Morning clue. Thanks; Ernie P.
Question: What warbird pilot do I describe?
Clues:
1. His name is right there at the top of at least one list.
2. And, second on a much larger list.
3. He was an experienced military veteran before his war began.
4. And, he was already a pilot; although he did not start his military career as such.
5. He was small of stature.
6. Although he practiced gymnastics for recreation.
7. Very early in the war, he crashed on takeoff due to an engine failure.