At the height of World War II, Americans saw anyone serving in Hitler’s army as the enemy—and the feeling was mutual in Germany. Yet, in the middle of fear, hatred, and war, one German pilot rose above it all. Ignoring his orders and risking everything, Franz Stigler made a choice that would save lives and forge an unlikely, lasting friendship.
This is the remarkable story of Franz Stigler’s decision to guide a damaged American B-17 bomber to safety—an act of humanity that reminds us there are always Friends Behind Enemy Lines.
