How a struggling student became America's top fighter ace in Europe

Cultures · Published 11 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Before he was a legendary pilot, Gabby Gabreski struggled through his first year at Notre Dame. He was even told by an instructor that he lacked the natural touch required to fly. Yet, this Polish-American immigrant's son would eventually dominate the skies of Europe during World War II.

Gabreski's ascent was far from certain. After nearly failing his freshman year at the University of Notre Dame in 1938, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1939. His training was difficult; he was described as a mediocre trainee and had to pass an elimination check ride during primary flight training to continue his path toward becoming a pilot. He began his aviation journey by taking lessons in a Taylor Cub. Despite early difficulties, he eventually moved on to training in a Stearman PT-17.

By November 26, 1943, Gabreski had achieved his status as a flying ace. While leading the 61st Fighter Squadron, he used his Republic P-47 Thunderbolt to down two Messerschmitt Bf 110s during a mission to protect American bombers. This marked his fourth and fifth aerial victories, cementing his reputation as a premier combat pilot. During this mission, he was supporting the 56th Fighter Group. His squadron was tasked with covering the withdrawal of B-17 Flying Fortresses.

He ultimately became America's top ace in the European Theater, credited with shooting down 28 enemy aircraft while flying the rugged P-47 Thunderbolt. His skill was matched by the durability of his machine, which could survive significant damage—including a 20 mm cannon shell hit to the turbocharger—allowing pilots like Gabreski to return to the fight. The Thunderbolt was a massive aircraft, weighing 10,000 pounds when empty. It was the largest single-engine fighter produced by any nation during the conflict.

Gabreski's legacy extends beyond the P-47. He later became a jet fighter ace during the Korean War, making him one of only seven U.S. combat pilots to achieve ace status in two different wars. He retired from the Air Force as a colonel after 26 years of service. Following his military career, he served as the head of the Long Island Rail Road. This role involved managing a major commuter railway owned by New York State.

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