August 9, 2008 saw the visit of two original Band of Brothers “Easy Company“ 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne members to the Museum of Flight in another great lecture series sponsored by the museum. Technical Sergeant Donald Malarkey and First Lieutenant Lynn “Buck” Compton, were on hand to participate in a panel discussion/presentation followed by a question and answer session, wrapped up with a 2 ½ hour book and autograph signing. Both Malarkey and Compton signed autographs until the line was gone. Flightline Fabrications co-owner Bryan Heim was on location at the Museum of Flight to attend the lecture and enjoy these two rare men in person as well as stand at the end of the autograph line. 

“It was an honor to even be in the same room as these two men. I was blessed to have the opportunity to listen to them talk about the book each has written, WWII, and life. It was a once in a lifetime chance to receive an autograph from each as well; another great event by the Museum of Flight, well worth my time!”

Both Malarkey and Compton served in World War II as members from ‘E’ Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne now immortalized in the HBO series “Band of Brothers”.  Malarkey and Compton participated in the paratrooper invasion of Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944, jumping from C-47 Aircraft.

Both men have recently released new books telling about their lives, military service, and life afterwards.  “Easy Company Soldier”, written by Malarkey and “Call of Duty”, written by Compton.

The Survivor: Donald Malarkey (played during the panel)