A 100-years-old World War II veteran has returned to the skies in California, piloting the same type of aircraft he once flew in combat more than 70 years ago.
Retired US Air Force Colonel Joe Peterburs , who enlisted in 1942 at just 18, took the controls of a P-51 Mustang over McKinleyville, California. The legendary fighter plane was the same model he flew during 49 combat missions in World War II.
The historic flight was arranged by Rumble Over the Redwoods , a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving aviation history and inspiring future generations, as reported by ABC News.
Peterburs’ decorated career spanned three wars. After earning his pilot wings in WWII and becoming a second lieutenant, he survived capture by German forces and later escaped. He went on to fly 76 combat missions in the Korean War and served through the Vietnam era before retiring as a colonel in 1969.
During the recent flight, Peterburs and his co-pilot performed an aerial roll, briefly flying upside down as the 100-year-old veteran waved from the cockpit. After landing, he described the moment as “exhilarating” and rich with memories.
"It was a really exhilarating experience and brought back a lot of memories," he said.
The veteran pilot also shared a powerful message for future generations. "To maintain what we have today, you got to do your best. Do your best in whatever you endeavor. And I wish you a lot of luck."
Retired US Air Force Colonel Joe Peterburs , who enlisted in 1942 at just 18, took the controls of a P-51 Mustang over McKinleyville, California. The legendary fighter plane was the same model he flew during 49 combat missions in World War II.
The historic flight was arranged by Rumble Over the Redwoods , a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving aviation history and inspiring future generations, as reported by ABC News.
Peterburs’ decorated career spanned three wars. After earning his pilot wings in WWII and becoming a second lieutenant, he survived capture by German forces and later escaped. He went on to fly 76 combat missions in the Korean War and served through the Vietnam era before retiring as a colonel in 1969.
During the recent flight, Peterburs and his co-pilot performed an aerial roll, briefly flying upside down as the 100-year-old veteran waved from the cockpit. After landing, he described the moment as “exhilarating” and rich with memories.
"It was a really exhilarating experience and brought back a lot of memories," he said.
The veteran pilot also shared a powerful message for future generations. "To maintain what we have today, you got to do your best. Do your best in whatever you endeavor. And I wish you a lot of luck."
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