Mike Muller
Bio
Mike Muller embarked on a distinguished career as a South African Air Force officer, ultimately achieving the rank of Lieutenant-General. He served with distinction in the South African Air Force’s 2 Squadron, known as the Cheetah Squadron, which was part of the US Air Force’s 18th Fighter Bomber Wing. As a young 2nd Lieutenant, he flew numerous missions over Korea, piloting American F-51 Mustangs in various roles such as close ground support and attacking enemy supply lines. After being shot down north of Pyongyang in the fall of 1951, he was swiftly rescued by helicopter. He cherishes memories of the camaraderie among his fellow servicemen and the gratitude shown by the Korean people. He retired as Chief of the South African Air Force.
Video Clips
The Cheetah Squadron
Mike Muller reflects on his air unit's role in Korea. As a Second Lieutenant in the 2 Cheetah Squadron, renowned for its accomplishments in North Africa and Italy during World War II, he and his fellow airmen stepped into the shoes of many of these World War II heroes, shaping the new Cheetah Squadron composed of youthful aviators in Korea.
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Shot Down
Mike Muller recounts his 72nd mission during the Korean War, when his aircraft was shot down on September 29, 1951, north of Pyongyang. He notes he had to eject from the cockpit of his F-51 Mustang and deploy his parachute to reach safety. He recalls after landing, he endured a tense four-hour wait in enemy territory before finally being rescued.
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Dangerous Moments in the Skies
Mike Muller recounts the most perilous moments he faced while flying in Korea. He details two challenging landings, one without flaps (brakes) and another with the landing gear retracted. He recalls instances of sustaining damage from bombing debris and narrowly avoiding collision with a hill during a low-altitude attack.
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Volunteered to go to Korea
Mike Muller shares details of the training he underwent at the Army College and later at the Central Flying School near Johannesburg. He notes he successfully earned his wings on December 15, 1950. Shortly thereafter, despite having limited combat training flying the Spitfire, he volunteered to serve in Korea.
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Day to Day Duties
Mike Muller outlines his daily responsibilities as an Air Force pilot, highlighting that his unit primarily focused on non-combat missions aimed at supporting the army and disrupting enemy supply routes. He also provides insights into the weaponry systems equipped on his aircraft
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