World War II Honoree

Frederick R. 'Fritz' Payne

Branch of Service

U.S. Marine Corps

Hometown

Rancho Mirage, California

Honored By

Friends of American Heroes

He proudly served his country as an ace fighter pilot in the U.S. Marine Corps during WWII. Between September and October 1942 while flying an F4F Wildcat he shot down 4 Japanese bombers and 2 fighter planes during a crucial battle for control of the Pacific. He shot down 6 Japanese war planes during the month long bloody battle of Guadalcanal. He was awarded the Navy Cross, Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Gold Medal and several other awards. He retired as a Brigadier General.