Blog Archive, Page 1 - 91st Bomb Group (H)

Welcome to the 91st BG Blog Archive - Page 1

Past submissions to the guestbook and blog will continue to be available in this archival format for reference purposes. Information from the guestbook and blog archives is included in searches using Google Search found on the Main Page.

Blog Title - Looking for Information About a Family Member or Friend That Was in the 91st BG

298 comments:

George Burnette March 12, 2009 at 8:44 PM
Hello,
I'm researching information about my father, George G Burnette Jr. He was a bombardier in the 322nd sq. He served from Jan - Apr 1945. He flew on the Madame Shoo Shoo. I'm wondering if anyone knew him or perhaps was a crew member with him. I'm trying to find out on which mission he was shot down. My father died in 1981 of a heart problem. I'm not sure how blogs work, but I can also be contacted at gburnette001@cinci.rr.com.

Anonymous March 20, 2009 at 7:35 PM
Just looking for some information about my grandfather. John Callaway, he flew on the Chow-hound. I know he started as the left waist gunner, and then i believe the top turret. I recently found a picture of him that said his nickname was "Judge", and when I asked my father how papaw had gotten the nickname, he was unsure. Unfortunately I was In high school when my grandfather passed, and never was able to question about the war. I would love to find out whatever I can about my grandfather, and share it with my father. So if anyone has any information I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you so much. Joan
my email is dirtybirdsfeet@yahoo.com

John a March 31, 2009 at 6:47 PM
My name is John Anderson and I am the nephew of Lt. Julius D.C. Anderson. Julius was KIA over Neuenkirchen, Germany on March 29, 1944, his 23rd mission. I have inherited all of his notes and letters and in the process of creating a document that can be handed down to future generations so that he will be remembered. I would love to hear from crew members or friends of Julius.

Daniel April 4, 2009 at 9:13 AM
hello,
I am looking for any information available on the crew and history of the B-17g Chow Hound. I would also like some additional information on the navigator, 2Lt lamond (Buck) Bailey, or the D.R. Devil.
-Thanks!

Jim Shepherd April 5, 2009 at 2:49 PM
If you are requesting information, please provide your email or email me at: jshep91@earthlink.net

Jim Shepherd

Zach April 5, 2009 at 9:49 PM
Im looking for info about my grandfather. He was a tailgunner on a B-17 in the 322nd Squadron. His name was Elton "Eagle" Wilmeth and he was from west Texas. My name is Zach. My email is zevans85@yahoo.com

Daniel April 7, 2009 at 1:41 PM
My email is djhunter177@sbcglobal.net

Lee Hauser April 8, 2009 at 7:12 PM
Hi, my name is Lee Hauser (lee@ohnosecond.com). My step-father, Leonard Gamblin of Tacoma, Wash. was an engineer/top turret gunner in the 91st from mid to late 1943 all the way through until spring of 1945. My mother reports he was at RAF Bassingbourn and was on a ship headed stateside on V-E day. He also flew C-124 Globemasters in Korea. He passed away in May, 1996 of leukemia. He never spoke much about his war experience, so any information would be appreciated!

Jim Shepherd April 8, 2009 at 9:05 PM
To: Lee Hauser
I checked the web page "Search" for the name of Gamblin and nothing was found. Suggest you try to check some of his records so me might be able to find him. We will need your email address if you reply to this comment.
Jim Shepherd

Kathy April 14, 2009 at 7:14 PM
I am looking for a B17 pilot named Louis G. Starks. He was my instructor in flight school at Fort Rucker Alabama in 1964 working for Ross Aviation, Inc.. Please email me at ckwhitt@earthlink.net

Duncan Massey April 20, 2009 at 1:25 PM
Hello everyone, I'm looking for any information anyone may have regarding 2LT Milton L.Pike of 323 Squadron. Milton was a Navigator on Mission 118 aboard "My Desire". He died along with four colleagues after a successful ditching in the North Sea, 3 Mar 1944. I know the Captain of the flight, 1LT Walter Merritt Pickard, (passed away in 2003), has written a book "The god's smiled: A Memoir" (available on Amazon.com btw). I've also been able to determine the other four casualties in the incident, but do not know the other four survivors of the ditching. I would love to hear from anyone who may have any information/photographs, as I am researching a piece for memorial day for our local paper regarding one of our brave sons, Milton L Pike. Thanks for reading ! Kindest regards, Duncan Massey, Blaine WA. dmassey2@verizon.net

Anonymous April 21, 2009 at 10:52 AM
Hello. I'm trying to find out more about a friend, S/Sgt. George O'Dea who bailed out on October 9, 1943 on a run to Anklam in plane #178. Lt. Judy was the pilot. George is now deceased. He had just joined Lt. Judy's crew and he probably flew earlier missions. Thanks.
Bob Denningham. riaborn@yahoo.com

Anonymous April 24, 2009 at 12:01 PM
My tech rep on my 2nd tour overseas was on the Black Thursday raid...his name was Bill Adamson. the squadron is unknown to me. He was a top turret gunner/engineer...Last time I saw Bill he was in the San Diego area in the mid 80's....anyone know Bill or his where abouts?

Jim Shepherd, Jr. April 24, 2009 at 1:39 PM
To Duncan Massey from Mike Banta (324th squadron and 91st Ringmaster:

Hi Duncan,
The story of the loss of our B-17 "My Desire" was one of the most tragic stories encountered by the 91st Bomb Group during the 340 combat missions we flew and the 197 B-17s that we lost during WW II.

Below you will find our summary taken from MACR 3222 of the loss of our B-17, "My Desire" which was being flown by the Pickard crew which resulted in Milton L. Pike being missing in action. This summary is also attached as you can read it more clearly if printed from the attachment. It contains all the names of the crew: The five missing in action and the five rescued. None of the rescued airmen belong to our 91st BGMA so we don't have a current address for any of them. Perhaps one of our Ring participants has such information in their personal files. For this reason, we are sending a copy of this e-mail to them and asking them to let you know directly to your E-mail address, with a copy to me for my files.

Mike Banta, 91st Ringmaster

Anonymous April 30, 2009 at 12:07 PM
Trying to gather information on my g'uncle, Charles Carter Baird, I believe is the same Charles Baird who is as the F/Sgt of the 323rd Ground Crew within this website.

Do not know what happened to him after the war, Have a couple of pre WWII photos of him in uniform.

Thanks
George Frantz
Lafayette, IN
gwfrantz@hotmail.com

Anonymous May 6, 2009 at 9:27 AM
I am looking for any information anyone may have about my grandfather. He was S/SGT Burdette E Conner from Illinois, also went by Bob Conner. He was a B-17 tail gunner, and Lowell Getz wrote of him in his book "Mary Ruth" Memories of Mobile...We Still Remember. I am looking for any stories or photos of him in the war.

Thanks,
Tiffany DeCarlo
Hanover Park, IL
goff687@att.net

Anonymous May 6, 2009 at 10:15 PM
Regarding above post - If it helps anyone remember or locate information, S/SGT Burdette E. Conner (Bob) was in the 401st squadron. Thanks much!

Samantha Goff
(Another granddaughter & Tiffany's sister)
samanthagoff@yahoo.com

Yolanda Charlton (Cable) May 18, 2009 at 9:01 PM
I am so impressed with this site. My son just happened upon it and I am thrilled. I was 10 months old when my dad, Capt. Ray T. Cable, went down in a B-47 near New Foundland along with his navigator. Only the co-pilot survived. I only know some info on him from my mom but if anyone has any information on him and what he was like, etc. I would truly appreciate it. I do have some info from the military but you know how that is. Anything would be great.

Cassell May 23, 2009 at 10:08 AM
I am looking for any info on my dad, Jack Howard Cassell. He was in the 401st. Any info, people who knew him, or even photos. I thought I remembered him telling me he flew on "The Heats On" but the only picture I found online did not include him. Anything would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Jason
cassellj@yahoo.com

TJS May 26, 2009 at 12:48 PM
I am responding to a recent post regarding former B-17 pilot Louis G. Starks. Mr. Starks is my grandfather. I tried emailing you at your Earthlink account to no avail. I would be happy to assist you with information regarding my grandfather.

