Liberty Wing hosts WWII veteran Ed Cottrell

Published Oct. 14, 2024
By Airman 1st Class Delanie Brown
48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

RAF LAKENHEATH, England --

The 493rd Fighter Squadron honored World War II veteran Ed Cottrell during a squadron immersion.

P-47 takes off from runway — A P-47 Thunderbolt from Duxford Museum takes off from RAF Lakenheath, England, Sept. 14, 2024. The P-47 Thunderbolt is a symbol of the 493rd Fighter Squadron’s historic role in air combat during World War II. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Delanie Brown)

Cottrell, a decorated fighter pilot who flew P-47 Thunderbolts for the 493rd Fighter Bombardment Squadron from 1942 to 1945, shared stories from his time in combat with current 493rd FS members, offering insight into the squadron’s character and history.

Now 102 years old, Cottrell’s visit served as a living connection to the squadron’s storied past. His valor in defending Allied forces during pivotal air battles in Europe continues to inspire today’s Airmen, bridging the gap between past and present in the squadron’s ongoing legacy.

Taking over as the 493d FS commander on Oct 11, 2022 has been my proudest moment in continuing the legacy of the 493d FS. The 493rd FS has flown 12 other aircraft and I have had the extreme fortune to continue the proud legacy as the 493rd transitioned from the F-15 to the F-35A.”

U.S. Air ForceLt. Col. Grant Saum, 493rd FS commander

During World War II, Cottrell flew 65 missions in his P-47 Thunderbolt across the European theater. His most memorable moments include flying in the Battle of the Bulge and providing crucial aerial support throughout the war.

His bravery earned him nine Air Medals. Cottrell retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1945, leaving a legacy of service and dedication.

“The men and women that have served in the 493d were always on the leading edge, and delivered when their country and Allied partners needed them,” said Saum. “I can only hope I can lead my team to live up to their expectations and carry on their tradition of excellence.”

493rd FS commander talks to Ed Cottrell — U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Grant “Shooter” Saum, 493rd Fighter Squadron commander, describes details about the F-35A Lightning II to Ret. U.S. Army Air Corps Lt. Col. Ed Cottrell, 493rd Fighter Squadron World War II P-47 Thunderbolt pilot, at RAF Lakenheath, England, Sept. 14, 2024. Cottrell visited to share his legacy as a WWII pilot and inspire the squadron’s current generation of pilots. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Delanie Brown)

Reflecting on the evolution of air combat, from the P-47 to today’s advanced F-35A Lightning II, Cottrell highlighted his unwavering dedication and thanks to the pilots of today.

“It’s been an honor to see the 493rd still flying eighty years after WWII,” said Ret. Lt. Col. Ed Cottrell. “I’m so thankful to be brought out here, sit in the P-47 cockpit and feel like I’m at home again.”

As Cottrell stood before the current members of the 493rd FS, his words resonated deeply with the Airmen who now carry the torch he and his fellow WWII pilots lit decades ago.