Cold War Biography

In light of recent events, I decided to dedicate today's blog to Francis Gary Powers. If you are unaware of the most recent news, Mr. Powers is being posthumously awarded the silver star for his "exceptional loyalty" during his terrible interrogation by the Soviets.

Flying a U-2 mission, Mr. Powers was shot down over the Soviet Union on May 1st, 1960. He had to endure harsh interrogation at the hands of the KGB. He then had to endure the rough conditions in the prison in which he was held. Two years after he was captured, he was exchanged for a Soviet colonel.

I would like to say he got the welcome home that he deserved, but unfortunately the reception was cold. He was initially criticized for the way he handled the situation. Thankfully, Mr. Powers appeared before the senate and it was determined that he followed orders, did not give any information to the Soviets and had conducted himself “as a fine young man under dangerous circumstances.”

Finally, after all these years, Mr. Powers is getting the recognition he deserves. On June 15, 2012, General Norton Schwartz will present the Silver Star to the surviving family of Francis Gary Powers for his action during the U-2 spy plane incident. This will be a truly remarkable day in Cold War History!