Thanks,
TJ

Anonymous May 26, 2009 at 8:09 PM
TJS: We need your email address to reply. Mine is jshep91@earthlink.net

Jim Shepherd

TJS May 27, 2009 at 10:39 AM
Mr. Shepherd -

please contact me at tracyjanestarks@yahoo.com

TJS

Barbara Steele May 31, 2009 at 9:23 PM
I am looking for info on my Dad. His name was Francis A McCusker, flew in England as a tailgunner in a B-17 over Germany during 1943-45 He also was known as "slim" as he was tall and very thin. He loved to tell jokes and had a great sense of humor. Anyone remembering him or having any info about a guy from Langley Air base write me at steele_3@verizon.net

Anonymous June 1, 2009 at 2:18 PM
Hi, My Dad was in the 8th Air Force, 91st Bombardment Group, 324th Bombbardment Squadron. His name was Patrick N.Boggs. I thought he was a pilot but my sister said he was a Navigator. He is deceased now but I would like to find out the name of his plane and if anyone knew him or has any pictures of his plane with him in front of it. I would appreciate it. Thank you, Rita Boggs Davis: email adress: rbdnar@hotmail.com. Walhalla, SC

ERB June 4, 2009 at 6:13 PM
Hi, I am looking for information and/or pictures on my uncle, SSgt. Edward F. Simon, waist gunner in the 91st BG, 324th. squadron. He was KIA on June 22, 1943 while flying a mission in No.998 to Huls, Germany. He also flew a mission on May 21, 1943 in No. 527, Great Speckled Bird. I am his namesake and you can reach me at lbreit48@hotmail.com

Many thanks, Ed Breitenstein

Anonymous June 6, 2009 at 11:25 AM
Good afternoon, my grandfather, Olon Leathers was a crew chief (Stup N Takit) in the 323rd Ground Crew in 1942-1945. He still has vivid memories of his time in the military. Do you have additional pictures, or a website or information that I can share with my grandfather? I'm happy to share information why your website was so important to us. I can be contacted at LKuhns424@gmail.com.

Best regards,
L. Kuhns

Jim Shepherd, Jr. June 23, 2009 at 2:13 PM
To Ed Breitenstein re: Edward F. Simon - from Mike Banta (324th Sq.):

Research performed by the 91st BG E-mail Ring brought up the following information on your uncle, Edward F. Simon, tail gunner on the Slattery crew. It appears that the Slattery crew was on its first mission when it was lost to German fighters. We have copied below the 324th mission summary which graphically tells what the 324th Squadron faced on this mission to a synthetic rubber factory at Huls, Germany. We also emailed you our Casualty Report for the loss of your uncle's crew. Your uncle was a true hero, flying his mission at the most dangerous time of 8th Air Force's air battle of Europe. We salute his heroism. Freedom isn't free. It was bought by the brave actions of our military men who have their last full measure to keep the world free.
Pilot Lt. Joseph E. Slattery - 8 KIA, 2 POW - MACR 15576 (47) Huls
22 June 1943
A/C Pilot Claims Casualties Battle Damage Remarks
069 Lt. Smith (Records incomplete)
998 Lt. Slattery (Missing in action)
527 Lt. Jackson (Records incomplete)
921 Lt. DeBaun (Abortive - malfunction of ball turret)
Target: Synthetic rubber factory
Squadron Losses: one (10 missing)
Group Losses: 5 (1 Killed, 6 wounded, 50 missing)
Remarks: One of the most accurage attacks of the war. Target completely washed out. Photographs of bombs bursting on target and billowing smoke one of the pictures of the war. Weather 5/10 to 8/10. Enemy air oppostion was by far the worst yet experienced by this group, between 150 and 175 E/A attacked. Nearly all were FW 190 with a few ME 109's and two JU 88's reported. Encounters lasted one hour fifteen minutes and some crews reported as many as fifty attacks. Attacks from all sides. Flak at target was intense, accurate and a barrage type. Claims were 4 - 1 - 0.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. June 23, 2009 at 2:26 PM
To L. Kuhns re: Olon Leathers from Mike Banta (324th Sq.):

The following answer was provided by the 91st BG E-mail Ring. The 91st had two B-17s in the 323rd Bomb Squadron with names that were very alike, Stupen-taket 42-24549 OR-Q and Stupntakit 42-29559 OR-Q. Both had the same radio call letters but the second mentioned B-17 followed after the first had been shot down. We believe you are asking about the second named Stupntakit. There are several items on our website regarding Stupntakit but the name must be entered exactly on the search page as we have it typed into the text of our website.

Your grandfather's name was included in two places in the 323rd dailies. You can read these on the website. We feel sure that he will remember both of these instances vividly. You could also purchase Ray Bowden's wonderful book, "Plane Names and Fancy Noses," from our website which carries an article on every 91st named B-17. Since Stupntakit was a 91st B-17, there is an article. There is a picture in the book of the ground crewman. Perhaps one of them is your grandfather.

ron_R June 24, 2009 at 11:12 AM
plane 998 crashed at Bungern 3 miles SE of Bocholt
shot down by fighters

s/sgt Edward F Simon was burried on 25 june 1943 in the city cemetery of Bocholt
grave nr 61

now burried in the ardennenes
i can mail you the MARC if you want

Bill June 24, 2009 at 7:01 PM
Hello everyone. I am trying to get the name of the plane flown by my wifes uncle, Samuel Lewis Evans. The last plane he flew was number 519 and he was shot down on April 19, 1944. He passed away a few years ago and last week his brother, my wifes father passed away. We are tryingg to put together a history of each of their military service for the family. Any help would be appreciated. billphoto1@aol.com Thanks, Bill

Judge June 26, 2009 at 11:36 PM
This comment has been removed by the author.

Judge June 26, 2009 at 11:39 PM
The "Zootie Cutie" photo's caption asks "what squadron?". I have a picture of the Zootie Cutie, with the aircrew, on my office wall. My grandfather, George L. Montena, was a Ball turret and Tail gunner in the 401st in 1944. I could scan and send to you if you would like. judge.smail@gmail.com

Anonymous June 29, 2009 at 1:18 AM
I have some information available about the 23rd November 1942 mission to St. Nazaire. I collated the information as one of the aircraft 'Shiftless skonk' ditched near where I live here in U.K. If you are interested please contact me on robin_mott@hotmail.com

Anonymous June 29, 2009 at 1:28 AM
I have a print that I recently found in the loft of the 324th 'Memphis Belle' signed by lots of aircrew and family members. Evidently it was originally painted by T. Weddel. Does anyone know anything about this print/artist? as the name is not familiar to us folks in the U.k. Contact me on robin_mott@hotmail.com

*~Brandi~* July 2, 2009 at 7:33 PM
Hi my name is Brandi Johnson and my Grandfather was part of the 91st bomb group until 1945. We are alittle shady on most of the details. He now suffers from Alzheimer's and cant get much info for that reason. He was a ball turret gunner (?) and was stationed at Bassingbourn Air Base in England. I have gotten most of my info from a huge box of pictures and papers that we have. His name was Russell Senior and he was from Pennsylvania. His aircraft ID code was "Triangle A".

The other info we have found is 1st Bomb Division, 1st Combat Bomb Wing and 91st Bomb Group. If anyone has any information or pictures it would be greatly appreciated. I always remember him telling me stories when I was a child and I would love to have more information. Thank you for your time. My email is brandi_k92602@yahoo.com

Gail July 6, 2009 at 11:22 AM
Hello! We're Jeremy & Gail Harper. Jeremy's Grandfather - Claude E. Harper was a radio operator/waist gunner on Sherry's Cherries (borrowed) shot down on November 2, 1944. He was part of Faris's Crew - and regularly was crew to the Mary Lou. We're looking for any photos/information anyone can provide.

Our email is jeremyandgail@charter.net.

Thank you.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. July 11, 2009 at 8:13 PM
To Bill (re: Samuel Lewis Evans):

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

We are the participants in the 91st BG E-mail Ring (101 91st Bomb Group veterans, ages 82 to 97, and 91st BGMA associate members) who answer questions for searches. We represent all periods of time that the 91st was active and so some of us can answer almost any question.

Your wife's uncle, Samuel Lewis Evans, was the 1st pilot on Army serial number 42-97519, "Spirit of Billy Mitchel", 401st Bomb Squadron of our 91st Bomb Group, radio call letters LL-A. on 19 April 1944 Sam and his crew of nine airmen were attacked by German fighters on the way to the target which was the Eschwege air field near Kassel, Germany. During the attack the B-17 in which they were flying exploded in mid-air prior to the bomb run. Six of the nine crew members were wounded by the fighters action prior to the explosion. Four were killed in the explosion while six survived to become Prisoners Of War. Your Wife's uncle, while wounded in the air, as you know, was one of the survivors.

We have attached our Casualty Report which was condensed from the Missing Air Crew Report (MACR 4048). You will find it full of information as to the loss of his crew. It is much easier to read if it is downloaded and printed.

It's wonderful that you are preparing memories of those relatives who fought in the great battles of WWII. Samuel Lewis Evans was a true hero as were all the men on his crew, six of whom gave their last full measure to keep our world free. Our Creator gave us certain inalienable rights among which are "Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" but many have put their live on the line while there buddies gave their lives to keep this concept a reality.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. July 11, 2009 at 8:23 PM
Hi Brandi,

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

We're sorry but the information you sent to us isn't enough for us to do a through search. Perhaps you can find the Squadron in which he was assigned, the name of his pilot, the name of his B-17 or other information by which we can narrow don the search for your grandfather, Russell Senior.

