10 US servicemen died when their bomber a B-17 flying fortress named Mi Amigo crashed in Endcliffe park in Sheffield, 22nd February 1944, 75 years ago.
Tony Foulds and other children were in the park at the time apparently because boys from two rival schools were fighting. Tony believes the pilot could have landed on the green but chose not to because of the danger to the children, Tony was 8 at the time.
A memorial was build in 1969 and Tony has tended the memorial ever since. He always dreamed of a fly past to honor those who he believes saved his life. Today he got his wish after a chance meeting with BBC Breakfast presenter Dan Walker.
All I can say is respect to the aircrew and respect to you sir Tony Foulds for your dedication. You deserved your day.
The 10 men killed in the crash were:
Pilot Lt John Kriegshauser, pilot from Missouri
2nd Lt Lyle Curtis, co-pilot from Idaho
2nd Lt John Humphrey, navigator from Illinois
Melchor Hernandez, bombardier from California
Robert Mayfield, radio operator from Illinois
Vito Ambrosio, waist gunner from New York
Harry Estabrooks, flight engineer and top turret gunner from Kansas
Harry Estabrooks, flight engineer and top turret gunner from Kansas
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