Red Leader on Fire

The story of Lt. Robert, M. Polich, Sr. a World War II Veteran.

Lt. Polich was a B-17 pilot with the U.S. 8th Air Force, 305 Bomb Group (H), 365 Squadron when he was shot down over Germany. He recovered from his injuries in a German hospital then was transferred to Stalag Luft III and later Stalag VIIIA before the camp was liberated. A native of Deerwood, Minnesota - Lt. Polich eventually retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1966. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross Medal, 4 Air Medals, POW Medal, Purple Heart Medal, along with several campaign and unit medals.

Film Director Christopher Yocum captured his story for the Minnesota Historical Society Greatest Generation Project. Lt. Polich was interviewed on the film by his nephew, Kevin Rofidal.

Category:

Film & Animation

Tags:

• Minnesota National Guard
• Lt. Robert M. Polich Sr.
• World War II
• B-17 Flying Fortress
• 8th Air Force
• 305 (H) Bomb Group
• 365th Squadron
• POW
• Prisoner of War
• Germany
• Stalag Luft II
• Stalag VIIA
• Kevin Rofidal
• Deerwood
• Minnesota
• Crow Wing County
• Ironton
• Brainerd
• Air Medal
• POW Medal
• Purple Heart Medal
• Air Force

[EdenPrairieVeterans]

I am not sure of the song, got it from someone else. Glad you enjoyed the story.  My uncle is still doing well and looking forward to spring.

Thanks

[panhead55]

cool story. would have been nice if they used clips of the 305th bg.

[busychick]

What a wonderful clip. History through his eyes and experience. thank you

[KurtWal1]

Seeing Bob brings back so many nice memories. We moved to MN in 1961 when my late father, Fred Moegle, started KKIN radio in Aitken. Mom (Adele) and Dad loved going to the Sportsman's Club and it was always a treat for us kids too. Bob always came to our table to talk to us and made all of his patrons feel so appreciated. Take care Bob and thank you for your great service to our country.

Kurt Moegle, C-I grad 1976

[305thBG]

This is a wondeful clip, what a remarkable man.

Many thanks

luke

p.s Could you tell me the title of the music played at the start of this clip ?

[3dalpha]

What a noble gent.