Our Ring participants include several premier 91st Bomb Group historians and researchers. We are sending your request to all our Ring participants and asking them if they have information on Russell Senior. If they do they will send the information to you at your E-mail address, with a copy to me for my files.

Renate Rickert July 18, 2009 at 3:37 PM
HI TO EVERYONE STILL ALIVE FROM THE 8th -91stGB
I HAVE A VERY SPECIAL REQUEST!

I met today for the 1st time with Hugh McNeal jr., in Virginia, who was a navigator on the last mission - bombing over Halle, Germany on April 17, 1945, approx. 8:30- 9:00 am. - This was the only and last mission at the very end of WWII. The city of Halle was flattened, same as Leipzig close by, under the same mission/attack.

Salvator Parisi (bombardiere)from N.J. (family from Palermo, Italy) and pilot Donald Martinson from Chicago area and co-pilot Donald Collansey (California) were in the same plane -B17 - with Hugh McNeal - as he can remember it today.
There were 3 Squadrons of 9 planes ea. on this mission on April 17.1945. 2 Squadrons went to Leipzig and the lingering Squadron stayed over Halle to finish their mission.

PLEASE - I am looking for anyone still alive serving on this mission over Halle, Germany.
I want to thank every one who was on this mission - especially the Pilots,Bombarderes, everyone responsible for NOT bombing the hospital in the center of Halle, Germany.
Bombs were flying everywhere destroying the city, the windows of the Hospital shattered from the enormous impact, the noise un-imaginable. All doctors, nurses, staff were in the basement -except for one midwife and - my mother.
I know that, because I was there. At that very moment of the bombing - my mother was upstairs in the hospital - giving birth to - me.

I WANT TO THANK EVERY MAN ON THIS MISSION - alive today - who was responsible for leaving the Hospital in the center of Halle standing.

THANK YOU FOR THIS SITE - THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO CAN HELP ME FIND THESE MEN TODAY.

My name is Renate Rickert (my american husband is retired Air Force) pls. respond to:
renat_2000@hotmail.com
I am looking forward to hearing from you.
THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH - this has been my wish for many years.

Renate R. July 18, 2009 at 3:49 PM
ADDENDUM:
CORRECTION -sorry, I am looking for anyone still alive, who has served (who is not 'still serving') on this mission of Halle, Germany, - the one and only - on the day of April 17, 1945, at 8- 9 am local time.
THANK YOU! R.R.

Anonymous July 30, 2009 at 5:50 PM
I recently aquired an air medal with two oak clusters.It was awarded to TSGT Garner Walters who was a radioman on the B 17 Spirit of'44,then was lost during the crash landing of Bostons bombshell in 1944.Both planes were 322 sq,91st Bomb group.Any info on this Gentleman,Garner would be appreciated.Please reply to rrbjr@ptd.net Thanks,
Rob.

randy cardin July 31, 2009 at 11:23 PM
Philip S Cardin was a radio operator on the Vertigo in the 323rd. The Vertigo was lost on March 4, 1943. Philip was my uncle and I would like any information that is available on his service. Philip was much older than and seperated from many of his younger siblings and I need to know as much as possible. I have not been able to find any pictures of the Vertigo and its crew. Also, if anyone knows how I could find out if any remains were found from his crew. I would be eternally grateful. Thank you, Randy Cardin Arescee3@yahoo.com

Ron August 1, 2009 at 1:45 AM
to randy

i have Ssgt Cardin as an WG on the plane 41-24549"Stupit Takit"flew by Capt McCarty
2 men became POW
8 men were KIA

4 men are burried in the cemetery of the Ardennes in belgium ( P, RO, WG, TG)
Ssgt Philip S Cardin and 1lt James T Hill (CP)
couldn't be indentify and received a group burial in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on 27 april 1950

Steen August 3, 2009 at 11:14 AM
Can anyone provide some information about 2Lt Robert E. Hardister of 401st BS? So far I have only been able to find the following two pieces of information:

26 June 1944 2Lt Robert E. Hardister joined 401st BS, 91st BG.

12 July 1944 42-38144 LL-O "Jezebel" Pilot-In-Command 2Lt Robert E. Hardister participated in raid against Munich.

I have come into possession of 2LT Hardister's flying suit an dwould like to learn more about him.

Regards,
Steen Hartov
trade2"at"hartov.dk (replace "at" with the correct email sign)

Glenda August 3, 2009 at 7:50 PM
I am assisting my father who is looking for information about his brother GLENN N. MAC DONALD ASN 12085583 killed on a mission to bomb rubber factory at Nuls, Germany on or about June 22 or 23, 1943. He was with the 91st BG, 324 Bomb Squadron, stationed at Bassingbourn, England. We saw his name on the casualty list but would like information on how he died. Any information concerning his deather would be appreciated. He was a radio operator on B17 bomber. Thank you: glenda.love@ucr.edu

Lisa Parrott Thurman August 4, 2009 at 12:54 PM
My father, Leonard G. Parrott (85 years old) is just now talking about his WWII experiences. I received a box of pictures several weeks ago and can't quit searching the internet. He says he was a member of the 8th Air Force 91st BG. I'm not sure where to start or what to look for. I would like ANY information on he and his missions.

Lisa Parrott Thurman August 4, 2009 at 1:02 PM
Lisa Parrott Thurman's email address is okthurman@cox.net

Steen August 4, 2009 at 2:26 PM
Answer to Glenda: According to the book "The Ragged Irregulars of Bassingbourn" the Nuls raid took place on June 22nd, 1943. The only 324th BS plane lost in that mission was 42-29998, code DF-J. The record states that the aircraft failed to return due to actions by a German fighter. The plane crashed at or near Bungern in Western Germany, close to the Dutch border. The pilot of record was Lt. Joseph E. Slattery; eight crew members are listed as killed in action and two as prisoners of war. More information may be found in Missing AirCrew Report #15576, National Archives, Record Group 92.

Zimo August 6, 2009 at 8:23 PM
My Uncle Boleslaw F Zmijewski was a top turret gunner on a B-17 serial 42-32072 401st BS, 91st BG. He was shot down on April 27, 1944 and taken prisoner he spent 13 months in stalag 17b thats all I know if anyone has any othe rinfo pleas get in touch with me at osbmxdude@gmail.com I would love to find some pics of his plane and crew.

R August 12, 2009 at 2:52 AM
Does anybody have any aircraft or crew photos of "Bunky" or "Strictly GI"? My grandfather flew right seat for a while on one then left seat on the other. His name was Robert E Gould. He passed a fiew years ago and I would like to aquire copies of any out there for the family. Thanks Rob Andersen. rfandersen@gmail.com

Anonymous August 12, 2009 at 6:27 PM
I am the nephew of 1st Lt. Frank J. Fusaro (B)who was a member of the 91st Bombardment Group, 322nd Bombardment Squadron assigned to the squadron 6 April 1945. He passed away in April 1973 and I am trying to collect any information about his war service to preserve for the next generation of his family. Please respond to me at pafsr@optonline.net Thank You Peter A. Ferrara

Jim Shepherd, Jr. August 14, 2009 at 7:32 AM
To R:

On www.91stbombgroup.com, there is an aircraft/crew photo of Bunky and a crew photo of Strictly GI. However, we don't have names of the Bunky crew members yet. There is also a search function on the website. You can find your grandfather listed at http://www.91stbombgroup.com/Dailies/323rd1944.html

Anonymous August 14, 2009 at 9:41 PM
My dad was Jerome Damron, Jr. I think he had something to with the bombs. At any rate, Dad and Mom have both passed away but I was wondering a little about Dad's life in England.
If there is anyone who remembers Dad and who his civilian friends were, please contact me at hdlinn@gmail.com

gerald moore August 17, 2009 at 7:45 PM
Looking for photo of my father Gerald B. Moore,that was supplied to local newspaper by theU.S. AAF around may 1944 It shows dad Corp. Moore age 25, installing hub dome on Q for QUEENIE. Dad was squadron prop specialist.. Info is from faded newspaper picture.. Have found dads name in the dalies were him and my mother were married... Dad also mentioned as working on Dame Satan.. If anyone has any info. can contact me at moore_4268@bellsouth.net Thanks and GOD BLESS!!!

Jim Shepherd, Jr. August 21, 2009 at 10:17 AM
Hi Jeremy and Gail,

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

Our web page (www.91stbombgroup.com) has a picture of the Faris crew in which Jeremy's grandfather, Claude E. Harper, appears.

The Faris crew was one of the 13 crews shot down on the 2 November 1944 mission to bomb the Synthetic oil refinery at Mersberg. This was the greatest loss of B-17s of any of the 340 missions flown by the 91st Bomb Group during WW II. Our casualty Report for this mission states "Shot down by German fighters." Radio room, Bomb bay and wings on fire. Intercom and Oxygen system shot out. Those in the rear could not be warned." Thus the ball turret gunner, the waist gunner and the tail gunner were KIA while those forward of the waist partition bailed out and became POWs.

