Enola Gay crew bids CNMI farewell

After almost a week of sharing their experiences during World War II, touring sites where the blood of friends have been shed, and creating new friendships with many, the crew of the Enola Gay closed another chapter of time spent in the Marianas, this time in a vastly different manner than their goodbyes to the islands almost six decades ago.

Retired Brig. Gen. Paul Tibbets, Morris Jeppson, and Theodore Van Kirk said goodbye yesterday, taking with them fond memories of the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Battles of Saipan and Tinian.

“I really enjoyed it and I am very happy to have come here,” said Tibbets just minutes before his departure to Hong Kong yesterday afternoon at the Saipan International Airport. “You all have been very nice and I’m glad to have shared with you. It’s been a pleasure.”

Van Kirk and Jeppson, who departed on an earlier flight, said their stay here will always be remembered.

“This was far more than I expected,” said Van Kirk. “My daughter and I had a great time…the hospitality we received, from the time we arrived, was outstanding and unbelievable. I am amazed at how the island has changed.”

Van Kirk said that, although the bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 were criticized by many, it was for the good of all mankind, and seeing the way the island has prospered makes it “all worth it.”

“Many criticized what we did, but that’s because they do not know what it’s about,” he said. “Many lives were saved worldwide, and even seeing how beautiful everything here is and how the people here are…it’s just all worth it.”

Meanwhile, Jeppson said his perception of the island now surpasses his anticipation prior to arriving.

“I did not really know what to expect before I came here, but after everything, it’s been great and I’d have to tip my hat to the people for everything they’ve done for us,” he said.

During their stay, the crew also donated several items to the people of the CNMI.

Jeppson and Van Kirk made contributions to the CNMI Museum, with Jeppson donating 40 posters detailing the Enola Gay’s mission and Van Kirk donating two videotapes of the 1995 historical documentary on the Enola Gay. Tibbets also donated several of his books on the Enola Gay to Gov. Juan N. Babauta yesterday morning.