Memorial Day — set aside for reflecting on the sacrifice by those who died, while serving their country.  Having not done so, it is nearly impossible to understand what it means to face the terrors of battle, casting off instinctual self preservation — so we reflect, and are thankful….

Just yesterday, on the eve of Memorial Day, I was searching through an archive of my digital pictures when I found this audio.  It is a short interview with Thomas ‘Gene’ Rogers, a P-51 Crew Chief during WWII.

As I am in awe of the, Greatest Generation; it seemed apropos to find the audio when I did.  Six years had past since I last heard the man speak — a moment of sadness came over me… I realized, by now, Mr. Rogers had probably passed away.  A few seconds long internet search, affirmed this.
I am thankful for the opportunity to hear some of his story, yet, I regret not asking to see his other pictures and hear more of his tales.

We pause, reflect, we remember — we thank you!

Memorial Day, 2015

History War Birds Aviation History P-51 Mustang WWII