We emailed you a copy of the 323 dailies which Ring participants took from hard to read microfiche and converted it by transcription to computer readable text. It appears that the Faris crew had flown 24 missions including the mission of 2 November 1944. The dailies indicate he was on his 24th mission when shot down. However, this may not be completely accurate due to our transcribing from very difficult to read microfiche.

We are also sending a download of all the B-17s that flew in the 91st Bomb Group. Beside Faris' name you will find a three digit number. This is the last three digits in the B-17 serial number his crew was flying that day. If you put the last three digits in this file's "Find" box, it will bring up the file on that B-17. Keep clicking until the last three numbers appear in the serial number of a B-17. Since more than one 91st B-17 may have the same last three numbers in it's serial number, Click at least one more time to see if other B-17s have these last three numbers. The meaning of the different codes in the B-17 file are listed alphabetically at the beginning of the B-17 file.

We are sending your request for information on Claude E. Harper to all our Ring participants and asking them if they have information concerning him. If they do they will send the information to you at your E-mail address with a copy to me for my files.

We have copied three pictures of Mary Lou, 323rd, and one picture of Sherries Cherries,401st, and a listing of the Faris crew below.
Mike Banta, 91st Ringmaster

SHERRIES CHERRIES 42-97984 MIA 2 November 1944
(P) lLt James Faris (Pow)
(CP) lLt Richard L White (Pow)
(N) lLt Norman L Passeger (Pow)
(B) 2Lt John F Werner (Pow)
(TT) T/Sgt Robert L Taylor (Pow)
(RG) T/Sgt Claude E Harper (Pow)
(BT) S/Sgt Paul E Vinecourt (Kia)
(WG) S/Sgt Theodore K Knapp (Kia)
(TG) S/Sgt Melvin F Wagner (Kia)

Jim Shepherd, Jr. August 21, 2009 at 10:20 AM
Hi Renate,

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

We are sorry but the information you received from our veterans on the Martinson crew flying our B-17, 43-38379, radio call letters 323-0, "Margie," was incorrect. That day we were bombing the Southern marshaling yards in Dresden. I recall the mission well as I was flying deputy squadron lead and had my two wing men shot down by there ME-262s that came at our element from behind and out of our contrails.

Our last mission of the was flown by the 91st Bomb Group was on 25 April 1945 and the target was to bomb an airfield at Pilsen Czechoslovakia.

None the less, we are delighted that the 8th Air Force bombers that attacked Hulls spared the hospital where your mother was delivering a bundle of joy, Renate Rickert. We do hope you can find the correct bomb groups that spared the hospital at Halle.
Mike Banta, 91st Ringmaster.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. August 21, 2009 at 10:35 AM
Hello Rita. (re: Patrick Boggs)

(posted for Lowell Getz)

Sorry, but I have not been able to come up with any photos of your dad.

From the information in your msg, which gives his rank and serial number, it appears he was a ground crewman in the 324th Squadron. Only officers were navigators or pilots. And, enlisted air crewmen were at least Sgt; most were S/Sgt or T/Sgt. Whether he was assigned
to a specific aircraft ground crew or worked in a shop, I cannot tell. I have been told by another ground crewman that the battle
stars listed on his discharge papers were awarded the ground crewmen.

Your dad may have flown on B-17s that had had major repairs done on them; when they were flown over England to check out the repairs. He
may also have been flown over the continent after the war when bombers took ground crewmen over targets that the Group had bombed
so they could see the results of their work on the aircraft.

Beyond that, there is not much else I can trace regarding your dad. There is no record that I know of that lists the ground crewmen and
their responsibilities. Hopefully, someone who was a ground crewman in the 324th and belongs to the 91st Memorial Association will remember him and get in touch with you. Otherwise, just too many years have passed and so many have left us.

Lowell Getz

Anonymous August 22, 2009 at 10:07 AM
Hello:

My father is Charles "Buck" Buchanan who was the pilot of Little Patches. He flew missions from August of 1944 to the 2nd of November of 1944, with Merseburg being his last mission. He also started to talk about his time in the service recently, although most memories are faint. I searched the dailies for the 401st but they only go through June 1944. Is there any way I could see the dailies for the second half of 1944? Also, if anyone served with my father I would like you to know that when he does speak of his service, he speaks very highly of his crew and those who flew with him.
Karen McGill
kam4595@comcast.net

Anonymous August 22, 2009 at 12:08 PM
hi my name is dan schafer im looking for info on my dad. his name was lyman j schafer. flew lt. hackleman,lt karlac,lt jordan,lt jones,ssgt mcpowers, sgt payne, ssgt berty, sgt kolence & sgt grabowski. i hope i didnt spell any names wrong. looking for photos the nam of there plane or all i can get. my email is dan31065@yahoo.com thanks to all dan

Zimo August 24, 2009 at 7:58 AM
Nothing on my Uncle? I will be attending a family reunion in a few weeks and would like to have a little something to share with my family maybe a photo or two.

Thanks,
Ray

Jim Shepherd, Jr. August 24, 2009 at 9:31 AM
Ray,

I believe your uncle (Boleslaw F Zmijewski)is mentioned in the 91st BG Dailies at http://www.91stbombgroup.com/Dailies/401st1944.html. Check it out.

Zimo August 25, 2009 at 10:50 AM
thanks for the info.

-Ray

Anonymous September 1, 2009 at 3:01 PM
I see the 401's dailes only go up to 30JUN1944. My Dad, Joseph Sammon, was the copilot in Destiny's Child when it was shot down 20JUL44. Will the remainder of the dailies ever be posted?
Also, the second crew photo of Destiny's Child has name tags covering the crewmen, a number of which are covering the wrong individuals, including my Dad. I have the original photo and was wondering how/where to download a copy for the site. Thanks. Patrick J. Sammon

Jim Shepherd September 1, 2009 at 6:59 PM
If you request information about the 91st, you MUST provide an email address to receive an answer.
Jim Shepherd

Anonymous September 6, 2009 at 7:40 PM
I am looking for anyone who might recall my uncle, SSG Allen Middleton. Was radio operator/gunner in 91st. Was killed in action over St Nazaire on 16 February 1943. I believe his pilot was Lt Brill.

Anonymous September 7, 2009 at 9:43 AM
I see the 401's dailes only go up to 30JUN1944. My Dad, Joseph Sammon, was the copilot in Destiny's Child when it was shot down 20JUL44. Will the remainder of the dailies ever be posted?
Also, the second crew photo of Destiny's Child has name tags covering the crewmen, a number of which are covering the wrong individuals, including my Dad. I have the original photo and was wondering how/where to download a copy for the site. Thanks. Patrick J. Sammon, thirteenghosts@msn.com. FYI, 91stBG Life member.

Anonymous September 12, 2009 at 6:44 PM
In my father's papers were pictures of a woman named "Audrie", there are also a couple letters she wrote to him....---a British woman he met while stationed in Bassingborne. Curious to find out a last name and if she is still living.

No last name on the letters and realize this is next to impossible to track. Hoping someone will remember her and her last name etc.

My father was George Genotti, a mechanic w/the 91st bomb group 323 stationed in Bassingborne.

Mary
jandmcollins@rcn.com

Anonymous September 13, 2009 at 8:12 AM
Just found something w/her last name. Her name was Audrey (or Audrie) Littler.

Anonymous September 13, 2009 at 10:31 PM
This is addressed to anyone who can help.

My Father's name was Phil K Baxter. He was in the first deployment of the 91st heavy bombardment group to Bassingbourn in October of 1942. He served in the 324th squadron's Commander's crew as bombidear. The plane he died in was Major Smelser's B-17 "Pandora's Box" The plane's number was 41-24"503". He and the crew were lost in the Channel along with planes #41-24"506" The Shiftles Skonk and #41-24"479" Sad Sack. These losses occured on the disasterous raid of November 23, 1942 on the submarine base at St. Nazaire, France. As I understand it there were only 4 planes that day that formed up and went on to the target. The above Three planes were shot down durring the raid and a fourth was so badly damaged that it crashed on landing back in England and five of those ten crew members died from enemy fire or the crash.

Can anyone help me with details. A picture of the plane, crew and nose art would be wonderful to have. I was born in the summer of 1943 and was so very fortunate to have been raised by a very loving family but they never talked about Phil Jr. When they tried they were always overcome with tears and could not continue.

