Richard G Bull Letter Feb 23, 1952

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William Bull & Sarah Wells Stone House Association Inc

A formal U.S. Air Force condolence and incident report letter, it informs Mrs. Genevieve Gregory Bull that her son, Captain Richard Gregory Bull, was killed in action on February 2, 1952 while on a glide‑bombing run on a railroad bridge in North Korea.

A formal U.S. Air Force condolence and incident report letter, it informs Mrs. Genevieve Gregory Bull that her son, Captain Richard Gregory Bull, was killed in action on February 2, 1952 while on a glide‑bombing run on a railroad bridge in North Korea.

Name/Title

Richard G Bull Letter Feb 23, 1952

Entry/Object ID

001424

Tags

Richard G Bull

Scope and Content

80TH FIGHTER-BOMBER SQUADRON 8TH FIGHTER-BOMBER GROUP APO 970 c/o Postmaster, San Francisco, California February 23, 1952 Mrs. Genevieve Gregory Bull Box 211 Central Valley, New York Dear Mrs. Bull: I know how anxious you are to receive what information is available concerning your son, Captain Richard Gregory Bull, AO-1903189, who was killed in action on the 2nd of February 1952. I hope these few lines will serve to convey my personal sorrow over this untimely accident, as well as bring to you all the circumstances. Departing Suwon Air Base at 10:00 A.M., on the 2nd of February 1952, Richard led a three ship flight on a mission to glide-bomb a rail-road bridge in North Korea. When they arrived at the target area he made several passes over the locality in order to select the best target. At this time several bursts of light flak were observed. Leading the flight up to an altitude of about 5,000 feet, he informed them of the target to be attacked, and stated he was going in on a bombing run. During the bomb run he was observed by the wingman to have jettisoned his two 500 pound bombs short of the target, an indication that either he or his plane had been hit by small arms fire. His plane continued in a descending turn to the right, rolled over and crashed into the ground. The aircraft exploded as it struck. Although under observation continually, he was not seen to leave the aircraft. The remainder of the flight circled over the scene of the crash, but no sign of life was observed. Due to this accident occurring in enemy territory, no ground search could be undertaken. We of the squadron share in your deep grief. Your son, Richard, was universally admired by officers and airmen for his good nature and affability. As a man of courage, with a sense of responsibility far beyond his years, he could be entrusted with even the most difficult task which was always carried through successfully. His confidence and ability were an inspiration to the entire squadron. Please be assured that you will be notified immediately if any further information is received. If I can be of assistance to you in any way, always feel free to write. Sincerely yours, HERBERT R. MANN Major, USAF Commanding