303rd Guest Comments (16 August 1998

16 August 1998 - 31 December 1998
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Louis M. Belk louisbelk@juno.com I have a new web page my son made for me. A friend from 398th BG sent me the address. My address is http://freecenter.digiweb.com/pages/lbelk for the 305th Bomb Group Home Web Page. Would appreciate E-mail or visitors. I was at Chelveston from Feb. 1944 to Aug. 44 as a waist gunner in a Pathfinder crew in 365th and 422 Sqs. You have a great page. I will read all the information as I have time. Thanks for the memories, Louis

Raymond A. Espinoza cls1069@aol.com (303rd BGA Member) I was in the 444th Sub Depot Squadron. We lived in site one, and we worked in the big hangar. I played drums with the Rhythm Pilots Band. We started with only 4 members and quickly grew to a 12 piece Big Band. We played all the local Red Cross Clubs and Base Squadron parties. We played every Sunday Night at the North Hampton Red Cross Club and at the drill hall, until the end of the war. I was an engine mechanic. I worked in the engine shop in the big hangar. This is my daughters Email address. Please feel free to use it to contact me. Thank you and look forward to hearing from some my fellow comrades.

Bob Stiegel, Lt Col, USAF Stiegels@aol.com I'm currently assigned to Molesworth, and as an amateur historian, I'm very interested in the heritage of you who served here before us. Thanks for all you've done, we'll do our best to uphold your tradition.

Jim Miller millerj@ibm.net I'm an American living in Sudborough, England. I work with Brian McGuire at RAF Molesworth. This probably has more to do with the 384th BGA, since it concerns the Vane Arms pub in Sudborough, closer to Grafton Underwood. The beam over one of the inglenook fireplaces at the Vane Arms pub has several WWII-era pennies wedged into cracks in the beam and bent over. Legend is that these were placed there by 384th BG (Grafton Underwood) airmen prior to missions and pounded over if the airman or aircrew did not return.

My questions about this are: Did the pennies represent individuals or aircrews?
What was the "ritual," that is, who placed them there, who pounded them over, etc.?
Was this a common practice by the 384th? by the 303rd?

Also, I have discovered a bent-over 1942 penny in a ceiling beam of the living room in the house in which I am living. Was it common practice for individual families or individuals to do this??

Thanks for any help you might be able to provide about the pennies. I am trying to get the proper story for a possible article and also for a painting I am planning, which would show a penny being bent over. I need to know who would be doing the pounding.

One more thing: Does anyone know who was living in this house (6 Main Street) during the war??

Please feel free to forward this to anyone you think might be able to help. Again, Many Thanks,
Jim Miller, JAC, PSC 46 Box 236, APO, AE 09469

Geoff Knight quarryhouse@lineone.net Hi folks, we live near to Molesworth. We're 53 yrs old and only remember post war operations at the airfield. I can remember visiting to an air display with my Dad and recall seeing a Boxkite flying 1953 I think. My wife and I have visited 29 States of the Union and look forward to more visits. I have a book The Mighty Eighth all about you guys. I'm very interested in the history of your wartime experiences. I keep in touch with my cousin Norma Hale and her husband William Henry who live in Tompkinsville KY. I will file your site as a favourite. More later Geoff.

David Strange Dvstrange@aol.com (family of a 303rd Member) My father, Joe B. Strange, served on three planes; Lucille, Pappy and Holy Mackerel. If anyone has any information , please contact me. Dad is alive and kickin'.

Mary Lockhart mlockhart@orbitworld.net (family of a 303rd Member) (daughter of Joe Germaine) My Father was visiting me over the holidays and we were interested on learning about his crew members and their families. He may have a picture of his crew back home in Boston. It was missing. Please let us know if there are any members alive and their addresses from Geiger's crew.

Stuart Hunter FlyingStu@aol.com (family of a 303rd Member) My father Lt. William C. Hunter, Jr.(Navigator, Sky Wolf, Morales Crew 358th BS) and I have been looking over the web page today during his visit to my home in Peachtree City, GA. Again, I thank all of you for your dedication to preserving the memory of a time that stood the world on it's ear. My life has, indirectly, been impacted by WWII more than any world event, in that my parents met in England and married there. The limited number of stories that would be shared would chill the soul but could warm the heart in reflection on the men and women that gave their lives in the line of duty. My Mother, who's maiden name is Audrey Maude Robinson, was a WREN in the British Navy, based in a London. They met "by chance" on a train north bound from London to my Mother's home town of Newcastle-Upon Tyne. They are happily married and live in Southern California where I and my two older brothers grew up. My father is 79 this past 11/11. Both my parents are not computer types and I would like to demonstrate the power of sharing on the net. My experience is limited but I'm getting the hang lately. My question reflects my parents quiet pondering of the destiny of their best-man at their Newcastle wedding. Does anyone know a 1st Lt. Robert Murphy, who was the Armament Officer for the 358th BS stationed at Molesworth from 9/42 to 5/45. My parents were married 5/24/45 and last saw Bob in New Orleans, LA when Bob was working in Houston, TX. Please let me know if possible. I'll check the page soon.

Trish Little dzine@imt.net (303rd BGA Member) Thank you to all the veterans who have fought for the national and personal freedoms we experience every second of every day in this great country. My Dad, Jim O'Leary, was a B-17 pilot (303rd, 427th squadron). He's told me many war stories, and just thinking about them brings tears to my eyes. May God bless all of you who sacrificed so much. There are no words to express how deeply I appreciate you, and how much I value all of you. If not for you, we would be lost.

Barry Udoff sandibar@aol.com This year the 303 Bomb Group site and the people who run it brought a lost uncle back into our family's memory. Of course Thomas Bachom was never forgotten by you. I'm taking my son to the Museum of Flight in Washington over the holiday and Fortresses Under Fire will be our first stop. Your site has helped me teach him about your accomplishments and sacrifices. I hope he never forgets. Best Wishes, Barry, Sandi and Grant
[Notes like yours are music to our ears. They make the hours and hours of work on this site all worthwhile. We are honored to have played a part in your family history. Gary Moncur, Webmaster]

S/Sgt DJ Congratulations and thanks for all the fine facts and stories and history. As a former jarhead-(68,69,70)- I know how hard it is to talk about some of the things a person sees in their younger years. Thanks for sharing the memories and thanks to all the men who served in the 303.

Richard (Bud) Payment waynlori@uslink.net I belonged to the 34th Bomb Squadron at Mendelsham, England. I was in the refueling unit. I was there in March 1944 until I went to France as a replacement for the Battle of the Bulge. Is this unit any part of your group? I am very interested in acquiring some of your literature. Please let me know what is available and where.
[The 34th Bombardment Group (H) (not Squadron) was stationed at Mendelsham, England from 18 April 1944 through 02 August 1944 . They were part of the 3rd Air Division that originally flew B-24s until they switched to B-17s in September 1944. The 34th BG(H) had no relationship with the 303rd BG(H) that was stationed at Molesworth, England in the 1st Air Division. The 34th BG(H) has a web page at http://www.excel-tech.com/34th/ Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian 303rd BG(H) Association]

Donald O. "SPEC" Campen, Jr. ibspec@aol.com (303rd BGA Member) Happy holiday to all who contact this site. I would be so very pleased if all our citizens would recognize what we and other veterans did that makes this country's values enjoyed by all today. They do not vote and have no reference to the past that assures their todays.

Al Pike AlPikeCP@aol.com With the 303rd in the 1960s DMAFB, Tucson, AZ

Richard E. White richbarbw@g-net.net (family of a 303rd Member) I visited the museum in Savannah last month and learned a lot about the 303rd.

Allen Miller allen@texasdirect.com (family of a 303rd Member) My father was Sgt. Harry C. Miller, Engineer of Embrey's crew. I did not see the name of their aircraft in your list. It was named Sweet LaRonda after the pilots wife (I think) My dad passed away 11 years ago, but I have a scrapbook with many pictures including a good one of its nose art. You guys are doing a great job, and I would love to hear from you!

