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Albert Elliott monty@lightspeed.net (31 Jul 99) other (please tell us) I was a member of the 303 BG. Flew the Witche's Tit.
Bill Dallas wmjdallas@aol.com (25 Jul 99) (303rd BGA Member) I just received word today that Charles W. Mars passed away July 22,1999. Visitation with family members will be 6:00 to 8:00 PM Monday at the Holley Funeral home, Nashville, TN. Internment will be 10:30 AM July 27,1999 in Nashville, TN. Charlie was a member of the 427th Bomb Sq. and was shot down and taken prisoner on March 26, 1944 near St.Omer, France.He was a POW in Stalag Luft I in Barth, Germany.
Mark Diesing mdiesing@hotmail.com (25 Jul 99) I am a member of the VUSAAF 303rd Bomber Group. It's a virtual flight squadron that we have formed and we will play the upcoming B-17 "The Mighty Eighth" combat simulation game from Microprose. First of all, I would like to say Thank You! For all the hard work and commitment that you veterans have done to ensure our freedom today. You will never be forgotten by me or my family members. I greatly appreciate all that you have done and admire your courage and patriotism. Secondly, I have been reading the book Half a Wing, Three Engines, and a Prayer and have been enjoying the book very much, I can hardly put it down. I just cannot believe the bravery you guys had and the stories are an inspiring message of the human spirit. Lastly, It is an honor to be part of this group, even though we are only acting out your roles in a simulation, but we all have the utmost respect for letting us use the 303rd name, and for all you have done for the United States of America!
Eugene D. Rossel aircommando1@earthlink.net (25 Jul 99) Please pass this to your members in case anyone is familiar with B-17C SN 40-2072. I would like the DOD, in particular the USAF, to recognize the Australians who are honoring our WWII dead this year to provide any morale support for Colin Benson, who is the Australian organizing all this. I can provide the original e-mail to show pictures of the USN Navy participating in the memorial service and the B-17 Memorial.
[I'll forward Mr. Rossel's entire message to anyone interested. Gary Moncur]
L. Grant Palidin@netzero.net (24 Jul 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Anyone know, or remember Robert E. Jones, bombardier? He flew when the missions were upped to 30 or more. He was a good friend, despite the differences in our ages. He never held a grudge about the war. (this amazed me ). Bob died on Jan. 27th, 1998. I don't know how, or what of. It doesn't matter. We used to share a glass of ale together, he loved my old dog and would buy her beef jerky. The old dog (obviously) loved Bob and would lie at our feet in the bar and listen to us swap recipes, B/S, and stories. The old dog died a year after. No need to reply. Thank you all. (Just a memory.)
Matthew E. King maceking@rhcsd.dcboces.org (22 Jul 99) I have read "Half A Wing, Three Engines, and a Prayer" - 1st edition and am in the process of reading the 2nd edition of Hullar's crew. The acts of heroism and sacrifice by aviators and airmen have been a main part of my life. I have read many books about these exploits. Once again I marvel at what you all endured. I'm eternally grateful for your sacrifices in my behalf for freedom came easy for me. I did not lose a father to the war, but I'm thankful I was taught to honor those who gave their all so future generations could live free. Please tell your stories to all (as hard as it may be to think about it). No matter what any revisionaries say, you did what had to be done and did it right. I grew up at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome and flew my dad's replica WW1 Sopwith Pup at 18 (with a LeRhone rotary in it). I was scared, but my overwhelming thought were that I had little right to be scared. I was not flying into combat and fighting for my life. I do not know how you did what you did at near that (18) age. Know what what you did is still important to me and a great many people. Thank you.
Gary Mullins mully@socket.net (22 Jul 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Dear Gary: I have been looking through your website today and I noticed a discrepancy on William Fort, Jr.s Crew photo. The legend naming the crew members belong to a different photo than the photo that actually has been placed. I have some digitally improved crew photos if you should need such. I just thought you would like to know this. By the way, my father, Grover C. Mullins, (Engineer on Bill Fort's crew) has been elected mayor of Windsor, MO! Thanks again for this fantastic website.
[After scanning some 400 photos, I'm not surprised! :-) We'll get it fixed. Thanks.]
Lloyd Grant Palidin@netzero.net (21 Jul 99) other (please tell us) New Friends, It is my understanding that many groups participated in a mission based on the nature of the required force and the availability of aircraft and crews. Who planned and orchestrated a mission? How many take-off and form up accidents (ie planes colliding in bad visibility etc.) occurred on average based on the size and scope of the attack? Did different groups train together in order to minimize this aspect? Sorry, if I am getting to be a pest. (If I didn't care, I wouldn't ask.) I am proud of you all. And, in a sense of deja vu, I begin to feel more that I should have been with you.
Ian Warden btpanther@mindspring.com (21 Jul 99) I am a flight sim pilot and some of as are looking forward to the new B-17 flight sim. We are at the moment trying to put together a B17 SQUADRON THE 303RD.
[The 303rd was a Bombardment Group not a Squadron It official name was 303rd Bombardment Group (H). (H) stood for a Heavy Bombardment Group.
The 303rd had four Squadrons - 358th, 359th, 360th and 427th. The 303rd was part of:
- 41st Combat Wing (303rd, 379th & 384th Bombardment Groups),
- 1st Air Division (1st, 40th, 41st & 94th Combat Wings plus 67th Fighter Wing),
- 8th Air Force - 1st (B-17s), 2nd (B-24s) and 3rd (B-17s) Air Divisions
William S McLeod (21 Jul 99) (303rd BGA Member) This is a great new medium for me and I think the authors are to be congratulated and thanks to my son Murray for checking me out.
Lloyd Grant Palidin@netzero.net (20 Jul 99) (family of a 303rd Member) The British advised against the strategic value of daylight bombing. Yet we went ahead, putting our faith in the Norden Bombsight, and the tactical advantage of defensive formation and superior firepower. Our losses in the early part of the war were devastating. Was the "Norden Bombsight" technology compromised before American involvement in the Air War over Europe?
[The use of the Norden Bombsight by the USAAF was a highly effective bombing method. It required, however, a highly trained Bombardier and an effective Bomber team (Pilot-CoPilot-Navigator plus gunners) to make the use of the bombsight effective. On some of the early missions many lead bomber teams did not properly coordinate their functions with the Bombardier and bombing results were poor. This was an early learning process. As coordination between the Pilots, Navigator and Bombardier improved so did the bombing results. Bomb Groups also learned how to properly form and use aircraft formations to improve overall bombing results. Like all activities some Bomb Groups and lead crews were very effective and others were not. As time progressed Bomber formations improved, lead crews were better trained and disciplined and fighter escorts provided more effective protection. As a result of the learning experiences, an expanded number of Bomb, fighter groups and aircraft losses diminished.
The controversy over mass nighttime bombing by the British RAF and precision daylight bombing by the 8th Air Force continued throughout WWII. Both had their place and the combined RAF 8th AF bombing effort did make victory possible. The bombsight technology was not compromised although the Germans did recovery many of the once secret bomb sights from crashed B-17s and B-24s. Without an effective training program for Bombardiers and Bomber teams the Norden Bombsight was of little use to the Germans. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian 303rd Bomb Group (H) Association]
[I think Harry Gobrecht's answer is excellent. But I would like to add that daylight bombing was saved by General Ira Eaker who convinced Churchill that the daylight bombing by the Americans and the night bombing by the British would shorten the war. Churchill later said, "we will bomb the blighters around the clock." The formations we flew were effective as long as we had fighter support. If the fighter support was lacking as at Oschersleben we got the hell shot out of us. Magdeburg was another example. The Norden Bombsight was compromised very early in the war. (I was a rated bombardier as well as navigator.) It was only effective if there was close cooperation between the pilot and the bombardier. I found that out early when I was a bombardier student. Hal Susskind]
Stephen H. Mudge Jr. misixflsix@webtv.net (19 Jul 99) (303rd BGA Member) Brings back many memories and names I have forgotten. Hope to attend the Oklahoma City reunion.
[We hope you make it too. Looks like it's going to be a great turnout.]
Derek Sharpe ed@onwithlearning.free-online.co.uk (19 Jul 99) Can anyone tell me any information regarding a B-17 that crashed at Braydon Crag, The Cheviot, Northumbland, England Date - December 1944. I helped recover parts of this aircraft in 1984
[Look here on our site: http://www.303rdbg.com/photo-animals.html and scroll down to SHEILA, A British Dog Hero]
Bill Heller wheller@attglobal.net (19 Jul 99) (303rd BGA Member) I have a comment on two of Lloyd Grant's queries; (See Grant's comment below): (1) The Lead Crew pictures were taken for the military archives. (2) We did not have the luxury of today's "counselors" to hold our hands after each mission. We debriefed; got a shot of booze; ate and went to bed in case of any early mission the next day! Grant is right on anent the loss rate. Upon my arrival, they told me the survival rate to complete 25 missions was a huge 19%. Mr.Grant, things were different back then. At the risk of being chastised, I'll tell you ... we WON wars back then!
