gail halvorsen Archives -

On this special Christmas Day episode, we hear from a legend from WWII – Gail (Hal) Halvorsen. He has many names: Uncle Wiggly Wings, The Berlin Candy Bomber and The Chocolate Flier. He became popular for dropping candy from his plane to the children of Berlin, from 1948-49.

His efforts gained support from many back in the states. School children packaged candy in boxes with parachutes, and candy companies like Wrigley and Hershey’s donated items. Thanks to his efforts he and his team had dropped 23 tons of candy by Christmas 1949.

Today we talk of “Operation Little Viddles”, how he became a pilot, how to overcome trials and depression, freedom vs. communism and the importance of serving others. This is an uplifting episode that you don’t want to miss. He shares that these children in Berlin taught him about freedom more than anything else. It’s amazing what 2 sticks of gum turned in to!

Learn more about Mr. Halvorsen here:

http://wigglywings.weebly.com/

His book, “The Berlin Candy Bomber” here: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/088290616X

Special with Tom Brokaw: https://youtu.be/QWbISrde2mQ

Note: Mr. Halvorsen passed away in February of 2022 at the age of 101. This is an interview I did with him back in 2016.