Tim Allen suzsmith@worldnet.att.net (family of a 303rd Member) Your web page has a wealth of information. I came by it searching for information about my great uncle Robert F. Woodley, he was killed in action and was the only one killed on his mission. I don't know anything else about his death, so I was looking for some information about him. I recently went to his gravesite in England and would love to take my son there sometime and tell him about the 303rd bomb group.
[Your great uncle 2Lt Robert F. Woodley was killed in action on 14 May 1943 on a combat mission to bomb the Germania Werft A.G. Submarine Pens and yards at Kiel, Germany. He was flying in B-17F # 42-29520 (no name) of the 427th Bomb Squadron, 303rd Bombardment Group (H) from our airfield at Molesworth, England. He was flying as CoPilot with the 1stLt Fort W. Lipe Crew. He was badly wounded as a result of being hit in the right shoulder by a 20mm cannon shell from a German Fighter and later died. Lt Woodley was assigned to the 427th BS on 9 February 1943 and was on his 4th combat mission when he was mortally wounded in action There were 12 men killed on this mission. Ten men of the Capt R.C. Bales Crew whose 359th Bomb Squadron B-17 FDR's Potato Peeler Kids was shot down with all crewmen killed. Capt Donald A. Stockton, a 427th Bomb Squadron Pilot was also killed on his 24th combat mission. He is buried in Plot D 2nd Row 59th Grave at the Margraten American Cemetery near Cambridge, England. Our 303rd BG(H) history book Might in Flight tells about the 14 May 1943 mission and Lt Woodley's death. Thanks for your interest in the heritage of the 303rd BG(H) Hell's Angels. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian]

Woodworth jacjcw@netscape.net Does anyone know the name of the plane flown by Kenneth Woodworth of the 427th?
[It is very rare that a pilot flew the same plane for his entire tour even though he may have had a favorite. The exception to this fact took place in the very beginning of operations when we had few crews and the same number of aircraft. They usually flew the aircraft they came over in until it got shot down or they did. When we got more crews and more aircraft you usually flew the aircraft that was assigned to you that day. Hal Susskind]

Bill Heller wheller@attglobal.net (303rd BGA Member) I would like to compliment Hal Susskind on an excellent and well-written article titled The Right Stuff Always an excellent writer, Hal has grasped the meaning of all the media-hype piled on John Glenn for his return to Space. As an international airline captain for ALL of my years following WW#2 to the ripe young age of 60, when the US took my license due to FAR 121-383(c) .. I always felt the Age 60 Law as it came to be known - was a tremendous error AND a compromise with airline safety. John Glenn's flight into Space was an insult to all airline pilots who are forced by a "benevolent" government to GIVE UP THEIR AIRLINE LICENSES AT AGE 60 with NO medical basis in fact. This might not be germane to the 303rd general news, but it IS a proper reflection on John Glenn's Space flight! Thank you for the opportunity to exercise my 1st Amendment Rights! Cheers!

Corlis Girman Gcgirman@aol.com (family of a 303rd Member) You are doing a great job with this web site. I requested a Oklahoma City tour book via the internet and received an immediate reply.

Mark Mikulski mikulski@psinet.com (family of a 303rd Member) My father was in the 303rd, 359th, Aint Mis Bea Haven. He does not have a computer so I am showing him this page. He is looking for any of his former crew mates that may still be around. If there are any members of the 359th around please have them email me so that I can put my father in touch with them. PS my fathers name is Wellington (Mac) Mikulski, Sgt, Eng, 359th early Feb 1944 until Casablanca in 1945. Thanks - like the page! (My father is a member of you association!)

Kim Juhler c/o Anja Christensen, Denmark anja@esbjerg.mail.telia.com Dear Sir!! 27/8 1944, 303rd Bomb Gr. Attacked Esbjerg Denmark and one B-17 crashed nearby. It was destroyed by German Flak. I'm 31 y.o and are the Danish Rep. for 492/801 Bomb Gp and am trying to find out information about your attack 27/8 1944. Maybe I can be YOUR Representative here in Denmark? If you need any information about what happened to the crew that crashed here in DK. Please contact me by mailing a letter to me.

William C. Midkiff wcmidkiff@juno.com My daughter is a life guard at UT Memphis Health Center pool, here in Memphis. She became acquainted with a man by the name of Harry McLeod, approx. 75 years old. He would come there to swim, and was well loved by all who became acquainted with him. My daughter said she, and all the others loved his sense of humor. Well, a couple of months ago, Harry was diagnosed as having Leukemia, and died a short time later. My daughter got curious and obtained his obituary from a friend. It turned out Harry was with the 303rd Bomb Group, 359th Squadron in WWII. Not only that, according to the obit., Harry had flown 36 missions and won six (6) Distinguished Flying Crosses. I have always been interested in anything relating to B-17s and WW-II, and would like to know more about Harry. I found him on the list. He was a 2nd Lieutenant and a Bombardier. Anything you could provide would be fine. His pilot's name started with an R and was about an inch and a half long.

John L. Dienst Dienst@hotmail.com I represent the Stillwater Airport Memorial Museum of Stillwater, Oklahoma. Over the past seven years I've been putting together a book about the 475 combat aircraft that were scrapped at our airport in 1946. 78 of these aircraft were Boeing B-17 Flying Fortresses. Many saw combat during World War Two. Several saw service with the 303rd Bomb Group: 41-24577Hell's Angels, 41-24605 Knock-out Dropper, 42-5264 Yankee Doodle Dandy, 42-29795 The Flying Bitch, 42-29947 Wabash Cannonball. At the present time, I'm trying to acquire photographs of these historic aircraft for publication. Also, I'd like to make contact with former crew members in order to record for posterity their memories about their Flying Fortresses. For your information, your President, Harry Gobrecht, was instrumental in getting this project started. I'd like to encourage any one who is associated with the 303rd Bomb Group Association, or who is interested in these specific B-17s, to contact me as soon as they can if they'd like to assist me in this worthwhile endeavor. Any help you can give my organization will be greatly appreciated! Thank You.
Sincerely, John L. Dienst, Curator
Stillwater Airport Memorial Museum Association
P.O. BOX 6042
Enid, OK. 73702
Phone:(580) 242-0191

Anthony J Sacco sacco@bcn.net (303rd BGA Member) My son was showing me how the internet worked so I asked about my old bomb group and here I am. Brings back memories.

Rick Baker (son-in-law of Delos Hamann, 359th) rbaker@zeus.ia.net Very good site, I'm sure any visiting Members are moved. I enjoyed being able to give Delos the information he requested. He said he went through it many times. Thank You

Victor W. (DeWitt III) Williams vicwilli@cwnet.com (family of a 303rd Member) I have been searching for info about the father I never knew (divorced when I was an infant). Perhaps I'll learn something now. This is a great site dedicated to brave people who answered the call when America needed the "goods" delivered.

Charles E. DiSipio sergeantsaunders@erols.com I own a grouping of items that belonged to a vet from the 359th Sq. I am hoping your organization can help clarify some conflicting details, while I may be able to do the same for you. This grouping I have belonged to a ball turret gunner named either Samuel S. Wright or Walter S. Wright, there is a chance that both names are correct to two different 359th B/T gunners. What I know for certain is the following: Walter S. Wright flew on Lt. Charles F. Hanselmann's crew. I have photos of Wright and crew, along w/ Hanselmann, posed w/ B-17 before plane went into action (possibly in states) and another when in England, after some combat. The plane was the famous Duchess, I believe they were the second crew on this plane, the first having Lt. Mathias as bombardier, the famed CMH winner. On your roster of names, Hanselmann's crew shows a Walter S. Williams as B/T gunner, including ser. no. Under Lt. Reeder's crew list there is a B/T gunner Samuel. S Wright, w/out ser. no. I know that at least the Walter S. Wright went over on the first Schweinfurt mission. I don't know if there were two Wrights or one guy with a nickname. If two guys, I know they would have been brothers, there is some mention of a brother. The B/T on Hanselmann's crew, Williams, I suspect is an error, and should actually read as Walter S. Wright, since the photos I have marking same name are with Hanselmann and crew. Another bit of info, the Wright who flew with Hanselmann was credited with two aerial kills.

I hope you can help shed some light on this quandary, and that I may have helped you in some way. There is a crew photo in the records of the 359th that you must have, it shows all of Hanselmann's crew. I have this, as well, and would like to be able to identify the other vets and crew positions. Also, perhaps post some questions to 303rd combat crew members about any recollections they may have of approximate dates of issue for certain gear items worn. At the very least, if photo dates can be supplied, I can then get an idea as to when the zippered first aid kits and RAF parachute harnesses were issued.

Thanks for your time and assistance. Yours truly, Charles P.S. My step-father flew P-40's and P-47's w/ the 314th Ftr. Sq.,1943-45.

