Morning clue. Thanks; Ernie P.
We all know German pilot Adolph Galland wrote a famous book “The First and the Last”. This question is about another pilot; one who can also claim to be The First and the Last.
What warbird aircrew member do I describe?
1. This pilot flew more than 100 combat missions.
2. His first combat mission was very nearly his last.
3. He was the only member of his flight to avoid being shot down on that memorable day.
4. Three pilots survived; and three died.
5. And in coming years he was haunted by the three that died; often talking about how they died.
6. He flew through the entire war.
7. From the very first day to the very last day.
8. Ironically enough, both battleships and aircraft carriers feature prominently in his wartime career.
9. On the first day and the last day of his war.
10. He was not an ace pilot.
11. Although he did fly fighters.
12. For the entire war.
13. In fact, after a bit of study, I can’t find any indication he ever shot down an enemy plane.
14. He is remembered simply because of the first and last days; and because he was there.
15. He flew in more than one war.