At age 67 I have become deeply interested in his life and death that I might in some way get to know him. He shipped out for England and didn't know about me until he got the letter from his wife (my mother) in Bassingbourn. He died shortly there after. My Email address is JPBAXTER@AOL.COM

Thank You

Jim Shepherd, Jr. September 15, 2009 at 9:12 PM
To Randy Cardin (re: Philip S. Cardin):

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

In checking our files, we find that your uncle, Philip S Cardin, was flying on the crew of Martin McCarty in our B-17F, 41-24549, 323rd Bomb Squadron, radio call letters OR Q, named Stupen-Takit. We have emailed you a downloadable file our Casualty Report for his crew. this Casualty Report gives details of what occurred when this B-17 was lost on 4 April 1943. It also gives what happened to each crew member and plot numbers of the graves of those who were killed when their B-17 exploded. Unfortunately no grave number is listed for your uncle but his remains probably were among those unidentified individuals who received a group burial in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on 27 April 1950 per the casualty report.

Stupen-taket was among the nine original B-17 of the 323rd Bomb Squadron and your uncle's crew was among the original crews. They flew during the most dangerous part of the 8th Air Force's strategic bombing of German occupied Europe. You can be assured that your uncle was a true hero gave his life to keep the world free. Freedom isn't free. Your uncle gave the rest of his young life to give us freedom in our time. The mission on which he was KIA was a mission for which the 91st Bomb Group received one of it's two "Distinguished Unit Citations."

Jim Shepherd, Jr. September 15, 2009 at 9:18 PM
To Glenda (re: Glenn N. MacDonald):

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

We have assembled from our general files information regarding your uncle's final moments. Our mission to Huls to bomb a synthetic rubber factory at Huls, Germany, on 22 June 1943 was one of the most successful but also most costly of the 342 missions flown by the 91st Bomb Group during WW II. Five of the 91st bomb group's B-17s failed to return,

This apparently was the first mission flown by your uncle's crew with Lt. Slattery as pilot. The B-17 which they were flying was also brand new. It had been assigned to the 91st on 7 June 1943 and missing in action on 22 June 1943 before any name was painted on it's nose.
Immediately below, summed up in few words is the history of B-17 Serial # 42-29998
Serial # 42-29998, 324 Bomb Squadron, Radio call letters DF J, 07 06 43 Assigned to the 91st BG, 22 06 43 Failed to return. Shot down by German Fighters. Crashed near Bungem, ? - Pilot Lt Joseph E. Slattery - 8 KIA, 2 POW MACR 15576

Copied below is the Mission Summary for the 324th Bomb Squadron to which your Uncle was assigned.

(47) Huls 22 June 1943

A/C PILOT CLAIMS CASUALTIES BATTLE DAMAGE REMARKS

069 Lt. Smith (Records incomplete)
998 Lt. Slattery (Missing in action)
527 Lt. Jackson (Records incomplete)
921 Lt. DeBaun (Abortive - malfunction of ball turret.)

Target: - Synthetic rubber factory

Squadron Losses: - one (10 missing)

Group Losses: - 5 ( 1 killed, 6 wounded, 50 missing)

Remarks: - One of the most accurate attacks of the war. Target completely washed out. Photographs of bombs bursting on target and billowing smoke one of the pictures of the war. Weather 5/10 to 8/10. Enemy air opposition was by far the worst yet experienced by this group, between 150 and 175 E/A attacked. Nearly all were FW 190 with a few ME 109's and two JU 88's reported. Encounters lasted one hour fifteen minutes and some crews reported as many as fifty attacks. Attacks from all sides. Flak at target was intense, accurate and a barrage type. Claims were 4 - 1 - 0.

Anonymous September 18, 2009 at 7:59 PM
Hi My grandfather Joseph Dean Redenour was in the 8th air force,of the the 91st bomb group of the 324 bomb squadern he was a mechanic he worked B-17 and B-29 bombers two of which i recall are named betty lou's buggy and the Ritzy Blitz. everywhere i have looked there has been no pics of the whole crew, just the pilots and such. if there is anyone who was with him or knew him during that time or has any info about what other planes he worked on or any little info, or storys will be greatly, highly valued. my e-mail is gamera_forever@hotmail.com

Jim Shepherd, Jr. September 19, 2009 at 7:54 AM
Re: Joseph Redenour

You can check out a crew of Betty Lou's Buggy at http://www.91stbombgroup.com/crewphotos/betty_lous_buggy.html

and Ritzy Blitz at http://www.91stbombgroup.com/crewphotos/ritzyblitz1.html

Anonymous September 19, 2009 at 1:15 PM
Thank you for the infomation. I greatly appreciate it. gamera_forever

ron_R September 20, 2009 at 12:40 AM
to Randy

sgt philip S Cardin
he could not be indentify after the war
and was burried together with the CP lt James Hill in Jefferson barracks National Cemetery on 27 april 1950

ron
ron_raaijmakers@gmail.com

ron_R September 20, 2009 at 12:44 AM
sorry wrong emailadress
it must be
mexx1965@gmail.com

i about 150 MARC's of the 91th BG
if somby need an MARC sent me an mail and if i have i'm glad to mail it

ron

Greg Merkert September 20, 2009 at 5:35 PM
To anyone that can help:

My name is Greg Merkert and I am the only Grandchild of 2ndLt. Frederick W. Merkert Sr. (401st sq).

My father, Rev. Dr. Frederick W. Merkert Jr. (only son of my Grandpa) is very sick and may not live much longer. My dad is a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War and I am a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

I am trying to put together a "Merkert Family Military History" for my son Johnathan, the only grandson of my Father and only Great Grandson of my Grandpa. I have very little information and no "service Photos" of my Grandpa. The only thing my Grandpa kept from his service were his Wings and a commendation letter from Gen. Doolittle, neither of which I have because my Aunt threw them away after my Grandpa passed away in 1999.

I have aquired all of my dad's medals & awards from Department of The Army and I am trying to do the same for my Grandpa. I know he earned an Air Medal for one of his bombing runs & the Purple Heart for injury sustained in battle, but not much else as Grandpa had a hard time taking about his time in the Service.

I believe Grandpa retired from the 8th USAF as a Major but I'm not sure. I would be very grateful to anyone here who could provide me with any information at all about my Grandpa, especially any personal accounts of/about/from the Men he served with. What the name of his B-17 was and any photos anyone might be able to share with me.

I believe my Dad and my Grandpa have a great legacy and great Military legacy and I want my son to know who his Great Grandpa is and what he did for his Country and Family. I would like to be able to present it to my son before my Dad passes away.

Thank you in advance for any help you can provide and I thank you all for your dedicated service to the U.S.A.

Sincerely,
Officer Greg Merkert
ACCD Police Department, San Antonio, TX
gmerkert@att.net
(210) 452-3831

Jim Shepherd, Jr. September 21, 2009 at 8:52 AM
To Greg Merkert:

For a start, you can get some info by searching the Dailies at www.91stbombgroup.com. In particular, search the 401st Dailies from 1943 & 1944. It helps to use the Search button on the 91st's main page.

John M. Barton September 26, 2009 at 1:15 PM
I'm looking for information about my uncle, Captain Bruce Dero Barton, who was a pilot in the 91st BG. He served in Europe from late 1942 through mid-1943, and received the Silver Star for 25 missions over Germany. I have a picture of him posing with his crew in front of the "Chief Sly II," which I have always assumed was his plane but I don't know for sure. Any informatin would be greatly appreciate. John M. Barton, john@johnbartonlaw.com

Anonymous October 3, 2009 at 9:59 AM
My uncle, Joseph L Ritchey, was in this group and carried out 35 bombing missions in 1944. He was a pilot of the B17 Flying Fortress. He had a gunner by the name William Ratter, and he would like to know if he made it out and his wherabouts. Uncle Joe does not have access to the internet, but I will relay any information. Uncle Joe just turned 90 and he is very well, and living in San Jose, Ca.
My email is: tiddlywinks@gotsky.com

Allison October 7, 2009 at 12:29 AM
I was looking for any info. regarding Robert Goon. He's my grandfather. If anyone knows anything about him please contact me. Thanks!

Allison
hoosiergirl1986@yahoo.com

Anonymous October 14, 2009 at 5:13 PM
I am looking for any information on Lyman J. Schafer. he was my father. he was an engineer/belly turret gunner on a B-17 from 1943-1944 I have only some sketchy notes from a nearly destroyed not pad. He flew 30 missions on different ships. Dec. 31 1943 on "My Desire" ; Feb.4 1944 "Miss Ouhchita" ; Mar. 9 ship 580 "TheMerryWidow" ; the most common one I found only had a number: ship 909. I know it was not uncommon to be needed to fly on different planes but can anyone find out which crew and plane he was actually assigned too. Any information would be appreciated greatly.
My email address is: journeymcleod@hotmail.com

Anonymous October 17, 2009 at 11:12 AM
My Dad, George Serafin, was I believe the belly-turret gunner on B-17 #42-3043 "Hitler's Gremlin" which was shot down or crashed into the North Sea after returning from a mission at Schweinfurt-Regensburg on August 17, 1943.

Growing up, my Dad did not speak of his experiences very much. He passed away on October 13, 1999 and is interred at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent Washington. A few years before he passied, he was contacted a couple times by someone making a documentary on WWII veterans, however he declined to be interviewed.

