#VeteranOfTheDay Edmond Thomas Burgess

Today’s #VeteranOfTheDay is Army Air Corps Veteran Edmond Thomas Burgess. Edmond served during World War II.

Edmond enlisted in the Army Air Corps in Aug. 1941. After receiving extensive crew member and gunnery training, he was assigned to the European Theater as an aerial gunner to the 510th Bomb Squadron, 351st Bomb Group.

On Jan. 11, 1944, Edmond’s mission was to attack aviation industry sites in Germany. The crew of B-17 bomber, nicknamed April Girl, did their preflight and loaded onto the aircraft as they had the previous 10 missions, where Edmond served as the tail gunner. April Girl was suddenly shot down 30 minutes into the flight. Due to his position in the plane and the surprise attack by German fighters Edmond was killed in action when the plane was shot down.

For his sacrifice and bravery, he was awarded the Purple Heart, American Campaign Medal, European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and World War II Victory Medal.

We honor his service.

Nominate a Veteran for #VeteranOfTheDay

Do you want to light up the face of a special Veteran? Have you been wondering how to tell your Veteran they are special to you? You’re in luck! VA’s #VeteranOfTheDay social media feature is an opportunity to highlight your Veteran and his/her service.

It’s easy to nominate a Veteran. All it takes is an email to newmedia@va.gov with as much information as you can put together, along with some good photos. Visit our blog post about nominating to learn how to create the best submission.

Graphic By Kierra Willis: Kierra Willis is a Graphic Communication Major at the University of Maryland University College. She currently has an AAS in Graphic Design and Visual Communications.