I just started working as a volunteer at the Cradle of Aviation museum at Mitchel Field, here on Long Island.
Probably more interesting than the displays are the other volunteers I meet.
Last Sunday, I had a chance to talk to a WWII B-17 pilot named Stanley.
Interesting story. His crew was shot down over Belgium, on their fifth mission. He was able to wrestle the plane to a forced landing with both port engines shot out.
The entire crew survived, and walked away from the crash. Upon examination of the port engines, Stanley and his co-pilot discovered the bullet holes were 50 cals!!!
Apparently, another B-17 in the box, firing at Luftwaffe planes accidentally shot down Stanley's 17.
Needless to say, Belgium was occupied at the time, and Stanley and his crew spent the next year as guests of the German Army.
Stange to say, he said he was not treated badly. The worst thing for the POW's was bordom, as they were not allowed to talk to each other. But they were also not allowed to work, as per the Geneva Convention.
Next week, I plan on picking the brains of Jimmy Kedek, another volunteer who flew F6F's in the PTO.
God I love Sundays now!!!