My Cousin found a couple pictures at "Heinzknokewebsite.com" which is now defunct. Any information would be appreciated.

HansaHamburg@Gmail.com

Anonymous October 21, 2009 at 5:31 PM
Looking for info on the "Blitz Baby" apparently assigned to the 401st sqdrn. Also interested in dailies for the same squadron from 1945. Trying to research the career of Lt. Richard I Edwards who was a first pilot from Jan. through end of war.
powhatanarrow@mindspring.com

Sally October 21, 2009 at 8:26 PM
Hello, my dad is Wallace Jay Harpster and was a member of the 91st Bomb group, 322 Squadron, and pilot on the Madame Shoo Shoo near the end of the war. In fact he was one of the pilots on her last mission when they crash landed on a base that only days bfore Gen. Patton had captured. At least that is the story as I remember it. My dad is still alive, health wise Ok, but is having alot of short term memory loss.
However, not of his time during his service to his country as a WWII B-17 pilot and those he served with. I have copied the Madame Shoo Shoo's log and will get that to him shortly. When I mentioned I had found this website, he asked if I would inquire if anyone had information on his navigator, John Boseworth (Bosworth). Wally and his wife celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary in August. They live in Florida and have since they moved down from Ohio, after his college graduation. They have a son and a daughter, Sally, that's me. If anyone would like to contact him, or have info on Mr. Bosworth, I can be reached at shdepra@gmail.com
I was wondering if Jim Shepard has the names of the three airman sitting on a fence, on the opening page of the 91st bomb group blog. The middle airman looks just like my Dad, from pictures I have seen from those years.
Thanks for any info that you might have.

Anonymous October 25, 2009 at 1:03 PM
My father T-Sgt William J. Barrett was KIA on August 17,1943. He is referred to in the story about Stepntakit by Paul Laureys. I have successfully contacted him and recently received photos he took at the military cemetery. I was always told that his original crew was Man O War and just learned that that plane went down a few weeks before the Schweinfurt raid. I would like to connect with anyone who can tell me about my father. I'm from Pittsburgh PA and my Email address is patjmac@comcast.net

Sucrea Hutchinson October 29, 2009 at 7:16 PM
Hi, I am looking for information on my grandfather, Elmer B. Russell. I know that he was a tail gunner on the Wicked Witch when it was shot down. His pilot was Eddie McKnight. He was at Dulag Luft-Onerursel. Any information about him or the other men he flew with would be greatly appreciated!!
aaron-sucrea@scattercreek.com

Anonymous October 30, 2009 at 7:26 AM
Hi'
I'm transcribing the War Diary of my father for the year 1943.
His name was Clarence Frank "Barnie" Barnard, Jr. from Laconia, New Hampshire.
On Tues., August 10, 1943, he wrote, "Got the 91st up at 6:00AM and then had my breakfast. Talked with Alex about ratings."
I know that he was stationed on the West coast of England at this time. Is anyone out there who could give me more information about the people he may have served with? Any additional information would be greatly appreciated.
Scott Barnard
Asheville, North Carolina
e-mail: scott2875@yahoo.com

PS- I have pictures of Dad in uniform from the period if that might help.
S

Charles October 30, 2009 at 5:54 PM
Just a word of thanks for the quick response on my posting Oct. 21st regarding Richard Edwards. The information was great and has been a big help in researching him. Anyone who may have known him is welcomed to email me.
Powhatanarrow@mindspring.com

Diana November 8, 2009 at 12:30 PM
I am looking for information on Donald Velasquez who was part of the 91st. He went MIA 12/30/1942.
I know is rank was S SGT,but what was his duty aboard the aircraft? I want to confirm if he was in fact a pilot?
Proud Great-Niece of S Sgt Donald Velasquez

Diana November 8, 2009 at 12:37 PM
RE: S SGT Donald Velasquez

Here is my email: divelas@yahoo.com

Diana

Jim Shepherd, Jr. November 10, 2009 at 9:28 AM
Diana -

Click on the search button on the main page (www.91stbombgroup.com) and then type in his name and enter. He appears in the Daily Reports as a Ball Turret Gunner (BT or BTG). Check it out.

Anonymous November 11, 2009 at 6:47 PM
Charles - My father, Leonard "Buddy" Parrott, flew 19 missions with Richard Edwards as a tail gunner, mostly on Blitz Baby. I have lots of pictures, but don't know a lot of the stories. Dad is still living and his memory is fair :) I would love to hear what you know and what others have told you.
Lisa Parrott Thurman okthurman@cox.net

Anonymous November 14, 2009 at 11:11 PM
My father, Carl H. “Mac” McVey, flew with Pilot 2nd Lt. Charles Early in the 91st BG, 322nd Squadron. He was the Flight Engineer / Top Turret. Their B-17 went down December 1, 1943. This is documented on this site and from the diary of Charles Early. Though, several of the crew were held at Stalag Luft 1, my father was held at Stalag Luft III according to National Archive records. That is all the information we have. If anyone has any more information about my father, it would be appreciated. He died in an accident in 1968 when we were very young. We know little about his time during WWII. David McVey. dmcvey@mcveyassoc.com

Anonymous November 18, 2009 at 1:34 PM
My Dad, Francis("Frank")H. DeFalco,from Brooklyn,NY, was a sergeant with the 91st bomb group, 322nd bomb squadron as a radio operator. He was based at Bassingbourn from about Oct or Nov of 1943 until some time in 1945. He initially flew as a radio operator on the B17s, then was assigned to the radio ground crew at the airfield. I don't know the name of the plane(s) he flew on, but if anyone knew him, I would appreciate hearing from you. He died in 1984 at the age of 66,of heart disease, and was a dentist in Brooklyn and the father of eight children. You can reach me at rdefalcolippert@gmail.com Regina DeFalco Lippert

Anonymous November 21, 2009 at 11:45 AM
Hi, I'm looking for any information on the nose art for the Seattle Sleeper. My grandfather John Stevens flew on it and I'm recreating the plane as a gift for my mother.

Thanks,
Bri
sharzi25@yahoo.com

Anonymous November 23, 2009 at 12:36 AM
My uncle, Hobart Cotton, flew out of England during WWII. I'm wondering if this was his the unit he flew with. I was trying to get a copy of his DD214, but that didn't pan out. If anyone has any information that might help me, please contact me at:
venwf@san.rr.com

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 8:40 PM
You have previously given invaluable information about my uncle Philip Cardin, who was flying in the Stup-n-Takit on April 4th, 1943, when it was shot down over Hamm, Germany. I am trying to find out what two medals he was awarded, but I have not been successful. Could you possibly help me with the names of these medals? Thank you, Randy Cardin, Arescee3@yahoo.com

Jim Shepherd, Jr. December 5, 2009 at 7:04 AM
To Zimo, re: Boleslaw F Zmijewski (8/6/09) -

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

Your uncle Boleslaw F Zmijewski, was the Engineer/Top turret gunner on the Tilton crew and was in the 401st Bomb Squadron. We sent you the 401st Dailies via email. It contains the loading lists for the 401st.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. December 5, 2009 at 7:09 AM
To Peter Ferrara, re: Frank J. Fusaro -

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

We found an entry about your uncle in the dailies of the 322nd. Go to www.91stbombgroup.com and click on Dailies of the 91st or perform a search for his name using the search box on the main page.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. December 5, 2009 at 7:16 AM
To Erik Karlon, re: Mark Weston -

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

Following seems to be the original Buchanan crew

P 1st Lt. Buchanan, Charles M.
CP 2nd Lt. Johnson, Harold E. E.
NAV 2nd Lt. Henritzy, Paul A.
BOMB 2nd Lt. Fredrickson, George A.
ENG Top Turret T/Sgt. Weston,
Marcellus
GUN Ball Turret S/Sgt. Cummings, Bova H.
R-O Radio Gun T/Sgt. Harris, Samuel W.
GUN Waist Guns S/Sgt. White, Elward L.
GUN Tail Guns S/Sgt. Vanloo, Charles A.

Of these crew members, we emailed you the phone numbers and addresses of the ones who currently belong to our 91st BGMA.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. December 5, 2009 at 7:20 AM
Re: Jerome Damron, Jr.

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

Your dad was with the 401st of the 91st Bomb Group from when the Group first came to England. He was a member of the 401st ground crew and according to Jack Gaffney who prepared an article for our web page honoring all 401st ground crew , your dad acted as an Orderly for the 401st.

