What happened to Joe Kittinger?

Kittinger was shot down on May 11, 1972, just before the end of his third tour of duty. While flying an F-4D, USAF Serial No. 66-0230, with his weapons systems officer, 1st Lieutenant William J.

What is Joe Kittinger famous for?

Kittinger flew 93 types of aircraft, holds the world record for fastest free fall and highest parachute jump, ejected twice from crippled jets, and was the first person to complete a solo balloon flight nonstop across the Atlantic Ocean.

What happened to Joe Kittinger hand?

Kittinger ascended in the gondola and jumped from an altitude of 76,400 feet (23,287 m). During the ascent, the pressure seal in Kittinger’s right glove failed, and he began to experience severe pain in his right hand from the exposure of his hand to the extreme low pressure.

How old is Joe Kittinger?

93 years (July 27, 1928)Joseph Kittinger / Age

What did Joseph Kittinger do in Vietnam?

Joseph W. Kittinger, Jr., commanded the 555th Triple Nickel Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS) in Vietnam, was a POW in the Hanoi Hilton, and is the current world record holder for highest manned balloon flight, longest parachute jump, and longest freefall.

Joseph William Kittinger II (born July 27, 1928) is a retired colonel in the United States Air Force and a USAF Command Pilot. His initial operational assignment was in fighter aircraft, then he participated in Project Manhigh and Project Excelsior high altitude balloon flight projects from 1956 to 1960,…

Where did Colonel Kittinger go to War College?

Following his return, Colonel Kittinger attended the Air War College at Maxwell AFB, Alabama. Following completion of the Air War College, Kittinger became the vice commander of the 48th Tactical Fighter Wing at RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom, where he again flew the F-4 Phantom II.

What happened to Lt Kittinger?

Kittinger was shot down on May 11, 1972, just before the end of his third tour of duty.