Rudolf Anderson
Rudolf Anderson | |
|---|---|
 Major Rudolf Anderson, USAF | |
| Born | September 15, 1927 |
| Died | October 27, 1962 (aged 35) near Banes, Cuba |
Burial place | Woodlawn Memorial Park Greenville, South Carolina, U.S. |
| Education | Clemson University, B.S. 1948 |
| Spouse(s) | Frances Jane (Corbett) Anderson (1935–1981) |
| Children | 2 sons, 1 daughter |
| Military career | |
| Allegiance |  United States of America |
Branch |  United States Air Force |
Service years | 1951–1962 |
Rank |  Major |
| Nickname | Rudy/Andy |
| Unit | 4028th Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron, 4080th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, Strategic Air Command |
Conflicts | Korean War Cuban Missile Crisis † |
| Awards | Air Force Cross Distinguished Flying Cross (3) Purple Heart Cheney Award |
Rudolf Anderson Jr. (September 15, 1927 – October 27, 1962) was an American Air Force major and pilot. He was the first recipient of the Air Force Cross, the U.S. military's and Air Force's second-highest award and decoration for valor. The only U.S. fatality by enemy fire during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Anderson was killed when his U-2 reconnaissance aircraft was shot down over Cuba. He had previously served in Korea during the Korean War.