Jack is a Ring participant and may contact you if he remembers Jerome. We also emailed you his email address.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. December 5, 2009 at 7:34 AM
Re: Joseph Dean Redenour

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

We are sending your request to all our Ring participants and asking them if they have information on your grandfather, Joseph Dean Redenour. If they do they will send the information to you at your E-mail address

Jim Shepherd, Jr.December 5, 2009 at 7:35 AM
Re: Joseph L Ritchey

We are sending your request to all our Ring participants and asking them if they have information concerning the whereabouts of William Ratter. They have been in touch with many veterans and may be able to help you find him. If they do they will send the information to you at your E-mail address

Jim Shepherd, Jr. December 5, 2009 at 7:40 AM
To: John M. Barton, re: Captain Bruce Dero Barton -

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

You must be very proud of your uncle for he was one of our legendary original pilots of our 322nd Bomb Squadron. His first mission was to bomb the German U-boat pens at Lorient, France. This was the seventh mission by the 91st Bomb Group out of the 340 missions they flew during WW II. His story tells the heroism shown by those crew members who flew these early missions.

You can find more information in Ray Bowden's book, "Plane Names & Fancy Noses." After you read Ray Bowden's articles and read the 322nd dailies re your uncle and the B-17s he named, you will be even more cognoscente of what American veterans did to keep you free. After you read these writings, you will realize that the freedom we have wasn't free but bought with the blood, sweat and tears of young men in there teens and twenties and their families back home fearing the dreaded telegram.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. December 5, 2009 at 7:46 AM
Re: Lyman J. Schafer -

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

Your Dad, Lyman J. Schafer, was in our 323rd Bomb Squadron. We emailed you a copy of the 323rd dailies which Ring participants took from hard to read microfiche and converted it by transcription to computer readable text.

Unfortunately, the dailies do not include loading lists of crews for every mission

We also emailed you a list of all the B-17s that flew in the 91st Bomb Group. At the top of his crew listing you will find a three digit number. This is the last three digits in the B-17 serial number his crew was flying that day. If you put the last three digits in this file's "Find" box, it will bring up the file on that B-17.

We are sending your request to all our Ring participants and asking them if they have information that answers your question. If they do they will send the information to you at your E-mail address. Some of our Ring participants have complete loading lists and may be able to give you information on all of your dad's missions inclucing the B-17s in which he flew.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. December 5, 2009 at 7:51 AM
Re: Lt. Richard I Edwards

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

Per your request, we emailed you a copy of the 401st dailies

We also emailed you a list of all the B-17s that flew in the 91st Bomb Group. You will notice that no B-17 carries the name of Blitz baby. The B-17 flown most by Richard had 884 as the last three numbers in it's serial number. At the top of his crew listing you will find a three digit number. This is the last three digits in the B-17 serial number his crew was flying most missions. We emailed your request to all our Ring participants and asking them if they have information concerning a 401st B-17 named Blitz Baby to send the information to you at your E-mail address

Jim Shepherd, Jr. December 5, 2009 at 9:21 AM
To Sally, re: Wallace Jay Harpster

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

Our members have transcribed the 4 Squadrons dailies from hard to read microfiche to computer readable text. We have checked your father's crew in the 322nd dailies and here are the names of all the officers on his crew:
322nd PERSONNEL CHANGES
January, 1945
Following officers assigned to Squadron:
2/Lt Marvin L. Pearson (P),
F/O Wallace J. Harpster (CP),
2/Lt John C. Bosworth (N),
F/O George G. Burnett (B)
The enlisted men are not recorded.

The 91st Bomb Group has a Memorial Association and I've checked it to see if any of these fellow crew men are in the Memorial Association. None of them are but there are two Burnett Life Members who could be children of George Burnett. I've emailed you their names and addresses.

We are sending your request to all our Ring participants and asking them if they have information as to the address or whereabouts. If they do they will send the information to you at your E-mail address

*~Brandi~* December 8, 2009 at 8:42 AM
My name is Brandi Johnson and I recently posted requesting information on my grandfather Russell R. Senior. My grandfather passed away on December 6th and we are looking for some information.

I recently found some pictures of the plane with nose art "Aloha". We have searched for this plane extensively and cannot find any information on this plane. Also there are names of people on the picture from the crew they are as follows:
Pilot John Davis Lt.
Co Pilot Ross Blake Lt.
Navigator Joe McElroy Lt.
Tailgunner Robert Gillmore Sgt.
Right Waist Otho Johnson Sgt.
Radio Operator Doyle T. Kimbrough Sgt.
Asst. Engineer Ed Kowalski Sgt.
Bombadier Antero (Tony) Coelho Lt.
Engineer Russell R. Senior (my grandfather)

If anyone has any information my family would greatly appreciate it. Thank you so much for your time. My email address is brandi_k92602@yahoo.com

Anonymous December 27, 2009 at 8:18 AM
My father Albert Collins (14 years old at the time) worked as a civilian at Bassingbourn Barracks from 1944. He got to know a Jerome Steiner from the Bronx USA, he was a plumber on the base. Does anyone know what happened to him after the war please. Please send any details to thejacklins@btinternet.com Thank you

Darrel Helton January 2, 2010 at 10:54 AM
I am looking for a picture of Capt James L. griffin, he was my mothers cousin and she does not have a picture. James was killed 5 days after the war ended in a p 47 joy ride. He was a major at the time. He flew 35 missions over germany most in plane AC656 as part of the 322 squad. If any one could send a picture and the name of the B17 she would really be happy. This is a great web site keep up the good work
My e-mail is dvhelton@bluemarble.net
Darrel

Anonymous January 11, 2010 at 1:27 PM
looking for information on Earl W. Donley who was on the plane called "My Baby" as it was shot down over Eisenach Aug 14, 1944.
Does anyone know Earl?

stevezweifach@comcast.net

Anonymous January 14, 2010 at 6:05 AM
I am looking for any information about my father, Herbert H Sullivan. He was a member of the 91st bombardment group, 401st bombardment squandron. I believe he was in theater from March 29, 1945 to June 6 1945. I think he flew three missions on 4/15/45, 4/16/45 and 4/21/45.email is sully-5@verizon.net. Thank you!!

Anonymous February 18, 2010 at 2:15 PM
looking for information on lt syphard (navigator) in the 323 lost on may 13, 1943
ronald.syphard@att.net

Anonymous February 26, 2010 at 1:31 PM
i have a photo of my grandfathers plane. it is the only picture i have attained with him next to a plane. i was wanting to know the plane name and number if possible. the picture was taking oct1, 1943- this may be a training plane. i would like info on it. email me if you are willing to help try and name this plane. tkraholik@gmail.com my grandpa arnold williams was the pilot, james graham- bombadier, joe stuart navigator, harace nichols co-pilot, maurice shiles asst. radio, milton vaunika radio op, jermel maddox engineer, donald bartlett asst engineer, aldrich suluy tail gunner, albert romulis armor gunner.

Jackhammer March 3, 2010 at 10:53 AM
My uncle John W. Temple was the bombadier on Wheel and Deal when it was shot down Dec. 1st 1943. I've read what's on this site about Wheel and Deal and it's great stuff.
I found out later a famous German ace, Hans Ehlers was credited with the shoot down. It was his 29th of 55. He shot down 20 B-17s. Ehlers was killed when he was shot down for the 13th time. I have his photo and a photo of the plane he was flying when he shot down Wheel and deal.
What I don't have is a picture of Wheel and Deal.
I'd appreciate any help in getting a photo of her and completing the story of my Uncle John's experience in the 91st.

SHumes79 March 8, 2010 at 5:53 PM
My Grandfather was Bernard "Bennie" Stellhorn and I am looking for any information about his experiences, people who knew him in the 91st. He passed when I was 12 and I am the only grandchild. I am facinated by WWII history, visiting Normandy in 2005. I can't ask him all the things I would love to ask so I am hoping someone on this blog can help. -Samantha

Anonymous March 9, 2010 at 6:51 PM
Like many posts here I am looking for anyone that may have known or worked with my Grandfather. His name was Urban "Urb" Drella from Wisconsin. He was in the 322nd Ground Crew. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Email escoffier54901@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Ryan Nolan

Victoria March 19, 2010 at 9:24 PM
Hi! What a great site!
I am hoping you will be able to help me in my search for a J.J. Jones? In 1942 he was in the 323 bomb squadron bomb group 91st. I have several love letters from him to my grandmother. The last letter is dated 8 Aug,1942. He signed most of his letters "Your Joe"

Thank you for your time,

Victoria Myers McPherson
Topeka, Ks

Email: VictoriaNyy@aol.com

Hertfordshireray March 24, 2010 at 8:42 AM
Hi, on the night of 24th October, 1944, a B17G of 322nd Sqn crashed near our village in Hertfordshire, England. The pilot was Lt. Don DeLisle and his ship was 43-38938. He ordered the crew to bale out and they landed safely, although the engineer, T/Sgt. John D. Carlisle, suffered a broken leg. Lt. DeLisle was the last to leave, but his 'chute failed to open and he was killed.
Your excellent transcription of the 322nd's Dailies tells me something of these men - especially the heroic struggle of Lt. DeLisle and Sgt. Carlisle to bring 'Liberty Belle' back from Munich - but I'd also like to know about the rest of the crew.
Does anyone have any information about or recollection of the men who flew 398 that night and what became of them? I'd also be interested to know about 398 and her career.
My e-mail is ray.smith@itn.co.uk
Many thanks, Ray

Hertfordshireray March 24, 2010 at 9:30 AM
Correction, the B17 that crashed in Herts on 24th Oct. 1944 was 43-38398,

Sorry, Ray

Lori La Medica March 25, 2010 at 9:35 AM
I am looking for any information or recollections of S/S Michael T. La Medica. My brother was a crew member on the Texas Bronco. He was killed on a mission in Holland in 1944 but many of the crew survived. I being the youngest, still remember the day we received the telegram of his passing. Thank you for any memories you can share with me.

