Veterans Honored As World War II Aircraft Arrive in Barnstable

A World War II Era B-24 Bomber

A World War II Era B-24 Bomber

HYANNIS – Veterans were honored Wednesday at Barnstable Airport after the arrival of three World War II era aircraft.

The planes are in Barnstable as part of the Wings of Freedom Tour.

Two World War II veterans were on hand for ceremonies, including 92 year old Herman Bennett, who lived in New Seabury before retiring to Florida. For Bennett, being at the ceremony was personal.

“I question the fact that I made it, and all the other comrades didn’t make it,” said Bennett, “so I come back to see these things and kind of say a little prayer for them.”

Bennett served as a B-24 engineer, and was stationed in North Africa during the campaign against the forces of German General Edwin Rommel. After stops in Casablanca and Tunis, Bennett was moved to Italy, where he was wounded.

“It was a privilege serving, but certainly no fun. I saw many of my comrades killed and wounded,” he said, “I’m just glad to be here.”

The three vintage planes, a B-17 and B-24 bombers and a P-51 Mustang, are at the airport until Friday.



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