira Bong, America’s top flying Ace of World War II. Learn about his humble beginnings, heroic deeds, and the lasting impact he has left on our nation and local community. Bong Collection.
Richard Ira Bong, who would become America’s “Ace of Aces,” was born on September 24, 1920, the son of a Swedish immigrant. He grew up on a farm near the small town of Poplar, Wisconsin. Dick did well in high school, helped on the farm, and pursued many interests as a teenager.
Major Richard I. Bong. Top American Ace of World War Two. By Stephen Sherman, June, 1999. Updated June 28, 2011. R ichard Ira Bong, who would become America's "Ace of Aces," was born on September 24, 1920, the son of a Swedish immigrant. He grew up on a farm near the small town of Poplar, Wisconsin.
Richard I. Bong. Born and raised in Poplar, Wisconsin, Richard Ira Bong was destined to have a short but illustrious career as a military aviator. In just under two years, Major Bong had downed 40 enemy aircraft, thereby distinguishing himself as America's top fighter ace of World War II.
