On his 101st birthday, World War II combat pilot Donald Stern fulfilled his wish of flying over New York City in a Cessna Skyhawk. Born in the city, Stern enjoyed a 40-minute flight that departed from Central Jersey Regional Airport in Hillsborough Township, piloted by retired Air Force Major Glenn Sinibaldi. Alongside him was his 63-year-old son Russell.
During their flight, the plane soared over various New York City and New Jersey landmarks. Stern’s son Russell mentioned that his father seemed comfortable and at ease during the flight, almost as if he were at home. On the ground, Stern’s older son Howard awaited their return with other family members and friends, ready to celebrate with a birthday cake.
After landing, Stern expressed his gratitude with a salute to those waiting for him. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps 483rd Bombardment Group, completing 32 combat missions in a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. His final mission occurred on April 24, 1945, just one day before his 22nd birthday.
The group flew missions over several European countries, including Italy