WWII pilot's resiliency served him at war, throughout life

Pittsburgh Tribute-Review ^ | 11 August 2002 | Daniel Reynolds

[IGOTMINE]

Glenn Rojohn never thought of himself as a hero, but he might have pulled off one of the most amazing flying feats in military history.

The McKeesport native crash-landed two B-17 bombers that became stuck together -- his on top -- after flying a bombing mission over Germany on New Year's Eve 1944. He was awarded the Air Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross and Purple Heart.

[IGOTMINE]

What a feat!

More info at: http://www.100thbg.com/mainpages/crews/crews5/rojohn.htm

[IGOTMINE]

Unbelievable. What a coupla of buck studs.

[Coop]

I was reading this story before you pinged me. That's some amazin' flyin'!

[ruppertdog]

Amazing- My Grandfather was bombardier on Bob Wright's b-24 that was disabled returning from Reggio, Italy and crash landed. (8th AAF 389th) Wright landed the b-24 with one engine on a dirt field on the coast of Sicily, with no damage. B-24's would crack concrete runway they were so heavy, and were not considered airworthy with 2 engines. Adding to their luck was that Canada had invaded Sicily minutes before their crash and they were picked up by freindlies immediately, after expecting to be taken prisoner. There is no doubt the good Lord was with them that day. There are many excellent books about what these heroes went through for our country. I recommend Bomber Pilot by Ardery.

[onedoug]

Departing east.... Tailwinds and a fair sky, forever.

[IGOTMINE]

Another favorite story is about Owen Baggett, a B24 pilot in the Pacific. His plane was shot down and the crew bailed. The Japanese were gunning them in their chutes. Baggett played dead and a Zeke pilot closed in to admire his handiwork. Owen shot him in the head with his .45 while descending in his parachute.

[DMZFrank]

All honor to these great aerial heroes. But props must be paid to one of the incredible ruggedness and flight charecteristics of one of the greatest aircraft ever made; the amazing B-17 series. It had to be the most still able to fly airplane after sustaining large amounts of battle damage ever.