New Radio documentary on Ace of Aces Richard Bong to air Sunday on WPR

World War II “Ace of Aces” fighter pilot Richard Bong of Poplar is featured in a new Wisconsin Public Radio documentary which will air on the traditional Veteran’s Day, Sunday, at 3 p.m. The documentary can be heard locally on KUWS (91.3FM).

The two hour long “Forever Ace: The Richard Bong Story” is narrated by Wisconsin Public Radio’s Jim Packard. It compiles 10 years of interviews by WPR Superior bureau reporter Mike Simonson and his WPR colleagues.

Bong’s wingman, tent mate and crew chief during his service in the South Pacific are interviewed, as are friends and members of his family. In addition, historians from the United States Air Force Academy and the Australian War Museum also talk about the significance of the time Bong served in World War II and the legacy he leaves today.

It includes popular Big Band music from World War II and vintage audio clips of Richard Bong when he was on stateside leave.

Major Richard Bong shot down more enemy aircraft. His record of 40 kills has never been equaled by an American pilot.

Many of the veterans featured in this documentary were interviewed after visiting the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior. All of them thought it was important to share memories of serving with Bong from 1942 until 1945.

The documentary can also be heard on line by going to www.kuws.fm. It includes a "Forever Ace" webpage with pictures and maps and the script and a download of the program.

Tags: community, entertainment, superior, military