Under the tenacious and inspiring leadership of Colonel Hubert “Hub” Zemke, the U.S. Eighth Air Force’s 56th Fighter Group (also known as “Zemke’s Wolfpack”) emerged as one of the most successful American fighter units in Europe during World War II.
Flying the rugged Republic P-47 Thunderbolt and employing innovative tactics devised by Zemke, the 56th flew dangerous bomber escort, counter-air, and close-air-support missions that included the Battle of the Bulge and D-Day.
Over the course of roughly two years, the 56th pilots amassed a total of 665.5 aerial victories, about 100 more victories than any U.S. fighter group in the Eighth Air Force. The group also produced 39 aces, including the European Theater of Operation’s two leading American aces Francis “Gabby” Gabreski and Robert S. Johnson.
Aces of the 56th Fighter Group will feature material from the American Fighter Aces Association collection; in particular, photos and artifacts from Major James C. Stewart, which will provide our visitors a glimpse into the life of a fighter pilot during WWII. Video will include rare color footage from the documentary Zemke’s Way about the 56th Fighter Group, produced by New Jersey Public Television in 1999.
This new temporary exhibit opens on June 27, 2009, in the The Museum of Flight, Seattle's Great Gallery. -- www.museumofflight.org
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