Ed Mussi emussi@aol.com (303rd BGA Member) I was wondering if someone there can help. I'm building a model of one of the planes my father flew in, Idle Wheel serial no. 44-8710. A photo appeared in the May 97 Hells Angels Newsletter, I know the squadron letters for the 427th - GN but not the aircraft letter for the plane. Can you help me identify it or lead me some place I can find it? Thanks.
[Our aircraft list shows it as a "Y"]

John Howland jhowland@sat.net Sgt. Dale Schilling flew with my crew, Jim Tyson (Pilot) out of the 381st Bomb Group on a raid to Schweinfurt Feb. 24, 1944. The next day he was KIA on a raid to Augsburg. I understand Dale Schilling was attached to the 303rd BG. How did it happen he was flying with the 381st BG out of Ridgewell? John W. Howland, Navigator, 535th Sq, 381st BG.
[After a passing of 50 years I doubt if anyone can remember why Schilling was transferred from the 303rd to the 381st. sometimes we loaned out rated people like GH Navigators but rarely gunners. Maybe some of our headquarters personnel people might remember the name. Hal Susskind]

Daniel Cottrell aji2@telisphere.com (family of a 303rd Member) My Dad.. Paul V. Sersland is listed as a CPL: He in fact was a Sgt. He ended his active duty as an SFC.. I'm sure he would appreciate an adjustment in rank... Nonetheless... This is a VERY WELL DONE site... take it from a webmaster.. job well done. Thank you for what you have done for the 303rd.

Ken Hayes ahkh@worldnet.att.net (family of a 303rd Member) Like many whose fathers served in the 303rd, I am seeking more information about his aircraft and fellow crewmen. At that time I believe he was primarily ground crew but he did make at least a couple missions over Europe. At that time he was Pvt. George R. Harris and his aircraft was Thumper. He has never said much about this part of his military career. I hope to get him to the Reunion in Oklahoma. He recently suffered a stroke so he couldn't travel to much farther. Thanks for a great job on the site, you'll hear from me again. God Bless all those that served their country, regardless of the capacity.

Nathan Crutchfield necbacbtc@aol.com Sister-in-law's father was Neal Hanlin who was captured in '44. I wanted to see your site. Well Done

Bob Korkuc rek@korky.mv.com Danny Lee, is a nephew of Sgt Dale Schilling. My uncle, S/Sgt Anthony Korkuc and Dale Schilling flew together only once. The mission was with the 381st Bomb Group and unfortunately both were killed on Feb 25, 1944. When I contacted the Schilling family they were kind enough to send me a crew picture of Dale. Both Dale and my uncle are buried together at Arlington National Cemetery and since Dale had substituted for my uncle's crew's regular tail gunner, I was curious what he looked like. Since I could find no Pratt with the 381st BG, I looked closer at the Pratt Crew Photo and noted a reference to the 303rd BG. Schilling must have been transferred to the 381st at some point in time? The photo was provided to your website by me. I hope the Schilling family does not mind me providing the photo to this group. If any knows how or why Dale Schilling was transferred to the 381st BG I would certainly be interested. Thank-you. PS Your website is quite impressive! Respectfully, Bob Korkuc

Paul O Harmon podharmon@webtv.net I was with 1199th M.P. Co from 1943 to 1945

Michael Amo mikeamo@netcom.ca Thank you for your informative website. I'm sure it's a great resource not only for veterans and their families but also people like me who are researching the 8th Air Force during the Second World War. Currently, I'm beginning work on a screenplay about a bomber crew reunion set in the present day. I'm particularly interested in how veterans coped with the psychological impact of their wartime experience after they returned home and how they deal with it it today. Maybe it's not as difficult a thing as I imagine it would be. However, every time I read or see some movie about air crews went through, I wonder how they managed to cope with it after the fact. I realize this might be a painful subject and can understand if veterans would be reluctant to discuss it. Thanks for any suggestions or insights anyone might want to offer.

Danny Lee DHLRCINC@aol.com (family of a 303rd Member) Sirs, I believe that my uncle Dale E. Schiiling was a member of the 303rd, however I'm not positive but I will look at his crew photo again and see if it's identified. I think that the name of his ship was Mr. Five by Five.
[He was indeed, Danny.. I just got a copy of the crew photo of the Pratt Crew from Bob Kurkuk. Mr Five by Five was just the plane the crew was photographed in front of. He may have never gone up in that plane. Look around the website for more info. Looks like he also flew with the Cardwell Crew, James Crew and the Schope Crew. He is listed 4 times in our personnel roster.]

Charles R. Doback HPDJAE29@worldnet.att.net (303rd BGA Member) Membership list shows Curtis Brooke 358th SQ - date of mission 7/2/42 should read 1943.

Steve Sanders ssanders@sirius.com (303rd BGA Member) As you suggested in your last E-mail to me, I'm entering my question about the Bombing Formation Diagram that appears on the site for consideration by the membership. It will be necessary to consult the diagram to understand my question. Please compare the opposing versions of planes 1-6 of the "Lead Squadron" as they appear in the "Right Side View" and "Tail View". You will note that in the "Tail View" A/C 2 & 3 as well as 5 & 6 are shown on nearly identical altitudes while in the "Right Side View" shows them in the same staggered configuration as in the "Low" and "High" squadrons. Only one of these views can be the correct configuration, and I would like to know which it is. Who's got the straight poop?

[The Combat Box formation was developed by Colonel Curtis E. LeMay, Commanding Officer of the 305th BG(H) and later adopted by the 1st Bomb Wing 8th Air Force for standard 18-21 aircraft formations. It was designed to provide maximum mutual protective fire when attacked by enemy aircraft. Group formations, at this period of time, were restricted to 18-21 B-17s when it was found that B-17s in larger formations on the inside and outside could not vary their speeds sufficiently to stay in formation on turns. It was like playing "crack the whip" with the first man going slowest and end man going much faster. In the lead Squadron there were two echelons of three B-17s.

The two wingmen of the echelon leaders flew at the same altitude slightly below the echelon leader The low and high squadrons also had two echelons but the wingmen flew at staggered alrtitudes. The right wingman flew above his echelon leader and the left wingman flew below his echelon leader. A 7th B-17 in each squadron box would fly below the 2nd echelon leader Making a 21 group formation instead of the 18 aircrat formation. Groups initially had a difficult time adjusting to the LeMay standard box formation but over a period of time adjustments were made towards standardization.

There were still a lot of variations by individual groups on various missions. The 18-21 aircraft group box formation was done away with when the standard 13 Squadron aircraft formation became standard with a 36 aircraft three squadron group formation. Hope this explains your formation question. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian 303rd BG (H) Association]

Fred R. Meyer frmacpfp@csionline.net I was always curious but afraid to know about my Uncle / God Father S/Sgt Philip W. Hensel who was KIA 01/21/45. My Dad was in England w/ the 76th.Inf. Div. and went to see him before my Dad went over to Germany. That was the last they spoke.Then the letters came back. Dad never said much and I never did ask. I have been searching to see what I could find about he and his crew (it was Duffield's Crew all KIA 1 POW 1LTJames C. Flemmons) He also flew with Gravrock's Crew in '44. There are so many questions I'd like to ask. But for now I at least found something I needed to know. Thanks 303rd and the Mighty 8Th!

Donald O. "SPEC" Campen, Jr. ibspec@aol.com (303rd BGA Member) Mr. Editor: Thanks for your very succinct, topical, informative, pictorially worded newsletter that is appreciated by this member who regrets he could not attend in Savannah. I know our new president will have a great year. Gracious thanks to Hal for his dedicated years to the newsletter and his great presidency. To what source do I inquire to get the actual daily mission pages of missions that I flew and briefing and debriefing? I trust my question is clear enough as to what I desire. Thanks.

Gary Hartle DoodlePip@aol.com What a terrific compilation of information!! I was at Molesworth as it rebuilt into the 303rd Missile Wing. We were carrying on a tradition of hard work, patriotism and dedication. It is chilling and inspiring to read accounts of of true heroism and bravery. Thanks for sharing!!

Bruce Robinson lynnie@ptialaska.net I enjoyed your site and thought this may be a chance to locate anyone who may have known my Grandfather. He was a pilot in WW1 and taught new pilots to fly in WW2. His name was Breaker Atterbury. Not sure if Breaker was a nick name or real name. That's all the information I have on him, but would like to find out more. Thanks...

Willis Meyer beersie@bright.net (303rd BGA Member) I was a Master Sgt./Crew Chief of the 360th squadron. I received a Bronze Star, but was not on the list with the other 360 squadron members. I would appreciate it if you would add me onto the list with the other members of my squadron.
[Thanks for the information about your Bronze Star. It will be added onto the list of Bronze Star Awardees. We apologize for the omission. Do you know of other who received the Bronze Star who are not listed? Harry D. Gobrecht]

Steve and Alison Price ilsleyfin@aol.com We are B-17 enthusiasts living in the UK and in frequent contact with members of the 91st BG in particular. Your site is brilliant - very well laid out, interesting to read, and full of information. Well done. We would welcome contact from USAAF veterans of whatever BG - we have an interest in anyone with a story to tell of their experiences during the War.

