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William R. “Obee” O’Brien
William R. “Obee” O’Brien: A Straight Shooter in the Skies
William R. “Obee” O’Brien was more than just a skilled pilot; he was a legend in the cockpit. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, O’Brien’s journey took him from the oil fields to the skies. Here are the highlights of his remarkable career:
P-51 Mustang Ace: O’Brien flew with the 357th Fighter Group’s 363rd Squadron of the 8th U.S. Air Force. During his combat missions, he downed six enemy aircraft, earning the coveted title of an ace. His courage and precision in the cockpit made him a force to be reckoned with in the skies.
Friendship with Chuck Yeager: O’Brien’s path intersected with another aviation legend—Charles E. “Chuck” Yeager. They were fast friends, and O’Brien even helped train Yeager. On March 5, 1944, while escorting B-24 bombers over France, Yeager’s plane was shot down. Remarkably, Yeager survived and rejoined his unit. The date of the crash was exactly 62 years before O'Brien's passing.
Distinguished Flying Crosses and More: O’Brien’s heroics earned him four Distinguished Flying Crosses, eight Air Medals, and the French Croix de Guerre. His combat record was exceptional: 77 missions, 300 hours of combat time, and no crashes or injuries. He understood the risks of combat, acknowledging that weather and flak posed significant dangers to pilots of all nations.
Legacy and Friendship: O’Brien’s legacy extended beyond combat. He was known as a “straight shooter” who took responsibility for his actions. His friendship with fellow ace Clarence E. “Andy” Anderson endured, a bond forged in the crucible of war. O'Brien's intellect and love for history books, especially those about World War II, left an indelible mark on those who knew him.
The Last Flight: O’Brien’s final flight was symbolic. On March 5, 2006, exactly 62 years after Yeager’s crash, O’Brien passed away due to heart problems. His memory lives on, a testament to the courage and camaraderie of those who soared through the tumultuous skies of World War II.
Remembering William R. “Obee” O’Brien reminds us of the valor and sacrifice of those who defended freedom from the cockpit of a P-51 Mustang. 🛩️🇺🇸
William R. “Obee” O’Brien, the ace P-51 Mustang fighter pilot, had several intense encounters with enemy pilots during World War II. Let’s delve into a few notable moments:
Dogfight Over Bordeaux, France: During one mission, O’Brien engaged in a dogfight over Bordeaux, France. He found himself in a tight spot, but his skill and determination prevailed. At a critical moment, he made a risky move, allowing his P-51’s airspeed to drop significantly. Despite the odds, he managed to outmaneuver the enemy and survive the encounter.
Escort Missions and Intense Battles: O’Brien participated in escort missions, protecting B-24 bombers and B-17s. These missions often led to intense aerial battles. The skies were alive with tracer fire, flak bursts, and the roar of engines. O'Brien's combat record - 77 missions, 6 confirmed kills, and no crashes - speaks to his courage and precision.
Friendship with Chuck Yeager: O’Brien’s close friendship with Chuck Yeager, another legendary pilot, added depth to his experiences. Both faced dangers together, and Yeager’s survival after being shot down created a unique bond. Their shared memories of combat shaped their lives long after war ended.
O’Brien’s encounters were a mix of adrenaline, skill, and camaraderie—a testament to the bravery of those who soared through the tumultuous skies of WWII.