THE GREAT THANKSGIVING LISTEN
(Student’s name here) INTERVIEW WITH CAPTAIN MALCOLM *******
Questions are taken from Story Corps, Great Questions List, Military Service
Introduction and Background Information
Malcolm ***** was my grandfather’s cousin. Grandfather ***** spent decades
researching and interviewing veterans who served with Malcolm. He was killed in
action on June 14, 1944 while on a bombing mission in support of the D-Day invasion of
France. After I looked at the book my grandfather assembled on Captain Johnson, I
became interested in the story and selected him as the subject of this assignment.
When was Malcolm in the military?
Malcolm was in the military from 1942 to 1944, during World War II.
Which branch did he serve in?
Malcolm was in the Army Air Force. He was a pilot.
What made him join the military?
The Bombing of Pearl Harbor angered Malcolm because so many Americans were killed.
He joined the military because he wanted to get back at the Japanese.
Do you think Malcolm was prepared for military life?
Malcolm studied aviation in college, so he was prepared more than others.
I think it was very hard learning to control the B17 bomber,
It required a lot of strength and confidence.
Describe what you think Malcolm’s daily life in the service was like.
1) Wake up early
2) Eat
3) Find out mission
4) Load plane (bombs and gas)
5) Takeoff
6) Fly to destination and drop bombs
7) Fly to home base
8) Report how they did.
What do you think was the most difficult part of being in the military for Malcolm?
Seeing friends die.
Did he serve in a war zone? When and where?
Yes, in England from 1942-1944.
What lessons do you think his service taught him that he would have carried with
him?
Good training and practice makes perfect.
Describe his transition from military to civilian life. Was it easy or difficult? Why?
Malcolm was killed in battle when his plane was shot down over France.
If given the opportunity, do you think Malcolm would have served in the military
again today? Why?
Yes, to help our country.
By Student name
Communications Class – Section 5
11/25/15