Phil Rasmussen, American lieutenant and pilot (b. 1918)

Philip M. Rasmussen, born on May 11, 1918, etched his name into American military history through an act of profound bravery during one of the nation's darkest hours. On December 7, 1941, as a second lieutenant assigned to the 46th Pursuit Squadron stationed at Wheeler Field on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, Rasmussen found himself at the epicenter of the surprise Japanese attack that plunged the United States into World War II.

Amidst the chaos and destruction, with enemy aircraft strafing airfields and bombing naval vessels, Rasmussen displayed remarkable courage. He was one of a mere handful of American pilots who managed to get their aircraft airborne that day, taking to the skies in a P-36 Hawk to engage the vastly superior attacking forces. This seemingly impossible feat, under heavy fire and against overwhelming odds, epitomized the resolve of the American spirit in the face of sudden aggression.

A Legacy Forged in Combat and Service

For his extraordinary actions during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and Wheeler Field, Rasmussen was deservedly awarded the Silver Star, the third-highest military decoration for valor in the United States Armed Forces. His commitment to his country did not wane after this pivotal event; he continued to fly many later combat missions, contributing significantly to the Allied war effort. Notably, his exceptional performance on a bombing mission over Japan earned him an oak leaf cluster, signifying a subsequent award or decoration for sustained gallantry or achievement.

Rasmussen's distinguished military career extended well beyond World War II. He remained in service after the war, witnessing the transformation of the United States Army Air Forces into the independent United States Air Force in 1947. His dedication led him through the ranks, and he ultimately retired from the Air Force in 1965, holding the esteemed rank of lieutenant colonel.

Final Honors and Enduring Memory

Lieutenant Colonel Philip M. Rasmussen passed away on April 30, 2005, just shy of his 87th birthday, due to complications from cancer. He was laid to rest with full military honors in Arlington National Cemetery, a hallowed ground reserved for those who have served the nation with distinction. His grave stands as a testament to a lifetime of service, courage, and an enduring legacy as one of the few who dared to fight back from the sky on that fateful day in December 1941.

Frequently Asked Questions About Philip M. Rasmussen

Who was Philip M. Rasmussen?
Philip M. Rasmussen was an American military pilot, best known for being one of the few U.S. Army Air Forces pilots to get airborne and engage Japanese attackers during the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941. He later became a decorated veteran of World War II and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the U.S. Air Force.
What was Rasmussen's role during the Pearl Harbor attack?
On December 7, 1941, Second Lieutenant Rasmussen, assigned to the 46th Pursuit Squadron at Wheeler Field, Oahu, managed to take off in his P-36 Hawk fighter aircraft amidst the surprise Japanese attack. He courageously engaged enemy planes, becoming one of only a handful of American pilots to do so that day.
What awards and decorations did he receive?
For his bravery during the Pearl Harbor attack, Philip M. Rasmussen was awarded the Silver Star. He also earned an oak leaf cluster for a subsequent bombing mission over Japan, signifying an additional award or recognition for his service.
What aircraft did Philip M. Rasmussen fly on December 7, 1941?
On that historic day, Philip M. Rasmussen flew a Curtiss P-36 Hawk fighter plane, a relatively older model compared to some of the newer aircraft available at the time, yet he used it effectively to counter the Japanese assault.
When did Philip M. Rasmussen retire from military service?
Philip M. Rasmussen retired from the United States Air Force in 1965, having achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Where is Philip M. Rasmussen buried?
Lieutenant Colonel Philip M. Rasmussen is buried in Arlington National Cemetery, a fitting tribute to his distinguished military career and service to the nation.