An American Military History Book… In Progress…
My name is Kimberly. In 1998, when I was a teenager, I discovered Joe Noyes in a photograph from the book B-17′s Over Berlin: Personal Stories from the 95th Bomb Group. There was something about the expression on his youthful face that drew me in, and plead with my conscience. Some unknown presence compelled me to seek out answers to long forgotten questions, and it was because of that intervention, and the way the cards have continuously fallen, that this story first began.
What brought Joe Noyes to the frigid airfield in Rapid City? Where did he come from? Did he survive the war? Who did he leave behind at home?
Those types of questions haunted me for years, and slowly I started finding pieces of the Joe Noyes puzzle to put together. This knowledge came to me from all over the world, from the desks of aviation historians in England, to the National Archives, and a family home in Washington State. On that initial day of discovery though, I believe I was simply on an innocent quest to determine Joe’s fate, and hopefully learn why I felt attached to his picture. Over time Joe’s story has positively affected my life in countless ways, so I feel that’s reason enough to keep learning, researching, and writing about him.
And eventually one day I may be satisfied enough with all that I’ve done, to finally gather the courage to publish a complete book about Joe’s life, and my research.
My Sincere Appreciation
I’ve been in touch with many memorable, humble, and honorable war veterans from the 95th Bomb Group, namely Col Harry G. Mumford, Col. Harry M. Conley, Lt. Col Robert C. Cozens, and Flight Officer Paul E. Perceful. Before he passed away, I was also fortunate enough to meet Joe’s brother, Robert (Bob) Noyes, of Camano Island, WA. Recently I have also been in contact with a second cousin of Joe’s co-pilot, David Prees, and I am most thankful for her insight!
The Noyes Family of Washington State and Oregon, has always encouraged the continuance of my research, and for their support and heartfelt assistance, I am eternally grateful.
Kimberly’s Story
My name is Kimberly Blankenstein, and I take full responsibility for this venture.
In 1983 I was born in Cebu, Philippines, after which I was adopted as a baby, and I grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area. My husband Dave is an Air Force C-17 pilot, and today we reside in Washington State. Before I chose to move here in order to pursue my research, I lived abroad in Sweden. I met my husband here, and so I give Joe Noyes credit for bringing us together.
It’s been an adventure finding my way around the world, but it’s been worth the jet lag, and I look forward to whatever else this life has to offer me. I spend my days writing, pondering how-and-what to write about, working towards my first bachelor’s degree in Web Development, and selling Scentsy Wickless Candles (I’m my own best customer!)
I enjoy hearing from website visitors, so please don’t be afraid to write me!