1 Lt. Richard G. Candelaria: 6 Aerial Victories

1 Lt. Richard G. Candelaria [Pasadena, CA] from the 435th FS was credited with 6 aerial victories during World War II: 2 aerial victories on 5-Dec-44 and 4 aerial victories on 7-Apr-45. With 6 aerial victories to his credit, he became an ACE. His aircraft was a P-51K # 44-11755 "My Pride and Joy." While on a combat mission, on 13-Apr-45, he was shot down by enemy anti-aircraft over Germany and became a prisoner of war. Sources: Air Force Historical Research Center, Aerial Victories; NARA POW.