More than eight decades have passed since Colonel Neel E. Kearby, a World War II fighter pilot hailing from Arlington, made the ultimate sacrifice. Yet, his heroic exploits continue to resonate within the local community and across the nation. A Medal of Honor recipient, Kearby was notably recognized for his valor during an arduous mission over New Guinea, where he achieved an extraordinary feat of downing six enemy aircrafts and saving his wingman, all despite a critical fuel situation. His story remains a testament to the bravery and dedication exhibited on the battlefields of yesteryear.
Kearby, an alumnus of both Arlington High School and the then North Texas Agricultural College, now the University of Texas at Arlington, excelled as one of World War II's most formidable fighter pilots, securing a total of 22 aerial victories. Even after being reassigned to administrative duties following his Medal of Honor-earning action, he pursued his passion for combat by participating in additional flying missions, adding to his tally of victories. On March 5, 1944, Colonel Kearby embarked on what would be his last combat sortie. His aircraft was damaged by machine gun fire during an engagement with Japanese forces and subsequently crashed. It wasn't until after the war that Kearby's remains and the remains of his aircraft, "Fiery Ginger IV," were discovered, later to be displayed at the National Museum of the United States Air Force.
Colonel Kearby's service and sacrifice have been commemorated by a wide array of decorations, including two Silver Stars, four Distinguished Flying Crosses, five Air Medals, and one Purple Heart, signifying his distinguished contributions to the war effort. Moreover, Arlington's World War II Memorial pays homage to this exceptional figure with a bronze statue in his likeness, alongside a monument listing the names of 50 Arlington men who perished in the global conflict and a testament to the over 5,000 North Texas Agricultural College affiliates who joined the call to arms.
The legacy of Colonel Kearby is also honored at the newly opened National Medal of Honor Museum, whose theatre now carries his name. Featuring more than 100,000 square feet of space with 31,000 square feet dedicated to exhibition galleries, the museum celebrates the history of the Medal of Honor and stories of the American heroes who have earned this prestigious accolade. As per the City of Arlington, the museum acknowledged Colonel Kearby's "tremendous legacy of service and sacrifice" through the inauguration of the theatre space.
