day #13: in memorium

yesterday my dad sent us an article written about his father, captain robert f. carroll, receiving the silver star award after his act of gallantry during WWII. he survived the war, but he lost the battle with cancer long before i was born. i never had the pleasure of meeting him, so it was nice to take time out yesterday to honor his life and legacy, and remember all of the fallen heros who have fought bravely for our country and our freedom.

ROBERT F. CARROLL - AWARD OF SILVER STAR

ROBERT F. CARROLL, 0662744, Captain, Air Corps, 762^nd Bombardment Squadron, 460^th Bombardment Group, United States Army. For Gallantry in Action as pilot of a P-24 type aircraft. On 18 May 1944, Captain Carroll was leading a formation of aircraft assigned to bomb an important enemy communication center in Italy. Prior to reaching the target, an engine became inoperative and the aircraft began losing altitude. Captain Carroll was forced to leave the protection of the formation and he turned towards home. On the way back, his aircraft was attacked by five (5) enemy fighters, severely injuring and setting fire to the already crippled airplane, mortally wounding a pilot with him, and severely injuring Captain Carroll in the neck and left arm. Despite the great pain and loss of blood, Captain Carroll fought to maintain consciousness and to control the plane thus enabling the crew to destroy one (1) enemy aircraft, probably destroy another, damage one (1), and drive the remainder off. Captain Carroll directed the crew in putting out the fire and with his navigator as copilot; he brought the aircraft to a friendly field in Italy, whereas, despite the severely damaged condition of his plane, he made a perfect landing without further damage to the plane or injury to the crew. By his extraordinary courage, leadership, and professional skill, Captain Carroll has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

Residence at appointment: Brooklyn, NY.

thank you grandpa. and thank you troops who continue to protect us. 

day 13 - complete!

xoxo

meags