Joseph Khumalo
| Joseph Khumalo | |
|---|---|
| 2618- | |
| File:Knight.gif Joseph Khumalo aboard the TCS Tiger's Claw 2654 | |
| Callsign | Knight |
| Place of birth | Kroonsdad, South Africa |
| Allegiance | Terran Confederation |
| Service/branch | Terran Confederation Space Force |
| Rank | Captain |
Joseph Khumalo, aka "Knight", was a Terran Confederation fighter pilot assigned to the TCS Tiger's Claw. He was born in Kroonstad, South Africa in 2618. He was known as a reliable wingman who was steady under fire. He flew at the McAuliffe Ambush as a wingman for Maria Alvarez under the rank of second lieutenant. During the battle, Alvarez and Khumalo attacked a Kilrathi transport. After strafing from its rear down its belly they turned to find a swarm of enemy fighters. Rather than maneuver away from his wingleader, Khumalo fired as quickly as possible and destroyed multiple enemy fighters which were attacking Alvarez. Alvarez replied "Ooh, eet's my White Knight", earning Khumalo his callsign. He also received a Ace Perfomance Service Ribbon for the dogfight. He was featured in Pilot Profiles in April 2654, at which time he held the rank of Captain.
Knight served alongside famed pilot Christopher Blair during the Vega Sector Campaign, where he saw extensive action against the Kilrathi. In 2655, Knight assisted Blair in the destruction of the KIS Sivar, the Kilrathi dreadnought that annihilated the Terran colony of Goddard mere months beforehand. Knight also cooperated in the Defense of Firekka. During this time, he was offered a chance to become a flight instructor and to retire from frontline service, but Knight ultimately rejected this offer, preferring to stay in the fight.
It is unknown what became of Knight after the TCS Tiger's Claw was destroyed by Kilrathi stealth fighters in 2656. He may or may not have been on patrol with the other pilots at the time the vessel was destroyed. Unlike most of the other pilots who served on the Claw, Knight's ultimate fate has yet to be disclosed.
Images
Joseph Khumalo from the Vol. 1 No. 4 issue of Claw Marks
