Colonel Herbert E. Ross, United States Air Force - Retired, was probably best known for having given Bob Hope a ride in his P-38 in Africa during WWII.

Herb, a native of Stockton, flew with the 14th Fighter Group’s 48th Fighter Squadron in the Mediterranean, attacking targets in and around Italy.  He flew 52 missions and downed seven enemy aircraft:  two Bf-109s, a pair of Macchi 202, two Ju-52s, and an Fw-190.  He was presented the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Silver Star by General Doolittle.  Herb also received sixteen Air Medals.

After leaving the Air Force Herb was teaching at San Joaquin Delta College when he met Frank Christensen.  After watching Frank perform at an airshow in Modesto in a Pitts Special he decided to order a set of plans.  He went on to be one of the most prolific home builders in California.  Herb has built numerous Pitts, Christen Eagles, a Giles 202, an RV-7 and is currently finishing an RV-10. Herb also built the wings for the Eagle Acrobatic Team composed of Charlie Hillard, Tom Poberenzy and Gene Souchy.

Herb held a low altitude waiver issued by the FAA to do acrobatics in all models of Pitts, Christen Eagles and Giles 202’s.  In 2006, the Stockton chapter of the EAA was formed, and we were blessed to be christened the Colonel Herb Ross Stockton EAA Chapter #1432.  We are very proud to call Herb our friend, mentor and hero.

Sadly, we lost Herb on July 20th, 2008. He will be dearly missed.

ADVENTURES OF A P38 ACE is the life story of Colonel Herbert E. Ross, United States Air Force - Retired. This book of memoirs written by Colonel Ross covers his Military Career as well as his life long love of being a Pilot. Colonel Ross has included detailed information on the Aircraft he flew as well as his amazing life story in a captivating and entertaining fashion. Over 200 pages with photos. You can order from Aircraft Spruce by clicking on the photo of the book.