[When I arrived at Molesworth in November of 1943, they told me the chances of finishing a tour were "slim and None." I was at Bovington when the October Schweinfurt mission occurred. The Jan. 11, '44 mission to Oschersleben made a believer out of me. Hal Susskind]
Kent Lewis kentlewissr@yahoo.com (18 Jul 99) I am looking for any air crews that may have known my cousin Bernard Jackie Radebaugh. He was lost on a mission on January 11,1944. Jackie was a radio operator. Also I would like to find out the name of his plane. Thanks R. Kent Lewis
Lloyd Grant Palidin@netzero.net (17 Jul 99) (family of a 303rd Member) I understand that due to losses and maintenance no particular crew was always assigned to the same aircraft. I have been browsing the crew and mission photographs, and the question comes to me: What were these photographs intended for? It seems obvious that they were not always taken after each mission for every B-17 that returned. (Anyone with sense can see the "look" on these young men's faces, yet some are still smiling.) Is it true that life expectancy on a 25 mission tour was less than 9 missions, before adequate fighter escort was available? (at the beginning of the air war). What happened at a debriefing? Who was tasked with observing and reporting the numbers on aircraft irrevocably damaged and subsequent B/O? And, did crews track the numbers and insignia of attacking fighters? So many questions... I need to learn as much as possible.
Anyone that had a friend, or a family member that served in
the 303rd is welcome to contact me at Palidin@netzero.net. I
will do my best to help, and would appreciate yours. Lloyd Grant.
PS. A debt of gratitude is due to the men who have established
this site; a debt that cannot be repaid, nor understood in
its entirety. Have a look at the faces. These are not just Brave men,
these men are the reason that we are Americans. Thank you, beyond my
ability to understand, Gentlemen.
RE:Aircraft assignment to a particular crew:
RE: Life expectancy of 25 mission tours:
RE: Debriefings after a combat mission:
There were several objectives.
RE: Crews tracking numbers and insignia of attacking Fighters:
Overall comments:
[RE: Combat Crew Photographs:
The 303rd attempted to take a photograph of each new combat crew
within a few days after their initial assignment to a Squadron. Crews were identified by the name of the Crew's Pilot. To the extent possible crews flew together on subsequent missions but many circumstances prevented this from always occurring, viz., wounds,
sickness, need for a substitute crewmen on another crew, reassignment to a lead
crew, etc. Photographs were taken after each mission (when weather would permit)
of the Group and sometimes the Squadron Lead Crews. This was for the
purpose of a historical record.
The Squadron Operations Office staff attempted to have Crews fly in the
same aircraft. Early crews in late 1942 and 1943 usually flew the majority of
their missions on the same B-17. Later crews were lucky to fly the
majority of their missions in the same aircraft when their assigned B-17 was under
repair, lost on a combat mission by another crew, etc. When a Combat Crew became a Lead Crew it was not possible to assign an aircraft since the many lead B-17s had special equipment not in other B-17s, although many lead crew Pilots had a favorite Lead B-17 and the
operations Officer attempted to follow such requests.
Some B-17s had the reputation of being "Dogs" and some crews requested
that they not be assigned to fly in such B-17s. Some time the "Dog"
reputation was deserved and other times only a certain crew felt this
way.
This varied widely between Bomb Groups. The 303rd had 35 original Crew Pilots of which 20 were Missing in Action on missions. 24 of the original 35 B-17s were MIA others were lost in
accidents or reassigned to other Bomb Groups. Only two were returned to the USA.
The early crews did have a terrible loss rate. I do not have an accurate count of average missions flown by all crews.
All combat crews received a debriefing following each combat missions.
Debriefings were conducted by Group Intelligence Officers and other key
staff members trained to conduct debriefings.
RE: Damaged aircraft:
The returning crews made a report on the condition of the B-17 that they
flew immediately after landing and taxiing the B-17 to its assigned
location. The Pilot was required to sign a form listing all defects or signifying
that the B-17 was defect free. Damaged B-17 where repaired by the assigned
Ground Crew if they could handle the repairs. They sometimes worked all night to
make a B-17 available for the mission on the next day.
Badly damaged aircraft were sent to the repair hangars where special
equipment was available to handle major repairs. If unrepairable, the
B-17s were salvaged. The Ground Crew "Line Chiefs" who were the immediate supervisors of the "Crew Chiefs" and their Ground Crews and the Squadron and Group Engineering Officers made
the final determination of how and where repairss would be made.
To the extent possible this information was reported at the post mission
debriefings. Sometimes things happened so fast that the busy combat
crewmen were unable to accurately determine the identification of enemy fighters.
Every mission was different and debriefings, repairs, crew comments, etc.
would vary according to circumstances. Frequently different crews
would report mission conditions, results, etc. in an entirely different
manner than another crew. Some of the debriefing officers had greater
skills than others in determining significant mission facts and experiences.
Some crews after some missions did not want to undergo interrogations.
All surviving combat crewmen were grateful that they survived and had a
deep respect for the ground personnel that maintained their B-17s, provided
training, housing, meals, etc. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian 303rd BG(H) Association]
[Let me try to answer your question about the crew photos. Let's take the 427th, which I am more familiar with. If you will note all the original crews had on "new" leather jackets. These pictures were made at Kellogg Field, Mich. where we picked up our new planes to fly to England. Each squadron was assigned nine (9). Naturally we were all happy and proud young soldiers, not knowing what lay ahead. That would wipe the smiles away. Some of the other pictures were taken after a mission, in which the men are in flying clothing and sometimes with life vest still on (needed if you were forced down in the English channel or North Sea). Other photos were taken with "dress uniforms" or flight jackets etc. and were made at Molesworth. I trust that my memory, of this, is correct. Try to come to one of our reunions and you will get plenty of history of the "Hell's Angels". Quentin Hargrove vqhargrove@aol.com]
David L. Miller Jr. Miller64@aol.com (15 Jul 99) I am now reading Brian D. O'Neill's book Half a Wing, Three Engines and a Prayer. I would like to thank all our veterans for what they did. I used to be a nurses aide in a geriatric center near me. One of my patients was named Jack Wood. He was a Major in the Pacific Theatre. He flew B-24s. He used to tell me many of the things that were printed in the book and on your site. I also had a great-uncle who also flew B-24s in the Pacific. He never said much about what happened but I know he went through the same things you all did. Thank you very much! All of you!
Col Stanley E. Hall USAF (RET) 92nd & 97th Bomb Group (14 Jul 99) Congratulations on your excellent exhibit.
Kay Strike strikes@wavecom.net (14 Jul 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Thank you for the information in this site. My father, Joe Kurtenbach, is in the Yardbird photo. We have a lot to learn and you're helping to educate. Thanks.
Norman Wells norman.wells@talk21.com (11 Jul 99) Did you take color Kodachrome slides of the 303BG during World War 2? Well known air historian Roger A. Freeman is seeking color slides for reproduction in a book depicting Army Air Forces service in the European and Mediterranean theatres of war. Roger is perhaps best known for his 'Mighty Eighth' series of books, as well as definitive titles on World War 2 US aircraft including the B-17, B-26 and P-51. He has also published books about the 9th Air Force. Any subjects - personnel, aircraft, combat or scenes around the bases. Willing to pay for first-generation duplicates or will copy originals. Have you Kodachrome slides that have been tucked away in a draw for fifty years? Dig them out; they are now history. E-mail contact above. I will pass on the details.Thanks! Norman Wells.
Bill Heller wheller@attglobal.net (10 Jul 99) (303rd BGA Member) Colonel Kermit "Bow-Ur-Neck" Stevens is our houseguest with his daughter, Ellen, for the next two days. He is taking us out to dinner tomorrow evening to celebrate my 79th. Kermit says to give all his marvelous men of the 303rd his love and greetings. He is in fine shape and is healthy as ever. We are all very proud of him. He is 91 years young this year! He says "Cheers" to all of you.
Ira B. Baker (10 Jul 99) (family of a 303rd Member) My father flew B-17Gs with the 359th Squadron from March 1944 to the end of the War and then flew C-47s and C-54s for the Berlin air lift. His B-17G was silver/polished metal with a pretty lady on the nose called "Sweet Loranda". This ship had over 118 missions on the left side. He was lead ship during the last Bomb raid on Germany, I think 26th April 1945 on a plant in Pilsen. I have all of his flight records and some flight school books during his time as an Flight Instructor at Stallin air field in Kinston N.C. after his discharge. I think he would enjoy talking about his time with the 359th. I will send him this e-mail address. Thanks for the tour. Ira Baker, MSGT USMC, HMM-265.
[Ira, you gave us a bad email address so we couldn't reply directly to you. Your father's aircraft was B-17G-85-BO #43-38289. It was assigned to the 359th BS on 31 August 1944 and carried no official name until March 1945 when it was named Sweet La Rhonda. The 303rd had no B-17 with the name "Sweet Loranda". Sweet La Rhonda was credited with flying 87 combat missions. Her last mission was on April 20, 1945 to Treunbrietzen, Germany. Your father flew on the 303rd's last combat mission to bomb the Skoda Armament Works at Pilsen, Czechoslovakia. He flew as CoPilot in 358th BS PFF lead crew B-17 #44-8876 (No name) leading the Low Squadron formation with 1Lt D.C. Aagesen as the Lead Crew Pilot. La Rhonda was returned to the USA after VE day and was scrapped at Kingman, AZ in November 1945.
