The first of a two session program on Technical Sergeant Joe Girz, a Tiffin native, who flew 57 combat missions during WWII, as a Radio Operator-Waist Gunner in B-26 Martin Marauder medium bombers. TSgt Girz kept a personal log of each of his missions while serving in the 17th Bombardment Group.

Tom Girz, Joe’s son, has spent years researching , writing and assembling the stories in order to present this whole story of true patriotism, courage, and survival - not uncommon traits in those we now refer to as The Greatest Generation - but also a deeply personal one for all who knew Joe Girz. Tom places TSgt Girz’s personal story within the greater war effort - the air and ground operations of the Mediterranean and European conflicts.

A career civilian employee of the US Air Force for 32 years, Tom held his retirement ceremony from federal service in 2016 at the National Museum of the USAF, in front of the B-26 Martin Marauder display to commemorate both his, and his father’s service to our nation.

Tom has given this presentation on the lecture circuit in the greater Dayton area to historical societies and libraries. He will also be presenting these sessions as part of a summer program at the University of Dayton. We are grateful to have the opportunity to host Tom and listen to the adventures of a native son.

(This presentation is accompanied by numerous photos).