Our weekly series, Remembering Our Veterans, continues with the story of Harry Fornalczyk.

Growing up in Erie, he had a passion for math, technical subjects, and high school football. A star on the Academy football squad, his best was yet to come.

We caught up with Harry at the Sarah Reed Senior Living Center, where he has resided since the early part of this decade. In less than two months, this World War II veteran will turn one hundred years old.

"I'm proud to be a veteran," said Harry. "My heart goes out to those who never made it back."

He joined the Air Force right out of high school, became a pilot, and went on 13 bombing missions. His 13th trip proved to be unlucky, as he was forced to make a crash landing. Harry  survived and was captured, spending the next three months in a prison camp.

"I survived the walk from one camp to camp to another, so I've been pretty lucky," said Harry. "It was a little bit scary, because I had no idea what was going to happen. It was one of those things where I let God help me." 

Harry was married for over 75 years to Laura Nicholas, who passed away in early 2022. He continues to battle on.

he inscription on Harry's military photograph reads, "To the best wife in the world, love, Harry."

Thank you for your service, Harry Fornalczyk.