Annually, millions of people, from all walks of life, flock to airshows around the world. People attend these events for different reasons. For some, it is a way to reconnect with something that had been a part of their lives. While others, it the canvas from where they attempt to compose that photographic masterpiece. That “perfect picture” is as much skill and technique as it is also about being at the right place at the right time.

As anywhere else in life, an airshow is a place where the paths of perfect strangers intersect. While covering the New Jersey Aviation Hall of Fame’s Wings and Wheels airshow for The Air Museum Network, a casual comment by a lovely lady shifted the focus of a lens from all metal flying machines to a subject of flesh and blood. This is a story that cannot be told through the eyes of a reporter. It would be an injustice for it is too personal.

Sgt. Chester "Rocky" & Mrs Sosnowski - photo by Richard Souza
Sgt. Chester “Rocky” & Mrs Sosnowski

Not one to shy away from a conversation, I responded to the comment made by the lovely lady and listened attentively as I was told why she had ventured out on this overcast day. As the exchange progressed, I realized that that this lovely lady wanted me to meet her husband.

Moments later, I noticed a gentleman approaching. The closer he got, the larger this lovely lady’s smile became. AHH, that would be him. This gentleman was sporting his genuine United States Army Air Corp uniform Jacket that still fit like a glove. His service “crush cap” sat on his head with the perfect slant and tilt. With pep in the step of an 18 year old and the firm handshake of a confident man, this gentleman introduced himself as Chester… Sergeant Chester Sosnowski. “That’s S O S N O W S K I but everybody calls me Rocky”.

Channeling my inner Joseph Pulitzer, I make sure I took notes. Sgt. Sosnowski was with the 367th bomber squadron 306th Bomb Group. 70 years ago, Sgt. Chester Sosnowski was a Flight Engineer and top turret gunner on a B-17. He flew 35 missions over the hostile skies of war torn Europe.

With his head held high and a stern look, Rocky pointed to the patch on the shoulder of his uniform jacket and said “I was with the Eighth Air Force”.

I learned that Rocky had just celebrated his 90th Birthday. As a gift, his family (spearheaded by his daughter Lynn) reserved a special seat on board a B-17G “Flying Fortress”. The Yankee Air Museum’s “Yankee Lady” would be his ride.

This special guest would, once again, be able to take his position behind the flight crew. It seems that friends and family were there to be part of this special day. As much as I tried to stand back and let them enjoy this moment, the family’s gravitational pull would not allow that. Mrs. Sosnowski insisted that I stand in their group pictures. Family and friends stood next to me and spoke to me about how deserving and wonderful Rocky is. I realized then, that this was a very special man. My lens became permanently focused on Rocky.

Sgt. "Rocky" Sosnowski inspecting the Yankee Air Museum's B-17G "Yankee Lady" - photo by Richard Souza
Sgt. “Rocky” Sosnowski inspecting the Yankee Air Museum’s B-17G “Yankee Lady”

Those embarking on the flight began to gather. Once the passengers realized that they were boarding a flight with a World War II Veteran, they asked to take pictures by his side. The crew of the “Yankee Lady” rolled out the red carpet and gave Rocky and his family the royal treatment. After completing the safety briefing, the crew stood back and let the passengers interact with their VIP.

As the hour approached, the weather ceiling began to descend upon the airport and the flight was delayed. As the clock ticked, so were the chances of “Yankee Lady” taking off, but there was still time.

The day was gloomy but the atmosphere was festive. Family, friends, crew and passengers, all perfect strangers to one another, were bonding and all because of Rocky.

Unfortunately time had run out and it appeared the flight wasn’t going to happen. With much regret, the crew of “Yankee Lady” had to scrub the mission. I glanced at Rocky and noticed that, despite the bad news, he was still smiling. The crew opened “Yankee Lady” and allowed Rocky and his family to tour the inside of the aircraft.

Rocky climbed the ladder and went through the front nose hatch like it was nobody’s business. When he exited the plane he stood there for a moment by himself gazing at this fine bird. I placed my hand on his shoulder and asked “Brings back a lot of memories doesn’t it?” and with a smile on his face and pain behind the eyes, he nodded his head and said “Yes, a lot”.

Yankee Air Museum Word War II Service Medal - photo by Richard Souza
Yankee Air Museum Word War II Service Medal

While the family was still gathered by the aircraft, the crew of “Yankee Lady” called for everybody’s attention. They wanted to take the opportunity to publicly thank Rocky for his service and in an impromptu ceremony awarded him Yankee Air Museum WW II Veteran Service award (medal).

This was a fitting tribute to a humble man that has never asked for anything from his country or family. After a crew member placed the medal around his neck, the commander stood before him and popped a salute. Never forgetting his military training, Rocky assumed the position of attention and returned the military courtesy.

My lens had just witnessed something extraordinary. It was no longer about creating a photographic masterpiece, it was about honoring a man and his family.

I want to personally thank Rocky, Mrs. Sosnowski and Lynn for trusting this average Joe with a camera to record forever this precious moment.

The end had arrived. I walked up to Rocky, extended my hand and then hugged this man who, only hours before had been a perfect stranger. Although I tower over Rocky, I will never be as tall as his shadow. With tears in my eyes and a crack in my voice, I said goodbye. As I walked away the scene faded to black. This one’s for you Rocky!

Editor’s Note: Update, we heard from Rocky’s daughter after she read this story and she informed us that Rocky was able to get his flight the following day.

[slickr-flickr tag=”Sgt Sosnowski” items=”16″ type=”gallery”]

Priceless Encounter with a WWII B-17 Air Crew Veteran

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