Pioneers in Blue video highlights Airmen heroes Published Dec. 5, 2011 By AFDW Public Affairs AIR FORCE DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON -- Retired Chief Master Sgt. Henry Fouts, a World War II Airmen, has a compelling story of bravery and innovation that includes completing 35 combat missions over Nazi-occupied Europe. Knowing he was going to be drafted when he became of age and not wanting to be a part of the ground infantry units, he read an article in Life Magazine which inspired Fouts to become an Aerial Gunner in the B-17 aircraft. During a bombing mission over Czechoslovakia on September 23, 1944, Fouts' B-17S was badly damaged resulting in the aircraft having a loss of hydraulics, electrical systems and brakes. Fouts came up with the idea to deploy a parachute to stop the plane during landing and is believed to be the first person to use a parachute to help stop an aircraft with no brakes. As a result of his actions, Fouts received the distinguished flying cross. He has also been awarded the Air Medal, Purple Heart and World War II Victory Medal. Fouts is one of several Airmen proudly featured in the U.S. Air Force's "Pioneers in Blue" series, an incredible 80-piece exhibit displayed in the 5th Floor A-ring of the Pentagon, near corridor 8. If you don't live close enough to check out the exhibit live, view the YouTube video featuring Fouts.