SALT LAKE CITY, Utah –
The Utah Air National Guard’s 151st Air Refueling Wing will conduct a KC-135R flyover for the graveside service of retired U.S Air Force Col. Gail (Hal) Seymour Halvorsen, on Feb. 22, 2022, at 1 p.m., over the Provo City Cemetery, Provo, Utah. Halvorsen was best known as the “Berlin Candy Bomber.”
“It is with heavy hearts and an exceptional privilege that the 151st Air Refueling Wing gets to take part in honoring one of Utah’s most cherished war heroes, Col. Gail Seymour Halvorsen, with a KC-135 flyover,” said Col. Robert B. Taylor, commander of the 151st Air Refueling Wing. “The citizens of Utah are honored to recognize Col. Halvorsen as one of our own and we hope this flyover serves to acknowledge the light he brought to so many during such a dark time in history.”
The flyover will be conducted by the following members of the 191st Air Refueling Squadron, 151st ARW: Lt. Col. Adam Bradbury, Maj. David Palmer, 1st Lt. Nathaniel Cragun, Master Sgt. Jason Blood, and Master Sgt. Bradley Harris.
“The man will surely be missed, but his example of greatness will live on in the memories of all who knew him, or knew of him, through his extraordinary deeds, not only during World War II but throughout his life,” Taylor added.
The 151st ARW has a proven track record of extending global reach and power through air refueling, aeromedical evacuations, and airlift in support of U.S. and allied military forces, as well as supporting various domestic operations as needed.