(CNN) The unmistakable roar of the A-10's powerful engines echoed throughout Arlington National Cemetery this month as four aircraft saluted retired Col. Avery Kay for the last time with a rare flyover of the historic burial site. Kay, 96, died on October 29 and was buried with full military honors. A highly decorated navigator who led some of the most dangerous bombing raids against Germany during World War II, Kay was also credited with launching the concept of the A-10 Thunderbolt, better known as the Warthog. Despite lacking the air-to-air combat ability of the F-15 Eagle and the high-tech stealth capabilities of the F-22 Raptor, the U.S. Air Force still uses the A-10 to support ground forces in close combat more than 40 years after its first flight in 1975.U.S. Air Force has used A-10 to support ground forces in close combat since 1975Retired Col. Avery Kay credited with launching concept of A-10, better known as WarthogFlyover at Arlington National Cemetery recently honored Kay, who died in October
But in reality, the _'s top generals had little interest in dedicating budget dollars for improving support for ground troops, as they preferred planes that could carry out bombing missions deep in enemy territory.