Recapturing An Airborne Legacy

To the Editor:

I read with interest the article about Rich Krikorian and his work with the B-17 bomber (“A Newtown Man’s Long-Held Dream Takes Wing On A B-17,” August 15). Twenty-four years ago, I served at Newtown Hook & Ladder with Rich, and have always known he is dedicated to public service. One of my neighbors is a woman whose father was killed in a B-17 bomber during World War II in 1944. She was less than 2 years old when he died and never knew him. She held on to his legacy and the stories of his service during the war for the past 64 years.

On August 20, I took this friend to Oxford Airport to go up in the B-17 bomber, and to give her some perspective of what her father’s sacrifice was all about in service to his country. Once at Oxford, we were met by an enthusiastic group of fans looking at the aircraft. Two gentlemen were sons of former B-17 crewmembers who made it through the war, but are no longer with us. The two gentlemen and my friend formed an instant bond with stories of their fathers.

We went over for the preflight briefing, which was given by none other than Rich Krikorian! Once on board Rich, acting as crew chief, made sure everyone was safely seated and belted, and the plane took to the skies. Once airborne, Rich supervised the entire flight, showing people the various positions the crewmembers took, providing some history, and above all making sure we were all safe. He took extra care in watching out for my friend, and going to extra lengths explaining things to her. The flight was fantastic, and my friend felt as though she moved closer to her father’s spirit. Once back on the ground, Rich gave my friend a ground tour, including the ball turret, the seat in which her father was killed. Throughout the entire experience, Rich was professional, knowledgeable, and, above all, caring.

Newtown is lucky to have such a man in their community.

Bernie Meehan

31 Hemlock Road, Roxbury                                         August 21, 2008

(Editor’s Note: See related story about Mr Krikorian on page C-ONE.)