We lost another - RIP, George
 

George Vujnovich. Not many have heard of him, but he initiated and orchestrated a rescue of downed airmen that was the most successful rescue of WWII.

If you haven't read The Forgotten 500, I recommend it most highly - it is a remarkable history on many counts.

RIP - and thanks, George.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/30/nyregion/george-vujnovich-96-led-rescue-of-airmen-in-world-war-ii.html?_r=1

Detroit Free Press for, well, free:

George Vujnovich: Agent led largest U.S. air rescue | Detroit Free Press | freep.com

They really were The Greatest Generation.

Wow!

+1

make that + a billion

So true.

It's truly remarkable what he and his team accomplished. It wasn't only the most successful rescue of the war, it was done against remarkable odds - on both sides. This was a man who would never have to wonder if he had done something worthwhile with his life.

Sent to me by a friend - my photoshop skills aren't good enough to correct the shadow (wrong era), but the thought is spot on:
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1335994398.jpg

We can live our relatively risk free lives because of these men.

Truth!

My Dad was in WWII and flew countless missions and survived being shot down in his TBF Avenger. He never talked much about that part of his life. I didn't realize what he had done until after his passing and I inherited his Navy locker. It's full with his uniform, flight jacket, medals and his flight log book. I doubt it was ever opened since 1945.

I wish he was still here so I could tell him I'm proud of him.

News like this gives one pause.....words cannot even convey the sense of respect I feel toward this honorable gentleman (and others like him who don't even get mentioned these days - until their death).

He lived a long life and I agree....had every reason to hold his head high for every second of it.

Rest in peace and thank you Mr. Vujnovich.

Rob,

Great post and thanks for your father's service. I don't mean to get off topic but is your Dad registered in the National WWII Memorial?

If not - that is something you could do for him and your family.

National WWII Memorial

Both my parents as well as my step-father are registered.

Keep us posted please....

Baz -

Thanks for that. Great idea. I had family in both the Pacific and European theaters of the war. Will follow up.

Jim

Jim,

Friend of mine knew George and in fact he gave him his first break at a new job and career over in the "old country" when he was a pup.

He was a hell of a man and surely one of the "Greatest Generation!"

I'm jealous. Hoped to meet him about 18 months ago, but it was not to be. I'm just in awe of what he did.

OT: Have to thank you for the German Deli post; there's Dallmayr in the house again!!!

Jim,

Exact quote was: "Vladimir wrote: "what a small world Joe he was a family friend and got me my first job with his company.."

Really glad to see that his legacy is moving around the world. Vlad has his own company in the Thermal/Palm Springs area and is doing well, so it worked.

Glad to hear that "Germandeli.com" worked for you. Was in DFW recently and now have some fresh "Nurnburger brats" in my fridge so know how you feel! :)

Joe