Frank L. Gailer Jr.
Frank Lewis Gailer Jr. (November 13, 1923 – September 6, 2018) was an American flying ace in the 357th Fighter Group during World War II, and a career fighter pilot in the United States Air Force. During World War II, Gailer was credited in the destruction of 5.5 enemy aircraft in aerial combat before he was subsequently shot down and taken prisoner. During Vietnam War, he commanded a fighter wing and flew more than 200 combat missions.
Frank L. Gailer Jr. | |
|---|---|
Gailer as a brigadier general in 1970 | |
| Born | November 13, 1923 Bakersfield, California, U.S. |
| Died | September 6, 2018 (aged 94) Louisville, Colorado, U.S. |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ | United States Air Force |
| Years of service | 1942–1972 |
| Rank | Brigadier General |
| Unit | 357th Fighter Group 35th Tactical Fighter Wing |
| Commands held | Headquarters Squadron, 6th Fighter Wing 3640th Pilot Training Wing 3630th Flying Training Wing 35th Tactical Fighter Wing 48th Tactical Fighter Wing Third Air Force |
| Battles/wars | World War II Vietnam War |
| Awards | Legion of Merit (3) Distinguished Flying Cross (2) Purple Heart Air Medal (21) |
He retired in 1972 at the rank of Brigadier General.
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