Determining the "best" naval aviator of World War II is subjective, but one of the most widely recognized and celebrated figures is **Richard Bong**, a U.S. Army Air Forces (USAAF) pilot who became America's highest-scoring ace during the war. Although technically part of the Army Air Forces, his achievements in the Pacific theater make him a standout figure in naval aviation history.
Bong was credited with shooting down 40 Japanese aircraft, a record that remains unmatched among American pilots in World War II. He flew the P-38 Lightning, which he used with incredible skill to outmaneuver and destroy enemy planes. His success in the Pacific campaign, particularly in the defense of New Guinea and the Philippines, earned him numerous accolades, including the Medal of Honor. Bong's natural talent, quick thinking, and flying prowess made him a symbol of American aerial combat strength.
Another highly regarded figure in naval aviation is **Edward "Butch" O'Hare**, a U.S. Navy fighter pilot who became a legend early in the war. O'Hare is credited with shooting down five Japanese bombers during a single mission in 1942, preventing an attack on his aircraft carrier, the USS *Lexington*. His bravery earned him the Medal of Honor, and he became the Navy's first ace of World War II. O'Hare's contributions to naval aviation were groundbreaking, and his legacy lives on through O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, which is named in his honor.
In the context of naval aviators specifically, **Butch O'Hare** and other elite pilots like **John Thach** (known for developing the "Thach Weave," a tactical maneuver for fighter defense) played crucial roles in the success of the U.S. Navy during the Pacific War.
While both Bong and O'Hare are celebrated, the title of "best" naval aviator can vary based on criteria such as number of kills, leadership, and overall impact. Both men, however, are undoubtedly among the most accomplished and influential aviators of the war.