Lt. Edward E. Bailey Crashes in Jungle; Wounded, But Returns
The Cullman Democrat, February 17, 1944

Cullman Aviator Lost 13 Days Received Decoration; Made Bomber Flight Leader

First Lt. Edward E. Bailey bomber pilot which crashed in the jungles of New Guinea, spent 13 days there before being rescued, according to word received by his mother, Mrs. Herman E. Johnson of Helen, West Virginia.

The young Cullman County bomber pilot, who has been serving in New Guinea since last May is now Deputy Flight Leader of a squadron of bombers.

In a letter to his mother, follows in part:

"Dearest Mother, I don't know what to write, I only hope you don't worry too much. Everything is fine now, and I'm eating and getting some strength back. I know you want to know all about it, but I think it will be better that you wait and hear it from me someday. I can say Little Stinky 2nd is no more. (That's his plane.) But I will get another one soon. I hope you can read this, my hands are sore and I can't write so well. Mother I know the real meaning of the 23rd Psalm. I know that you must have helped me in prayer. I surely prayed enough. I hope that you didn't worry yourself sick. Keep up my correspondence for me, because my hands are too sore, and I don't want to write for a while. I'm happy, will go on leave to celebrate my birthday so don't worry. I was awarded the Purple Heart. I have a slight wound in the back, but please don't worry. Love, your son, Edward"

News came to Mrs. Johnson on Jan. 1, 1944. It read: "The Secretary of War desires me to express his deep regret that your son, First Lieutenant Edward E. Bailey, has been reported missing in action since December 22, 1943, in New Guinea. If further details or other information are received you will be promptly notified."

On January 10th, Mrs. Johnson received a telegram from the War Department stating, "Am pleased to inform you report received states your son, 1st Lt. Edward E. Bailey, who was previously reported missing in action, returned to military control January 3, 1944. Undoubtedly he will communicate with you at an early date concerning his welfare and whereabouts."

On January 12, a message received from Lt. Bailey stated: "Well and safe, have returned to outfit. Please do not worry, feeling great -- writing immediately."

On Jan. 13, 1944, Mrs. Johnson received a message from the War Department stating: "Regret to inform you report states your son, 1st Lt. Edward E. Bailey has been wounded in action at Wewack, New Guinea." Signed The Adjutant General.

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