Virgil K. Meroney | |
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![]() Meroney in 1970 | |
Born | Pine Bluff, Arkansas, U.S. | February 16, 1921
Died | June 27, 1980 | (aged 59)
Buried | Graceland Cemetery, Pine Bluff |
Allegiance | United States |
Service/ | |
Years of service | 1937–1970 |
Rank | Colonel |
Unit | |
Commands | |
Battles/wars | |
Awards |
Virgil Kersh Meroney II (February 16, 1921 – June 27, 1980) was a United States Air Force colonel. During World War II, he became a flying ace credited with nine aerial victories while flying the P-47 Thunderbolt, making him the only P-47 ace in the 352nd Fighter Group. He himself was shot down and captured as a prisoner of war before his successful escape from captivity. He also flew missions during the Korean War and Vietnam War before he retired from the air force in 1970.