I was waiting for the bullets
“I was waiting for the bullets,” is WWII P-47 pilot Ed Cottrell’s description of being surrounded by German Me 109s during the Battle of the Bulge. That story is told in an oil painting commissioned by Valor Studios of Naples, Florida. A limited-edition print of the original, signed by Cottrell, is now exhibited in the North Carolina State House.
Two prints, titled “Waiting for the Bullets” were gifts to N.C. Rep. Mike Clampitt and N.C. State Senator Kevin Corbin by David Morrow.
Learning that this visual representation of his service is now displayed in Raleigh, Col. Cottrell said, “What an honor. Tell Senator Corbin I appreciate his interest and would like sometime to meet him. Also, Representative Mike Clampitt, who supports the museum so much.”
It’s such an honor to know these WWII veterans…just to be in their presence.
When Rep. Clampitt received a framed copy of the print, he said, “It’s such an honor to know these WWII veterans…just to be in their presence.” Clampitt also presented to the museum two flags which have flown over the North Carolina State House, along with a certificate reading:
Rep. Clampitt presented flags to David Morrow and accepted print honoring Cottrell
Commissioner Larry Chapman and Sen. Kevin Corbin
In recognition of your unwavering commitment to honoring and preserving the history of our nation’s military, your dedication to communicating the heroic deeds and self-sacrifice of those who have defended the freedom and liberty of the United States of America is truly commendable. Your efforts ensure that their bravery and service will never be forgotten.
A third copy of the print “Waiting for the Bullets” is displayed in the Veterans History Museum’s Air Force Gallery, along with a diorama depicting Col. Cottrell in his P-47 on a different mission during the Battle of the Bulge. Cottrell’s full story is told in the museum’s book “We Shall Come Home Victorious.” Stories of WWII Veterans, available for sale in the museum or on Amazon.com. All proceeds support the museum’s mission: honor veterans, educate the public, and preserve history.
Top Photo: Rep. Mike Clampitt in his office holding the book “We Shall Come Home Victorious.”