September 2010
Today's spotlight falls on a member of the legendary "Flying Tigers'. The name "Flying Tigers" evokes memories
of the famous airmen of the "American Volunteer Group" (AVG) that fought with great distinction in the Chinese
Air Force in Southeast Asia. The AVG never had more than 55 combat aircraft, capable of flight, and never more
than 70 trained pilots at any time in their 7 months of service. The AVG lost only 8 pilots while being paid for 286
Japanese aircraft shot down and officially claimed as "kills". Many other Japanese "probable's" littered the jungle
floor, but lacked the needed confirmation. These men were volunteers from the Army, Navy and Marine Corp. that
fought for justice, honor, glory and money according to their own priorities. They were led by General Claire Lee
Chennault, who had been in China since the mid-thirties. In China, equipped with P-40's he developed the basic
fighter plane tactics that American fighter pilots would use throughout the war.
Tomorrow (14 August, 2010) I will conduct funeral services for one of the last few remaining "Flying Tigers" of
WW11.
On the 11th of August, 2010, Anthony (Tony) J. Perry passed away, aged 94 years. He was preceded in death by
his wife Euretta. Surviving are his children, Loretta (Gordon) Ihrig, James (Aimee) Perry, Mark (Mellisa) Perry,
stepson Charles Young. Seven grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Tony proudly served his country in the
U.S. Army, 407th Fighter Squadron, 372nd Fighter Group. The funeral service 14 August, 2010 at Chapel Hill
Memorial Gardens Chapel, Grand Rapids, Michigan.
A word of wisdom...
"There is no guarantee on tomorrow or the next hour, just be sure to tell your loved ones when they leave for
school, work, or play that you love them. If something should happen, you will have that peace that they knew you
loved them."
On the lighter side...
The young man went to his preacher and said " I need you to pray for my hearing". The preacher placed his hands
on each side of the young man's head and prays and prays. When he's done, he asks the young man " how's your
hearing now?" "I don't know" say's the young man. "I don't go to Court until next Monday."