Records indicate that Lt Ira B. Baker was assigned to the 359th BS on 28 February 1945 as CoPilot on the Lt Oliver L. Bashor Crew. Our 303rd BG(H) archive photo collection contains no photo of Sweet La Rhonda or the Oliver Bashor Crew. We would like to add the Bashor Crew photo to our 303rd BG(H) Association web site. Please contact us. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian]
Bill Garriott bgarriott@yahoo.com (9 Jul 99) (family of a 303rd Member) My cousin informed me of the page. My Uncle John Garriott was a member of the 303. I have several memories of stories he shared. He did not tell much. I am happy to find such information. Thanks you for your efforts
Stephen Welch uk.airfields@virgin.net (7 Jul 99) Great site. I was looking for info about a crash between a B17 of the 303rd and a B17 out of Kimbolton. On Jan 5, 1944 a B17F tail # 42-29747 of the 527th of the 379th out of Kimbolton collided with a 303rd aircraft tail # 42-31441 and crashed near Catsworth, crew lost.
Harry Pontius hpontius@calibresys.com (7 Jul 99) Seeking information on a 303rd aircraft tail # 42-31441 that was involved in a mid-air collision near Catsworth with tail # 42-29747 of the 379th out of Kimbolton on January 5, 1944. My wife's uncle was on 379th ship and all crew were lost. Seeking any details on the collision or survivors on the 303rd crew of 42-31441. 379th on a mission to Kiel, Germany.
[#42-31441 (303rd BG) and #42-37887 (not 42-29747), 379th BG crashed 5 January 1944. The main 303rd BG(H) formation of 18 B-17s got off the ground with a bad start. 303rd BG(H) B-17 #42-31441, piloted by 2Lt B.G. Burkitt, collided with the 379th BG(H) B-17 #42-37887 piloted by Lt. Maresh. Take off was made in semi-darkness and visibility was very poor. Aldis tail lamps and flares were used in an effort to identify aircraft and avoid collisions. In spite of this care, the two B-17 collided during the climb after take-off to the formation assembly area. The 303rd BG(H) B-17 crashed near Catsworth, England all ten men aboard died in the crash. #42-31441 was a brand new B-17 on its first mission. The Pilot was on his 5th mission and others were on their 4th mission.
Molesworth is approximately five miles NNW of Kimbolton on highway A604 Catsworth location Is slightly to the left of highway B660 just below highway A604. Is several miles north of Kimbolton and a few miles SSE of Molesworth. The accident report states that the crash location was 1 1/2 to 2 miles Southwest of Catsworth. The 303rd BG(H) accident report states:
"Aircraft took off and on first turn collided with an air craft taking off from Kimbolton. They both fell to the ground out of control. Our aircraft was on fire and in about 45 seconds exploded and was completely demolished. Ship carried 12x500 GP bombs. No one was responsible. It is impossible to avoid such accidents with so many aircraft in the same vicinity at night. Recommend better coordination of assemblies in this area for night take-offs."The flying control officer is his accident report statement reported:
"l. At approximately 0740 hours on 5 January 1944, while aircraft were taking off from this station, a large ball of flame was seen in the sky just south of the airdrome. Immediately there was a loud explosion and the flame disappeared. We are not sure what had happened but believed that two aircraft had collided in the air.As a 303rd BG(H) Pilot one of our constant fears on take off was the possibility of a mid-air collision while climbing to the formation assembly areas especially when visibility was restricted. The 303rd had several such mid-air collisions and it is a wonder that more didn't happen. Each aircraft was given an exact heading to fly after take off with a prescribed air speed and rate of climb and exact turning time and point. Turns were made after so many seconds of straight ahead flight. Each airfield had similar instructions. As long as all pilots from all nearby airfields followed their exact take off and assembly instructions the possibility of a collision was minimized. Sudden changes in wind direction, flying too fast or too slow, climbing at a higher or lower rate of climb, not following the exact compass direction, etc. by one or both pilots, could result in the possibility of a collision. Most pilots and crews can vividly remember near misses in which they were involved. Most pilots believed that take off and assembly was the most dangerous part of most Eighth Air Force combat missions. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian 303rd Bomb Group (H) Association]
2. First Division flying control was informed; and ambulance and fire tender dispatched at their request.
3. It is believed that the aircraft from this station had made his first turn after take off; and the aircraft from Kimbolton was still climbing straight ahead after take-off when the collision occurred. It was very dark and haze restricted visibility.
4. Since it is only four and one-half air miles from this station to Kimbolton, aircraft must fly close to their own aerodrome to keep their patterns from overlapping. Such an accident as happened this morning has been expected for a long time."
Susan L'Heureux azkat01@aol.com (6 Jun 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Just a note to let you know that one of your members, E.J. "Bud" Sanderson passed away July 4th, 1999. He flew the Green Hornet and was shot down over France and became a POW in a German prison camp. He was a member of your organization so if you could please place this info in your next newsletter, I would be very appreciative. Thank you.
Edmond A. Maggia POW11144@prodigy.net (5 Jul 99) (303rd BGA Member) LIFE MEMBER-547 359th Sqdn. POW 1/11/44 - 5/15/45 LIFE MEMBER-22599 8thAFHS
Rick Feldmann nauti51@aol.com (5 July 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Dear Sir, A relative of mine, Dudley Marten, wrote to me recently after nearly 30 years. He was with the John Armfield Crew as co-pilot. I knew for years he was in B17s in Europe, but it is just now I am finding out a bit about his personal service. I now have personal links to the ETO and the Marianas through surviving relatives, and many internet acquaintances with similar interests and "I was there" experiences to learn of and from. Thank you for this site!! it is great!
Seth skeedawg@email.com (4 July 99) (family of a 303rd Member) My Grandpa was in the 303rd Bombardment Group, he was a tail gunner and his plane got shot down over Poland or some place, well, he was taken prisoner after a ten day chase and held captive at Stalag 17b.
Gary Bovey c.danbovey@mciworld.com (4 July 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Gary, I regret taking this long to give a follow up on the search for 303rd members who might have flown with my father, Charles D. Bovey, at the time he was KIA. We have been successful in locating two, Jacob Strouse, the radioman, now a retired Brig. Gen., and Ed Kuester, the bombardier. Ed was kind enough to send us pictures of the crew and when they are returned to us (we are having them computer enhanced and enlarged), perhaps you would like a copy for your site. God bless you in your efforts and if you should by chance receive any other info on other crew members or know what has become of them, we certainly would appreciate a line. I believe the pilot is dead (Nester) however, if not I hope he will forgive me for prematurely identifying him as such. The two gentleman mention above are 74, and 79 respectively. Both are in good health to the best of my knowledge. Sincerely, Gary Bovey
Lloyd Grant coyote@leading.net (29 Jun 99) (family of a 303rd Member) This has to be the most heart breaking, frustrating research I have ever attempted. (any sympathizers?). If you know how I can contact Roy Smith, SSgt eng. TT 427th, re: Joe BTFSPLK II, B-17F. Don Stockton, pilot, Fort Lipe, c/pilot Larry Grant, Nav., Lloyd Shirley, Bom. I will be eternally grateful. I know that Roy "Smitty" is still alive and living in Oregon, or Washington State. I would like to learn the real story of a mission to Nazaire where Don Stockton was KIA and the history of the original crew of Joe BTFSPLK II. My father was the assigned navigator, and I was named after the bombardier, Lloyd Shirley. Both Larry Grant,and Lloyd Shirley were from Texas. Time is running out. Any help is sincerely appreciated, all help to this point has been a godsend from this web site and the fine men who created it. Bless you all. Lloyd Grant.
[Captain Donald E. Stockton was Killed in Action on 14 May 1943 on the 303rd BG(H) mission No. 35 to Kiel, German submarine pens. He was hit in the right side by German Fighter 20mm shells. He fell over the Pilot controls of 427 Bomb Squadron B-17F #41-24619 S-for-Sugar (GN-S) and the aircraft went into a steep dive. The dive was so steep that one of the waist guns came out of it's mount. CoPilot 2ndLt J.C. Barker and Flight Engineer T/Sgt R.Q. Smith gained control of the Fortress and pulled it back into formation. Captain Stockton is buried in the Cambridge American Cemetery in England (Plot D-4-59).
Capt Stockton was one of the Original 303rd BG(H) Pilots. His crew flew B-17F #41-24610 Joe Btfsplk II (GN-T) to England in October 1942.
