Today’s #VeteranOfTheDay is Army Air Corps Veteran Henry C. Jimenez. Henry served during World War II from 1942 to 1945.
After Henry signed up for selective service in high school he was drafted. He was assigned to Fort MacArthur where it was decided he would be in the Army Air Corps due to his background in engines and mechanics. Henry went to various training sites around the United States where he learned how to work on engines. From there, he was sent to Suffolk, England.
In an interview with the Veteran’s History Project, Henry recalls his time in England with the 8th Air Force, 353rd Fighter Group. His job was a refueling operator and was part of the alert crew. The crew would spend almost 18 hour days servicing aircraft after a mission, and even fixing planes that had been shot. His most memorable day was when he had the opportunity to fly airplanes, and excitedly reminisces flying Oxfords, Piper Cubs, B17’s, B24’s, and B6’s. For his service, Henry was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.
Henry passed away June 30, 2012.
We honor your service, Henry.
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.
Veterans History Project
This #VeteranOfTheDay profile was created with interviews submitted to the Veterans History Project. The project collects, preserves, and makes accessible the personal accounts of American war Veterans so that future generations may hear directly from Veterans and better understand the realities of war. Find out more at http://www.loc.gov/vets/.
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.
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