U.S. fighter pilots return in peace to Korean skies

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Bring me my spear! O clouds, unfold!

Bring me my chariot of fire!

— William Blake

SEOUL -- For a group of Americans landing at Inchon International Airport last week, the Korean skies were familiar. But the last time they flew them, it was not in a ponderous Boeing 747 but in the sleek fighters that fought the world's first jet-versus-jet combat.

The 60th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force fell on Sept. 18. With Korea being the first war the service fought independently — during World War II, air units were part of the U.S. Army — eight veteran fighter pilots returned to tour their former battlefield, pay respects at the National Cemetery and visit serving airmen.

A lust to fly and strong patriotism were key qualities for the pilots.

"I certainly grew up with a strong desire to fly and began to have a curiosity about the big picture, the future of the nation," said retired Col. Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin.

"You had to have good eyes and quick reactions. Good musicians make good pilots, as they are coordinated and have quick reflexes," said retired Col. Ralph "Hoot" Gibson. "But motivation is the key."

A more unusual case was that of retired Lt. Col. Harold Fischer, who believed he had in a past life been a German pilot with four kills — and wanted a fifth. He would realize his desire.

Supersonic duelists