Back in 2008, in Weekend Wings #28, I profiled a raid on the oil refineries at Balikpapan (now part of Indonesia) by US bombers during 1944. It was one of the most difficult and demanding air attacks of the Pacific War. Some time later, Mr. Pete Hobstetter contacted me to inform me that his father had flown on that raid. He allowed me to reproduce some of his father's recollections of the mission. (Some other children of those who flew on that mission added their comments below that post - they're worth reading.)
Today I received another e-mail from Mr. Hobstetter. He's compiled a video documentary on the Balikpapan raid. I've embedded it below.
Thanks for letting me know about your video report, Mr. Hobstetter. The Balikpapan raid remains a remarkable achievement in the face of tremendous odds, and an example to all who serve.
Peter
Very enlightening for those of us that weren't even glimmers in our daddies’ eyes when they endured such amazing, odds.
ReplyDeleteThe last WW2 vets of my family went home in 2010. My wife's father is the last on her side. All services were represented save the Coast Guard
They never spoke of their combat experiences, only of drinking illicit beer and wine, or swimming in the clearest ocean water and of winning and then losing vast fortunes playing pinochle, dice or darts. They made it sound like they were on a grand vacation…little did we know.
Excellent video! I felt right there in the left seat. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteLeatherneck
At first the modeling turned me off, but it didn't take long to make a complete capture. Well told and music well selected, I learned and enjoyed it. Some of the things that generation agreed to try when the odds were so much against them are beyond words.
ReplyDeleteWhat amazing documentary. Thanks Peter, and Mr.Hosbtetter for sharing this. May all those heroes rest in peace and may we be richer for their example!
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