Stephen L. Bettinger
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Stephen L. Bettinger (April 28, 1924 – December 4, 2010) was a United States Air Force flying ace during the Korean War, credited with shooting down five enemy aircraft.[1][2][3]
BornApril 28, 1924
Newark, New Jersey, U.S.
DiedDecember 4, 2010 (aged 86)
Kirkland, Washington, U.S.
AllegianceUnited States
Stephen L. Bettinger | |
|---|---|
| Born | April 28, 1924 Newark, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Died | December 4, 2010 (aged 86) Kirkland, Washington, U.S. |
| Allegiance | United States |
Branch | United States Army Air Forces United States Air Force |
Service years | 1942–1973 |
Rank | Colonel |
Conflicts | World War II Korean War |
| Awards | Silver Star Legion of Merit Distinguished Flying Cross (3) Bronze Star Medal Air Medal (7) Air Force Commendation Medal Croix de guerre (France) |
Bettinger also claimed 1 kill in World War II.[1] He was the final American ace of the Korean War with his final victory claimed on July 20, 1953. He was subsequently shot down and taken prisoner.[4]
