Dr. Naomi Lin
New Hampshire’s Aviation Museum Celebrates a Piece of History
In a moving tribute over Veterans Day weekend, the Aviation Museum of New Hampshire showcased a significant artifact: a fragment of a B-17 Flying Fortress, which was piloted by Captain Harl Pease, a World War II aviator from Plymouth, New Hampshire. Captain Pease was a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps who was shot down on August 7, 1942, while participating in a daring raid on the Japanese-controlled island of Rabaul, now part of Papua New Guinea.
The wreckage of Pease’s aircraft remained hidden in the dense jungle until its discovery in the 1980s. Since its unearthing, the site has been an important spot for historians and collectors of World War II memorabilia. This past Saturday, a fragment of Pease’s B-17 was donated to the museum by Steve and Gisela Heffelfinger of Derry, New Hampshire. Steve, who volunteers at the museum, has taken on the responsibility of managing its archives.
The Legacy of a Hero
It was later revealed, thanks to testimonies from Catholic priests in a Rabaul prison camp, that Captain Pease and another crewman had initially survived the crash only to be captured and executed by Japanese forces. In recognition of his bravery and ultimate sacrifice, the Pease family was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. He is the only aviator from New Hampshire to have received this distinction.
The B-17 fuselage fragment now holds a place of honor in the museum, framed alongside a depiction of the aircraft courtesy of aviation artist Ron Cole. It serves as a timeless tribute to Captain Harl Pease and his enduring legacy of courage.
The Forgotten Hero: Unveiling Captain Harl Pease’s Legacy at New Hampshire’s Aviation Museum
A Tribute to Courage and Sacrifice
In a poignant homage over Veterans Day weekend, the Aviation Museum of New Hampshire illuminated a captivating piece of history by showcasing a fragment of a B-17 Flying Fortress piloted by the heroic Captain Harl Pease. A celebrated World War II aviator hailing from Plymouth, New Hampshire, Pease is remembered for his bravery during a perilous 1942 raid against Japanese forces on the island of Rabaul, now part of Papua New Guinea. Tragically, Captain Pease’s aircraft was shot down, leading to his capture and execution. His story, both heartbreaking and inspiring, resonates deeply within the corridors of the museum.
Unearthing a Long-Buried Past
The wreckage of Pease’s aircraft lay hidden in the dense jungles of Rabaul until its discovery in the 1980s. Over the years, the site became a focal point for historians and collectors of World War II memorabilia. This past weekend, a fragment of Pease’s B-17 was graciously donated to the museum by Derry residents Steve and Gisela Heffelfinger. Steve, a dedicated museum volunteer, has assumed responsibility for managing the museum’s archives, ensuring that Pease’s valorous story is preserved for future generations.
Interesting Facts and Controversies
– Medal of Honor: Captain Pease was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, marking him as the only aviator from New Hampshire to receive this prestigious accolade.
– Historical Significance: The Rabaul raid was a crucial operation during World War II. The strategic location of Rabaul made it a prime target for Allied forces.
– Mystery and Myth: For years, the fate of Captain Pease and his crew remained shrouded in mystery until revelations from Catholic priests in a Rabaul prison camp confirmed his capture and subsequent execution.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Exhibit
– Advantages:
– Educational Value: The exhibit offers a profound educational opportunity, allowing visitors to delve into the intricacies of World War II history.
– Historical Preservation: The display of artifacts like the B-17 fragment helps preserve vital pieces of military history, ensuring the stories of heroes like Captain Pease endure.
– Disadvantages:
– Limited Context: Without broader narratives or additional artifacts, the exhibit might not fully convey the complex history of the Rabaul raid or the broader impacts of World War II.
– Emotional Impact: The tragic end of Captain Pease might evoke strong emotional responses from visitors, which could be intense for some.
Questions and Answers
– Why is Captain Harl Pease significant?
Captain Pease is significant for his bravery during a daring World War II raid, his tragic fate, and his recognition as a Medal of Honor recipient.
– What is the importance of the B-17 Flying Fortress?
The B-17 Flying Fortress was a crucial aircraft during World War II, known for its durability and strategic bombing capabilities, playing a vital role in many operations.
Suggested Related Links:
– National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
– Smithsonian Magazine
– History Channel
