John Blankenship
Bio
John Blankenship was born in Ashland, Kentucky. He graduated from the University of Kentucky and subsequently enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1950. During his undergraduate studies, he played on the university’s football team and participated in both the Orange Bowl and the Sugar Bowl. Upon entering the Air Force, he joined the aviation cadet program and was first stationed at Daegu Air Force Base. He was later assigned to Kimpo Air Force Base as a member of the 12th Tactical Reconnaissance Unit, 8th Bomb Squad, 3rd Bomb Group. Throughout his service, he completed eighty-seven missions as a pilot and attained the rank of First Lieutenant by his discharge in 1952. Following the Korean War, he continued his military service with the Strategic Air Command, where he was responsible for transporting troops, cargo, and injured soldiers during the Vietnam War.
Video Clips
Targets of Opportunity
John Blankenship describes participating in nighttime bombing raids directed at opportunistic targets. He asserts that American fighter jets and pilots demonstrated superior capabilities relative to enemy aircraft. He further explains that operating the A-26 bomber at night served as a protective strategy, as Korean MIG aircraft were not active during these hours.
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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 eighty-seven missions within a single year, focusing on the destruction of trains and convoys heading south. During these missions, he was equipped with fourteen guns, as well as four to six bombs and napalm.
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Typical Day as a Pilot
John Blankenship reports that, outside of missions, he spent considerable time resting. He states that he typically received one hot meal daily, though on occasion, leftover war rations were necessary to supplement his diet. He also describes participating in a mission targeting Pyongyang and a town near the Yalu River.
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