Frank L. Gailer Jr.

Frank Lewis Gailer Jr. (November 13, 1923 – September 6, 2018) was an American flying ace in the 357th Fighter Group during World War II, and a career fighter pilot in the United States Air Force. During World War II, Gailer was credited in the destruction of 5.5 enemy aircraft in aerial combat before he was subsequently shot down and taken prisoner. During Vietnam War, he commanded a fighter wing and flew more than 200 combat missions.

He retired in 1972 at the rank of Brigadier General.

During World War II, Gailer was credited with the destruction of 5.5 enemy aircraft in aerial combat plus 1 destroyed on the ground while strafing enemy airfields. While serving with the 357th FG, he flew P-51 bearing the name "Expectant" with fuselage identification code BA:6.

Post war

Gailer returned to the United States in 1945 and until June 1946, he served as base flight operations officer at Selfridge Field in Michigan. He went to the Panama Canal Zone as a squadron commander in the 6th Fighter Wing. From February 1949 until June 1954, he served as group operations officer and then deputy commander of the 6570th Chemical and Ordnance Test Group at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland.

Later life Gailer was married twice, and had three daughters and numerous grandchildren.

Aerial victory credits SOURCE: Air Force Historical Study 85: USAF Credits for the Destruction of Enemy Aircraft, World War II

Awards and decorations His awards include: