My Dad the Hero

On the 50th Anniversary of VE Day, dad attended the 2nd Air Division Reunion in Norwich, England, and returned home eager to tell his experiences anew.

Recently I was fortunate to meet his engineer Don Shannon and his co-pilot Joe Zanella. I not only listened to their stories but was inspired to preserve them here.

These men flew combat missions in the European Theater of Operations (ETO) as part of the 8th Air Force, 2nd Air Division, 96th Bomb Wing, 458th Bomb Group, and 753rd Squadron. In addition, they flew one of the 10 original AZON aircraft straight from the United States.

I have gained a new and deep respect for my dad and the men who served with him. They are indeed heroes and this site is in honor of them.