Last Belle Crewmember Dies: Robert Hanson, 85, the last surviving member of the crew of the B-17 Memphis Belle, died Oct. 1 of heart illness at his home. Hanson was the radio operator for the famous bomber that was one of the first to complete 25 combat missions in World War II. The crew completed their last mission on May 17, 1943, and returned with the bomber to the states to help sell war bonds.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.