Saturday, June 4th, 2011

Paluel France

After unloading from the ferry, we made our way to Paluel France where we were greeted by the Mayor of Paluel, other local and regional dignitaires and Daniel Lefebvre.   Mr. Lefebvre has been in contact with my father for nearly 3-5 years now, working on this very project! 

We then drove thru the country and unloaded the bus at a sight honoring those POW's of WWII and the flight crews that were at the "Lucky Strike Air Strip" during the war.  Although we didn't get to walk on the reminants of the air strip, emotions ran high as we drove along side. 

We were then off to the Paluel Community Center for a wonderful French lunch!  Soon it was time to make our way to the Dedication Ceremony, held coast side near the spot Uncle Jim's plane went down.  Thru the entire ceremony, dad did amazing...emotions were deep for everyone there, as the French recognized this bit of history so meaningful to their country and the two veterans and the other family members of our tour group remembered their loved ones and others touched by this war. 

For now, I will let the pictures do the talking...

Dad and Mel Dart - both WWII Veterans

Our tour group and new-found extended family!!

Daniel Lefebvre & TV Crew

The Lucky Strike actually air strip, the French allow this to remain in the middle of a field yet today.

Dad after his emotional TV interview.

Approaching the dedication site...emotions continue to build for all of us!

Dad with Daniel Lefebvre

Before the unveiling...notice the cliff in the background.

Dad presenting the Mayor of Paluel with a picture of James Bechtel.

The ribon cutting, each member of the tour was able to have a piece of the ribbon. 

The monument...it is amazing!  The etched B-17, eht engraved names of all 10 members of the "Flight Crew" and the railroad timbers representing the crew's mission on the day they were shot down.  Destroying the rail way, offered protection from the enemy to France! 

Laying a wreath from the 91st Bomb Guard Group in honor of flight crew lost on March 28th, 1943.

Dad signing one of the WWII vehicles for the Village of Paluel. 

To the left of this cliff in the water, at least two men present at today's dedication, watched my Uncle Jim's plane and crew be shot down on March 28th, 1943 - they were very young boys, watching with their families and hoping in some way to be able to assist the airmen. 

Dad, me and Gary Hall, the person who made this all possible for my dad...Gary, you will never know what this has meant to my dad to be present for this unveiling and to participate in a proper send off for his brother and his flight crew!  Thank you so much and may God Bless You!

The presentation and reception after the dedication back at the Community Center of Paluel. 

Dad and three members of the Pink Lady B-17 Flight Crew...the end to a wonderful celebration!