The Early Life of Richard Bong: From Farm Boy to Fighter Pilot
You’ve probably never heard of Richard Bong. He isn’t mentioned in the same breath as aviation legends like Chuck Yeager or the Tuskegee Airmen. But during World War II, Bong was America’s highest-scoring air ace and a bona fide celebrity. This farm boy from rural Wisconsin shot down 40 Japanese planes during the war in the Pacific, a record that still stands today. Yet his remarkable story has faded into obscurity.
How did a humble Midwesterner become a dogfighting ace and national hero at just 22 years old? Why did his fame evaporate so quickly after the war ended? The truth is far more complex than the simplistic tale of an ace pilot and his kills. Bong was a man of quiet charisma and steely determination who helped boost morale on the home front. He risked his life with every mission but never lost his youthful enthusiasm and zest for life that made him a natural born leader. Rediscover the untold story of this forgotten ace and learn why Major Dick Bong remains one of the greatest pilots in American history. The legend of America’s ace of aces lives on.
Richard Bong’s Heroics in the South Pacific
Dick Bong grew up on a farm in Poplar, Wisconsin, a small town in the northwestern part of the state. From an early age, he was fascinated with aircraft and dreamed of becoming a pilot. In 1938, at age 18, Bong enrolled in Superior State Teachers College to study education, but his sights were still set on flying.
After two years of college, Bong enlisted in the Army Air Corps Aviation Cadet Program to train as a fighter pilot. He learned to fly at Eagle Pass Army Airfield in Texas, showing a natural ability in the cockpit that set him apart. Bong’s instructor said he was “the best natural pilot I ever saw.” His skills and dedication earned him a commission as a second lieutenant in January 1942.
Bong continued training on the Bell P-39 Airacobra, a single-engine fighter equipped with a powerful 37mm cannon. While other pilots struggled with the P-39’s handling, Bong excelled during mock dogfights and gunnery practice. His precision and accuracy caught the attention of General George Kenney, who oversaw air operations in the South Pacific. Kenney assigned Bong to the 49th Fighter Group, based in Australia and New Guinea.
In just a few short years, Bong transformed from a farm boy dreaming of adventure into an Army Air Forces fighter pilot shipping out to the Pacific, ready to make history. His natural talent, dedication to mastering his craft, and opportunity to prove himself in combat would combine to cement his status as an ace like no other.
The Mysterious Death of America’s Top Fighter Ace
Major Richard Bong was America’s highest-scoring air ace during World War II, yet his story remains largely untold.
Bong’s Early Successes
As a pilot in the 49th Fighter Group stationed in New Guinea, Bong racked up kills from the start. His first victories came in December 1942, when he shot down two Japanese bombers. By mid-1943, he had over a dozen kills and was deemed an “ace in a day” twice, downing five planes each time.
Bong flew the Lockheed P-38 Lightning, a twin-engine fighter ideal for the long flights over the Pacific. He mastered the art of “boom and zoom” – using the P-38’s speed and power to cripple enemy planes in a single pass. Fellow pilots were in awe of his skill and bravery in the face of combat.
Heroics and Honors
In 1944, Bong was transferred to the V Fighter Command, where General MacArthur presented him the Medal of Honor for his achievements. At just 22 years old, Bong had shot down 40 Japanese aircraft, more than any other US pilot in the theater.
Bong’s daring and humility made him a legend. Though he received numerous honors and publicity, he remained modest about his service. Tragically, Bong was killed in 1945 while testing a new P-80 jet, robbing America of a true hero.
Decades later, Bong’s name lives on at Richard Bong State Recreation Area in Wisconsin, and he continues to inspire generations with his courage, skill and sacrifice. His story deserves to be told.
