Our year-long series Remembering our Veterans continues with the story of U.S. Army Veteran Weido Chipoletti. 

Weido passed away six years ago just shy of his 94th birthday, but his story lives on through his children, sons Jay and Neal Chiopletti.

At the age of 20, Weido Chipoletti, went on over 30 bombing missions during World War 2 for the 515th bomb squadron.

"To ask that of someone that's not even the legal age to have a beer in a bar," said Neal Chipolietti, son. "And you put your life and sacrifice time with families and friends for our freedom." 

Some of those missions lasted over seven hours, those long range strategic missions had targets in Italy, France, Germany, Austria, Hungary and the Balkans.

"He was the nose guys, so he would go up in the turret and defend against other planes that were trying to shoot him down," said Jay Chipoletti, son. 

Born in new Kensington, Pennsylvania, about a 20 mile ride to the city of Pittsburgh, Weido put family first and it took a special event with his granddaughter to finally open up about his tour of duty.

"he went to west lake school one time, and put a presentation on for the social study teacher and his granddaughter's class," said Jay. 

Weido recorded those logs on the back of one dollar bills he picked up in Italy. And survived a number of close calls.

"They were flying back from a mission and they were shot up," said Jay. "They lost the motor and were making their way back and he said I'm going to try to ditch and land it and we'll get out, and he did a remarkable job." 

Neal Chipoletti honors his father by participating in local motorcycle rides that benefit local veterans.

"We donate that back several ways, to local organizations like the Liberty House," said Neal. 

He had five brothers who also served in the war, his brother Neal was killed during his tour of duty.

For ten years following retirement, Weido volunteered for Gifts for Kids, and along with his brother, they repaired toys.

Weido Chipoletti thank you for your service.