The crew consisted of:
- 1Lt Donald E. Stockton (Pilot)
- 2Lt Fort W. Lipe (CoPilot)
- 2Lt Lawrence H. Grant (Navigator)
- 2Lt Lloyd A. Shirley (BOM)
- S/Sgt Roy Q. Smith (Engineer)
- S/Sgt Carson Bryant (Waist Gunner)
- S/Sgt Lee H. Amos (Radio)
- Sgt Dean M. Packer (Ball Turret Gunner)
- Pvt Marines H. Meyer, Jr (Tail Gunner)
- M/Sgt Henry C. Parker (Passenger)
Abbott Smith ams303@aol.com (28 Jun 99) (303rd BGA Member) Looking for information on lead crew program. Background: Lt Col.,USAF (Ret) book Might In Flight was interesting, and very informative. I flew as a lead bombardier on 5 missions during my tour Feb 1943 August 16th 1943. Flew 5 missions with Capt Billy Southworth. Flew on Lt Kermit Stevens crew when we lead the Wing on Aug 16, 1943. It was successful and then Lt Col was awarded the deserved Silver Star. My point is that in the diary of the 303rd it mentioned the formation of lead crews in each squadron who only flew when it was their turn in the rotation to lead. I would be both very grateful and interested in hearing about training, experiences, and obviously long wait between missions. Thanks for your help. Abbott Smith 427th Squadron
Gordy Alton gordy@saltspring.com (26 Jun 99) I came to this site by reference from another member of the 91BGMA. I am looking for info on my father, Don Alton, 323BS, 91BG, Bassingbourn. If anybody remembers Dad or served with him, please email me. I am trying to get him a couple of medals he missed out on when he was shot down over Frankfurt on Oct.4, '43. One of the planes he was in earlier at least was Fightin' Pappy. He was interned in Stalag XVIIB. Dad is still alive and would like to help him out before he passes on. Thank you.
[Your father Sgt Donald M. Alton, from Alberta, Canada, was shot down on 04 October 1943 in 91st BG(H), 323rd Bomb Squadron, B-17 #42-3274 on a combat mission to Frankfurt, Germany He was the Tail Gunner on the Lt Lloyd S. Schaper crew. The Bombardier was Killed in Action and the other nine crewman became POWs. The B-17, which had no name, crashed at Limburg, Belgium. The 91st BG(H) dispatched 17 B-17s but only 11 bombed the target. 91st BG(H) gunners claimed three of the attacking enemy fighters destroyed, 1 probably destroyed and 7 damaged. Your father's B-17 was the only 91st BG(H) lost on the mission. The 1st Air Division lost 8 B-17's that attacked Frankfurt and claimed 37-11-37 aircraft destroyed-probably destroyed-damaged. The 91st BG(H) contact person is Asay B. Johnson, 590 Aloha Drive, Lake Havasu City AZ 86405-4559. Telephone: (520) 453-3114, FAX: (520) 453-6370 E-Mail: ace91bgma@interworldnet.net He may be able to furnish you with additional information. My information on 91st BG(H) crews and missions is very limited. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian 303rd Bombardment Group (H) Association]
CW4 (Ret) Donald Blair dblair@wico.net (25 Jun 99) I thank you for answering my first inquire. I have searched all the sites I can find for the Triangle K and cannot find my brother (T/SGT Carl Blair) but the aircraft Our Baby is the aircraft he trained on here in the states. I believe this plane was piloted by a man named Prather. I ran into him in Ellington Air Force Base in '51 or '52 he was recalled and trained as a radar navigator. Thanks again for answering I am still looking. Unfortunately my brother died before I was retired and had time to get the family history straight.
Gary Manning manningg@elcsci.com (25 Jun 99) My father Harold R. Manning served with the 303rd bomb group in ordinance. I have copies of the 35mm tag sheets he bought from the group photographer. He speaks often of the 303rd. Since I am a B-17 fan and a volunteer researcher for the Tillamook Naval Air Station's B-17F "My Gal Sal" (not of the 303 BG but a B-17!) I am constantly on the search for information and photos and history on the 303rd, both for myself and especially for my father. Finding this sight is fantastic! My father is alive yet but in very poor health being a cancer and stroke patient at home. He will be 84 on July 21st. If any of you 303rd gentlemen would care to entertain this thought, would you be willing to send him a card. I think it would brighten what has become a very restricted life for one of your fellow service men. If you would care to, please send mail to me and I will forward it to him since I have not asked his permission to give his address out. Thank you in advance! Gary Manning, 710 SW Carmen Heights Drive, Dundee Or. 97115
Joe Kalafut Jr. kalkom14@aol.com (24 Jun 99) (family of a 303rd Member) My father, Joseph J. Kalafut, was a crew member on the Wallaroo during 1943-4 based at Molesworth. I'm currently in London and planning to go up to Molesworth. If anyone has any information on either my father or his crew I would appreciate hearing from them. I will be at the base on 26 June 1999.
CW4 (Ret) Donald Blair dblair@wico.net (23 Jun 99) My brother was engineer on B-17. But I cannot remember if he was Triangle K or Triangle C. He flew on Pandora's Box.
[There were three 8th Air Force B-17s named Pandora's Box
B-17 - 91st BG(H) #41-24503 (Triangle "A")
B-24 - 486th BG(H) #42-52731 (Square "W") -Also known as "Mike the Spirit of LSU"
B-17 - 486th BG(H) Unknown serial Number (Square "W")
Neither the 303rd BG(H) (Triangle "C") or the 379th BG(H) (Triangle "K") had an assigned B-17 with the official name Pandora's Box Harry D. Gobrecht]
Bill Heller wheller@attglobal.net (23 Jun 99) (303rd BGA Member) I wish to congratulate ED MILLER and HAL SUSSKIND for their very proper and restrained remarks to Mr. WESSELS' entry on our website. We did NOT declare war on Germany! While I salute EVERY member of the German military for doing their duty, I was appalled by their politics. I flew against two of my cousins who were in the Luftwaffe. We were destined to win when one considers the alternative.
Mike Stone MAS189@AOL.com (22 Jun 99) (family of a 303rd Member) This is great!! The information here is a wonderful complement to the recollections of my father, Vern. He's not here anymore to talk about it, but by way of this association his memories and those of countless others will live on. Dad looked forward to the reunions and enjoyed the renewed friendships. I hope to visit the museum sometime soon and may even try to make a reunion. Thanks, Mike Stone.
Sarah Hainlin Crutchfield sarah@nextstar.com (21 Jun 99) (family of a 303rd Member) After seeing an article in the Hell's Angel's Newsletter about my Dad, Neal E. Hainlin, I was contacted by a William Adams in England. He was a child during the war years, and he has been carving plaques of the plane's nose art as a "labor of love." He sent us one with my Dad's plane, Old Crow. He asked for only a photo of us with the plaque and a war time photo of my Dad to put in a scrapbook for his grandson. He also has his plaques in the Molesworth RAF. They are carved on old school desk tops ... and are beautiful! He said that he just wanted to "keep their memory alive." God Bless You, William Adams!!
D. Wessels palomino@trodat.lb.bawue.de (21 Jun 99) I just read through your impressive Website. There is one thing I am wondering about. My father was born in 1935 and lived in Wilhelmshaven, so he was a kid when he experienced the bomb attacks on his home city. He lost a large part of his family and got traumatized heavily during this time. So here is my question: Did you, as air personnel ever think or ponder about the fate of the people on the ground even if they were enemies?
[Of course we did, and we were concerned about the English people that were under attack by the V-2 bombs, as well as the Americans that were nearby. If you will analyze the pattern of the Allied bombing you will find that many missions were planned to prevent destruction and death to the local population. In cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Seaports, this was more difficult. Ed Miller]
[First, let me ask you a question. How did your fathers family feel when the Luftwaffe fire bombed London and Coventry? I remember seeing photos of Hitler in a square being congratulated by millions of people for laying waste to Warsaw. What about the people in Germany pitchforking our flyers to death when they parachuted out of their burning aircraft? I got caught in several air raids in London during the war and that made the war personal. It was my job to drop bombs to end the war and that is what I did. Hal Susskind]
C. Siess triumph@nb.net (19 Jun 99) What a great site. I have been looking for information on the 383rd Group because my uncle Norman Kajut was in the 383rd Grp. 543sq and was shot down over the Netherlands in Feb. of '44. Do you know if the 383rd has a site? I would like to get more information on his group. Any help would be appreciated. I think the photos on your site are great.
[Your uncle T/Sgt Norman F. Kajut, from New Kensington, PA, was a Radio Operator with the Lt James F. Feeney crew of the 562nd Bomb Squadron, 388th Bombardment Group (H), 45th Combat Wing, 3rd Bomb Division, 8th Air Force, stationed at Knettishall, England. On 10 February 1944 the crew was flying in B-17 "Hell's Belle's" #42-31115 when it received a hit from German flak on a combat mission to Brunswick, Germany. The B-17, with an eleven man crew, crashed near Uitgeest, Holland. Four crewmen were KIA (Including your uncle) and seven survived and became POWs. The 388th contact person is James W. Ripley, 200 East Grand, La Monte, MO 65337, Telephone (660) 347-5679. He may be able to furnish you with additional information about the 388th BG(H) and your Uncle's combat crew. To my knowledge the 388th has no website.
