On The Wings Of A Legend (VIDEO)

Ferlin Eugene Husky was born in 1925 in Flat River, Missouri.  As a young man, he would serve in the United States Merchant Marines; entertaining troops with his singing in WWII, and even participating in the D-Day invasion at Cherbourg.  (according to his website.)

Ferlin became a DJ in Missouri and Bakersfield, using the name Terry Preston.  He signed with Capital Records in 1953.  His musical career would reach its height during the 1950's and '60s.

An interesting note, Ferlin was probably one of the first recording stars to establish and record under an "alter-ego," Simon Crum, in which he would display his comic side.  He had a completely separate contract for Simon, with his big hit being, Country Music Is Here To Stay, in 1959.  Think that's where Garth Brooks came up with the idea for Chris Gaines?

Ferlin's biggest hits would be 1957's, Gone, and Wings Of A Dove in 1960.  He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010.

Ferlin had dealt with heart problems for years and had been hospitalized many times.  Sadly, he passed away on March 17th, 2011, from congestive heart failure.

R.I.P.