5 Fighter Pilots Who Achieved Ace Status in Both the Pacific and European Theaters

World War II saw fierce aerial combat across multiple continents. The role of fighter pilots was vital, as they were tasked with protecting bombers, intercepting enemy aircraft, and engaging in dogfights. Earning the title of “ace” meant shooting down five or more enemy aircraft in combat, a distinction that only a few could claim. Even rarer were those who managed to achieve ace status in both the Pacific and European Theaters of the war. These pilots demonstrated exceptional skill, adapting to the vastly different combat environments in these regions. Here are five such remarkable individuals who earned the title of ace in both theaters.

1. Colonel Francis S. “Gabby” Gabreski

Francis Gabreski was one of the most successful American fighter pilots of World War II. He earned ace status first in Europe, where he served with the 56th Fighter Group, flying the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt. Gabreski was known for his aggressive flying style and sharp reflexes, which helped him achieve a remarkable tally of 28 aerial victories against German aircraft.

After his time in Europe, Gabreski was sent to the Pacific Theater to continue his service. He flew the North American P-51 Mustang, a different type of fighter suited to long-range missions. Though his combat time in the Pacific was brief, he managed to down several Japanese aircraft. Gabreski’s ability to switch between theaters and still perform at the highest level showed his adaptability and skill. His achievements cemented his reputation as one of America’s top aces during World War II.

2. Colonel David C. Schilling

David Schilling was another American pilot who distinguished himself in both Europe and the Pacific. Schilling flew with the 56th Fighter Group, like Gabreski, where he primarily flew the P-47 Thunderbolt. In the European Theater, Schilling earned ace status by shooting down multiple German aircraft, contributing to the air superiority the Allies needed for the D-Day landings and subsequent operations.

After his European campaign, Schilling was reassigned to the Pacific. The combat environment in the Pacific was different from Europe, with fewer enemy fighters and more emphasis on long-range missions over open water. Schilling adapted to these challenges, flying the P-47 in support of operations in the Pacific islands. He added more victories to his record in this theater, achieving ace status in both major combat zones of the war.

3. Major Thomas B. McGuire

Thomas McGuire was one of America’s leading aces, known for his fierce combat skills and quick decision-making in battle. McGuire initially served in the Pacific Theater, where he flew the Lockheed P-38 Lightning, a twin-engine fighter. He became one of the most successful pilots in the Pacific, scoring numerous victories over Japanese aircraft. His total tally in the Pacific Theater reached 38 kills, making him one of the top American aces of the entire war.

McGuire’s service eventually extended to the European Theater, where he flew against German aircraft. Although his time in Europe was more limited compared to his extensive combat in the Pacific, McGuire achieved additional kills in Europe, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled fighter pilot. His ability to excel in both theaters set him apart from many of his peers.

4. General Charles H. MacDonald

Charles MacDonald was another American pilot who saw extensive combat in both theaters of the war. In Europe, MacDonald flew the P-38 Lightning and gained recognition for his aerial victories against German aircraft. His role was crucial in protecting bombers during raids over German-occupied territories, and he earned ace status during this time.

After Europe, MacDonald was transferred to the Pacific, where he again flew the P-38 Lightning. The challenges of flying in the Pacific were different, with pilots facing longer missions over open water and different types of enemy aircraft. Despite these new challenges, MacDonald continued to rack up victories, becoming one of the few pilots to achieve ace status in both theaters. His ability to adapt to changing conditions and different enemies was a testament to his skill as a pilot.

5. Lieutenant Colonel Gerald R. Johnson

Gerald Johnson was another standout ace during World War II. He first gained ace status in the Pacific Theater, where he flew the P-38 Lightning against Japanese forces. Johnson quickly built up a large number of victories, establishing himself as one of the leading pilots in the Pacific. His skill in aerial combat and his ability to lead his squadron made him a respected figure among his peers.

Later in the war, Johnson was transferred to the European Theater, where he continued flying missions against German aircraft. He successfully transitioned to this new environment and added to his kill tally. Johnson’s combat record in both theaters made him one of the few pilots to achieve ace status in two different parts of the world. His success in both environments highlighted his flexibility and mastery as a fighter pilot.