Tom Landry flew bombing missions over Europe and wore a bulletproof vest all for America’s Team

Imagine surviving 30 World War 2 bombing missions and then getting a death threat while coaching an NFL game

Barry Gipson
3 min readNov 8, 2023
Tom Landry Dallas Cowboys Rolex NFL Army B-17 Bomber Bulletproof vest
Tom Landry, a legendary figure in NFL coaching, is celebrated for his transformative accomplishments during his 29-year tenure as the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys from 1960 to 1988. Under his guidance, the Cowboys became a football powerhouse, achieving five Super Bowl appearances and winning two. Landry’s iconic sideline presence, characterized by his trademark fedora, blazer, and Rolex Day-Date watch, set the standard for future NFL coaches, making him an enduring symbol of the sport.

The Definition Of Courage

Tom Landry is an NFL icon. Not just because of his body of work on the field as an NFL Head Coach. Prior to becoming the leader of men with the Dallas Cowboys in 1960, he was learning to fly a B-17 bomber years earlier in 1942. He joined for personal reasons after the loss of his brother doing the exact same thing only months previously.

Many NFL fans are likely familiar with his 29 seasons of service to America’s Team on the field. Especially in the winning department. Originally born in Mission, TX this war hero later in his career would receive a death threat during a game in Anaheim, CA.

Imagine surviving 30 World War 2 bombing missions for your country and then getting a death threat while coaching an NFL game in…

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Barry Gipson

A Father, Dallas Cowboys, LA Lakers fan, and veteran sharing insights and more for the '24 NFL & NBA seasons. A pivot in content.