Casey Bukowski: On the Verge of War

Live Life Every Golden Minute Of It

In this episode, I conclude my interview with Casey Bukowski, a former B‑17 waist gunner who is now 101 years old. Casey reflects on the life he’s lived since WWII — a life shaped by resilience, gratitude, and a mantra he repeats with unwavering conviction: “Live life every golden minute of it.” He shares what keeps him going, what gives his days meaning, and why he has never stopped moving forward. To deepen the historical context, we also speak with Sarah Allen, chairperson of the Ridgewell Air Museum in Essex. Sarah traces the history of the Ridgewell airfield, once home to the 381st Bomb Group, and describes how the museum — housed in the former hospital wing — preserves the stories, artifacts, and human experiences of the airmen who served there. Together, Casey and Sarah offer a powerful blend of lived memory and historical insight, connecting past and present through courage, community, and the enduring value of every minute we’re given.

Camp Life: Not The Boy Scouts

In this episode, Casey recounts his time in Stalag Luft 6 and Stalag Luft 4. He also tells about his experiences on the 86 day Death March through Germany before his liberation.

It's Not Gonna Be A Good Day

In this episode, Casey tells the story of the fateful day when he and his crew were shot down for a second time. This time while on a mission to Germany. This mission occured on President's Day, February 22, 1944.

Casey Learns To Jump

In this episode, Casey recounts the training accident that forced him and his crew to bail out, reflects on his time at Ridgewell Air Base in Essex, and shares the deep bond he felt for Lieutenant Flaherty and the other crew members.

Casey Bukowski: On the Verge of War

In this episode, I speak with Casey about his life before the war. He reflects on his early romance with the woman who would become his wife and describes his experience after Pearl Harbor, when he enlisted in the Army Air Corps and began training to become a B‑17 waist gunner.