Leon L. Barnes, a B17 tail gunner, was killed at the end of a dog fight when the rear stabilizer was sheared off by another damaged plane's parts. Debris were shot into his head and neck and he died instantly. Despite the damage, the pilot was able to land safely and Leon was the only Gold Brick casualty that day.

But he isn't just a casualty. He had a family, a life before the war, and his character.

Listen and find out a little bit more about Leon Lasher Barnes' short 23 years and honor my hometown WWII Fallen Warrior.

Websites referred to during podcast:

https://warfarehistorynetwork.com/article/diary-of-a-b-17-tail-gunner/

https://100thbg.com/aircraft/?aircraft_id=10364