After 72 years, a Central New York World War II veteran finally received a prisoner of war medal that’s long overdue. Congress member John Katko says Mr. Fay C. Bailey set a good example for younger soldiers.
“He represents the best that we have in America. He dedicated his life to his country. He enlisted into the war, served his country. He went into danger, came back home, finished his career, got married to Rita here and (they) have a lovely life here in Central New York. He is what Central New York is all about, people who dedicate themselves to the public good.” Katko said to Bailey, “We really appreciate your service and time in the military.”
Katko says Bailey and his crew were shot down by Nazi soldiers when he was flying as a substitute pilot on a bomber in 1944. He was held captive as a prisoner of war for nine months.
Bailey is 94 years old now…but he still has some memories of tough times during his service.
“It’s hard to say, it’s a long time ago. A couple of forced marches, starting at midnight in the pouring rain, stuff like that. A lot of good friends I met, especially from England and Australia, who I happened to be in their camp, because the American camps were full. Nothing I’d want to do over again.”
Bailey says he contacted Katko after seeing local news coverage of veterans being rewarded medals that they were owed on Veterans Day last year.
