[duxford]

Col. Donald Blakeslee, Decorated World War II Flying Ace, Dies at 90


Col. Donald Blakeslee, one of the most decorated fighter pilots of World
War II and the commander of the first American fighter squadrons to
reach Berlin as the Allies ground down the German Luftwaffe, died Sept.
3 at his home in Miami. He was 90.

In his autobiography, "Tumult In The Clouds," James A. Goodson, the
top-scoring ace of the 4th Fighter Group, remembered Don Blakeslee:
"While no one questioned his talent in the air, many in the top command
had less confidence in his behavior on the ground. He had established
his reputation at the time of transfer, by choosing the very night
before General Hunter's visit to entertain two female WAAF officers in
his barrack room. The General started his tour early the next morning.
Warned of the approaching danger, the two WAAFs just had time to cover
some of their embarassment and scramble out the barracks window right
into the path of the General and his staff. Told that Blakeslee would be
demoted and transferred, General Hunter remarked, 'For one, maybe; but
for two! He should be promoted!'"

[Captain Eddie]

May he rest in peace.

Great story as related in the book. I'll have to check into that book, see if it is available for a reasonable price.

[flyXwire]

R.I.P. Donald Blakeslee.

Here is a small token of tribute and many thanks to you, sir:

[Paladin18]

He's quite a character...yes, and may he rest in peace.