101-Year-Old Veteran’s Wish Fulfilled with Stunning Flight Over New York City

On his 101st birthday, World War II combat pilot Donald Stern fulfilled his lifelong dream of flying over New York City in a Cessna Skyhawk. The flight took place at Central Jersey Regional Airport in Hillsborough Township, piloted by retired Air Force Major Glenn Sinibaldi. Accompanying him was his 63-year-old son Russell.

During their 40-minute flight, the plane soared over several New York City and New Jersey landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. According to Russell, his father seemed comfortable and at ease during the flight, almost as if he were back at home.

Upon landing, Stern expressed his gratitude with a salute to those waiting for him. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps 483rd Bombardment Group, completing 32 combat missions in a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. His final mission took place on April 24, 1945, just one day before his 22nd birthday.

The group flew missions over several European countries, including Italy, France, Germany