Pappy Boyington, American colonel and pilot, Medal of Honor recipient (b. 1912)

Gregory "Pappy" Boyington (December 4, 1912 – January 11, 1988) stands as one of the most celebrated and enigmatic figures in American military aviation history. A decorated United States Marine Corps fighter ace during World War II, Boyington's daring exploits and unconventional leadership earned him both accolades and lasting fame. His exceptional valor was recognized with the nation's highest military decoration for gallantry, the Medal of Honor, alongside the distinguished Navy Cross.

Before his legendary service with the Marines in the Pacific, Boyington, already a Marine aviator stationed with the Pacific fleet in 1941, embarked on a unique chapter in his career. Seeking adventure and better pay, he resigned his commission to join the 1st American Volunteer Group (AVG), famously known as the "Flying Tigers." This distinctive unit, comprised of American pilots, served under the command of Claire Chennault, supporting the Republic of China Air Force. Flying the iconic P-40 Warhawk fighter aircraft, Boyington actively engaged in combat operations over Burma and China in late 1941 and 1942, contributing significantly to the Allied effort against Japanese aggression during the Second Sino-Japanese War.

With the disbandment of the Flying Tigers in September 1942, Boyington, seeking to rejoin the ranks of active military service, recommissioned into the United States Marine Corps. By early 1943, he was deployed to the intense South Pacific Theater, a critical arena of the Allied "island hopping" campaign against Japan. Here, he began flying combat missions in the formidable Vought F4U Corsair, a distinctive gull-winged fighter renowned for its speed and firepower, quickly establishing himself as a formidable aerial combatant.

September 1943 marked a pivotal moment in his career when Major Boyington took command of Marine fighter squadron VMF-214. This eclectic unit, famously dubbed the "Black Sheep Squadron," was a composite group of replacement pilots and veterans from other squadrons, often seen as a collection of mavericks. Under Boyington's unconventional yet highly effective leadership, the Black Sheep quickly transformed into one of the most successful fighter squadrons of the Pacific War. Between September 12, 1943, and January 3, 1944, VMF-214 claimed 203 Japanese aircraft destroyed or damaged, with Boyington personally credited with 26 confirmed aerial victories, tying the American record at the time established by World War I ace Eddie Rickenbacker.

The morning of January 3, 1944, during a massive dogfight over Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, proved to be Boyington's last combat mission. Leading his squadron against a numerically superior force of Japanese A6M "Zero" fighters, he reportedly shot down one enemy aircraft, bringing his final official tally to 26. Shortly thereafter, his F4U Corsair was hit and he was seen parachuting into the Pacific Ocean. Initially reported as missing in action, Boyington was, in fact, captured by a Japanese submarine crew, specifically the I-176, which rescued him from the water. He was then held as a prisoner of war (POW) for more than a year and a half, enduring the brutal conditions of various Japanese POW camps, including the notorious Omori and Ofuna camps near Tokyo. During his captivity, he suffered severe malnutrition and abuse, losing a significant amount of weight and his health deteriorating rapidly.

Boyington's ordeal as a POW ended shortly after the formal surrender of Japan in August 1945. He was liberated from Omori Prison Camp on August 29, 1945, a mere 16 days after the Japanese surrender. Upon his return, he was recognized as a national hero, with his Medal of Honor being presented to him by President Harry S. Truman on October 4, 1945. Despite suffering from injuries and the lingering effects of his captivity, he remained on active duty until his retirement in 1947, being promoted to Colonel.

The dramatic life and exploits of Gregory "Pappy" Boyington and the "Black Sheep" Squadron inspired the popular American television series "Baa Baa Black Sheep" (also known as "Black Sheep Squadron"). Starring Robert Conrad as Boyington, the show captivated audiences with its portrayal of aerial combat and squadron camaraderie, running for two seasons from 1976 to 1978. While the series took considerable artistic liberties with historical accuracy for dramatic effect, it significantly contributed to the public's awareness of Boyington's legacy and the valiant efforts of his squadron.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gregory "Pappy" Boyington

Who was Gregory "Pappy" Boyington?

Gregory "Pappy" Boyington was a highly decorated American combat pilot and a United States Marine Corps fighter ace during World War II, renowned for his command of VMF-214, the "Black Sheep Squadron."

What significant awards did "Pappy" Boyington receive?

He was awarded both the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration for valor, and the Navy Cross for his exceptional bravery and leadership in combat.

What was Boyington's connection to the "Flying Tigers"?

Prior to rejoining the Marine Corps for WWII combat in the South Pacific, Boyington served as a pilot with the "Flying Tigers" (1st American Volunteer Group), supporting the Republic of China Air Force against Japan in Burma and China during 1941-1942.

What was the "Black Sheep Squadron"?

The "Black Sheep Squadron" was the nickname for VMF-214, a Marine Corps fighter squadron commanded by Major Gregory Boyington in the South Pacific during World War II. Under his leadership, they achieved significant aerial victories.

How many aerial victories did Boyington achieve?

Gregory Boyington was officially credited with 26 confirmed aerial victories during World War II, making him one of the top American fighter aces and tying the record set by Eddie Rickenbacker from World War I at the time of his capture.

Was "Pappy" Boyington a Prisoner of War (POW)?

Yes, Boyington was shot down in January 1944 and subsequently captured by a Japanese submarine. He endured harsh conditions as a POW for over 18 months until his liberation in August 1945, shortly after Japan's surrender.

What inspired the TV series "Baa Baa Black Sheep"?

The popular 1970s television series "Baa Baa Black Sheep" (also known as "Black Sheep Squadron"), starring Robert Conrad, was inspired by the real-life exploits of Gregory "Pappy" Boyington and the pilots of his VMF-214 "Black Sheep" Squadron during World War II.