Today (Thursday, Aug. 29) we pause to honor the service of Bill Tune, a 1942 graduate of Berry College, who along with his crew were shot down on this date in 1944 over what is now the Czech Republic.
During World War II, bomber crews faced staggering casualty rates, and it became common practice for them to be retired after completing 50 missions. Lead pilot for the 20th Squadron, Bill had led his crew on 48 missions, piloting B-17s over some of the most heavily defended targets in Central Europe. They were on the brink of returning home when Bill's formation, including his crew and 10 other planes, were shot down. Forty airmen were killed, another 46 spent the rest of the war as prisoners of war, and only four managed to evade capture.
Although Bill safely parachuted to the ground, he was severely wounded. Czech citizens from the nearby village of Rudice assisted him, but despite their efforts, Bill was eventually captured by enemy forces. He spent months in hospitals in Czechoslovakia and Germany before his internment as a prisoner of war in Stalag Luft from which he and his fellow POWs were liberated in May 1945.
Upon his return to the United States, the Berry industrial arts grad resumed his studies, earning a bachelor's degree in architecture from Auburn University. His successful career as an architect spanned half a century. Tune passed away Oct. 30, 2008, in his Alabama home, but his legacy of bravery and resilience continues to inspire.
