WW2 American Aces How many ?

[Glen]

Greetings
Me and some friends were wondering just how many American Aces their were? And did they give Gunners on Bombers that Status as well if they shot down over 5 confirm kills ?

[gary]

American Fighter Aces Association recognizes approx 1444 American fighter aces, Frank Olynyk's book "Stars and Bars" may have a slightly different total.
These totals do not include aerial gunners.
Gary

[Nathan]

Do you mean that are still alive?

[gary]

Living American "Aces" I would put in the 250-325 range and as you might guess falling at a steady rate. It is doubtful we will see any more. There are some pilots that are still active duty that have 3 victories but they are flying desks I believe. The oldest aces are well into their 90's and the youngest were Veitnam era. Some veteran aviators with 4 "kills" are still attempting to gather enough proof through research etc. to claim the coveted "ace" title, few have had success with the Aces Association, Alden Rigby, Jack Walker come to mind as "recent" additions. The Association and their honorary historian do not always agree on member qualifications.
Regardless, all these aviators, ace and non ace alike are great men and I am honored to have met many of them.
Gary

[Jack Cook]

Unfortunately not one of the pilots bestowed ace status by the AFAA has
been recognised by the AF. A check of the offical listing of the Maxwell AFB site for official victories is a good yardstick to measure by.
http://afhra.maxwell.af.mil/avc/avc.asp