Vetcom Forum Remembers Veterans
Mark Gallagher and his son Brian, Margate, NJ, remember and honor their father and “grand pop”, and all Veterans who served with distinction in WWII:
“Dad was born on February 22, 1923 and when he graduated high school in 1941 he and his twin brother, like many thousands of Americans, enlisted into the Military to serve their Country. They were just 18.”
He was John C. Gallagher, Tech. Sgt., 8th Air Force, 95th Bomb Group, 334th Squadron. He flew 20 missions and was credited with shooting down three Nazi fighter planes. On a raid on Stuttgart, September 6, 1943 his plane was shot down and he was captured and became a POW in Krems, Austria, Stalag 17-B. In that one raid 45 of the 171 planes that reached target were lost - 450 men killed or captured.
Gallagher was repatriated and later received The Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal and other honors. He never said much about it, but it shaped his life and his memories of those who did not return.
John’s Grandson, Brian, remembers his “grand pop,” and speaks of his influence on his thinking, attitudes and love of country. He vividly remembers attending his Military funeral at Arlington Cemetery in April, 2001, where John rests in Sec.44 Grave 317. Brian says “I am always amazed at, and humbled by the courage of so many young boys, who quickly became men and ‘brothers’, to join in service to Country and our Allies.”
“My Dad and my brothers and sisters visited the Stalag 17-B POW camp in Krems, Austria, and that memory will be with me as a constant reminder that we cannot forget why they served. Grand pop’s story became the subject of my essay for my college applications and those lessons learned will help me go forward with my life.”
Related products you may like:
Testimonials:
-
I received my United States MA-1 Bravo Jacket yesterday and I am very pleased with it. Thanks
Charles W
-
Thank you very much for the two beautiful garments! Both the MA1-Bravo Jacket and the Concealed Carry Soft Shell Vest fit perfectly and are tailored to perfection. They are rugged and warm, exactly what I was looking for.
Ed J.
-
I received the jacket this past Wednesday. I just love it. Good quality, feels great, and looks sharp. I have been looking for such a jacket the past few years and have finally found it.
Edward A.
-
Dear Vetcom, Received the MA-1 Bravo Jacket yesterday. Thank you so very much, made a Veteran very happy. Was so hoping to have it on time for him to wear on Veterans Day and you made sure it was here in time. The jacket is beautiful and my husband just loves it. Again, thank you so very much and God bless.
Jessie H.
More News & Stories:
There are hundreds of historical markers and memorials located all across the United States. Some commemorate points of historical interest, important battles, or significant cultural achievements. Many of these monuments help document the history of different regions of the country and celebrate the achievements of the people who lived there. Of all the monuments that you could choose to visit in this country, some of the most interesting and significant ones are war memorials.
Read more
When we talk about supporting our troops, what does that really mean? To some people, support is shown in the form of a sticker with a yellow ribbon or a banner expressing this sentiment. To others, support is talking about the value of military service and the importance of caring for veterans and their families
Read more
Veterans are some of the most important people in our country. Their service and sacrifice has made possible many of the advantages that everyone enjoys each day. There are many people who are called by a spirit of service and choose to take up this path of sacrifice. First responders, including fire fighters and police officers, are also distinguished by their proud history of personal sacrifice in the service of others. In fact, there is one day when a special effort is made to remember the brave actions of these and other first responders. Being mindful of the effort these people put in on a daily basis is one way of being supportive of their very important work.
Read more
The idea of military service can seem very distant and alien to many people. The call to serve one’s country is not something that everyone responds to or chooses to express through military service in particular. Nonetheless, everyone has the ability to reach out and offer support, kindness, and fellowship to service members who are far from home. Being deployed comes with a lot of stress and uncertainty even in times of peace; being far away from familiar faces is difficult for any length of time and some service members will go for several years with just a few short periods of contact with family members. There are several ways that your family, community service group, church congregation, scout troop, or just your circle of friends can show your support and gratitude for the women and men whose sacrifices make our country strong.
Read more
Parents are faced with all kinds of complex tasks that go above and beyond providing for the material needs of their family. Giving children an appreciation of values like duty and service can be challenging for even the best-intentioned mother or father. Honoring veterans and active service members can also be a difficult undertaking, especially if the child does not have any immediate family members that they can look to as examples. Parents therefore have to come up with ways of honoring veterans in a manner that children can relate to.
Read more
