Wingtip of WWII Ace's Plane Returns to Wisconsin After 80 Years

What's Happening? A wingtip from a P-38 Lockheed Lightning fighter plane, flown by WWII ace Maj. Richard Bong, has been recovered and returned to Wisconsin. Bong, the US's top ace with 40 confirmed combat victories, flew the plane named after his wife, Marjorie 'Marge' Vattendahl. The plane crashed

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What is the story about?

What's Happening?

A wingtip from a P-38 Lockheed Lightning fighter plane, flown by WWII ace Maj. Richard Bong, has been recovered and returned to Wisconsin. Bong, the US's top ace with 40 confirmed combat victories, flew the plane named after his wife, Marjorie 'Marge'

Vattendahl. The plane crashed in 1944 in Papua New Guinea, and the wingtip was located by the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center and Pacific Wrecks. The artifact is now part of a collection honoring Bong's legacy.

Why It's Important?

The recovery of the wingtip is significant as it honors the legacy of Maj. Richard Bong, a celebrated WWII hero. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel and the importance of preserving historical artifacts. The return of the wingtip to Wisconsin also highlights the collaborative efforts between the US and Papua New Guinea in preserving shared history. This event underscores the enduring impact of WWII on global history and the continued interest in honoring those who served.