Cdr Levern "Lee" Elbridge Forkner

[keith A]

WW2 pilot who commanded VF-45 and AG-45 in 1945. I know his date of birth and death (Born: 9 Oct 1917 Died: 8 Apr 2006), that he joined the Navy in 1940 and after qualifying as a pilot flew with the anti-submarine patrol in Cuba (no idea what that is, a Navy squadron?)by 1945 had reached the rank of Lieutenant but can anyone shed light on his post WW2 career? He commanded VF-16A 1947-8. I know he flew the F4U-4 and F9F-2 and may have led a squadron in Korean War 1952-53 but not which of these aircraft he flew. He was "Air Officer" on the USS Kearsage but am not sure what his duties were. I know he won the DFC.

He was promoted Commander in 1950 and left the Navy in 1961 still as a Commander and joined the aerospace industry.

best regards

Keith