John Blankenship
Bio
John Blankenship was born in Ashland, Kentucky. He graduated from the University of Kentucky before enlisting in the Air Force in 1950. While in college, he was a member of the university’s football team and played in both the Orange Bowl and the Sugar Bowl. He participated in the aviation cadet program and was initially stationed at Daegu Air Force Base. Later, he was assigned to Kimpo Air Force Base as part of the 12th Tactical Reconnaissance Unit, 8th Bomb Squad, 3rd Bomb Group. During his service, he completed 87 missions as an Air Force pilot and was promoted to 1st Lieutenant by the time of his discharge in 1952. After the Korean War, he continued his military career with the Strategic Air Command, flying troops, cargo, and injured soldiers during the Vietnam War.
Video Clips
Targets of Opportunity
John Blankenship recalls nighttime bombing raids aimed at targets of opportunity. He notes the superiority of American fighter jets and pilots compared to enemy aircraft. He explains that flying the A-26 at night was a safety measure since Korean MIGs did not operate during nighttime.
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Night Missions with Napalm
John Blankenship describes the perilous life of a pilot, sharing memories of losing friends in air combat. He recalls flying 87 missions within a single year, focusing on the destruction of trains and convoys heading south. During these missions, he was equipped with 14 guns, as well as 4 to 6 bombs and napalm.
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Typical Day as a Pilot
John Blankenship recalls spending much of his time sleeping when he was not engaged in a mission. He remembers receiving at least one hot meal each day, although there were times when they had to rely on leftover war rations to supplement their meals. He discusses a specific mission that involved bombing Pyongyang and a town near the Yalu River.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSTmdOAcY_s&start=1323&end=1412
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/john-blankenship#clip-3
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