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Col. Neel E. Kearby Medal of Honor

DAYTON, Ohio -- Col. Neel E. Kearby Medal of Honor on display in the World War II Gallery at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo)

DAYTON, Ohio -- Col. Neel E. Kearby Medal of Honor on display in the World War II Gallery at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo)

Col. Neel E. Kearby, a particularly aggressive fighter pilot and motivating leader, often initiated successful flights against superior numbers. On Oct. 11, 1943, Kearby led three of his pilots against nearly 50 Japanese aircraft near Wewak. Tearing through the enemy formation, Kearby shot down six Japanese aircraft during the engagement. For his skill and daring, Kearby received the Medal of Honor.

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