Colonel Arthur C. Fiedler

Colonel Arthur C. Fiedler

Oxnard, CA

Arthur C. Fiedler, 92, passed away May 11, 2016. One of the Greatest Generation, and a true American Hero. Art was born August 1, 1923, in Forrest Park, IL. Among his early accomplishments he became a Violin Concert Master. He was probably on his way to be a musician when WWII interrupted and placed him on the path of a military career. Art qualified for flight school with the United States Army Air Corps, and after completing training, he graduated as 2nd Lieutenant. He then married his high school sweetheart, Helen Lossin. Immediately after, Art was deployed to the European Theater, assigned to the Fifteenth Air Force, 325 Fighter Group "The Checkertail Clan", and 317 Fighter Squadron. Stationed in Lesina, Italy, he transitioned to P-51's, naming his assigned Mustang "Helen". Over the course of two years and 60 plus missions, Art accumulated eight confirmed Victories, and one probable, earning him the prestigious fighter 'Ace' designation.

After the war, Art graduated from the University of Illinois with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. He was reactivated in the Air Force for the Korean War. Art was assigned to Vance Air Force base as a flight instructor, now choosing to continue his career as a military pilot. Subsequent assignments included Germany, Montgomery AL, Command and Staff in Kansas, Space System divisions in Garden Grove, CA, Japan and Boston. While in Japan, Art flew C-130 missions in Vietnam with the Flying Jennies.

Art retired in 1976 as a full Colonel in the USAF. Art and Helen moved permanently to Oxnard Shores, CA, later that year. Consequently, Art involved himself with sharing his WWII experiences worldwide. He has contributed to a number of books, and participated with other WWII heroes in air show discussion panels, and autograph signing. Art was highlighted on the History Channel in the Dogfight series, episode "No Room For Error." Throughout his life, Art has participated in many clubs, activities and organizations including Toastmasters, Checkertail Clan, and the Quiet Birdmen.

Art's many Decorations include: The Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Congressional Gold Medal awarded in 2015.

Art is survived by his beloved wife, Helen. Art and Helen celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary on December 14th, 2015. Three devoted sons and daughter-in laws: Skip and wife Veronica, Jon and wife Joan, Philip and wife Cindy, seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by their daughter, Karen Johnson.

Art will be laid to rest at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, 5400 Valentine Road, Ventura, on Thursday May 19th, at 11:00a.m. A reception and celebration of his life will follow at the CAF Museum, 455 Aviation Drive, Camarillo.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. John's Lutheran church in Oxnard Ca.