Frank A. Armstrong

Frank A. Armstrong

Frank Alton Armstrong, Jr. (May 24, 1902 – August 20, 1969) was a brigadier general in the United States Army Air Forces and the inspiration for the main character in the novel and subsequent film, Twelve O'Clock High. After the war he became a lieutenant general in the United States Air Force.

Armstrong commanded two B-17 Flying Fortress groups and a wing each of B-17 and B-29 Superfortresses in combat operations against both Germany and Japan. He personally led the first USAAF strategic bombing attack from England in August 1942, and the last strategic raid on Japan three years later. He also led the first attack by the USAAF against a target in Germany.

Read more about Frank A. Armstrong:  Early Life, Awards and Decorations

Famous quotes containing the words frank a, frank and/or armstrong:

    “They robbed the Danville train.
    And the people they did say, for many miles away,
    ‘Twas the outlaws Frank and Jesse James.”
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    “I have often been downcast, but never in despair; I regard our hiding as a dangerous adventure, romantic and interesting at the same time. In my diary I treat all the privations as amusing. I have made up my mind now to lead a different life from other girls and, later on, different from ordinary housewives. My start has been so very full of interest, and that is the sole reason why I have to laugh at the humorous side of the most dangerous moments.”
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    “There dwelt a man in faire Westmerland,
    Jonnë Armestrong men did him call,
    He had nither lands nor rents coming in,
    Yet he kept eight score men in his hall.”
    —Unknown. Johnie Armstrong (l. 1–4)