Walker "Bud" Mahurin

We attended Wreaths Across America and our five year old daughter chose this hero to honor. We came home to search his footprint in life and what an incredible life this true American hero lead. We honor and remember Mr. Mahurin during this holiday season and always. Many blessings to his family and friends who loved and miss him. We thank him for his dedicated service. God bless you all.

Bud was the guy who could talk to anyone,regardless of who they were.
I feel very fortunate to have met Bud .
I can remember calling him back in the late eighties and telling him I was building a half size flying replica of the Spirit Of Atlantic City P-47 that he flew.
He was thrilled so much that he and his wife Joan came to my home in NJ to see the project and he even sat in it.
I worked with his wife Joan to put together a surpise for him,presenting with his POW medal at the FAA Tech Center Near Atlantic City,NJ.
I was fortunate enough to fly down to DC in my Arrow,Pick Bud up and fly with him back to the center.
Wow what a thrill and honor.
We put together a video for him.
It was the history of the Spirit Of AC,plus Buds history.
This took sometime but it was worth the effort to see his face.

Later I did a painting depicting Bud,and some of his WWII buddies that was done for the 56th Fighter Group Reunion we did for them at the Tropworld,Casino in AC.
I also was able to get the Mayor at the time Jim Whealn to give him the key to the city.
This was in conjuction with the fact that Bud flew the Spirit Of AC P-47
that they bought during the war bond drive during WWII
We met a couple times at the Baltimore Harbor,where and Joan visited when doing Virginia Bader art events.
Bud loved Chris Craft boats and Midget race cars.
I will forever have fond memories of Bud,and will so many others.
If I had the computer savy to share my photos of Bud I would.
Reading his book "Honest John" I would say is one you should read.
He was a true "ACE" and a great friend
Bill Force SR

Rest in peace. we might be related but i dont know but it is great to hear that more mahurins are out there doing those great things for this country.sincirely, David Mahurin

I didn't know you personally. I know we are related. No one can have the name Mahurin and NOT be! I have followed Bud through different articles I've read. I'm proud of the job he did for our country!! I'm sorry for your loss (to his family) Love-Shelly Mahurin Latimer

Rest in peace cousin.

Bud, you were so wonderful as a man, as an inspiration, and step-father. As an Ace you will always be a true HERO to America. THANK YOU. Jenn and I will miss your laughter and stories. We miss you and will forever love you!!!!

Met Bud (and Patty) on his return from Korea, introduced by Col Corey Ford who'd known him from 56th fighter squadron days, later meeting pilots he'd flown with in the ETO (P-47s, P-51s) Gabby Gabreski, Dave Schilling and their boss, Hub Zemke, all of them among the greatest warriors our country has ever sent into battle. Hanging out with Bud, (worked with him on his book, introduced him to Wm A Wellman, director of Wings, hoping to get his story on film) wherever we went he was a focal point, serious, witty, engaging, intimate and always challenging, gathering people, telling stories and for me (then in my twenties)an iconic figure who defined what it was to be a patriot, the epitome of heroism during an era when heroes up-held and believed in the virtues of this country. An unmatchable man. An honor to have known him.

To the Mahurin family my deepest regrets
in having to say goodbye to such a wonderful man. I didn't know him but I thank him and so many others that served so we can have the freedom we have today.

Hello Bud, An electronic guest book, you would have never guessed. Save a seat up there in the clouds.. where friendships are rekindled.

Rudy And Farris Horak 3 June 2010
Burlingame, CA