Emotional encounter between WWII veteran and fighter aircraft, as recounted by David Muir

Emotional encounter between WWII veteran and fighter aircraft, as recounted by David Muir

Centenarian World War II Fighter Pilot Soars in Commemorative Flight

In a thrilling display of aviation history, 100-year-old retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Joe Peterburs took to the skies over McKinleyville, California, on August 11, 2025. The nonprofit event, "Rumble Over the Redwoods," facilitated this historic flight, connecting living history with the public and future aviators.

During the commemorative flight, Col. Peterburs, who is renowned for his service flying P-51 Mustang escort fighters in combat missions over Germany, demonstrated his adventurous spirit by performing a roll and flying upside down. This exhilarating experience was memory-rich for Peterburs, underscoring his enduring passion for flight and his dedication to preserving the legacy of World War II aviation.

Col. Peterburs' military career spanned decades, including service in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam era. In World War II, he flew 49 missions in the P-51 Mustang, downing the advanced German Me 262 jet in air-to-air combat as his only aerial kill during the war. He also destroyed five enemy aircraft on the ground. After WWII, Peterburs continued his military career, flying 76 combat missions in Korea, transitioning to jets (Lockheed P-80 Shooting Star) in 1954, and serving as a staff operations officer in Vietnam. He rose to the rank of full-bird colonel before retiring in 1969, receiving numerous decorations such as the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, and Purple Heart.

After landing, retired Col. Peterburs expressed his excitement about the flight, stating, "To maintain what we have today, you got to do your best. Do your best in whatever you endeavor. And I wish you a lot of luck." His spirit of service and courage continues to inspire others. This historic flight served as a powerful reminder of the contributions of World War II veterans.

"Rumble Over the Redwoods" is a nonprofit event dedicated to preserving aviation history and inspiring future generations. Their commitment to preservation efforts was on full display as they organised events that bring veterans like Peterburs and historic aircraft together with the public. Peterburs' story embodies decades of American aviation and military history, and "Rumble Over the Redwoods" plays a key role in preserving and celebrating this legacy.

World news about the event "Rumble Over the Redwoods" highlights the appearance of World War II fighter pilot Col. Joe Peterburs, who took to the skies for a commemorative flight. After landing, he spoke about his dedication to service, saying, "In whatever you endeavor, do your best. And I wish you a lot of luck." Meanwhile, politics might discuss future funding and support for organizations like "Rumble Over the Redwoods", which aim to preserve aviation history and inspire future generations through events like the one featuring Col. Peterburs.

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