Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale
Illustrator Phillip Bower USNR, WWII
Petty Officer ARM 3c

During World War II, Aviation Radioman Phillip Denhardt Bower was discovered to have a great talent as an illustrator. His illustrations were used at various Air Bases in Florida to teach new recruits to recognize Japanese aircraft, warships, destroyers and other warfare subjects. When Petty Officer Bower arrived at Fort Lauderdale Naval Air Station, he did the illustrations for a new manual on the TBF/TBM torpedo bomber Avenger which was used to teach aviators and their crewman. He drew the pilot's and aircrew diplomas upon their graduation, and mapped out the big signs at the main gate of the NASFL base. He also drew cartoons for the Avenger Newspaper at the base, which added to the morale. While stationed at the base here, he met his wife to be, and settled in Fort Lauderdale after his discharge from the Navy. He was the owner of a decorating business called “Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow” located on Las Olas Boulevard. Upon his passing, his son Roger took over the business.

Phillip Bower at work at NASFL circa 1944. All images Copyright © NASFL Museum

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