World War II Veteran Donald Stern Fulfills His Bucket List with Grateful Skies: A Centennial Flight Over New York City.

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 and raised in the city, Stern embarked on a 40-minute flight from Central Jersey Regional Airport in Hillsborough Township, piloted by retired Air Force Major Glenn Sinibaldi. Accompanying him was his 63-year-old son Russell.

During their journey, the aircraft soared over various New York City and New Jersey landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building. Russell remarked that his father seemed relaxed and at ease during the flight, almost as if he were back home. Upon landing, Stern expressed gratitude with a salute to those waiting for him.

Stern served in the U.S. Army Air Corps 483rd Bombardment Group during World War II, completing 32 combat missions in a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. His final mission took place on April 24, 1945, just one day before his 22nd birthday. The group flew missions over several European countries, including Italy, France, Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Austria