Our Legacy

The Fireball Foundation was born from a legacy of service, leadership, and love for others — a legacy that began in the skies over Europe during World War II.

The Fireball Legacy

Letters, Memories, and Moments That Live On

This page is dedicated to Col. William R. Smith, pilot of the Fireball B-17 Flying Fortress, and the men who served beside him. Their letters, stories, and memories tell a story not only of war, but of humanity — of men who believed in doing what’s right and fixing what’s wrong.

The Man Behind the Fireball

The Remarkable Life of

Col. William R. Smith

William R. Smith was born on February 17, 1917, in Nanticoke, Pennsylvania. He attended the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned a B.S. in Civil Engineering.

At the outbreak of World War II, he enlisted in the 8th Army Air Force — later known as the United States Air Force — and trained as a pilot of the B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber. After completing training in the U.S., he was assigned to the 351st Bomb Wing (Heavy), 511th Bomb Squadron, stationed in Polebrook, England, in May 1943, where he attained the rank of Captain.

As was customary for B-17 bomber crews, each plane bore its own name painted on the nose. Capt. Smith’s aircraft proudly displayed the name “Fireball.” The squadron leader was Major Ball, and all planes in the group included “Ball” in their nose art.

On his first mission over Germany, Major Ball had to abort mid-flight — and Capt. Smith was called to take command of the high squadron for the remainder of the mission.

From that day forward, his leadership earned the respect of his crew and fellow officers.

Capt. Smith successfully completed his mandatory 25 missions, qualifying him to return home. He remained with the 8th Air Force Headquarters for the duration of the war.

Following WWII, he continued serving his country as a member of the U.S. Air Force, flying B-29s during the Korean War and later serving under General William Westmoreland in Vietnam.

After retiring from the military, Col. Smith continued his life of service as Chief of Staff to the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

He tragically passed away on February 17, 1977, when the small Piper aircraft he was aboard crashed in Bessler, Pennsylvania, claiming eight lives, including the Secretary of Transportation and a woman on the ground.

His life was defined by duty, courage, and the belief that good work and integrity mattered — values that remain at the heart of the Fireball Foundation today.

The Men of the Fireball

“The Boys I’m Proud Of – Ready for Combat”

(July 27, 1943 — Polebrook, England)

A brotherhood of courage, skill, and trust in the skies

The Fireball crew served under Capt. William R. Smith, flying out of Polebrook, England, as part of the 351st Bomb Group, 8th Air Force.
They shared a bond that could only be forged in the crucible of war — one built on trust, humor, and resilience.

A Letter Home

Capt. Smith’s 25th Mission – Bremen, Germany

After completing his 25th mission — a bombing run over Bremen — Capt. Smith wrote to his mother, reflecting on the moment with humility and relief. His letter, preserved here, reveals the grace and courage of a man who led with quiet strength.

Among the memories preserved by the Smith family is one of the most meaningful pieces of history — a letter Capt. William R. Smith wrote to his mother after completing his 25th and final combat mission.


Written with humility and gratitude, it captures both the exhaustion and the quiet relief of a man who had led his crew through countless dangers and was finally heading home.
It stands as a deeply personal reflection on faith, duty, and the bond shared by those who served.

“Just a few lines to let you know how I feel tonight — today I finished my 25th raid and my last. Your faith and prayers have been with me on every raid. Many times God was my co-pilot and He has led me to a good crew and a good plane.”

“My only regret was that I could not fly ‘Fireball’ on my last raid — as usual it was being repaired from the day before this one. However, the whole group got the same break. We led the high group... all ships returned without damage.”

“The war will still go on — I hope that in my new job I’ll let you know my new address as soon as I can. Love and kisses, your old pal, Bill.”

The Fireball Foundation

Continuing the mission through acts of good

The Fireball Foundation honors Col. Smith and his crew not just by remembering their story, but by living it — through service, giving, and compassion.

Every donation, partnership, and project represents their enduring belief that good can be done, even in the hardest times.

Do what’s right. Fix what’s wrong.

That’s how the Fireball spirit continues to fly.