The 543rd BS/383rd BG was a B-17 and B-24 operational training and replacement training unit stationed at Gieger Field, Wash (20 June 1943) and Petersen Field, Colo. (26 Oct 1943-01 April 1944). It later became a B-29 unit in the Pacific Theater (Aug-Sept 1945) when the 8th AF moved to Tinian Island. The war ended before the 383rd BG (VH) could enter combat. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian, 303rd Bomb Group (H) Association]
Richard King Rich.King@landsmand.com (19 Jun 99) Recently attended a USAF "WWII" Hangar Dance at RAF Molesworth, and wanted to look up the background to the place. An interesting site and a fitting tribute to the men fought for freedom over Europe.
Tim Rogers Fudger99@aol.com (19 Jun 99) My father (deceased) served with the 303rd Station Hospital. I have photos and documents from that assignment. I attended a reunion of this hospital group in Waverly, Iowa a couple of years ago. I'm seeking more information on the hospital. My father retired after a career in the U.S. Army. I live in Lexington, South Carolina. Great web site!
[Our 303rd Bombardment Group (H) archives contain very little about the 303rd Station hospital. Mary Eisenhart was a nurse at the hospital who married one of our 303rd combat pilots. She can be reached at eisencol@aol.com]
Don Konley Dkonley@aol.com (18 Jun 99) I have visited this site before, and was wondering if you know if Lt James Pratt's aircraft #42-3123 had a name? Thanks Don Konley (Burtonwood alumni)
[The B-17 that Lt J.N. Pratt crashed on the summit of Arenig Fawr on 04 August 1943 was #42-3124 not #42-3123. #42-3124 had no name. Harry D. Gobrecht]
Nora Dougherty Costello costello@rmi.net (15 Jun 99) I'm looking for information on the 306th Bomb Group - web site, contact name etc. My father was in that group and I would like to know more about it and as a result, know more about him. Any help/information would be appreciated.
[To my knowledge the 306th BG(H) does not have a web page. Unit contact for 306th Bomb Group (H) Association is: Russel Strong, 5323 Chevel Place, Charlotte, NC 28205, Telephone: (704) 568-3803. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian, 303rd BG(H) Association]
Marty Crawford (14 Jun 99) I am currently stationed here at Molesworth with the JAC. I have for the last couple of years been doing research on various Eighth AF BG's. I have question on the individual aircraft codes list in your list of 303rd a/c. Was it common for some aircraft in the same squadron (with the same name) to have more than one letter assigned to the aircraft, was this just of matter of record keeping by the squadron or did they (the squadron) repaint another letter on the aircraft? Thank You
[A few B-17s were assigned two or more different letters at different times:
- 41-24567 360BS (PU-J & V) "Beats Me"
- 41-24569 427BS (GN-W & V) "Memphis Tot"
- 41-24620 360BS (PU-D & O) "Snap!Crackle!Pop!
- 42-5081 427BS (GN-T & V) "Luscious Lady"
- 42-5264 358BS (VK-C,J & Q) "Yankee Doodle Dandy
- 42-29524 358BS (VK-K & Q) "Meat Hound"
- 42-31183 359BS (BN-J & Y) "Bad Penny
- 42-31574 358BS (VK-G & K) "Ole George"
- 42-31583 358BS (VK-C & V) "Clover Leaf" & "Little Princess"
- 42-32037 358BS (VK-N & F) [No name]
- 42-38050 359BS (BN-U & G) "Thunderbird"
- 42-39807 358BS (VK-Y & K) "Nero"
- 42-39885 427BS (GN-R & Z) "Sweet Rose O'Grady"
- 42-97085 358BS (VK-B & S) [No name]
- 42-97329 360BS (PU-L & H) "Flak Hack"
- 42-97557 358BS (VK-P & X) "Mercey's Madhouse"
- 42-97691 427BS (GN-Y & Z) [No name]
- 42-102411 427BS (GN-P & Y) "Miss Lace"
- 42-102484 359BS (BN-K & S) "Heller's Angel"
- 43-37537 359BS (BN-Q & X) "Queen of Hearts"
- 43-37597 427BS (GN-G & I) "Earthquake McGoon"
- 43-38258 358BS (VK-L & N) "Forget-me-not Olly"
- 43-38682 359BS (BN-K & L) [No name]
- 44-8422 360BS (PU-R) & 358BS (VK-M) "Duffy's Tavern"
Tim Erskine erskine@fuse.net (13 Jun 99) I am the webmaster of the 487th BG page and was updating my links. I was saddened that the 303rd had gone MIA, but was heartened when I found your new home. I will update my link to your page shortly. If possible, could you please put up a reciprocal link to the 487th? The URL is http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/1393
Ullman Fortenberry w4gko@sonet.net (12 Jun 99) As a pilot in the 463rd Bomb Group I noticed the link to this page from our page and thought I would check it out. This is a great site and always good to look at other WW2 websites, especially when B-17s and the main topic. I flew 37 missions out of Foggia in l944-45 and enjoy looking at all the aviation websites. Keep up the good work. Ullman
Fred Hageter, ILt Pilot, 385th BG, 551st Sq. Great Ashfield, Eng. ccfmh@aol.com (11 Jun 99) I think you have one of the best Web Pages I have seen. It is too bad so much history of brave men has been lost because no one has taken the iniative to collect the stories from participants. I am still looking for information on fellows I flew with. I have found five of my original crew members and I know my original radio gunner was killed on our second mission. Keep up the good work and I hope you find more of your old comrades.
Bill Heller wheller@attglobal.net (9 Jun 99) (303rd BGA Member) Fellow 303rders. Joseph Manina, formerly of the 359th Squadron, went to his Valhalla on 1 June 1999. His Service will be at the Reid-Hillview Airport at San Jose, CA. There will be a fly-over by local pilots. It is not known at this time if our beleaguered military will provide military Honors for Joe during this Service.
The Service at the Reid-Hillview Airport at San Jose will be on 26 June 1999 at 1000 hours. Come off Capitola Expressway at Cunningham. Go almost to end of Cunningham to the old Red Baron Restaurant. Red Baron sign is still there. PARK at the Red Baron Sign. Behind the old restaurant will be the area set up for the Service. Joe's daughter's phone number is 408-926-9744. Joe learned to fly at the old Reid-Hillview Airport. Joe's family reveres the thoughts and condolences of his 303rd Buddies. This information is for those who may be able to attend the Services. Thanks for your attention.
Scott Brimeyer BRIMENTR@aol.com (8 Jun 99) My uncle, 2Lt Joseph L. Brimeyer, was killed in WWII and I was trying to find some way of getting some info about him. His crew, plane, etc. Can anyone there tell me where to start? All I know is that he was in the 505 AAF BOMB GP? Thanks..
Nicholas Aird nicholas.aird@virgin.net (7 Jun 99) Please can someone tell what the military significance of Fiefs, France was during the war? My brother has a holiday house there and we would like to know something of its past. Thanks
[Fiefs, France was bombed by B-17s of the 303rd Bombardment Group (H) on a morning and afternoon mission on June 19, 1944. Target was one of the German V-2 rocket launching site that were targeted to hit London and other locations in England. Harry D. Gobrecht, President & Historian]
Don Konley Dkonley@aol.com (6 Jun 99) Interesting site. I was wondering if any vets from Molesworth around Aug 4, 1943 remembered a Lt Allen Boner and his crew that died when their aircraft crashed into a mountain near Bala Wales. The People of Wales still honor those eight "Strangers" today. The monument to them is still standing. The Air crew of Wrexham and Chester were climbing the mountain to place a wreath on the place, but the are now long in tooth so the Sea Scouts of Bala took over that job. A service in a small church is held on the closest Sunday to Aug. 4th for them. The church is filled with standing room only on that day.
Lt Boner was from Tinley Park Illinois. In 1994 I found out about the monument and contacted the hometown newspapers of the crew. The story of the honoring went into newspapers and magazines. The village of Tinley Park passed a resolution thanking the people of Wales for still honoring the crew, the village then had a plaque made over in the UK out of slate and it was presented to the village of Bala. It is mounted on the village hall for all to read in both English and Welsh. I found twin sisters, brothers, school friends of some of the men, and they were happy their loved ones are still remembered in a strange land.
The monument reads:
In Memory of the Crew of the Flying Fortress
Which crashed on the Arenig 4th Aug 1943
1st Lt James N. Pratt Boise Idaho
2nd Lt Allen M. Boner Tinley Park Illinois
2nd Lt William A. Bowling Covington Kentucky
T/Sgt Fredrick J. Royer Queens Village New York
S/Sgt Walter J. Johnson Fayette Ohio
Sgt Walter Robinson Sacramento California
Sgt Phillip Simonte Highland Park Michigan
Pfc Alfred Van Dyke Brookville Pennsylvania
Brian O'Neill bdoneil@ibm.net (6 Jun 99) (303rd BGA Member) Hello Gary! I'm writing this from Brian McGuire's home in the UK where we are recuperating from a great "hangar dance" the evening of June 5. We met Billy Gaumer and Bill Adams, and had a wonderful time. As soon as I get back to the States on June 10, I'll be sending you a copy of the new edition of Half A Wing, plus a .jpg copy of the new cover for the site. (Would have done so earlier but work has TOTALLY taken up my time.) I'll also be sending Eddie Deerfield a copy for a review in the Hells Angels Newsletter too. Looking forward to seeing you in Oklahoma City. Cheers. Brian & Kathy O'Neill
Reita Jacobson rjaco1111@aol.com (6 Jun 99) I have been stationed at RAF Molesworth. I enjoyed my tours there and would like to visit again someday. I was actually in search of the JAC website. If you can assist me, I would be most appreciative. Cheers
Kenneth Rodgers (5 Jun 99) I am trying to find information on my cousin, Henry Horn Rodgers. He was shot down over France in a plane called Umbriago. Any information would be greatly appreciated by his family. Thank you, Kenneth Rodgers
[Kenneth, you gave us a bad email address. Please let us know when you read this.]