Gary Cummins gpcummins@theriver.com Looking for John P. Nobel ..... Found a hat in Tombstone with 817 Bombardment Squadron with pins from 483rd Bomb Group (H) Assn.

Lance Berry laberry@hollinet.com I received a photo from my brother-in-law of two B-17s flying over St. Nazaire sub base sometime in 1943. The number on the tail is 124573, and on the body it has the letter "S" then the star then "XK." According to the writing on the back the name of the plane is BUTCH. Until I get the photo enlarged I cannot identify any of the markings on the second plane. I'm trying to get any info on the plane, or directions on where to get some info. Thank you for spending some of your time reading this.

Dave Bass dave.bass@mac.com (303rd BGA Member) Great Web Site!! I was up late watching the discovery channel Wings program and it was about B-17s. I recognized Molesworth and the "C" tail designator. I read in the last issue of the 303rd newsletter that your web site was coming on line. I wanted to see if I could find it and I am glad I did. It was worth the search! Keep up the good work and I look forward to my next issue of the 303rd newsletter. I have been working at RAF Molesworth since July of 1992 and plan to stay as long as possible. We always enjoy visits from the old crew members. I look forward to meeting anyone else who can make it over. Cheers!

Carl L. Niethammer niethamm@flash.net (family of a 303rd Member) What a great site. I was just looking to see what I could find out about my dad's old unit and his days in England and Africa (I can still remember the stories he told) ....... thank you all for this site, it does me good and is a FINE complement to the unit and those of you who remain and those who have passed... GOD BLESS.

Stephen L. Haley mmhaley@erols.com (family of a 303rd Member)

Robert P Ives BNZBOB@aol.com My son is assigned to JAC Molesworth. In surfing the net for info on JAC, I found the 303d Bomb Group info and became very interested as I enjoy WWII Air Operations. Am looking forward to traveling to England and visiting 303d sites.

Neal Crossland neal_crossland@hotmail.com (family of a 303rd Member) What a great website!! My father-in-law, Don Richardson, was the RO on The Dutchess. My wife's uncle is Eldon Audiss who was the FE on the same aircraft. Over the years, my father-in-law has related bits and pieces of his experiences with the 359th BS and the 303rd. During my own 32 year AF career, I was stationed with the 20th TFW at RAF Upper Heyford and had the opportunity to visit Molesworth. You can't begin to imagine the eerie feeling just standing on that hallowed ground. The only other experience that came close was during several visits to the cemetery at Maddingly (Cambridge). For those of us who have worn AF Blue, and who wear it today, these websites and associations are extremely important in reminding us of the rich heritage we have descended from, and the incredible cost expended to provide it. To those airmen who have gone before, from those of us today, we solemnly and respectfully salute you.

Eugene T. Carson ECarson106@aol.com Although I never served with you organization I do have a connection through experience. My first tour of 25 missions was with the 388th Bmb Grp, 560th Sqd Sept 43 to Feb 44 as a tail gunner. My second tour was 35 missions as tail gunner and flight engineer 92nd Bmb Grp., 327th Sqd. Stayed in service and retired as Lt.Col Regular Army after Vietnam. Would appreciate communications from those interested. My congratulations on your pages and your effort to preserve history.

Charles A. Holpp chlp1@ix.netcom.com Very well put together. Thanks.

Geri Iannaconi moms_taxi@msn.com (family of a 303rd Member) My Dad is a member (Jim Mussi, 427th Squadron) and he's has made my brothers and I Life Members of the society. Our whole lives we have heard stories about he's time in the Air Force. Now his grandchildren have learned about B-17s and WW II. How better to learn than from someone who can share first hand experiences with them. It is great that these men has a place to share their experiences with people around the world. I know that my dad enjoys meeting with everyone and has developed some new friendships as well as meeting with his fellow crew members. I always wondered what Mom and Dad were going to do when he retired. They look forward year to year to your annual reunions.

Max Rabinowitz maxraven@ibm.net Didn't know that this site existed until looking up a friend's name during an internet search. Didn't even know the 303rd had a site, will be joining soon.

Kevin Erickson yankeeflyer@yahoo.com Father flew 35 missions as navigator with 305th BG. Last mission on 4/13/45. Do not know of a 305th BG association. Do you know if there is an association of the 305th BG?

William Heller wheller@attglobal.net (303rd BGA Member) Gary: This is a word of THANKS to all those wonderful 303rd BGA Members who wished me well, sent cards and telephoned me during my recent recovery from surgery. There is not a day that goes by that I do not have so many memories of those fine heroes of Molesworth. Thanks. BILL HELLER

Arthur H. Stockdale artswing@cafes.net Your web site is very informing. I am very much interested in the B-17 and it role in WW-II. I am also seeking any information on my father Arthur R. Stockdale, although he was not in the "Hells Angels" possibly you can help me in my search. What I know is he was a bombardier out of Eye England and the name of his plane was the Cuddle Cat. any help would be greatly appreciated. I do believe that the B-17 was the greatest plane ever built.

Dan West DannyWest@webtv.net A fantastic site. More of the Bomb Groups should have sites like this. I feel that it is very important to record what the men like those of the 303rd BG did during the war, all too soon many of these memories will be gone. Thanks...

Sandi Bachom sandibar@aol.com Finding your web site and the information about my uncle Thomas Bachom's (359) loss has meant a lot to my family. We're talking about gong to Belgium to find his name on the wall at Ardennes. He has no one left by to remember his sacrifice and we want to thank you for opening our eyes to the details of his life during those few months he spent with the 303 in England. My husband has come across a page on your site where Radioman Charles Terry (359) writes about the mission to Romilly-sur Seine on the day my uncle died (12-20-42). Terry writes of the 4th plane in the diamond formation being shot down. Is it possible this was the Zombie, my Uncle's plane? We are sending our membership to you and want to thank your again for your effort in building the 303 web site.
[Yes! Radio Operators Charles Terry and Thomas Bachom were both on the 12-20-42 mission to Rommilly Sur-Seine. Charles Terry was in the lead B-17 of the 359th BS formation piloted by Captain W.R. Calhoun and Major E.A. Romig. Thomas Bachom was in the 2nd flight (#4 spot) of the same formation piloted by 1Lt O.S. Witt.

Hope you will be able to make your trip to Belgium. You will find it a very rewarding experience. The American Cemeteries are beautiful and well kept. Before making your trip contact the following man who has helped several of our visitors to Belgium. Mention my name when you contact him. Luc & Sophie Dewwz, 8 Paul Pastur Street, 5190 Ham-sur-Sambre, Belgium. Regards, Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian]

Tim Terry tim@vc.cc.tx.us I know Carl DuBose (one of your veterans). He worked as a college administrator at Victoria College. He still lives right behind the college bookstore where I work. I am a member of the Confederate Air Force and recently joined the Gulf Coast Wing of the CAF. They operate the B-17 TEXAS RAIDERS. Texas Raiders was in Victoria, Tx last year and I was fortunate enough to spend two days in the cockpit giving tours. It was a great thrill to just be inside of that great plane. My biggest joy was to see the old veterans come out. Many tears were shed and you could actually see the memories in their faces. The best case was when a former bombardier came out with his daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. He showed them where grandpa sat during the war. The nose was roped-off but, I couldn't sit there and miss the opportunity to let him take his seat one more time. He handed me his camera and I took a picture of him and his grandchildren in the seat where grandpa used to si! t. That memory will live with me forever as I know that picture will stay with those grandchildren forever. Carl DuBose came out that day and I was able to let him sit in the pilot's seat. There again you could see that the memories were coming back. I'm really impressed with your web site. Keep up the good work. Tim Terry, Victoria, TX

Glenn J Denning Susan1808@aol.com (303rd BGA Member) I flew gunner squadron 358 at Lt. Fielder's Crew and Gmernicki's Crew as Togglier.

