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    Remembering Bud Anderson, Last Triple Ace of World War II at 102

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    Bud Anderson” by fonsecam63 is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

    Clarence Emil “Bud” Anderson, a decorated fighter ace known for his valor and skill during World War II, took his final flight on Friday, May 17, passing away peacefully in the town of Auburn, California.

    WWII 101st Airborne Paratrooper (14)” by Templar1307 is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

    At 102 years old, Anderson was not only the last triple ace of the United States from that era but also an emblematic figure representing the rapidly vanishing generation of WWII heroes.

    grayscale photography of flying plane
    Photo by Chandler Cruttenden on Unsplash

    Anderson’s journey into the annals of military history began in Oakland, California, where he was born on January 13, 1922. His passion for aviation sparked early, taking root on his family farm and blooming at the local airport.

    The Japanese assault on Pearl Harbor was a decisive moment for Anderson, propelling him to enlist in the US Army in January 1942, with ambitions of conquering the skies.

    A Japanese photo of their bombing of Rangoon, Burma on Dec 23, 1941 during WWII .” by J. Tewell is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

    His aspirations were realized after completing intense pilot training at various locations including Lindbergh Field, California, and Luke Airfield, Nevada. By September 1942, Anderson had his wings and was ready to soar.

    WWII B-24 VE ‘Trolley Missions’, Cologne, Germany WWII, May 10th, 1945…WWII B-24 VE ‘Trolley-Einsätze’, Köln, Deutschland WWII, 10. Mai 1945” by David C. Foster is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

    His first assignment as a pilot saw him at the controls of the Bell P-39 Airacobra. However, his combat legacy would be forged in the cockpit of the P-51B Mustang—a machine that would become as iconic as the man himself.

    Training Photo of Pilot Lt. Robert L. Mains and B24 Crew: WWII, 8th Air Force (Mighty Eighth), 2nd Air Division, 448th, 714th Squadron, Seething, UK.” by David C. Foster is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

    Assigned to the 363rd Fighter Squadron in the United Kingdom, Anderson’s inaugural combat mission unfolded on February 5, 1944. Just a month later, he would claim his first victory by taking down a German Messerschmitt Bf-109, defending a beleaguered B-17 bomber.

    The triumphs continued, and by May 8, 1944, Anderson had achieved ace status after his fifth victory, a German Focke-Wulf Fw 190.

    World War II Wellington bombers (2 of 2)” by whatsthatpicture is licensed under CC PDM 1.0

    Anderson’s prowess in aerial combat earned him 16 victories over Europe and the enduring friendship of fellow pilot Chuck Yeager—the first aviator to break the sound barrier.

    The Dom Cathedral (Kölner Dom) in Cologne, Germany WWII, May 10th, 1945. ‘Trolley Missions’…Kölner Dom in Köln, Deutschland WWII, 10. Mai 1945. ‘Trolley-Missionen’” by David C. Foster is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

    Upon returning to the United States in January 1945, Anderson embraced a peaceful life with his bride, Eleanor Cosby, whom he married in February 1945. They shared life’s journey until her passing in 2015.

    Africa during World War II: a Vichy French Douglas Boston bomber” by gbaku is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

    Post-WWII, Anderson’s career transitioned from the theatre of war to the field of innovation, becoming a test pilot.

    grayscale photo of metal frame glass building
    Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash

    But the call of duty echoed once more during the Vietnam War, where he led the 355th Tactical Fighter Wing into battle aboard an F-105 Thunderchief from Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base.

    Martin 187 Baltimore attack-bomber in flames during World War II in Africa” by gbaku is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

    Anderson’s legacy is cemented by his extraordinary achievements—25 decorations, participation in two wars, and a staggering 7,000 flight hours across over 100 different aircraft.

    World War II – Stukka” by ~Prescott is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

    In recognition of his service, the Air Force awarded Anderson the honorary rank of Brigadier General in 2022, a poignant testament to his contributions both in the skies and on the ground.

    World War II Short Stirling bomber taking off” by whatsthatpicture is licensed under CC PDM 1.0

    As we reflect on the passing of Bud Anderson, we honor a life defined by courage, dedication, and a love for aviation. His legacy endures, inspiring new generations to reach for the skies with the same tenacity and spirit that propelled him to become a true American hero.

    Relevant articles:
    Farewell to Bud Anderson, the last triple ace of the United States aviation in World War II, Contando Estrelas

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