[Kenneth Rodgers: Your cousin S/Sgt Henry Horn Rodgers was shot down on 12 September 1944 in B-17G #42-97278 Umbriago assigned to the 306th Bombardment Group (H), 376th Bomb Squadron. The 306th BG(H) was named "The Reich Wreckers" with an airfield at Thurleigh, England. The B-17G Umbriago carried the identification letters GY-K (Squadron and aircraft letter codes) was Piloted by Lt. Charles C. Wegener. It was hit by German fighters over the target at Ruhland, Germany and crashed at Uedersee, Germany. The Tail Gunner (S/Sgt Rodgers) and Waist Gunner were killed in action. The other seven crewmen became POWs. The 306th BG(H) lost eight B-17s on this mission. The 306th contact person, Russell A. Strong, 5323 Cheval Pl., Charlotte, NC 28205, may be able to give you additional information. Also try the 8th AF Historical Society Director of Information Services, Edward A. Kueppers, telephone:(800) 833-1942. Information that I have is limited to that shown in this message. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian 303rd Bomb Group (H) Association]
Marco Rosa (Argentina) b17s@topmail.com.ar (5 Jun 99) The page is very Good!. Bye my American Friends! I'm from Argentina!
Gary E. Mullins mully@socket.net (5 Jun 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Dear Gary: My father, Grover C. Mullins, was on the crew that went down with the Sky Wolf (1/11/44). All I can say about the 303rd is never have braver men seen the elephant. I love every story about the events that happened so long (yet not in some memories) ago. Thanks for all the work you've done. I don't believe the American people, government, or army still fully appreciate the sacrifices made. Sincerely, Gary (stay in formation!!) Mullins
Jonathan S. Mason (Jon) jsmason@neworld.net (3 Jun 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Lt. Frederick Hunter Mason was my Uncle.
Tammy Herman (3 Jun 99) I think that you have a great web site with a lot of info!
Tom Hayman scorpion11@msn.com (31 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) Just had to say thank you to all on this Memorial Day - ,just visited Madingly and was very moved, saw the graves of young men and women who gave their all, so thank you to those here today who sacrificed their freedom to insure mine.
Bill Lamme lamme@radiks.net (31 May 99) (family of a 303rd Member) This is a wonderful site. My father, Edwin G. Lamme, told me about it. He was an original member of the crew of Capt. A.C. Strickland, 3/20/43. Mr. Strickland made note of an incident in July 1943 in which they were hit by a flak fragment which happened to be stamped with the same number as the tail number of their airplane, the Vicious Virgin. My father still has that piece of flak. As a child I used to look at it and wonder what it was like to have experienced that combat. As I grew older I came to understand just how close my father, and possibly the other members of the crew, came to not coming home. I hope that others who read the history in these pages understand and appreciate the sacrifice made by these men and the others who fought during those terrible years. Dad, I love you.
Frederick A. Corbin strawhat23aol.com (31 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) This is great.
Robert A Rettinhouse bobrett@mediaone.net (29 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) Keep up the good work.
Steven Hamm shamm@jessamine.k12.ky.us (28 May 99) I was in DC and bought the Fortresses Under Fire print from the Air and Space museum on a school trip. I was doing a little research on it. This is great and it gives a more personal view of the war. Thank you for keeping such a great site.
Ray Derr steward3@sunlink.net (28 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) Served 7/12/43 till 5/45, 358th BS. Plane Paper Dollie, Meat Hound. Would like any info on any crew. Ray Derr, 941 First St., Nescopeck, Pa. 18635 - E-mail son-in-law.
Elbert E. Stone christee@hargray.com (28 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) Enjoyed the page. We will see you in Oklahoma City.
Kenneth Conejo k.conejo@cwix.com (28 May 99) God bless you all for what you did during WW II. Thank you a million times!
Gary L. Bovey c.danbovey@mciworld.com (27 May 99) (family of a 303rd Member) My thanks to all of you and especially for the marvelous body of work you have presented here. My Father was lost during his service with the 303rd. His airplane was Neva-The Silver Lady. I found her picture on this site after receiving a response from LT. Col. Gobrecht about my Dad. I am presently trying to contact members of his crew and have been successful in locating two, Jacob Strouse, the Radioman, and Edward Kuester, the Bombardier. My brother has spoken to both of these gentlemen and it was interesting to hear a first hand account of that fateful day which has so long eluded us. My heartfelt thanks to Jacob Strouse. The courage of all who were compelled to hazard themselves in this mighty endeavor is truly humbling. What magnificent men! I was born after my Father's death and consequently am only able to share his life with those of you who were his contemporaries. My mother who is 82 now is intensely interested in this project. She marvels that so much information is available as do both my brother and I. Keep up the excellent work.
John Howard Nardine JHNardine@aol.com (24 May 99) (family of a 303rd Member) I can't begin to say what a proud feeling I have to see a photograph of my father, Staff Sergeant Howard Nardine posing with the crew of Wayne Frederick's first command - the Flying Fortress Snap! Crackle! Pop! (so named because it first flew over from Battlecreek Michigan). Dad was the ball-turret gunner and radio operator and his air crew completed their 25 missions with all members surviving (although their original Snap! Crackle! Pop! was shot down after being loaned to another crew and so the insignia was transferred to another plane). After the war my father became an industrial electrical foreman, pursued his love of horses and the great wildernesses of the American Southwest where he raised his family. It was only after seeing the Hollywood movie "Memphis Belle" (not the William Wyler documentary) some 50 years after his own involvement in the events depicted there that made him talk about it. He subsequently attended a reunion of the 303rd and I know it did him much good to re-establish old ties with his crew. My father passed away in 1993. His involvement with the 303rd was a proud part of who he was (although he was not proud of the killing which resulted from his shooting accuracy). If you knew Howard Nardine when, know that he lived a truly selfless, noble and rich life and he is survived by a wife and two grown children who are all far, far better off for having known him. I don't know that my generation could duplicate his bravery and that of all the men who served on the Flying Fortresses.
Guy G LeValley B17GUY@AOL.COM (22 May 99) A fantastic site. I am piecing together my Father in Laws wartime experiences . He flew his first missions as CO of the 103rd Provisional CBW out of Molesworth as a bird col. and went on to command the 384thBG and the 94th CBW. He retired as a Major General in 1957 and passed away in 1992. He was buried with all honors at Brooks Cemetery in San Antonio.
John J. O'Leary Jr. john_oleary07@yahoo.com (17 May 99) Searching for information on a 303rd Bomb Group PPF aircraft #44-8256 named YANKEE GIRL... This aircraft was transferred to the 100th Bomb Group(H) at Thorpe Abbotts,UK Station #139 I think in late May,1945... My dad was in the 100th BG, 349th Sqn on the Gris Smith crew from 3/14/45 until the base closed 12/8/45...YANKEE GIRL had the artwork of a sitting naked woman on the starboard side of the aircraft... I am doing a journal project of my dads service and would like to hear from any 303rd BG crew who might have some info on it's missions with the 303rd, or a photo of her... I have a photo of YANKEE GIRL with 100th BG engineering crew below the artwork... You have a GREAT website!!!... Jack O'Leary
[Yankee Girl flew 41 combat missions for the 359th Sqn from Oct 44 until Dec 9,1944 ]
Claudia Mortensen camgeni@aol.com (16 May 99) I am seeking information regarding my husband who served in the 8th Air Force and was killed in action in August 1942. He was serving with the 36th Bombardment squadron in Alaska but had many friends including our best man who may have served with your unit. I am seeking information on Lt. Raymond Lawrence Adair (my husband) and Walter A. Williams (our best man). If you can direct me I would be most appreciative. Thank You.
George Emerson michael.emerson7@gte.net (15 May 99) Very nice site.
Maurice J. Paulk mjpmtmanenterprices@cccusa.net (13 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) It never ceases to amaze me at the amount of information available on our site. Also the variety of information that Harry Gobrecht seems to have at his finger tips. I was with the 328th Service Squadron when the Dutch ship Marnix von Sent Aldegon landed in Glasgow, Scotland Oct 7, 1942. It was later renamed the 444th Sub Depot. I was Sgt in the A/C Supply as a Stock Record Clerk. They called me "Slim". To my 303rd friends - don't be stingy with our site - SPREAD THE WORD.
