World War II combat pilot spends 101st birthday flying over NYC
World War II combat pilot Donald Stern was granted his birthday wish, marking his 101st year by flying over New York City in a Cessna Skyhawk.
Stern, who was born in New York City, rode shotgun on a 40-minute flight that took off from Central Jersey Regional Airport in Hillsborough Township, according to NJ.com.
The plane was reportedly piloted by retired Air Force Major Glenn Sinibaldi as it soared over New York City and New Jersey landmarks, with the centenarian birthday boy and his 63-year-old son Russell onboard.
“He seemed comfortable and almost at home,” Stern’s son told NJ.com.
Stern’s older son, Howard, waited on the ground for his father and brother to return, where he and other family members and friends were waiting with a birthday cake.
“Thank you,” the combat veteran said with a salute after landing.
Stern was reportedly assigned to the U.S. Army Air Corps 483rd Bombardment Group, where he flew 32 combat missions in a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. His last mission took place April 24, 1945 — the day before his 22nd birthday.
The 483rd is credited with flying missions over Italy, France, Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Austria, Hungary, Romania, Yugoslavia, and Greece. Stern reportedly studied at Cooper Union after returning from the war and later moved his family to South Brunswick, N.J.
