Patricia McConnell | Daughter of Capt. Joseph McConnell, Jr. скачать в хорошем качестве

Patricia McConnell | Daughter of Capt. Joseph McConnell, Jr.

Our Policy Advisor Don Holland and Communications Specialist Veronica Hill had the honor of sitting down with Patricia McConnell, daughter of Capt. Joseph McConnell, for an interview earlier this week. Originally based at George Air Force Base, Capt. McConnell was the No. 1 ace of the Korean War, shooting down 16 enemy jets and becoming a national (and hometown) hero. Patricia, who grew up with her family in Apple Valley, tells us about her father's personality, heroism and home life in this touching video. McConnell, originally based at George Air Force Base, was the first triple jet ace in American history and flew F-86 Sabres in the Korean War. They were all called “Beautious Butch,” his wife Pearl’s nickname. McConnell shot down 16 enemy MiG-15 fighter jets between January and May 1953. He was shot down that same year, and rescued at sea. 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. The F-86 jet used in the film, “The McConnell Story,” is on display at the Apple Valley Airport. Capt. McConnell’s grave is the prominent monument at Victor Valley Memorial Park. His wife Pearl, who passed away in 2008, is buried alongside him.