Edward Bollen, Flying Tiger Pilot who Apologized to the Widow of the Japanese Pilot whom he Shot Dow

"Edward "Smokey" Bollen spent 34 years as a fighter pilot, seeing combat with one of the most legendary battle units in World War II.

But he described sitting down at a typewriter to write a letter on Nov. 1, 1989, as one of the most difficult things he'd ever had to do.

"I am the one who shot down your husband on April 2, 1945 over Lunghwa Airfield, Shanghai, Ch'ina,' he wrote to the widow of a Japanese soldier who parachuted out of the downed plane but did not survive. 'It is very hard to put into words my regrets and sorrow for you and your family.'

"Col. Bollen, a longtime resident of Franklin Park and a retired commander in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, died Wednesday in Winchester, Va. He was 89."

Obituary: Edward Bollen / WWII fighter pilot wrote apology to widow of Japanese soldier

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Rest easy, Col. Bollen

 

RIP Colonel Sir!

 

His gesture to the widow, was a gallant one. Rest in peace Sir

 

I wholeheartedly commend Col. Bollen for his letter - that must have taken some strong decision making to finally write it.

And RIP Sir.

 

RIP. Colonel. Character...not everyone has it.

 

RIP