Tag Archives: Yeager

WWII, Korean War Ace Slips the Surly Bonds

Ret. Col. Walker “Bud” “Honest John” Mahurin, credited with 24.25 kills in both WWII theatres and the Korean War, passed away on May 11 at the age of 91.  Besides shooting down aircraft in three theatres, Mahurin had the dubious honor of being shot down in each one.  He escaped France with the aid of the French resistance (as did Chuck Yeager).  Yeager talked his way into continuing to fly in Europe (despite his exposure to the underground); Mahurin went to the Pacific theatre instead.  In the later conflict, Mahurin was a Korean POW for 16 months.

For those who are wondering, “honest John” Read more

Yeager Named to California Hall of Fame

World War II fighter ace and Air Force test pilot Brigadier General (Ret) Chuck Yeager will be inducted into the California Hall of Fame in December.

The California Hall of Fame was created in 2006 by the Governor’s wife, Maria Shriver, and the California Museum.  Its purpose is to

recognize legendary Californians who have influenced the state, the nation and the world.

Yeager’s fellow inductees are an eclectic group, including George Lucas, John Madden, and Harvey Milk.  Prior inductees include Walt Disney, Amelia Earhart, and Ronald Reagan.