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Dedicated to the memory of R.O. Henley Jr., 384th Bomb Group navigator and survivor of Stalag Luft 3 POW camp, this website exists to tell the stories of his friends, his heroes.
Curated by his great-granddaughter, Mikayla Leech, this website and accompanying book, From Stephenville, Texas to Stalag Luft 3 serve as a living archive for R.O.'s friends and fellow airmen, capturing the unrelenting human spirit of those who endured the unthinkable.
This website also serves as a tribute to the bonds of friendship forged in captivity, and it is a commitment to ensuring their stories are never forgotten.
This quote offers a brief glimpse into the daily reality and quiet resilience of R.O. Henley Jr. and his fellow POWs at Stalag Luft 3. While their circumstances were grueling, their determination to survive and return home never wavered. Explore more quotes like this in our Inspiration Gallery.
Meet the Authors: R.O. Henley Jr. first shared his POW survival story publicly decades ago. Years after his passing, his great-granddaughter, Mikayla Leech, spent years researching and writing their story, leading to the book's publication in 2025. Now, this website exists to continue sharing his history and the stories of the friends who meant so much to him. Click below to read their full biographies.
Read the Full Account: Read the book that inspired this website. Released exactly 82 years to the day after he was shot down over Germany, the book details the inspiring story of R.O. Henley Jr. and his fellow POWs' journey of survival and friendship. Secure your copy today.
R.O. & Mikayla, 2003
Warren Dillon and R.O. Henley
Meet Henley's Heroes: The men behind the page name. Read the stories of R.O. Henley Jr.'s friends, crewmates, and fellow POWs who inspired this project.
Research and Archives: Learn more about historical resources, books, and archives to guide you in telling your own veteran's story.
Barbara and R.O. Henley
Harry Swift, Warren Dillon, R.O. Henley, and Virgil Leverett
Doris Edris, R.O. Henley, and Pete Edris
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