William J. Hovde
William Johnston Hovde | |
|---|---|
Colonel William J. Hovde, U.S. Air Force | |
| Nickname | Billy |
| Born | April 4, 1917 |
| Died | March 13, 1996 (aged 78) |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Branch | United States Air Force |
| Service years | 1943–1967 |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Unit | 355th Fighter Group 4th Fighter-Interceptor Wing |
| Commands | 358th Fighter Squadron 357th Fighter Squadron 335th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron Ethan Allen Air Force Base 14th Fighter Group |
| Conflicts | World War II Korean War |
| Awards | Distinguished Service Cross Silver Star Legion of Merit Distinguished Flying Cross (6) Air Medal (10) |
| Relations | Norma Hovde (wife) |
| Other work | President of American Fighter Aces Association |
William Johnston Hovde (4 April 1917 – 13 March 1996) was a United States Air Force colonel and a World War II flying ace. Hovde served two tours in the 355th Fighter Group and commanded the 358th Fighter Squadron, ending the war with 10.5 victories. He also served in the Korean War, claiming another victory while in command of the 335th Fighter Squadron. After serving as an attaché in Mexico, Hovde commanded Ethan Allen Air Force Base and the 14th Fighter Group. He retired in 1967, and worked in the liquor business before finally retiring and moving to San Antonio. Hovde became president of the American Fighter Aces Association.