Bird Dog O-1G of Capt Hilliard Wilbanks Low Top Canvas Shoes
This design is based on Cessna Bird Dog O-1 (serial Number 51-5078) flown by Medal of Honor recipient Captain Hilliard Wilbanks. Hilliard Almond Wilbanks was a career officer and pilot in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He posthumously received the Medal of Honor for sacrificing his life on February 24, 1967, while supporting a unit of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) at Di Linh, near Da Lat, South Vietnam. During that action, he flew a series of strafing runs against the advancing Viet Cong at about 100 feet (30 m) to delay their advance. During these strafing runs he was firing an M-16 through the side window of his aircraft and reloading it between passes. Whilst he managed to momentarily delay the Viet Cong, they began to target his low flying Bird Dog and on his third pass he was severely wounded and crashed in the battle area. He was pulled unconscious from the wreckage however died while being evacuated to a hospital. He was 33 years old, had flown 487 combat missions and had earned the Distinguished Flying Cross and 17 Air Medals. This design includes a small M-16 silhouette on each toe in recognition of this action.
What Size Am I?
Description
Step into history with our warbird themed canvas shoes! Each pair of shoes are made to order, featuring designs inspired by history’s most remarkable military aircraft and aviators. So, whether you are a warbird buff, air show fanatic or simply a lover of aviation, you can be certain our designs will bring a touch of style and history to your everyday wardrobe.
✈ Made to order.
✈ Classic lace-up closure to achieve the perfect fit.
✈ Brushed metal eyelets for that timeless style.
✈ Soft inner lining and insole for absolute comfort.
✈ Iconic rounded rubber toe cap.
Production Details
This product is made to order with production beginning once your order has been received. We are therefore not able to cancel or amend an order once it has been placed. This includes changes to the shipping address, size, design, or any other specifications. Please review your order details carefully before finalizing your purchase.
Please allow 7-10 days from the date of order to receive your tracking details.
Please note there can be subtle variations in color and minor movement of the product during production that may cause a design element not to be the exact same color or in the exact position as it appears on screen. More details can be found on our FAQ page.
By producing items on demand rather than in large quantities, we actively contribute to minimizing overproduction and waste. We genuinely appreciate your mindful purchasing choices, which support this more sustainable approach. Thank you for your understanding and support!
Product is manufactured in and shipped from China.