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The Greatest B-17 Gunner: Hewitt Dunn’s Story
Hewitt Dunn was a B-17 Flying Fortress gunner who flew 104 combat missions over Europe during World War II. He is considered one of the greatest B-17 gunners of the war, but his story has been largely forgotten. This video explores Dunn’s combat missions, his mysterious death, and the reasons why his story has been erased from history.
Early Life and Military Service
Hewitt Dunn was born in 1921 in the United States. He enlisted in the Army Air Forces in 1942 and was assigned to the 8th Air Force. Dunn was trained as a B-17 gunner and was assigned to the 384th Bomb Group. The 384th Bomb Group was one of the most decorated units in the 8th Air Force, and Dunn flew on many of the group’s most dangerous missions.
Combat Missions
Dunn’s first combat mission was on August 17, 1943. He flew on many of the 384th Bomb Group’s most dangerous missions, including the bombing of Schweinfurt, the bombing of Regensburg, and the bombing of Berlin. Dunn was also involved in the liberation of France and the bombing of Germany.
Dunn was a skilled gunner and he shot down many enemy aircraft. He was also a brave and determined soldier. He often flew on missions that were considered too dangerous for other gunners. He was a true hero of the war.
Mysterious Death
Dunn died on September 10, 1944, when his B-17 was shot down over Germany. The crew of the B-17 was captured by the Germans. Dunn was killed in the crash.
The circumstances surrounding Dunn’s death are still shrouded in mystery. Some people believe that he was killed in action, while others believe that he was executed by the Germans. The truth of Dunn’s death may never be known.
Why Dunn’s Story Has Been Forgotten
Dunn’s story has been largely forgotten for several reasons. First, he was a quiet and unassuming man. He never sought attention for his heroism. Second, he died in a relatively obscure incident. Third, his story has been overshadowed by the stories of other famous World War II heroes.
However, Dunn’s story is an important one. He was a true hero of the war and his story deserves to be told. This video is a tribute to Hewitt Dunn and all of the other brave men and women who fought in World War II.
Conclusion
Hewitt Dunn was a true hero of World War II. He flew on many of the most dangerous missions of the war and he shot down many enemy aircraft. He was a brave and determined soldier who deserves to be remembered.
Dunn’s story is a reminder of the sacrifices that were made by the men and women who fought in World War II. It is also a reminder of the importance of remembering our heroes.