Enola Gay.....

My Father, worked his entire career at DuPont and actually worked with VanKirk. He often told us about VanKirk and his most important mission. According to my Dad's stories the crew of the Enola Gay had no idea if they would survive - I was glad that the article points this out. I was always amazed at the heroism of men on a mission like that. God rest his soul.
 
I continually am amazed at these stories of the Greatest Generation. RIP Captain VanKirk.
 
I would contest "greatest generation" but some really amazing stories.

I think we've reached a point where it should be "Enola Happy".... don't want to offend anyone.

But is all seriousness, amazing, and imagine how much self reflection is involved after being involved with such action. I can't imagine it was easy.
 
Studying History…..

After reading and studying this era of history, the development and decision to use such a weapon must have been unthinkable. But I do agree, the release of such force was necessary to save lives. Especially the live of the japanese people. Many had criticized the use of such force and the crew for not accepting their mission. But who opposed have no clue of a greater destruction if a japanese invasion had taken place. Truman did do the right thing.

Push Hard, Press Forward
 
Tug, my Dad would have agreed entirely... he was an Army nurse... had metals for Philippines campaign and most significantly for Okinawa. He was very busy as a triage nurse on Okinawa (the first 'home' island invaded), ... a very bad business... and many were anticipating an even bigger bloodbath for the main invasion. When the bombs were dropped, Pop said he was 'out of business' almost immediately. (and he was pleased about that beyond words). The Japanese lost the will to fight, and the war eventually ended. He went on to spend a year in occupation, a nice peaceful year.
 
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