Cactus Air Force: Over and Out! RIP Col. John Thompson

[Trailrider]

Col. John Thompson, USAF (Ret.), former captain Army Air Forces, 67th Fighter Squadron, Guadalcanal, passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday at age 101.  During the Battle of Edson's (Bloody) Ridge, then Capt. Thompson, flying one of only three serviceable P-39 and P-400 fighters, strafed Japanese troops attacking the Marine Raiders on the ridge, enabling the Marines to hang onto the ridge and protect Henderson Field. Because of the lack of equipment to recharge their oxygen system, the P-39/P-400's were restricted to flying below 11,000 feet. As a result, they were best suited to close air support roles on the 'canal. (They would not have been much of a match against Zeros, either!) Col. Thompson was one of a few Army Air Forces pilots awarded the Navy Cross!

I was privileged to have met Col. Thompson a few years ago at the annual banquet given by the United Veterans Committee of Colorado.

Rest In Peace, Sir! And thank you for your service!

[Niederlander]

Godspeed, Colonel!

[Charlie Bowdre]

I am always amazed at how regular guys can show up in harms way and without fanfare do an extraordinary service.
God speed  and God Bless to this gentleman.
dutchy

[Texas Lawdog]

It is ashamed that we are losing so many of these WW2 vets. They are our greatest generation. I have been fortunate to have met many of these men during my time as a member of the Commemorative Air Force. They are special men who served in our military during a time when our country needed them most.

[Tascosa Joe]

Thank you for your service sir.  May you rest in the arms of the Lord.

[Tsalagidave]

Thank you for your service Col.

Rest now, until we all meet again on the other side of the river.

-Dave