Ross McNeill rossmcn@aol.com I'm trying to clear up what looks like an error in Bolling AFB records. Freeman in Fortress story lists a loss of 42-31243 on 1st Dec 1943 piloted by Lt Eckhart into Pegwell Bay, Ramsgate. Bolling has no record of this loss. 8th Roll of Honor lists Eckhart as MACR 303 however this relates to another a/c. Lifeboat records from the UK record a service to a B-17 ditched in Pegwell Bay 1 mile off Guildford Hotel about 14:00 hrs 1st Dec 1943. Can you confirm that this loss was 2/Lt A Eckhart in 42-31243 and if possible confirm mission and more detail. Thanks in advance.
[303rd BG(H) B-17G #41-31243 (no name) (GN-Z) was assigned to our 427th Bomb Squadron on 18 November 1943. She ditched in the English Channel at Pealie Bay on 1 December 1943 when the B-17 ran out of gas. The ten man crew was picked up by air-sea rescue and taken to Manston, England. The B-17 was piloted by 2ndLt Alan Eckhart and was returning from a combat mission to Solingen, Germany. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian 303rd Bomb Group (H) Association, Inc.]

Richard Hogue rdhogue@bignet.net (family of a 303rd Member)

John B. Charnell johnb_charnell@bc.sympatico.ca Genealogy is what brought to this site, as I am conducting a One-Name-Study of the name CHARNELL. It would forward my research if I could discover more details about the John F. Charnell that is listed here as a Second Lieutenant. What I would really like to do is to discover when the Charnell name came to the States. If it is possible to find the birthdate and birthplace of John F. and his parents I would be very pleased!

Rich Rodack richrodack@erols.com I'm looking for any information on my uncle, Nicholas Rodock who was killed over Germany in Feb./March, 1945. Thanks
[Sgt Nicholas Rodock (ASN 33609025), was assigned to the 358th Bombardment Squadron/303rd Bombardment Group (H) at Molesworth, England on February 12, 1945 as the Tail Gunner on the 2ndLt Robert I. Murray crew. The crew was reported missing in Action on April 10, 1945 on a combat mission to Oranienburg, Germany (near Berlin) to bomb an ordnance and equipment depot. They were flying in B-17G #44-8427 358BS (VK-E) named Henn's Revenge. The B-17 crashed at Oranienburg, Germany after being hit by German anti-aircraft fire. Eight members of the crew were Killed in Action. The Flight Engineer, S/Sgt Vito J. Brunale, managed to parachute to safety and became a POW. Sgt Rodock is buried at the Ardenne's American Cemetery, 12 miles southwest of Liege, Belgium in plot B-44-57. He was awarded the Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters and the Purple Heart Medal. Harry D. Gobrecht, President & Historian 303rd Bomb Group (H) Association]

Robert Swanbeck swany@thesocket.com (family of a 303rd Member) I think you have a great thing here. My uncle, Jim Mayer, was a pilot in WWII. He gave me the address and information about it. I enjoy reading about the men and women that helped in providing the blanket of freedom that I enjoy today. I have the utmost respect for all the men and women that contributed. I would like to thank all of them and the most importantly the families that have lost loved ones. thank you and keep up the good work. Swany

Charlotte Woodworth CAWRHW@webtv.net Looking for information about George Kyle. He is a friend of my husband. Mr. Kyle was a pilot in the 303 bomb group in Molesworth, England. The dates that I have are 1942-45.
[There is much on the rescue of the Kyle Crew on our web page here. Gary]

Sarah Hainlin Crutchfield sarah@nextstar.com My Dad was Copilot 2nd Lt. Neal Hainlin and was shot down on June 28, 1944 over France. Although he survived being a POW in Reims, France, he lost his battle with Alzheimer's in 1996. Before he died, we were contacted by John Snede, Waist Gunner on that mission, and we have learned about many of the crew on that plane. Anyone with more information, please contact me.. and I will be glad to share my information with anyone. Mr. Snede traveled back to Reims, France to see the field where their plane was shot down and met with the families that hid him and helped him to escape. My Dad was badly wounded, and he was taken prisoner. My Mom is still living, and she remembers traveling around the country following my Dad until he was shipped out. I would love to share my information, and look forward to hearing from anyone from the 303rd.

John Santayo john.d.santoyo@boeing.com (family of a 303rd Member) Thank you very much for the vast body of work presented here!!! My uncle is Sergeant Paul Villasenor. Paul was a B-17 Radio Operator. My Mother mentioned that military records show his first name to be Oscar which would be false. He flew 34 missions and on his 35th, the Flying Fortress received a direct hit over Hopsten, Germany on 3/24/45. He was posthumously awarded a Silver Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal and the Purple Heart. When the now closed Norton Air Force Base in San Bernardino, CA. was to be named, Paul was the third choice of 17 eligible airmen. The list included a Brigadier General, one Captain (Norton) and nine Lieutenants. There is a Library dedicated to Paul on 525 North Mt. Vernon Avenue in San Bernardino, CA. It is of great coincidence that I now work for Boeing (formerly Anaheim Rockwell Autonetics). However, I am a Mechanical Engineer supporting Marine Systems Programs. I have one air force picture (I'll see if I can get other pictures from my aunt) and some Library literature of Paul that I would like to send to you.

Mike Gould MGould2@MIDLAND.COM (family of a 303rd Member) My father was a B-17 pilot. His name is Graham C. Gould and he flew a plane called the Eight Ball. He is retired from the FAA and lives in Tucson. I'm going to tell him about this site. I think he will find it interesting. Thanks !

Jillian Burns jilliag@bgnet.bgsu.edu I am looking for my father. All I know was he was in Hell's Angels. He lives in New York now. I think he used to and maybe in Ohio also. His name is Jerry Gominiziak. Not sure on the spelling of the last name. This is a cool web site. You are all great. Thanks.

Jack Borland JackBChev3@aol.com I saw your comments on Memphis Belle's website, and being a WW2 aviation buff and frustrated writer about same, I was happy to find another site.. I must admit I'm a bit put off by the tone of your comments, while I understand the frustration of feeling unrecognized for your accomplishments. Politics existed even in the war zone, and anyone who knows anything about the war other than Hollywood's version of it, knows that the brass and the press, which went hand in hand, would arbitrarily select units or people to publicize. I have pictures (Published) of Hell's Angels, and have heard of it's claim to fame. I think the fact that the Belle survived all these years has kept it in the public limelight, such as it is. PS I am bookmarking your site and hope to visit it often

Irene Worthington swert@bluecrab.org (family of a 303rd Member) Seeking information on those personnel stationed in Russia during WWII.

Arthur Stevens masteve@swbell.net (303rd BGA Member) Thanks for this site for our GROUP.

Larry Godek Telegrapher@worldnet.att.net Wonder if your book is still available? Do you provide a legacy page to go along with it? I'd certainly like to have an autographed copy of it for my collection. If this site is as good as other bomb groups etc of WWII then I'm in for another treat. Congratulations on the fine work and work you men have all done before. I was a little to late to have participated in WWII.
[Might in Flight books are still available. Use the order form on our 303rd BGA web page. Title page of books has a facsimile of my autograph. Books are shipped from our fulfillment service in Fort Collins, Colorado and I do not see books before they are shipped for any personalized autograph. Harry D. Gobrecht, Historian and President 303rd Bomb Group (H)]

S. Dean Saul EA DTaxxpert@aol.com It is a tremendous accomplishment that you have managed to list all of the crew members. What a great service for those of us looking for friends and relatives. Keep up the great work. Although I did not find my father in your lists, I wonder if any one can help? I am trying to find out anything I can regarding my deceased father (T/Sgt Dean Thomas Saul, from Homesville, Nb), who served in the 8th late in WWII as a gunner in a B-17. He was discharged in Amarillo, TX in 1946 or 1947. Can you point me in a direction? Thank you, S. Dean Saul, EA, Enrolled Agent

Donald O."spec" Campen, Jr. ibspec@aol.com (303rd BGA Member) Some while ago I expressed concern for the number of hits on our web. Joy, joy that I am now in error as the numbers have rocketed since reunion. Thanks Gary, Harry, Hal and Ed.

Joe M. Eby jmeby@aol.com (303rd BGA Member) [O-2059252 358th Gobrecht's CP] Enjoy the site. Also have the book. All my life I've had problems with someone changing my name. My first name is JOE not Joseph. No big deal. My mother disliked nicknames, naming us all with nicknames.

Kenneth Dick Hawes DGHawes@ix.netcom.com (303rd BGA Member) I believe that Serial #43-38191 was originally named Gravel Gerty. When we took over the aircraft. The name Shasta was on the tail which stood for 'She has to get us to the target and she has to get us back." Both names were on the aircraft. I also have crew photos and a picture of the nose art along with the tail art. I am also Secretary/Treasurer of the Curtis LeMay Chapter of the 8th Air Force Historical Society in Southern California.

