Meet the Crew

Each week we’re introducing a new member of the crew from Million Dollar Smile—the faces behind the story.

  • Paul Carlson

    Flight Radio Operator | The Steady Heart
    Based on the author’s grandfather, Paul is a calm, faithful presence among the crew. A former United Airlines radio operator turned Air Transport Command flight radio operator, Paul is newly married and committed to serving well—both in the sky and at home. Known for his warm grin and measured personality, Paul is the heart of the crew.

    He loves flying, and he loves working with the radio—his role in the Air Transport Command is a perfect fit. But that service comes at a cost: Long weeks away from the woman he loves, flying missions across the vast Pacific Ocean during WWII.

  • Alta Fae Carlson

    Next up: Meet Alta, the strong and faithful wife waiting back home.