In Memoriam: Milan ‘Mike’ Pupich

Moreno Aguiari Published April 3, 2013

B-25J “Heavenly Body” takes off from Eagle Field

The warbird community lost a dedicated friend this past September. Milan Samuel Pupich was the proud owner of the Heavenly Body, a B-25, Mitchell 44-30748.

Pupich owned the B-25 for longer than any other private individual after the bomber’s decommissioning. Even post-war action, it was a star in its own right: it made an appearance in the film Catch-22. He acquired the plane shortly after its Hollywood début, restoring it back to its original wartime condition – replete with functioning turret, guns and radio.

Mike’s family intends to honor his commitment to the Heavenly Body by maintaining and keeping it in flying condition.

TAGGED:Aviators Memorial North American B-25 Mitchell

Share This Article

By Moreno Aguiari

Follow:

Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.