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The Goodness of Colonel Halvorsen, the Candy Bomber

With the legendary WWII veteran’s passing at age 101, we reflect on his special service in the Berlin Airlift.

Halvorson crewed and flew WWII combat veteran, Placid Lassie. [Photo: Jon Helminiak]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Col. Gail Halvorsen, known as "The Candy Bomber," passed away at 101, remembered for his profound goodness and humanitarian spirit.
  • During the Berlin Airlift following WWII, Halvorsen initiated "Operation Little Vittles," famously dropping candy attached to tiny parachutes for German children, providing hope amidst hardship.
  • His legacy as a hero was widely celebrated, including his participation in the 70th-anniversary commemoration of the Berlin Airlift in 2019, where he was honored for his enduring impact.
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“I’ll miss his goodness in the world.”

That was the immediate text I took in from a friend after learning the news that Col. Gail Halvorsen, aka “The Candy Bomber,” had died Wednesday at the age of 101.

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