World War II Honoree

Wynans Ellis Frankfort

Branch of Service

U.S. Army Air Force

Hometown

Franklin, Virginia

Honored By

Gaynelle E. Riddick

Relationship

Local historian

He entered pilot training school in Moutrie, GA in 1942 and graduated in February 1943 earning his wings and commissioned as a second lieutenant. Sent to the 342nd Fighter Squadron in MA and assigned to the first P-47 Thunderbolt group in the Pacific Theater. Reported MIA in October 1943 after bailing out when his plane ran out of fuel, he was later rescued and returned to action. On a following hazardous mission he was recommended for the Silver Star for courage and leadership. On a May 27, 1944 mission over Biak Island he was reported MIA again, however on February 16, 1946 he was presumed dead by the War Department. Wreckage of his P-47 was discovered in May 1991 with his remains beginning the journey home in October 1994 and was laid to rest in his hometown of Franklin, VA in September 1995. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with Two Oak Leaf Clusters, two Purple Hearts, Asia Pacific Medal, WWII Victory Medal, Silver Bar for his Lieutenant Rank, Air Corps Insignia, and the Silver Star.