Your Opinion: Visit by B-17 evokes memories

Jenna Higgins Rose, Jefferson City

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Dear Editor:

I would like to thank the local Experimental Aircraft Association for bringing the B-17 to Jefferson City last weekend.

Although I did not take the flight, it was a thrill to tour it, and to see the very seat my grandfather, Eugene Wiley, would have sat in as he piloted a B-17 during World War II.

Wiley became captain at the age of 22, and safely crash landed after being shot down by enemy forces.

After two years as a prisoner of war, his squadron was released, and here my family is today, thanks to his heroism.

Touring the bomber, I had a glimpse of just how terrifying it must have been up there, and the bravery of my grandfather and all our veterans of war.

He died several years ago after a long life, and this experience touring the B-17 gave me a special connection to him that I will never forget.

Issue-oriented letters to the editor in response to this or about other local topics are welcome. All letters should be limited to 400 words. The author's name must appear with the letter, and the name, address and phone number provided for verification. Letters that cannot be verified by telephone will not be published. Send letters for publication to editor@newstribune.com

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