Brandon Tilby brandon.tilby@dynamix.com I am interested in tracing the history of a piece of a Boeing airplane built in the early forties. My search brought me here. I was fully impressed with the content and presentation of all the information here. The crew lists allow a user to remember what actually happened with these great birds and the men who flew and kept them. Keep up the good work folks. Gary Moncur was extra helpful in allowing me to use some of these images to help display my Gyro Horizon appropriately for the role it played in the well being of those who needed to get there and back safely.

Scott Goetz sgoetz@charlestonsteel.com (family of a 303rd Member) Looking for information or anyone who knew my uncle, 1st Lt. William Humphrey "Bill" Goetz. He was one of the "original" pilots in the 427th. The plane he flew was named Kali (#41-24517). Major Charles C. Sheridan (Squadron Commander) was co-pilot with him when they were shot down over St. Nazaire, France on 03-Jan-43. As far as I know his plane or remains were never found. My grandmother searched desperately until her death in 1960 to find his remains. I am attempting to complete her search. A Sgt. Shelly was the only accounted for crew member. His remains were apparently recovered from a cemetery in Blosville, France which had a cross over the grave which read "James F. Shelly" and the first four numbers of Sgt. Shelly's serial number. Apparently there are five (5) remains in the St. James Cemetery listed as unknowns. I was curious as to whether one of those may have been my uncle Bill. According to some letters I have, (which were written by Major Billy Southworth to my grandmother after my uncle Bill was listed as MIA) Major Southworth and Lt. Broussard were the only two (2) "original" 427th to finish. I then found some newspaper clippings which said Major Southworth was killed in the states while flying a bomber on a test flight. Does anyone know if Lt. Broussard is still alive? Some other names I have picked up on in some of the letters I have were Lt. Reber and Lt. Stockton. Apparently Lt. Reber, Lt. Stockton, Major Southworth and my uncle Bill were great pals. If anyone has information pertaining to Kali or her crew, I would be greatly appreciative if you could share it with me. My uncle Bill (Lt. Goetz) had no wife and our family is rather small. I am the last male "Goetz" in the family and am doing my best to keep Bill's name and memory alive. More than anything I would like to locate a grave or place of remembrance for him.

Scott Goetz sgoetz@charlestonsteel.com (family of a 303rd Member) This is an outstanding arrangement of information. I've been looking for over ten years for information this useful in a search for information on my uncle (1st Lt. William H. "Bill" Goetz). I am trying to obtain any information possible. He was shot down over St. Nazaire, France on a bombing run and never found.

Steve and Alison Price ilsleyfin@aol.com We are great fans of all things related to the American Air Forces in Europe during World War 2, and frequently visit various sites (we live in the UK). Molesworth is still, we think, closed to the public - but we have recently visited Framlingham, Thorpe Abbotts, Horham and Bassingbourn. We love to hear from any veterans of whatever Bomb Group if they feel like writing to us. Thank-you for a fascinating and well-presented site - we will return.

Curtis T. Wilson CWVentures@aol.com Interest in your group. My father was a b-17 pilot in the Bloody 100th. Thanks for the job you did 50+ years ago!. Rgds, Curtis T. Wilson

FlyingStu@aol.com I am the youngest of three sons of Lt. William C. Hunter, Jr., Navigator of Sky Wolf, who appears right of center in Morales Crew of Hell's Angels. I am writing to thank you for all your effort in present this information. I have lived with vivid images of my father's experiences that he has barely described. My father lost his brother (Adrian Hunter, Hellcat pilot) in the Pacific Theater in what he believes was an emergency attack situation on the small carrier "Mitomo" (spelling?) where many planes were taking off in a confined area thus preventing a safe departure. His plane was believed to be lost at sea near the carrier. Since I am a private pilot, I conjecture he may have stalled at a low altitude and could not recover, even though that plane has a very powerful motor. I have a great interest in my uncles career and his ending. I believe it intensified my father's war experience. If you should have advice for me please let me know.

David L. Miller davidleemiller@compuserve.com I am an associate member of the 388th BG Association and met a 388th ground crew member who had also served with the 303rd/427th. His name is George Pilgrim and he is interested in locating two photographs from his days with the 303rd. He remembers a 427th squadron photo taken in front of an aircraft named City of Albuquerque and another photo of the ground crew for the aircraft Hell's Angels - George was on the ground crew. If anyone remembers George or can help him obtain copies of the photographs, please contact me and I'll put you in touch with him.
[We had a George I. Pilgrim (ASN 18109740) who became a member of the 303rd BG(H) 427th BS on 06 June 1943 but have no record of when he left the 427th BS to join the 388th BG(H), nor do my records indicate what job he held with the 427th BS. Have him contact me.]

Richard Wakefield oldfeller@msn.com (303rd BGA Member) I received a picture of the B-17 that we crash-landed in Poland from a Mike Mucha. He described himself as an aircraft historian. I had his e-mail address but either it has changed or else I entered it wrong. I thought Harry Gobrecht might have it because he had been in touch with him. If anybody knows it please let me know. I changed internet servers so he can't reach me at my old address. I wish there were words to express my appreciation of all the work youpeople have done to build this marvelous web site. It is something that should live forever and will be appreciated by our descendants. Bless you all. Richard Wakefield, Tail Gunner, Richardson's Crew, 427th Bomb Squadron.
[Mike Mucha can be reached at mikefly@friko2.onet.pl]

G. Neil Bech, Jr. neilbech@aol.com (303rd BGA Member) Many, many thanks Ed, for all the work you've done putting this web site together -- it's really fantastic. I'm the original pilot on the 359th Bonnie B as anyone who attended the Pittsburgh reunion will remember. I would like to hear from any crew member who flew in the Bonnie B from August 5, 1944, when Bill Arnold flew his last mission, until she crash landed on her 97th mission. Thanks again and look forward to hearing from some of the old crew members of the Bonnie B.
[As part of trivia, someone of the crew members on Lt. Arnold's crew also named his daughter Bonnie. All of the work you have seen on the 303rd Web site has been done by Gary Moncur, son of the original pilot of the Thunderbird, also a 359th aircraft. Ed Miller is the guy who talked him into doing it after he had seen the Thunderbird's Web Site. Gary is the 303rd BGA Webmaster. Ed Miller is the 303rd BGA's "Jack of All Trades." He has held about every position in the 303rd BGA. We invent positions daily and Ed volunteers to do it. The 303rd BGA owe he and Jill a big debt of gratitude. Hal Susskind]
[Neil--I would like you and everyone who visits the Web Site, to know that the majority of data that went into the Web Site was done by Harry Gobrecht. Maybe I might have provided more pages with the personnel and crew listings, but the tremendous amount of research work that Harry did in preparing for his Might in Flight History book, is well displayed throughout the Web Site. But digging out the information was only a part of the job. Gary Moncur took everything that we sent him and created a display that is outstanding. The old saying: "There is no end to the amount of good that can be done, if no one is concerned about getting the credit." But in this case Harry Gobrecht and Gary Moncur have been the backbone of this Web Site project. My work was strung out over about 3 years of searching for names and crews that flew during 1942-1945.]

Mac McKenzie MacBoze@aol.com Looking for old buddies. I am new at the computer. I was radio man on Miss Lace Feb 45 to flying last mission.

Kevin Pearson kpearson@saintjoseph.com I want you to know how much I appreciate all your efforts on creating one of the better 8th AF websites on the internet. I've written a book about the strategic bombing of Germany, was voted a life member of the 8th AFHS for the work I have done for them, am secretary of the Missouri Chapter/St. Louis Wing - 8th AFHS, and am editor of our state chapter's newsletter - The Rally Point. I had my pilot's license before I could legally drive a car. I just got back from a three week trip to Europe where I visited 16 former 8th AF bases, then to Germany to visit the sub pens at Kiel and the FAG Kugelfisher Georg Schafer Company - one of three ball bearing plants in Schweinfurt. I also had the opportunity to unearth the remains of two B-17s from the 91st BG(H), 324th BS - Lassie Come Home, 42-31673 and Boston Bombshell, 42-39996 - shot down on 16 Aug. 44 en route to bomb the Seibel Aircraft Works at Halle Germany. I'm only 41 years of age, but have studied the air war since I was 14. Visiting Molesworth and meeting Phil Berube and Brian McGuire was one of the most interesting aspects of my trip to the 16 8th AF bases. I commend you for the OUTSTANDING work you have done on this web site! Kevin M. Pearson, Secretary Missouri Chapter/St. Louis Wing - 8th AFHS

Dan Marsh marsh@lex.infi.net (family of a 303rd Member) My Uncle is John King (Pilot).

