WWII gunner revisits country he helped save, then dies quietly there

By Travis M. Andrews
Updated May 27 2016 - 4:23pm, first published 3:09pm
Melvin Rector, left, with fellow soldiers during the war. Photo: Screengrab
Melvin Rector, left, with fellow soldiers during the war. Photo: Screengrab
Melvin Rector, right, was invited by the pilot of the American Arlines flight to visit the cockpit on the way to Britain. Photo: Screengrab
Melvin Rector, right, was invited by the pilot of the American Arlines flight to visit the cockpit on the way to Britain. Photo: Screengrab
Melvin Rector in more recent footage by the Florida Today. Photo: Screengrab
Melvin Rector in more recent footage by the Florida Today. Photo: Screengrab

Washington: US Air Force Master Sergeant Melvin Rector long carried Britain in his heart after he helped defend it during World War II, but 70 years passed without him stepping foot in the country.