United States
James Piburn was born in April 1931 and served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, with service dates recorded as December 1950 to October 1952. His overseas service took him to Japan, Korea and North Africa.
As a Central Fire Control (CFC) gunner aboard Boeing B-29 Superfortress bombers, James flew 31 combat missions over North Korea. He served with a lead crew of the 98th Bombardment Wing, operating from Japan. The wing conducted its Korean War bombing operations from Yokota Air Base.
James’s position involved coordinating the bomber’s defensive gunfire. The B-29’s sophisticated central fire-control system allowed gunners to aim remotely controlled turrets, concentrating fire against approaching enemy aircraft. His role demanded close cooperation with the other gunners to protect the aircraft and its crew during combat missions.
← Back to all stories