"Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings..."

-- excerpt from

High Flight

by John Gillespie Magee, Jr.

 


2nd Lt. Jimmy L. Escalle

A Tribute

Welcome! This site is a photo tribute to my uncle, a fighter pilot who was listed as missing in action during the Korean War. He flew the F-86 Sabre with the 36th Fighter-Bomber Squadron at Suwon Air Base (K-13), South Korea, in 1953.

The pages, each with a brief introduction, will take you from his early years growing up in a small farming town in California's Central Valley, to his final mission over North Korea.

Jim was only twenty-three years old when he disappeared, but in that short time he lived an exemplary life, which included being able to fulfill a dream he had since childhood -- becoming a pilot.

He personified the typical spirit of most young fighter pilots who served in Korea, which was faith in God, love of country, and a dedication to excellence in performing his duties. His service and sacrifice will always be remembered.

 

 

 

 

 

© 2008 Jim Escalle. All Rights Reserved.