John F. Thornell Jr

John Francis Thornell, Jr (April 19, 1921 – September 3, 1998) was a career officer in the United States Air Force and a World War II flying ace. He flew P-51 Mustangs and P-47 Thunderbolts with the 328th Fighter Squadron of the 352nd Fighter Group. He was the third highest scoring ace of 352nd Fighter Group, and one of the top USAAF aces of the European Theater of Operations and Eighth Air Force, with 17.25 aerial victories and 2 ground victories.[1][2]

Capt John F Thornell Jr. stands in the cockpit of North American P-51B Mustang “Pattie Ann II” with his crew chief.

John Francis Thornell Jr
Lt Col. John Francis Thornell, Jr
Born(1921-04-19)April 19, 1921
Stoughton, Massachusetts
DiedSeptember 3, 1998(1998-09-03) (aged 77)
Place of burial
Riverside National Cemetery
AllegianceUnited States
Service/branch United States Air Force
Years of service1940–1971
Rank Lieutenant Colonel
Commands held3526th Pilot Training Squadron
Awards Distinguished Service Cross
Silver Star (2)
Distinguished Flying Cross (6)
Meritorious Service Medal
Air Medal (6)

Awards and decorations

P-51B Mustangs of the 352nd Fighter Group escort B-24H Liberator bombers of the 458th Bombardment Group over the North Sea

  Command pilot

Distinguished Service Cross
Silver Star with one oak leaf cluster
Distinguished Flying Cross with silver leaf cluster
Meritorious Service Medal
Air Medal with silver leaf cluster
Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster
Air Force Presidential Unit Citation
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award
Army Good Conduct Medal
American Defense Service Medal
American Campaign Medal
European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two service stars
World War II Victory Medal
Army of Occupation Medal
National Defense Service Medal with one service star
Air Force Longevity Service Award with oak and silver leaf clusters

References

  1. "Lt. Jack Thornell WWII ace with 17 victories". Stardust Studios.
  2. "Veteran Tributes". veterantributes.org.
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