1945: Major Richard Bong Dies Testing P-80 Jet Fighter

America's top air ace, Major Richard Bong, dies testing the P-80 Shooting Star jet fighter in 1945. Footage includes wreckage, flyovers, and tributes.

America lost its top air ace, Major Richard Bong, in a tragic accident while testing the new Lockheed P-80 Shooting Star jet fighter. Bong, a celebrated WWII fighter pilot known for his prowess in the P-38 Lightning, was killed when the jet crashed during a test flight. This footage includes scenes of the wreckage being cleared and a flyover by P-38 Lightning fighters as a tribute to Bong’s remarkable career. As the first operational jet fighter of the United States Army Air Force, the P-80 was a groundbreaking aircraft, and Bong's involvement in its testing underscores his continued dedication to advancing American aviation. This tribute to Bong captures both the tragedy of his death and his legacy as a legendary fighter pilot.

[dukeford]

Being a great fighter pilot and air ace doesn't automatically make you a great test pilot.

[edl]

I remember something written somewhere that The General who allowed Bong to fly the P-80 fail to make sure Bong when through the necessary training to fly the P-80

[vincewilliams]

Chuck Yeager and Richard Bong, two of the Greatest. Why did I mention Yeager?

[benleydon]

2045: Major Richard Jetfighter Dies Testing Bong