A grandfather's life story is told through his experiences in World War I, aviation, and toolmaking, showcasing his precision and order, and his contributions to American history. [... more]

Wilhelm Bistner, a German tool and die maker, immigrated to America in 1927 and went on to work in the early days of aviation, designing and fabricating floats for various aircraft, including those for Charles Lindbergh and Admiral Berg. He played a crucial role in World War II, helping to make water landings possible for military aircraft, and later retired to his 100-acre retreat in the Catskill Mountains of upstate New York. [... more]

William Burtner's life story, told by his grandson, spans from his early days as a tool and die maker in World War I to his work on pioneering aircraft in the early days of aviation. He played a crucial role in the production of military aircraft floats during World War II, and his precision engineering skills helped shape the course of American history. [... more]