Dallice Mills millsd@bcc.orst.edu Dear Gary, I thoroughly enjoyed your web page of the original crews of the 303rd BG. I have a relative who flew with the original Stouse crew on the Duchess (359th BS). He is Eldon Audiss and is shown kneeling first on the left in that photo. Over the years I have found several photos of the Duchess and one of the crew as they departed for the States. However, I have never come across the photo of the Original Crews. If that photograph is for sale, could you provide me the source? As you probably know, their bombardier, Jack Mathis, was killed on one raid and was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for his actions. Incidentally, Eldon may be able to assist in the identification of some of the original crew members. I must say I also admire you for the work you're doing in memory of your father and his crew of The Thunderbird. It's a great tribute to him and his crew.

Kathy Luehrman kluehrma@iland.net My dad, Vincent Rosewell is a member of the 361st and I was looking for any websites about the 361st for him. You have an extremely nice website.
[We are not aware of a web site for the 361st.]

Rob Smith rsmith@morgan.k12.ut.us I am very impressed with the site. JoAnn Matern informed me of this site and that her father was a pilot in the 303rd. I have worked with JoAnn for several months and wanted to check it out. I am also a Captain in the Army Reserve and very interested in honoring the heritage and sacrifices of those who have served and given so much. Thanks for doing such a great job.

Brian Rukes mmregistry@hotmail.com (family of a 303rd Member) Dear 303rd Members and enthusiasts, My name is Brian Rukes, and I am 19 years of age. I am a student at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, OK. I am taking a course this semester in which we are required to write a 15-page historical paper over the topic of our choice. The 303rd being a part of my life (my great-uncle was the tailgunner on the Leapin Liz, one of the 358ths original planes), I decided to do my paper over some aspect of the 303rd. I have reached the conclusion that the best topic for me to do my paper over is the Hell's Angels herself. I have access to most of the printed books on the subject of the 303rd, so that is not a problem. However, to add some primary-source information, I need the assistance of you all. I would like to correspond with anyone who flew alongside or with the Hell's Angels, as well as any of the other individuals who had ANY experiences with that aircraft. Please do not procrastinate in contacting me, for I need any and all information I can get on the Hell's Angels as quickly as possible. I am wanting to cover the Hell's Angels in every aspect imaginable. That includes her assembly, her combat tour, and her stateside tour, and even the impact her accomplishments had on the morale of those involved in the war. Please help me re-construct the history of the 303rd's namesake; I want to do the Hell's Angels, the men who served on her, the people who worked on her, and the 303rd justice in writing this paper. Thank you for your time: I am looking forward to hearing from you all. Respectfully, Brian Rukes, Rt. 1, Box 147-A, Geary, OK 73040

Jim McKeever mckeever@antigoschools.k12.wi.us (family of a 303rd Member) You have a nice site!! My uncle Bernard McKeever was with the 360th. He was KIA in June of 1944. I'm not sure, but his picture may be in one of the crews. It could be the third crew with him being the second from the last in the second row going left to right. He was in a B-17 when he was shot down, there was one survivor in his crew and the name of the plane was Old Glory. I've done a little research on him. He is buried in the Ardennes Cemetery in Belgium. They have a website and I had some flowers placed on his grave. I will explore your site more in the future.

Carlos Guerreiro c.guerreiro@ip.pt Dear Sir, I'm a Portuguese journalist trying to put together a book about the planes and crew members that had to land or crashed in Portuguese territory during World War II. Any bit of history interests me, even second hand stories. Carlos Guerreiro, R. Dr. Arnaldo Vilhena, 17 -1º dt, 8000 Faro, Portugal

Patrick S. Fox nick@exchange.lowe.org (family of a 303rd Member) My father has always wondered if there is any one still alive from his bomb group. My Dad's name is Howard E. Fox ,TSgt, 8th Air force, s/n 16135933, 303rd BG, 358th BS, Tail Gunner. He flew 33 missions during WWII. His pilot's name was Joe Moreau. My dad told me that Joe had nicknamed him "Eyes in my Ass." I have been looking for this site for over a year. Hope to hear from you.

K Porter Clark Clarkka@sonoma.edu I'm a history grad student writing thesis on the battle in Halle, Germany in April 1945. Am interested in any information regarding Halle. Halle was bombed by Americans at least 3 times but was still relatively intact at the time of the battle. Any info about the bombings or why it was not bombed more often would be greatly appreciated. Halle was less than 10 miles from Merseburg. Thanks
[As the lead Navigator on the 6/12/44 raid on Merseburg we went right over Halle on our turn off the target. The flak from Merseburg practically blanketed the area over Halle. Merseburg was always the priority target. I don't believe Halle was ever that important a target. Why expose yourself to the flak from Merseburg to hit Halle? Hitting Halle would never have shortened the war but, hittng Merseburg would. Hal Susskind]

David Sheets 70324.251@compuserve.com (family of a 303rd Member) You folks have done a wonderful job! Reading about the 303rd gives me a better understanding of what dad (Robert W. Sheets, 427th Squadron) experienced. I would greatly appreciate any stories your members might have about my father. Thanks again for a wonderful web page. I'll continue to monitor your additions and improvements.

Fred Rupert frupert@ix.netcom.com I'm doing the research for a scale model of the Jersey Bounce Jr. (B-17F) in which Woody VoslerWon the CMH on 12/20/43 over Bremen. Does anybody have any info/recollections on the nose art? I have the aircraft model, color scheme, markings and tail number, but nothing on the nose markings. Can you help? Thx.

Chief Dave Manning, USN AFmandc@dia.osis.gov Hi folks, I'm sorry I missed the reunion at Savannah. Of course I intended to get there come hell or high water, but alas I was unable. Did the JAC send somebody this year? I will be able to stop by the museum later this year (Liz and I are now living in University Park, just inside the beltway). I will make it to next year's reunion and hope to see you all there. Say hi to Harry Gobrecht for me! Thanks, Dave Manning (formerly of RAF Molesworth)
[We missed you and your lovely wife at the reunion. Brian McGuire represented the JAC. He made two presentations and read a poem and presented a framed picture of the poem to the 8th AF Museum. He was accompanied by Bill and Joyce Adams. The visit to the 8th AF Museum is a must. Look forward to seeing you next year if we can decide where to hold it. At the present time it appears to be San Antonio. but the dates have yet to be firmed. Lots of luck on your present assignment. Cheers! Hal Susskind]

John "Scotty" MacNeill, macneillj@coned.com Hells Angels Motorcycle Club (303rd BGA Member) Thank you for a great time in Savannah. It was an honor and a pleasure to met all of the guys and hear their stories. I wish I could have stayed longer. Hope to see you all again. Love and respect, Scotty - Hells Angels M.C. NomadsNew York

Greg Hichens ghichens@binus.com My father flew with the 384th and 305th bomb groups. He flew his last mission on Sept. 19, 1944. Three days later he celebrated his 20th birthday. I saw Sentimental Journeyin San Diego on June 4, 1985. I tried to get a ride on her with the offer of a donation but was refused. I can't tell you how much I wanted to call my dad and tell him that I had flown in a B-17. I didn't get the ride and I didn't call my dad and 2 days later he died.

Brian Rukes mmregistry@hotmail.com (family of a 303rd Member) My name is Brian Rukes. I am 19 years of age, and a student at Southwestern OK State University. My great-uncle, M. Dale Rukes, was the tail gunner in the Leapin Liz, one of the original 358th B.S. Fortresses. My father has done extensive research on the history of the 303rd, especially the early history. The Leapin Lizwent down on 03 Jan 1943 over St. Nazaire to flak. The fact that flak was what knocked the Leapin Lizfrom the sky was questionable for some time, as there were two or three B17s whose fate was uncertain that day. As a result of extensive research by my father, we have determined that the Liz, as we call her, was hit by flak, exploding in mid-air over the target.

I am pleased to see that you have put up the original crew photos of 303rd's original crews. My father has a lot of the crew names you need to accompany those photos (at least for the 358th). I will get this information from him and send it to you as soon as possible. It may interest you all to know that in one of my college classes, Historical Research and Writing, I have been given the opportunity to write a research paper on the subject of my choosing. My interests are broad, but I decided to do a history of the 358th, more specifically on the "Hell's Angels". I have quite a bit of info on the Hell's Angels, but would appreciate any additional information you can provide me on it. I want to do the 303rd's namesake justice when I write this paper. One bit of information: on the photo of the Hell's Angelscrew, it might be a good idea to note that they are NOT standing in front of the Hell's Angels; they are standing in front of the 8 Ball. Respectfully, Brian Rukes

Lawrence L. Cleavelin cleavela.asa@asa.org (family of a 303rd Member) Very Very good. Thank you.

