The recent discovery of what is believed to be the wreckage of World War II ace Richard Bong’s plane in the South Pacific has captured the attention of historians and aviation enthusiasts alike. This significant find was announced by the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior, Wisconsin, in collaboration with the nonprofit World War II historical preservation group Pacific Wrecks. The organizations had launched a joint search in March for Bong’s Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter, which he had affectionately nicknamed “Marge” after his girlfriend, Marge Vattendahl.
Richard Bong is a legendary figure in American military history. Born and raised in Poplar, Wisconsin, he became the United States’ top fighter ace during World War II, credited with shooting down 40 Japanese aircraft. His extraordinary skill and bravery in the cockpit earned him the Medal of Honor, the highest U.S. military decoration, presented to him by General Douglas MacArthur in 1944. Bong’s aircraft, the P-38 Lightning, was a twin-engine fighter renowned for its speed, firepower, and versatility, making it a formidable weapon in the Pacific Theater.
The story of Bong’s plane is as dramatic as his aerial victories. In March 1944, another pilot, Thomas Malone, was flying Bong’s P-38 over what is now Papua New Guinea when an engine failure forced him to bail out. The aircraft, left unmanned, crashed into the dense jungle. Despite efforts to locate the wreckage over the years, it remained elusive until the recent expedition led by Pacific Wrecks Director Justin Taylan. Taylan’s team meticulously combed through the jungles of Papua New Guinea’s Madang Province, finally uncovering what they believe to be the remnants of Bong’s famous fighter.
The discovery was documented in a series of photographs released by Taylan. One image shows him pointing to a piece of the wreckage identified as a wing tip, stamped with the numbers “993,” the last three digits of the aircraft’s serial number. Another photograph features a piece of metal stamped with “Model P-38 JK,” further corroborating the identification of the plane. These findings not only authenticate the wreckage but also highlight the meticulous efforts of the search team.
The significance of this discovery extends beyond the physical remnants of the aircraft. Bong’s P-38, adorned with a blow-up of Vattendahl’s portrait on its nose, symbolized both his personal life and his wartime service. This intimate connection between Bong and his plane adds a poignant dimension to the story, illustrating the human aspect of wartime aviation. The aircraft’s nickname, “Marge,” serves as a testament to Bong’s love and dedication, making the discovery even more meaningful.
Richard Bong’s life after the war was equally remarkable, though tragically short. Following his service in the Pacific, he was assigned as a test pilot in Burbank, California. On August 6, 1945, the same day the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Bong was killed in a crash while testing a P-80 jet fighter. His death at the age of 24 marked the end of an extraordinary career. Marge Vattendahl, who married Bong in February 1945, was left a widow at just 21 years old. She later moved to Los Angeles, where she became a model and magazine publisher, and she passed away in September 2003 in Superior, Wisconsin.
The discovery of Bong’s plane has resonated deeply with his family. James Bong, Richard’s nephew, expressed their excitement and sense of closure in a news release, stating, “The Bong family is very excited about this discovery. It is amazing and incredible that ‘Marge’ has been found and identified.” This sentiment underscores the enduring legacy of Richard Bong and the profound impact he had on his family and the nation.
The significance of finding Bong’s plane cannot be overstated. It represents a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in history and serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in World War II. The wreckage will likely become a valuable artifact for historians, researchers, and museums, offering insights into the aircraft’s design, usage, and the conditions of the war in the Pacific.
Moreover, this discovery highlights the importance of historical preservation and the ongoing efforts to uncover and document the past. Organizations like Pacific Wrecks play a crucial role in these endeavors, ensuring that the stories and sacrifices of World War II veterans are not forgotten. The search for Bong’s plane was not just about finding a piece of metal in the jungle; it was about honoring the memory of a hero and preserving his legacy for future generations.
As the world learns more about this remarkable discovery, it is likely to spark renewed interest in Richard Bong’s story and the broader history of World War II aviation. The tale of “Marge” and its pilot will continue to inspire and educate, reminding us of the extraordinary courage and dedication of those who fought for freedom in one of history’s most challenging conflicts.