Arsenal of Democracy Flyover Leaders Mourn the Loss of WWII Triple Ace Bud Anderson
WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 21, 2024)- The organizers of the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover were saddened to learn that Brig. Gen. Clarence E. “Bud” Anderson passed away on May 17, at the age of 102.
Anderson was a decorated U.S. Army Air Force and U.S. Air Force pilot, who was one of America’s top World War II aces, scoring over 16 victories in a P-51 Mustang. During World War II, he was assigned to the 357th Fighter Group, where he flew 116 missions. Anderson earned several military honors, throughout his 30 years of service, including two Legion of Merits, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, the Bronze Star, 16 Air Medals, the French Legion of Honor, the French Croix de Guerre, and numerous campaign and service ribbons. He was also inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 2008, the International Air & Space Hall of Fame at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in 2013, and awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2015.
Anderson was honored for his service during both the 2015 and 2020 Arsenal of Democracy Flyovers commemorating the 70th and 75th anniversaries of the end of World War II.
“Bud Anderson was a true American hero who selflessly served our nation with distinction and honor during World War II. As a triple ace, Bud’s storied military career coupled with his promotion of patriotism and service to country is something to truly be admired and makes him an astounding legend,” said Pete Bunce, President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), and Arsenal of Democracy Executive Committee member. “We extend our deepest and heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Brig. Gen. Anderson will forever be remembered for his bravery and sacrifice, which humbly exemplified America’s Greatest Generation.”
“In addition to his service to our country as a fighter pilot and Air Force officer, Bud was a beloved member of the air show and warbird communities for decades. His recollections of his career in the military and especially of his time as a P-51 pilot in World War II have educated, inspired, and entertained tens of thousands,” said John Cudahy, President of the International Council of Air Shows, and Arsenal of Democracy Executive Committee member.
Hank Coates, President of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) and Arsenal of Democracy Executive Committee member, said, “We are saddened by the news of Big. Gen. Anderson’s passing. He was truly one of America’s greatest heroes. Please join us in honoring his legacy by cherishing the freedoms he fought so hard to secure for us.”
During the 2015 Arsenal of Democracy Flyover Gala, Brig. Gen. Anderson participated in a World War II Combat Veterans panel.
In 2020, the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover released a video tribute entitled “Victory in Europe - VE Day 75 Years Later”, which included an interview with Brig. Gen. Anderson.
The leaders of the Arsenal of Democracy consortium planned to execute a World War II aircraft flyover at Mount Rushmore on Memorial Day to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Unfortunately, the National Parks Service refused to approve the necessary permits, and regrettably, the planned flyover of historic military aircraft had to be canceled.
“We worked hard to put together an extraordinary event that would honor our World War II heroes, on the day that we remember those that made the ultimate sacrifice serving our nation. We are grateful for the support that we received from the FAA, members of Congress, and committed sponsors. Unfortunately, National Parks Service bureaucrats would not let us proceed with our commemoration of the Greatest Generation despite having previously received clearances and held a successful event in our nation’s capital – the most protected airspace in the nation. It is extremely disappointing that we could not move forward with this commemoration, but we appreciate the ongoing support to pay homage to our World War II heroes,” said the leaders of the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover.
Plans for a future Arsenal of Democracy Flyover are currently being considered and discussed.