Phil Sellers ruby95@g-net.net Dear Gary: Just enjoyed your Website. Looking forward to meeting you and The Group this weekend in Savannah! Please look me up when you get in. Phil Sellers, Director of Marketing/PR, The Mighty Eighth Air Force Heritage Museum, Savannah, Georgia

Fred Schwarz blackcloud@compuserve.com Gary: I wrote to you earlier from your Thunderbirdwebsite. In that note I mentioned that I was starting to look into SSGT Sawicki'sstory and why he was not awarded the Medal of Honor. I linked over to this site, the 303d BGA page, and found the story on SSGt Sawicki. The note at the end, where some Major in the army simply dismissed the request made to Gen. Powell because of a lack of evidence got my blood up! Well, I'm a Major too, and one who knows a good fight when he sees it. As I mentioned in my other note to you, I'm a reservist, I doubt if I have much clout but I can try something. Let me know how I can help and I'll try. I might be just one more that can get the story out and maybe I can muster a few more in my unit and my model building club. Very respectfully, Fred Schwarz

Christopher L. Cleavelin CCLEAVELIN@aol.com (family of a 303rd Member) Hello! Wonderful page! My grandfather, Jesse Clovis Cleavelin, was a 303rd member killed in action over St. Nazaire France on May 1, 1943. His plane was a YB-40 named the Black Swan. He was the tail-gunner. I almost fell over when I found him listed here on your site. It was wonderful. If you know of ANY pictures or more detailed information about him, his plane, base, crew or anyone who knew him, please please write. Thank you so much!
[Chris -- Here's what I know about the death of your Grandfather. The pilot of the aircraft was Lt. John R. Sterling(KIA), the target was the Harbor Installations at St.Naizaire, France. There were two aircraft lost on this mission. The other was piloted by Lt. V. K. Walsh. The aircraft flown by Lt. Sterlingwas the Black Swan #42-5780. There were 19 aircraft that took off from Molesworth England, home base of the 303rd Bomb Group. They were carrying two M-2 2,000lb. bombs. Only ten aircraft dropped their bombs. Bomb results were poor, since the few aircraft that bombed had less than 10 seconds on their bomb run. Moderate accurate flak was encountered. Heavy fighter opposition was experienced with 40 to 50 seen and 20 to 25 head on encounters. Five enemy aircraft were destroyed, with six probables and six damaged. Several reports indicate that enemy aircraft were painted to resemble P-47's. The Group experienced enemy aircraft dive bombing with exterior pre-fused aerial bombs. (The report doesn't say, but I suspect that Lt. Sterling'saircraft was shot down by enemy fighters, since they had 20 to 25 head-on encounters.)

The crew of the Black Swanwas as follows: Lt Sterling, pilot (KIA); Lt. J. L. Neill Copilot(POW); Lt. H. E. Roach, Jr(Nav) Evadee and Escaped in 1944; Lt. D. H. Parker(Bombardier) (POW); T/Sgt P. E. Griffin(Flight Engineer) (POW); T/Sgt H. W. Fields(Radio Operator) (KIA); S/Sgt A. R. McCormack(Ball Turret Operator) (KIA); S/Sgt D. J. Cashman(Left Waist Gunner) (KIA); Sgt W. R. Whalon(Right Waist Gunner) (KIA); S/Sgt Jesse C. Cleavelin(Tail Gunner) (KIA). Your Grandfather is buried in the Brittany American Cemetery near Manche, France.

Lt Roachwas assisted by the French resistance, who led him 250 miles to an Escape Assistance Group. He then joined a group of refugees who were led over the Pyrenees into Spain. He was returned to England. After a stay in the hospital due to leg injuries, we was returned to the US for pilot's training. He was killed in 1954.

On 17 October 1984, a beautiful stone monument was unveiled and dedicated near the small village of St. Pere-en-Retz, where the B-17 #42-5780 (Black Swan) had crashed. The Name of each crewmen--the six who died and the four who survived--is incised on the stone. I send along my condolences to you and your families. Ed Miller, Past President and now, Membership Chairman]

David L. Humblet dlhumblet@snds.com When I found this page, it piqued my interest. I was a ground launched cruise missile (GLCM) launch officer assigned to the 303rd Tactical Missile Wing at Molesworth from January 1987 to December 1988. Although our tour of duty there was relatively short-lived, I was proud to be part of such a storied unit. I also feel privileged to have been assigned to such a beautiful base. Although we never saw combat (fortunately), I think we upheld the proud tradition of the 303rd. We were the first GLCM unit to achieve Initial Operational Capability (IOC) ahead of schedule. I salute all former members of the 303rd Bomb Group and thank you for your service.

Mike Yamada fortress17@earthlink.net Thanks to everyone who helped to put together this fine site. I enjoyed it very much. I have had the great honor to fly Nine-O-Nineof the Collings Foundation on June 8, 1998 while serving a nine day tour as a Flight Engineer. It was the realization of a boyhood dream cultivated by reading every book I could find on the subject. After 34 years of reading about this great plane the Collings Foundation became a means of meeting many of the people who built, flew and maintained the 17. What a great group of people, some of the nicest people you will ever meet. Please invite your members and guests to visit the Collings Foundations B-17G as it makes its nationwide tour each year starting in Florida in January and moving across the states in the south to California then up to the Northwest and across the north to New York ending back in Florida in November. We do it for you folks. Thanks again.

Steve Sanders ssanders@sirius.com (303rd BGA Member) Dear Gary, First let me say thanks for all the work you've put into both the Thunderbird website you assembled as a tribute to your father's service, and the 303BG(H) site that you've put together for the 303BG Assc. I've navigated both sites for several months, and couldn't be more pleased with the results. I came by these sites as the result of a search I commenced to find out all I could regarding the service of 1/Lt John Roy Shoup Jr., bombardier. He flew to England in the initial deployment of the 303BG(H) as part of Roller'screw. As a result of my research (and your sites), I have been able to identify every one of the missions he participated in (31 of the first 44) having started with nothing more than a name and the fact that he was in the 303BG(H).

One final note. Just saw the recent addition to the site of the Formation Diagram. Take a look at the "Lead Squadron" portion of the diagram in both Side View and Tail View versions. They don't correspond, but I haven't a clue which needs correcting. I've seen some versions of this in various books, but none as definitive as this one. Consequently, I've never been able to visualize what the "Stacked Box" really looked like when assembled. The numbering of the individual aircraft is especially helpful as there are often references to an aircraft's position in the formation by number (e.g."We were flying #3 in the Low Squadron....."), and I could never make "head nor tail" of what was meant. Oh yeah, one other reference that escapes me is "Purple Heart Corner". Do you know what position in the formation is meant by this reference? Thanks for all the great work, and Keep'em Flyin!

Elaine Spaulding espaulding@phkk.com My father S/Sgt James E. Roberts(Tailgunner) flew 28 missions and his first mission was the last mission of the Hell's Angels. Just a little short story of what he went through - They were flying in formation over Germany and one of the engines blew. They were thrown out of formation and went into a spin and pulled out of that. They were going in for the landing with two engines on fire and when touching the ground the propeller fell off. There was a bit more to it than that but, I thought I would share this with you.

Mark Craven historyace@yahoo.com (family of a 303rd Member) My grandfather, Gerald H. Cravendied on one of the B-17s during the war. He was shot down on January 13, 1945. I would like to know if you have any info on the him and the crew. He served as an engineer gunner in the 359th Bomb SQ. Please reply if possible. My family would like more info on the unit.

Ed Miller emille7@tampabay.rr.com (303rd BGA Member) Gary -- I spent an extra hour going over your wonderful work again. I have difficulty imagining that you could bring together all this material in such an understandable manner in the time that you did. My congratulations!! I am looking forward to meeting you and your wife in Savannah. I hope we have nice weather.

Lester H. Dawson HERMITDAWSON@worldnet.att.net (303rd BGA Member) I saw in the listing of personnel,a S/SGT rank, I was a S/Sgt for a very short time before we went overseas...[by we I MEAN THE 303RD]...I made T/Sgt in 1942--before going to Molesworth--After 56 years this isn't really very important.
[Sure it's important..... I'll fix it for you. Gary]
[Lester, I want to thank Gary for correcting my error. When I pulled up all of those names, they came from over 100 different documents. Once we had a name in the computer off of one of the documents, we didn't enter it again, if it appeared in a later document. So, if your name appeared in one of the early documents that I had from your days in Boise, that is the reason why you never were promoted "by me." Now that Gary has gone and done that, we congratulate you on your belated "Internet" promotion. Ed Miller, Membership Chairman]