Richard Bong Fighter Plane Wingtip Returned to Wisconsin Museum 2026

The Richard Bong fighter plane wingtip from the downed P-38 Lightning named 'Marge' has been brought to Wisconsin, marking a historic return of a WWII artifact. This remarkable piece of aviation history, flown by America's 'ace of aces' Richard Bong, was recovered from the jungles of Papua New Guinea after more than 80 years.

The wingtip, still bearing the original paint applied by Bong himself, was transported by air, land, and sea before arriving at the Richard I Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior, Wisconsin. This recovery is a testament to the collaboration between the museum and Pacific Wrecks, a historical preservation group dedicated to locating WWII aircraft wreckage.

The Legacy of Richard Bong and His P-38 Lightning

Richard Bong, a native of Poplar, Wisconsin, became the United States' top ace during World War II, credited with shooting down 40 Japanese aircraft. His P-38 Lightning, nicknamed 'Marge' after his girlfriend (and later wife) Marge Vattendahl, featured a portrait of her on its nose. Bong flew this aircraft to shoot down three enemy planes before it was reassigned to fellow pilot Thomas Malone.

In March 1944, Malone was forced to bail out over Papua New Guinea when an engine failure caused the plane to crash. The wreckage remained undiscovered for decades, until the 2024 joint expedition led by the Bong museum and Pacific Wrecks finally located it.

The Recovery Mission and Journey Home

The recovery mission involved hiking through dense jungle in Madang province, where explorers found the wingtip still intact with its original paint. The Wisconsin National Guard played a crucial role in transporting the artifact, bringing it back on a military refueling tanker. This effort underscores the significance of preserving WWII history for future generations.

According to the 24 July news release, the wingtip's arrival in Wisconsin was a major milestone for the museum, which plans to display it as a centerpiece of its exhibits. The journey from the South Pacific to the Midwest is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by Bong and countless other veterans.

Why This Artifact Matters

This wingtip is not just a piece of metal; it is a tangible connection to a legendary pilot and a pivotal moment in world history. Bong received the Medal of Honor in 1944 and was celebrated as the 'ace of aces.' Tragically, he died in a test flight crash on the same day the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, just weeks before the war ended.

The recovery and return of this artifact allow visitors to the museum to engage with history in a deeply personal way. It also highlights the ongoing efforts of organizations like Pacific Wrecks to locate and preserve WWII relics before they are lost to time and the elements.

Key Takeaways from the Wingtip Recovery

• The wingtip belonged to the P-38 Lightning 'Marge,' flown by Richard Bong, the top US ace of WWII.
• It was recovered from Papua New Guinea after 80 years, thanks to a joint mission by the Bong museum and Pacific Wrecks.
• The Wisconsin National Guard transported the artifact back to the US, where it will be displayed at the Richard I Bong Veterans Historical Center.
• This recovery underscores the importance of preserving WWII history and honoring the legacy of veterans.

Comparison: Bong's Ace Record vs. Other WWII Aces

While other aces had higher kill counts, Bong's record remains the highest for any American pilot, and his legacy is celebrated not only for his combat achievements but also for his humility and dedication to service.

FAQ: Richard Bong and the Marge Wingtip

The return of the wingtip is a momentous occasion for historians, veterans, and the public alike. It ensures that the story of Richard Bong and his heroic contributions will continue to inspire future generations. For more details, visit the museum's website or plan a trip to see this extraordinary piece of history.