Joe Foss

Your grandfather was mentioned by my father when he was talking about his tour of duty in Espírito Santo in 1942. Dad was a first day machinist mate assigned to repair an aircraft. The pilot of that plane was Capt. Joe Foss. Dad said the pilot was extremely polite and memorable. Later he heard that Foss was elected governor of South Dakota.
I just thought I’d mention the short connection we have. So sorry for your loss.

I have a artist rendition of a portrait of your grandfather. I was wondering if you want it.

Saepe Expertus, Semper Fidelis, Fratres Aeterni.

Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever.

Thank you for your service to this nation.

You were one of the greatest of the greatest generation.

I look forward to meeting Joe Foss in Heaven.

Please note the passing of Col. Thomas Furlow, Joe's wingman, on 19 June 2007. Col. Furlow also went on to command the "Black Sheep" squadron.

Shortly after graduating from pilot training in Sept 56 and returning to the SDANG as a brand new 2nd Lt I met Joe Foss.About 6 months later when he made a return visit and remembered my name it was one of the proudest moments of my life.
Colonel Donald Knutson, USAF Ret.

It has been a while. I would like only to express the deep honor I felt to serve as an honor guard at General Foss' funeral many years ago. I was a Private first class and new to the Marines at the time. I had the pleasure of speaking to several Medal of Honor winning heroes at the funeral and was in awe of their humble stoic demeanor. I have since faught my own war and finished my time in the Marine Corps and began a carrer and family but i still look back on that day as one of the deepest...