I know Mondays generally suck so here’s a story that made me realize I need to dust more.
Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Joe Peterburs, aged 100 and a WWII veteran climbed back into a P-51 Mustang at an air show in Redmonds, CA.
What adds a nice touch to this, was the fact that his granddaughter, Sabrina, was in another P-51 and flew in close formation with him.
“We flew so close it felt as if our wings could have touched. I looked over and saw him waving, blowing me kisses. My heart melted and tears welled up in my eyes.”
The flight was more than just a family experience. It symbolized Peterburs’ extraordinary career and his lifelong connection to aviation.
He first flew a P-51D, affectionately named “Josephine” after his girlfriend and future wife, on December 2, 1944, as part of the 55th Fighter Squadron of the 20th Fighter Group. His mission that day was to escort Boeing B-17 bombers to targets in Germany.
He had quite the history both in WWII and afterwards.
By the time he retired in 1979 as a full colonel, Peterburs had earned the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Air Medal, and POW Medal. His service spanned three wars and left an enduring legacy of courage and resilience.
Whoever managed to put this experience together for him and his family should be commended.
Midwest Chick's Place 
Leave a Reply to Midwest Chick Cancel reply