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Capt. Joseph McConnell | Korean War Triple Ace

Can you name the first triple jet ace in American history? His name was Air Force Capt. Joseph C. McConnell, Jr., and he lived right here in Apple Valley! Capt. McConnell flew F-86 Sabres in the Korean War. They were all called “Beautious Butch,” his wife Pearl’s nickname because she was the "butcher to his heart." McConnell shot down 16 enemy MiG-15 fighter jets between January and May 1953. He was shot down that same year, rescued at sea, and then went back into combat the next day! President Dwight Eisenhower personally awarded him the Distinguished Service Cross, America's second-highest decoration for valor. A national hero, McConnell returned to his home in Apple Valley. On Aug. 6, 1953, the people of Apple Valley gave him a new home. The "Appreciation House," was located at 20822 N. Hwy 18 in Apple Valley. The house was completed in 45 hours with all land, material, and labor donated. In August 1954, Capt. McConnell died in a flight test accident near Edwards AFB. Warner Brothers released the feature movie, “The McConnell Story,” in 1955. Capt. McConnell’s grave is the prominent monument at Victor Valley Memorial Park, with his wife Pearl located alongside him. The F-86 jet used in the film, “The McConnell Story,” is on display at the Apple Valley Airport.