Joseph L. Lukasik was born on October 20, 1932 and grew up in Dickson City, Pennsylvania, the oldest of five siblings.
He joined the Air Force in August of 1951, an example later followed by two of his brothers.
During his career as a fighter pilot he receives many honors including the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal, the Legion of Merit, and was awarded wings from the German Air Force.
He served in the Korean and Vietnam wars and achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
He died on March 22, 1973 at the age of 40 in Eskeshir, Turkey while training other pilots, leaving behind a wife and five children. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery close to his brother, Bernard F. Lukasik, Captain, United States Air Force.
LUKASIK, JOSEPH L
- LTC USAF
- DATE OF BIRTH: 10/20/1932
- DATE OF DEATH: 03/22/1973
- BURIED AT: SECTION 35 SITE 1545
- ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
Michael Robert Patterson was born in Arlington and is the son of a former officer of the US Army. So it was no wonder that sooner or later his interests drew him to American history and especially to American military history. Many of his articles can be found on renowned portals like the New York Times, Washingtonpost or Wikipedia.
Reviewed by: Michael Howard