Ted Corcoran tcorcora@chaminade.org (12 May 99) Good Day. My name is Ted Corcoran, and I am a history teacher at Chaminade College Prep. in Los Angeles. My students were assigned to do an interview of a participant in World War II. Some of them are having trouble finding a person to interview, and on searching the web, I came to your excellent site. I was hoping that maybe some members of the 303rd would be interested in being interviewed by a high school student. The interview would be done at the convenience of the member. I feel this would be a great way to help this generation learn more about their past. My work # is (818) 347-8300, ext. 409. I would greatly appreciate any help you could offer. Thank you for your time.
Dennis Bonn (10 May 99) My dad was a member of the 303rd. He served as a radio operator/gunner. He did 23 missions prior to being shot down, then held at stalag 17. My dad passed away last year and he never got a chance to see this web site. I know he would have been proud to see what has been done to keep the history alive. My thanks to all of you who have worked so hard on this project.
[Dennis, you gave us a bad email address. Please contact us. We have questions for you. Gary]
Max Bartholomew paulkattner@hotmail.com (8 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) I am looking for Joseph Bonanno, the Navigator for Blaine Thomas' crew in the 427th squadron who went down on the 17th of April 1945.
Russell C. Paris rcparis6@gte.net (8 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) It's a real pleasure to visit our web site. Brings back long forgotten memories. I have a photo of our crew and will send it. Our pilot was Frank Welshon Jr.
Glen R. Swenson gswenson@uslink.net (8 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) Our website is awesome and really brings back lots of memories.
Ed Johnson ejohnson@kern.com.au (7 May 99) There's only one word for it--ENORMOUS !! wonderful site,will be back often. The depth of information is incredible. Many thanks.
Marty J. Heathershaw badlandskid@hotmail.com (7 May 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Greetings: I am the oldest grandson of Sgt. Charles L. Heathershaw, Tailgunner, of the 427th. My grandpa is in good health, retired in Rapid City, SD. I presently live in the Palm Springs, CA area. After seeing Saving Private Ryan, and reading Tom Brokaw's, The Greatest Generation, I realized how important the sacrifices, this generation of outstanding patriots, should mean to all who are living on this planet!! I have been in contact with grandpa in the last few days. He is not aware of my discovery of the 303rd website. As he is not of the computing interest, I will be sending him much of your valuable history. He can then correspond accordingly, and I would like to join him in the journey to OKC this October. Time is of the essence. Mr. Brokaw's books explains that 23,000 WWII vets pass on each month. Thank you and hats off to the "MIGHTY 8th."
Brian Rukes mmregistry@yahoo.com (6 May 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Hi, I just wanted to let you all know that for the second semester in a row I have done something on the 303rd for my college classes. Last semester, I did an in-depth research paper on the Hell's Angels for Historical Research and Writing. The grade we received on the paper was our grade for the class, and I did get an A on it. Plus, in doing the paper, I had the privilege of interviewing Lt.Col. Irl Baldwin (original pilot of the "Angel" and M.Sgt. Fabian Folmer (ground crew chief on the "Angel"). This semester, for a course entitled World War I and World War II, I did a presentation on the 03 January 1943 mission that the 303rd lost Kali, Yahoodi, Snap! Crackle! Pop! and the Leapin Liz on. My great uncle, Sgt. Merlyn Dale Rukes, was the tail gunner on the "Liz." I don't know for sure what grade I received on my presentation, but I'll bet it probably was an "A" as well, as the instructor told me that he really enjoyed my presentation. I'm looking forward to the convention in OKC later this year!
Gail Shepherd (daughter of John Kasza) gshep7055@aol.com (6 May 99) (family of a 303rd Member) I enjoyed looking through your site. My father, John Kasza was a member of the 303rd. We will look through some of his pictures to see if there are any we can share with you. He has had several major strokes and cannot communicate very well, but we will try to get any information on his experiences with the 303rd to pass along. Thank you for the site... I will encourage my children to visit.
Roger A. Rowbotham rowbo2@swbell.com (6 May 99) Fine job - enjoy page. R. Rowbotham, Texas Raiders
Jim Miller millerville@worldnet.att.net (4 May 99) (family of a 303rd Member) This is a great site! I just started searching for info on my father-in-law's WW2 service ("Bud" Giltenboth-359 Sq) and was very happy to find so much info so quickly. Thank you to all the men of the 303rd- you helped save the world from a horrible fate!
Tom Hayman (3 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) As for me, I enjoy reading about history. Reading vet's comments and stories on this web site is good and bad - good because I enjoy, bad because I can't stay away. So please all of you keep up the good work and write about your experiences, and we (younger folk) will do our best to listen and help any way we can. I for one have not forgotten what was done and sacrificed. I see every day here in England and I see it at Madingly Cemetery and I will help to place a wreath there 31 May, so thanks to you guys I can do this.
Steven Kurtenbach kcmoon@primary.net (3 May 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Much like all of mankind, I waited too long to gather information on one of the people responsible for my being: my father. Now, I'm looking for some items from his youth to pass on to my children and the next generation so that these heroic deeds do not go without the merit and respect they deserve.
BILL HELLER wheller@attglobal.net (1 May 99) (303rd BGA Member) I was very impressed by the entries from WILLIAM J. DALLAS and BRYAN CAMMARATA in our website. These individuals address a very important item which we, as WW#2 combatants, can pass on for posterity. My chagrin at meeting people in their 50s who DO NOT KNOW where the B-17 fought and WHO! In addition to this are queries whether or not a B-17 flew in Viet Nam! I BLAME ACADEME for this "blank" in teaching our history! However, there is an excellent protector of our legacy ... and it is the Mighty 8th Air Force Heritage Museum in Savannah, GA, which is TODAY celebrating its 3rd anniversary! So if there are those interested out there - as these two entries mention ... in keeping what we did ALIVE ..... Send a few bucks to the 8th AF Heritage Museum at P. O. Box 1992 in Savannah, GA! And to W. J. Dallas and Bryan Cammarata, THANK YOU FROM A WW#2 B-17 COMBAT PILOT!
William J. Dallas wmjdallas@aol.com (30 Apr 99) (303rd BGA Member) I have recently come in contact with family members of a member of our crew back in 1944 at Molesworth in the 427th Squadron. I think it is important that the younger generation become active in our organization so as to continue its existence. As in many organizations such as ours very few of the original members are still alive and in some cases, none survive. I enjoy retelling some of my experiences flying during the war to these young people and hope it gives them some sort of pride in their family members that also served. I don't mean to get mushy but we must keep alive what so many gave all to our country, and other countries too.
Bryan Cammarata camm171@ntplx.net (30 Apr 99) Fascinating Web Page! I will never cease to be amazed at the extraordinary courage, and hardship the WWII bomber crew was willing to endure for duty to his country. This website should be required reading for the "now generation." God Bless You All !
Richard G. Senechal senechal@mail.ttlc.net (29 Apr 99) (family of a 303rd Member) My father was a gunner on the Tennessee Hillbilly. He passed away Jan 2nd of this year. Now a couple of us are delving into his history as far as we can. Some of what we are finding is amazing. I have heard endless stories about his time in the Army Air Corps and his time in Luftwaffe #1. He had many interesting stories, but tended to leave out a lot of the nasty stuff. We are only now coming to understand the extent. Keep up the good work.
Kevin Krogh ARCHER2562@aol.com (27 Apr 99) (family of a 303rd Member) My grandfather flew as a tail gunner with the 303rd Bomb Group and I was wondering if you guys happen to know the names of the two aircraft he flew in? His name is Kenneth Krogh #19144128 and the last names of the pilots of both aircraft is Erickson and Lynch.
Mike Royse (26 Apr 99) I'm trying to find a Thomas Nass, all I know is he was in the Eighth Air, tail gunner (I think) on a B-17 possibly from Norfolk VA. Where can I locate a list of crewmen or a census report from 1940, any and all help would be greatly appreciated. Thank all of you for your sacrifices.
[Mike - you gave us a bad email address so we can't reply directly to you... Thomas Mass did not serve with the 303rd Bombardment Group (H) and I have no records of other Bomb Groups. Try contacting - Life Insurance Division, Department of Veterans Affairs (VAROIC) P.O. Box 8079, Philadelphia, PA 19101 - Telephone (800) 669-8477. Write an inquiry letter to Thomas Nass in a stamped envelope with Thomas Nass' name on the envelope. If you know his Army Serial Number or USAAF grade (rank) this should also be placed on the envelope. Place your envelope to Thomas Nass with your inquiry letter to Thomas Nass inside another envelope addressed to the VAROIC asking them to forward your letter to Thomas Nass. They will then forward your letter to the last know address of Thomas Nass or advise you that he is deceased. The privacy act of 1976 prohibits any Government agency from giving you the home address of anyone you are seeking. Also try the people search features on the internet or buy one of the several software programs that have 80 million plus telephone numbers throughout the USA. Harry D. Gobrecht, President and Historian 303rd Bomb Group (H) Association]
Dail Coppom dcoppom@sanuk.net (26 Apr 99) (family of a 303rd Member) My father 1st LT. John F. Coppom served in the 303rd. 360th - Flew with Bill Heller.
