Colonel Gregory "Pappy" Boyington, Marine Corps Ace credited with the destruction of 28 Japanese aircraft, was awarded the Medal of Honor "for extraordinary heroism above and beyond the call of duty" while in command of a Marine Fighting Squadron in the Central Solomons Area from 12 September 1943 to 3 January 1944. He was shot down over Rabaul on the latter date, and his capture by the Japanese was followed by 20 months as a prisoner of war.

F4U-1A white 86 Lulubelle/BuNo 18086 of Maj Gregory Boyington, CO of VMF-214, Vella Lavella, December 1943

Gregory Boyington was born at Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, 4 December 1912. Stories of Pappy Boyington are legion, many founded in fact, including how he led the legendary Black Sheep squadron, and how he served in China as a member of the American Volunteer Group, the famed Flying Tigers.  He spent a year and a half as a Japanese POW, was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, and was recognized as the Marine Corps top ace.

Colonel Boyington died on 11 January 1988 and was buried in Arlington National Cemetery.