Wilder

Rodney Ross "Hoss" Wilder, 0-421149, Colonel

Co-Pilot Crew 5

Born January 10, 1917, Taylor, Texas
Died June 7, 1964

Attended University of Texas and Southwestern University. Received Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Entered military service November 1940 as Flying Cadet. Graduated from flying training and commissioned as Second Lieutenant in May 1941. Was co-pilot on B-25 that sighted and sank Japanese submarine on December 24, 1941 at mouth of Columbia River. After Tokyo Raid, served as Bombardment Squadron Commander in England, North Africa, Italy and Corsica. Returned to United States in May 1944 and served as base commander at bases in Texas and Oklahoma. Reverted to inactive status in June 1947. Was Regional Director of General Services Administration. Decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with 9 Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Chinese Army, Navy, and Air Corps Medal, Class A, 1st Grade.

Taylor City Cemetery
1101 E. 4th Street
Taylor, TX
512-352-3531

Inducted Texas Aviation Hall of Fame, Galveston, TX