Frank Cullen trimotor34@aol.com (26 Apr 99) I was to young for WW II, but spent (5) years at RAF Alconbury just down the road from RAF Molesworth in 1950's Retired from the USAF, still have memories of the old huts and sites I lived in. You have a most interesting site about the 303rd and the mighty 8th Air Force, keep it up.
Horst Weber Ho.Weber@T-Online.de (24 Apr 99) (303rd BGA Member) My history club and me are working on a book about the air-war in the area of Bitborg, Germany. Under the title "Zielpunkt Südeifel - Ein Tagebuch über die Luftkriegsereignisse im Raum Bitburg und Prüm 1939-45" (Aiming point Southern Eifel A diary about the air-war events in the area of Bitburg and Prüm, Germany) which is scheduled to be released in September. One major event were the downing of 9 B-17 on 303rd BG on August 15th, 1944 in the area. That matter is well researched, but there are still remaining questions. One is the fate of 2nd Lt. Robert G. King, s/n 0687377. Does anybody know, what exactly happened with him. It is said, that he was killed on August 20th, 1944, five days after his B-17 crashed near ORSFELD, Bitburg County, Germany. But after researching his initial burial location, I found out that he was initially buried in the Grand Failly cemetery in France. That means, that he was buried between August 20th and December 25th from U.S. Troops somewhere in the liberated France or Luxemburg. If he would have found his death in Germany, he would have buried postwar on one of the four big U.S. war cemeteries St. Avold (Lorraine), France, Hamm; Luxemburg, Neuville, Belgium or Margraten, Netherlands by a U.S. Grave Command. So, on my presumption, he may have made it westbound and found his death under ???? circumstances in France or Luxemburg Does anybody know more exactly facts about his fate? Thank you very much, H.Weber
Horst Weber Ho.Weber@T-Online.de (23 Apr 99) (303rd BGA Member) Congratulations for that fantastic web-site. It is the most best, I ever saw about that matter in the web. Very interesting is the page about War Crimes, suffered by 303rd crewmen. Is that list complete? Horst Weber, associated member # A-209
[The Crewmen Murdered after parachuting safely listing on our web page only includes those instances of which we are aware. There probably were others. Harry D. Gobrecht]
Ray Cossey from Norwich, Norfolk, England ray.cossey@virgin.net (21 Apr 99) (303rd BGA Member) In fact I am an Honorary member and was given this honor by my friends in the 303rd for my years serving as their UK liaison. I organized three mini-reunions over here and have attended several of your reunions over there, including Dayton. San Diego, Washington DC, Norfolk VA. It's a great site I shall feel compelled to revisit over and over again. My warmest regards to all my friends in the 303rd; especially Joe Vieira, Sue Lehmann and Peter & Marthe Curry. Sadly my dear friend Dick (Pop) McGilvray passed on in February this year and my wife, Theresa, and I will miss our visits to him in CA and his over here to stay with us. P.S. Our telephone & fax no is 1603 720980
Sherry Andrus Sylvstr13@aol.com (21 Apr 99) (family of a 303rd Member) I was married to James Andrus' son, Tom. Betty, Jim's wife, told me about this website and I thought I would check it out. I am now printing out quite a bit of it to make booklets for some of the family members. Jim was "one of the good guys"! I really miss him! I am still in close contact with the family and keep up on the news. This is a great website! I am learning more about Jim, thru you. Thanks! Sherry Andrus
Lenell Farrell solopsist@aol.com (20 Apr 99) (family of a 303rd Member) My uncle, SSGT Charles E. Farrell, SN19073865, served with the 427th bomb squadron of the 303rd bomb group from 1943 thru 1945 and was shot down over Europe. I have been trying to find out any information available about his military experiences in England during that time. I have contacted the National Personnel Records Center and was informed that his records were destroyed during a fire in 1973. Any information that anyone might have would be greatly appreciated. I am especially interested in the missions he flew, where and when he was shot down and his repatriation.
Nels Christensen ncviking@netscape.net (20 Apr 99) My father, Lars Christensen flew as a member of the 359th BS Captain Lawrence C. Thompson Crew in the 303rd. My father was killed in a car accident in 1983 but I have taken interest in learning more about his flying experience in WWII. The Thompson Crew Photo is now posted and listed under the 359th Squadron Photos. The crew member names can be found under the "Thunderbird Crew Listings", Missions 37, 38 and 40 but we need help matching the names and faces. I also have a picture of this crew in front of Special Delivery and believe they ultimately flew Pistol Packin Mama. I have learned a good deal through this great web site and look forward to hearing from anyone that knew my father or can help identify other crew members.
Charles F. Prosser nbj@ronan.net (20 Apr 99) (303rd BGA Member) Found lots of good things on your page.
Dick Johnson fortdriver@aol.com (19 Apr 99) (303rd BGA Member) Gary, Just a note to let you know that I think this is the greatest web site of all. Good work!
Ken Hayes ahkh@worldnet.att.net (18 Apr 99) (family of a 303rd Member) Hello again, this is not my first visit. I am hopeful that I can get my Father to attend the reunion in Oklahoma City the fall, but he suffered a stroke last year and doesn't have all of his mobility back. But like most if not all of the Hells Angels, he's a fighter. If there are any surviving members of his ground crew or the aircrew that I may contact for encouragement to him please let me know. My Dads name is George R. Harris. He continued his military career in the Airforce into the 1960's. He was a mechanic on Thumper.... Which was lost as a result of damage incurred 23Jan1943. I am also doing some artwork and need to know the coloring of Thumper. Thanks to all of those that have and do serve their country.
Jo Burke joburke99@aol.com (18 Apr 99) (family of a 303rd Member) What a wonderful sight. My dad, Warren Ehrke was a navigator in the 303rd, assigned to the 359th BS in April, 1944. He passed away in September, 1997...a great dad, grandfather and from what I understand, serviceman. It is through your web pages and renewed interest in WWII veterans that I have developed and increased interest and respect for these great men. If anyone knows anything about my dad's war years, please contact me.
Claeys Robert robert.claeys@skynet.be (18 Apr 99) Hello, First, sorry for my English but I'm from Belgium and I speak French. I'm a trooper of the Belgian Army. Today, it's was the "Memorial Day" in the cemetery of Neuville en Condroz, in Belgium. This year, some patriotics association ask to the military personnel to sponsorship some American soldiers who lies in Neuville. I was designed to support the grave of one of our heros. His name is Johnson, Byron, S/Sgt from the 358th squadron. He was coming from Wisconsin. I know that he was B/Tur (gunner I suppose?), in the Jess' Crew. He died on the 06/22/43. I'm was searching about photos about this crew but I'm not finding on your site. Maybe can you tell me more about this crew? On your personnel list, there was no Serial # for him. Here his it : ASN : 16022309 A great thanks to all soldiers who helping to delivrate Europe and particularly Belgium. I visit all your site and it's great. 1CC Claeys Robert, 1 Régiment de Lanciers, Escadron EMS, Camp Roi Albert, B-6900 Marche-en-Famenne, Belgium
[Thanks for your personal efforts to honor S/Sgt Byron W. Johnson, one of the 5,328 Americans who are buried in the Neuville en Condroz Cemetery (Ardennes American Cemetery) in Belgium. It is very nice to know that there are people, such as yourself, who care. S/Sgt Johnson was the Ball Turret Gunner on the 1stLt Ray W. Jess crew who were assigned to the 358th Bombardment Squadron/303rd Bombardment Group (H) at Molesworth, England (near Cambridge) on 12 March 1943. On 22 June 1943 twenty-seven 303rd BG(HG) B-17s, part of 277 8th Air Force Bombers, were on a combat mission to bomb the Synthetic Oil Plant at Huls, Germany. They were attacked by 25-30 German FW-190 fighters and when approaching the target were subjected to heavy anti-aircraft fire. The Lt Jess crew were flying in 358th BS B-17F #42-5432 named The Hunting Club. The Group formation had just dropped their 500 pound bombs from 26,000 feet altitude when The Hunting Club sustained a direct anti-aircraft shell hit. The B-17 crashed at Berg Bassendorf, Germany. Six of the crewmen were killed in action and four survived and became POWs. Most of the crew were on their 13th combat mission. Four of the six killed crewmen are buried in the Ardennes American Cemetery in Belgium: 1stLt Ray W. Jess (0-728876) Pilot from Colorado on his 13th mission, 2ndLt Robert P. Davidson (0-731275) Navigator from California on his 13th mission, S/Sgt Byron W. Johnson (166022309) Ball Turret Gunner from Wisconsin on his 14th mission, S/Sgt Frank M. White (342387705) Tail Gunner from Tennessee on his 13th mission. I'm sorry but my photo archive files do not include a photograph of the 1stLt Ray W. Jess Crew. I will however send you a photo of their B-17 The Hunting Club whose artwork and name were displayed just forward of the tail of this B-17 rather than the traditional nose location for names and artwork. Again thanks for being part of the 1999 Memorial Day effort to honor our departed American friends. Harry D. Gobrecht, LtCol, USAF (Retired) President and Historian 303rd Bomb Group (H) Association]