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Post by soretoe on Feb 1, 2013 22:26:32 GMT -1
Origonal link removed. The website has changed and no longer has the flight of the airplane. Thanks posting.
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Post by leapnlineman on Feb 2, 2013 0:45:26 GMT -1
For you newer members here is a write up about the great American that Lou is referring to:
Mr. Sandy L Trent; aka Top Turret Gunner (Gunne), passed away on September 11th, 2011 from heart complications. Mr. Trent served in the US Army Air Corps during WWII as a top turret gunner and flight engineer on a B-17. During his two years of service with the “Mighty 8th Air Corps” he flew 34 missions over Germany. At the beginning of America's entry into WWII, bomber pilots only had to complete 20 missions before being transferred to safer duty. As formation flying and fighter support became more effective, the number was raised to 25, then 30 and finally 35 missions in the fall of 1944. Still, the survival rate of B17 crews was only about 29%. More casualties were suffered by the 8th Air Force in England than in the entire Marine Corps during the war. Gunne completed his 35th mission when a restored B-17 was touring the country and he was invited to fly in it. He was also a member of “The Lucky Bastards Club” because of completing more than his required missions over Germany.
I consider myself a lucky man to have been able to shake his hand and call him "friend"!
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Post by soretoe on Feb 2, 2013 2:57:08 GMT -1
He loved to fish. When he moved up to the mountains he took up trout fishing.
I was lucky enough to sit beside him during Mikes first formal seminar. Just as Mike was starting to give his presentation Gunne leaned over to me and pointed to Mike as he said "he's so deaf he cant even smell his own farts".......LOL. He loved Mike and booked several trips with him.
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Post by buzzbuster on Feb 2, 2013 3:10:59 GMT -1
We shall never forget our Service Men and Women that have served for our Liberty's. Thank You Gunne!!!
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Post by Mike Bucca on Feb 2, 2013 19:26:02 GMT -1
I miss ole Gunne. What a super nice guy. Rob and I had some great memories with him. RIP Gunne!!
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Post by soretoe on Feb 3, 2013 0:26:21 GMT -1
I miss ole Gunne. What a super nice guy. Rob and I had some great memories with him. RIP Gunne!! I thought you would Mike. I know you two were close
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ProMo
Executive Member
Posts: 1,971
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Post by ProMo on Feb 21, 2013 9:26:35 GMT -1
Never met this gentleman but he sounds like a great Man. Rest In Peace Brother, you are a true American hero.
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