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In 1948, following a Soviet blockade of all road and rail traffic to West Berlin, allied forces quickly settled on a plan to supply their sectors of the city from the air. So began the epic mission known as the “Berlin Airlift”.

One of the most endearing and enduring stories to come out of the operation was that of Gail “Hal” Halvorsen, who would parachute packages of candy, chocolate, and gum to the children of Berlin during his missions to the besieged city. Halvorsen would become affectionately known as 'The Candy Bomber' and 'Uncle Wiggly Wings' to many of the young residents of the city. And his mission would be given a name: Operation Little Vittles.

The Candy Bomber's mission of goodwill would play a major role in the de-escalation of the Berlin Blockade, and Gail Halvorsen would go on to become a symbol of peace between the U.S. and German people in the decades following World War II. He remains an icon in both countries to this day.

A legendary officer, gentleman and gentle man, The Candy Bomber, Colonel Gail Halvorsen passed away, February 16, 2022, at the age of 101.