S/Sgt Edward R. Kosmowski was born on April 12, 1924, in Milwaukee, WI, and attended Milwaukee Public Schools. He completed a three-year Tool & Die Apprenticeship before enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Forces. Kosmowski entered the cadet program in April 1942 and was sworn in on June 2, 1942. He underwent pre-flight training at Santa Ana, CA, and primary flight school at 29 Pams Air Academy, CA, but washed out. After completing mechanical and engine schools, he graduated from Central Fire Control School at Lowry Field, Denver, CO. By March 1944, he was assigned to the 73rd Bomb Wing, 497th Bomb Group, 870th Bomb Squadron, as a Right Blister Gunner. In May 1944, he and other gunners were reassigned to ground school due to their technical backgrounds. Kosmowski served as an Assistant Crew Chief under M/Sgt John Danhof for Crew P-8, led by Major Leo Lewis, and was stationed in Salina, KS, Havana, Cuba, Guam, and Iwo Jima before his discharge in December 1945.

Post-war, Kosmowski worked as a Tool & Die Maker for General Motors for over 41 years, contributing to guidance systems for various missiles and automotive computers. Notable experiences during his service include an incident over Colorado where a blister blew out, and a "Show of Force" mission over Tokyo Bay. He also had memorable interactions with Major Miranda during guard duty and General Curtis LeMay on Guam. Kosmowski is married to Jean Grimmer since September 7, 1946, and they have two daughters: Debra Jean, a teacher, and Dr. Kerry Ann, a professor.