Paul Torretti was born in Desire, PA in 1920. He graduated high school by age 15 and joined the U.S. Army Air Corps in July 1939. He was stationed at Hickam Field, Hawaii on December 7, 1941. Torretti served in the 8th Air Force in Europe and was part of a group of B-24s that successfully bombed a Messerschmidt manufacturing plant at Leipheim, Germany in 1944. Years later it was revealed that 60 ME- 262 Jet Fighters had been destroyed by this raid. Imagine what an effect these fighters could have had during the Allied Invasion which occurred 6 weeks later!
Torretti’s military awards include the Distinguished Flying Cross with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, six Battle Stars, and the Meritorious Service Medal.
Torretti’s service to the flying public has been exemplary and he has been recognized by two Letters of Commendation, a Quality Within-Grade Increase Award, two Special Achievement Awards, and numerous Letters of Appreciation.
Paul is survived by his wife Francine, son Paul Michael and daughter Kimberly.
