Rudolph U. Zuberbuhler

By zthanson, 6 December, 2022
First Name
Rudolph
Middle Name
U.
Last Name
Zuberbuhler
Birthdate
Hometown
Lowman, Idaho
Rank
Colonel
Service Branch
Air Force
Date Captured
Date Repatriated
Pre Capture Image
Male in navy uniform.
PreCapture Description

Rudy Zuberbuhler was commissioned through the Air Force ROTC program on June 10, 1962, and went on active duty beginning April 16, 1963. Lieutenant Zuberbuhler completed Undergraduate Pilot Training and was awarded his pilot wings at Vance AFB, Oklahoma, in April 1964, and then after completing F-4 Phantom II Combat Crew Training, he served with the 68th Tactical Fighter Squadron at George AFB, California, from November 1964 to November 1966. His next assignment was with the 10th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Hahn AB, West Germany, from November 1966 to July 1970, followed by service with the 336th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina. While flying with the 336th TFS, Captain Zuberbuhler deployed to Southeast Asia and flew 368 combat missions before being shot down by a MIG-21 over North Vietnam on September 12, 1972.

Post Release Image
POW shaking hands with officer at bottom of aircraft ramp.
Post Release Description

He was released during Operation Homecoming on March 29, 1973. Zuberbuhler was briefly hospitalized at Andrews AFB, Maryland, to recover from his injuries before returning to flying status as the Air Operations Officer for the 4th Tactical Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson AFB. Colonel Zuberbuhler went on to fly F-15 Eagle fighters before retiring from the Air Force on July 31, 1991.

Honors, Citations, and Commendations
  • Legion of Merit
  • Distinguished Flying Cross (5)
  • Bronze Star
  • Prisoner of War Medal
Passed away before release
Post Release