Lori La Medica
Nantuckit@aol.com

ron_R March 26, 2010 at 10:56 AM
hi lora

i adopted his grave on the cemetery of margraten in the netherlands
he was killed on 4 feb 1943
contact me at
Ron_Raaijmakers@upsmail.com
i can give you some info

ron Raaijmakers
the Netherlands

Clark Ehrhardt Jr March 27, 2010 at 1:54 PM
Hi.
I'm looking for any information about my father, Clark Ehrhardt. He was a tail gunner on the Luftwaffe's Waterloo. My mother said it's the Luftwaffe's Waterloo II but I can find no information at all on a II version.
I did find a crew photo but the name listed for the tail gunner is a Ben Erhart. The man in the photo resembles my father but it's hard to tell.
Thank you for any help provided
air_hart@swbell.net

Terry Betchley March 31, 2010 at 1:11 PM
Can anyone help? Looking for information regarding Lt Marco DeMara the pilot of B17 42-0009 DK-K of 324BS. He was killed when his aircraft crashed on 24th Jan 1944 whilst forming up for a raid. His aircraft crashed close to my home village in england. Would like and pics or details of his last resting place.
Yours in anticipation
Terry Betchley
t.betchley@sky.com

Anonymous April 5, 2010 at 11:13 AM
My father Gerald (Jerry) Ludwig was a gunner on a B-17 91st 324 bomb group out of Bassingsbourn. We would appreciate any information. He was color blind and participated in a study to see if color bliind gunners were better shots. I know his plane was the Liberty Bell and Quit Your Bitchen. He did talk about his time but I would be interest to know if any of his crew is alive.
My e-mail is rayludwig@bellsouth.net

Anonymous April 13, 2010 at 3:49 PM
My great uncle Lt. Don Delisle was a pilot with the 91st bomb group. I have read a report about his ditching of the Liberty Belle in the North Sea in 1944. I would like any other information thaat anyone can give me about him. I know that he died on a night training mission 24 Oct 1944. Does anyone have any crew photos or information about other planes that he flew? Also there is a restored B-17 named the Liberty Belle that is touring the country. IS this the same plane my uncle flew. The report that I saw said that it sank in the North Sea. My email is pastorcarlson@embarqmail.com

Jim Shepherd, Jr. April 17, 2010 at 7:42 AM
Re: William J. Barrett

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

As you are aware, seven members of your dad's crew survived the mid air explosion of Stupntakeit lost on the 17 August 1943 mission to Schweinfurt, Germany. We have a 91st Bomb Group Memorial Association and we checked it's roster to see if any of these seven crewmen belong to it but none do.

We are sending your request to all our Ring participants, some of whom are 8th Air Force historians and authors with copious files, and asking them if they have information about the whereabouts of any of these crewmen. If they do they will send the information to you at your E-mail address, with a copy to me for my files.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. April 17, 2010 at 7:47 AM
Re: Elmer B. Russell

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

Your grandfather was in our 323rd Bomb Squadron and, as you say, The tail gunner on the McKnight crew. We have condensed down the MACR for this crew to what we call our Casualty Report. You will find it attached to my e-mail as the attached copy when downloaded is much easier to read. You will note that six members of his crew were KIA while only three including your grandfather survived to become POWs.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. April 17, 2010 at 7:56 AM
Re: Donald Velasquez

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

Your great uncle was a true hero, flying in combat during the most dangerous part of the 8th Air Force strategic battle to destroy Hitler's means of conducting the war. He was a ball turret gunner, a position that required a great deal of courage in as much as the turret was so small that the gunner could not wear a parachute while in it. To bail out, he had to turn the ball turret to the position where the hatch would open into the fuselage then get out of the turret and attach his parachute.

On 30 December 1942 on a mission to bomb U-boat pens at Lorient, France, in our B-17 "Short Snorter," his B-17 was lost five minutes after bombing the target. With # three engine on fire, it was seen to explode over the Atlantic and though two chutes were seen to open, none of the air crew survived. The crew of ten men were Missing in Action. His B-17 was the fifth B-17 to be MIA by the 91st Bomb Group out of the 197 B-17s MIA by the 91st during WW II.

Be very proud of your great uncle Donald. Freedom isn't free. He gave the rest of his very short life so that you could live in freedom.

Jim Shepherd, Jr. April 17, 2010 at 8:08 AM
Re: Carl H. “Mac” McVey

Posted for Mike Banta (324th Sq.) & 91st BG email ring.

We have composed Casualty Reports on all 91st B-17 crews MIA and have one for the father's mission of December 1943 to bomb industrial plants in Leverkusen, Germany but weather forced the group to bomb the secondary target at Solingen.

The group encountered heavy fighter attacks prior to the target and at the target they encountered heavy flak. The 91st Group lost five of their B-17s that day some to fighters and some to flak. And of course, as you know, your father's B-17 was one of those MIA.

We emailed you our Casualty report condensed from MACR 1320. This tells that they were flying in an unnamed 91st Bomb Group B-17 from our 322nd Squadron with radio call letters LG M and contains information as to what happened that day to your father's crew.

We attached a copy of the 322nd dailies which Ring participants took from hard to read microfiche and converted it by transcription to computer readable text.

Anonymous April 23, 2010 at 7:12 AM
Greetings all,

It is with much sadness I relay to you SSgt John H. Coomes, 322 SQ, Waist Gunner "Dame Satan II" passed away approx. 1330 EST 15 April 2010. He is survived by his wife Elaine and 5 children John Jr, Jeanne, Carla, Thelma, and Sandra. 8 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren. He was interred at Evergreen Cemetery in Killingworth CT with military honors 19 April 2010.

SSgt William Cardinal
Nellis AFB NV
USAF

Richard Taylor April 23, 2010 at 6:25 PM
Looking for information and a photo of the B-17G "Mary Kay" SN -4239967, 324th Bomb Squadron, 91st Bomb Group. Infornmation and photo if available is for a friend -no relation - with an attachment to one of the crew - not sure of who.

Thank you all for a great site and for giving us our freedoms today. GOD BLESS one and all!

Richard W. Taylor
M/Sgt. USAF, Retired (1963-1983)
crewdawg357@charter.net
Houghton Lake, MI 48629
(989)422-6779

Goudvink May 6, 2010 at 6:06 AM
Wie kan mij helpen!!Wij hebben in Margraten de naam geadopteerd in de wall of missing van ssgt edward h jones 322 bomb sq 91 bomb gp/h reg 32372326 staat new york.Wie kent hem? Wie heeft een foto van hem.Graag contact met
clw.mosseveld@home.nl
C.van Mosseveld
Goudvinkweg 5 Venlo Nederland

john Steuber May 12, 2010 at 3:47 PM
I'm looking for information on my uncle T/Sgt Walter Boenig, Tail gunner and Waist gunner for the 91st, 401st. I'm particularly interested in the missions he flew on, how many, dates, etc.

Geoff Hatch May 17, 2010 at 7:27 AM
I am collecting information and stories about the WWII veterans in our city for our local historical society. One of our veterans flew as
the radio/gunner aboard the B-17 "My Desire". His name is Ralph Crane. I am not sure if he was aboard "My Desire" on it's final flight. I know that Ralph Crane survived the war, so he may be one of the survivors that Duncan Massey was looking for from "My Desire". Mike Bantha sent Mr. Duncan a MACR regarding the final flight of "My Desire". I would like a copy of that MACR and any additional information you have regarding "My Desire" or the radio/gunner Ralph Crane.

Thanks, Geoff

Geoff Hatch May 17, 2010 at 7:29 AM
My email address is mjghatch@gmail.com.

Geoff

Anonymous May 17, 2010 at 3:48 PM
I am searcjomg for anyone that recalls or has family connection to any of the crew on Pandora's Box. I lost a brother S/Sgt.
Doyt L. Watson. Home town: Salisbury, NC. He was killed on Nov. 23, 1942 on mission to St. Nazaire, France. I did extensive searches several years ago, but not much available. Seems there is so much more to find currently. What a treasure it would be to find anyone that is a sibbling or family of anyone flying on Pandora's Box. S/N 41-24503, B-17F-15-BO,
BS 324. My email address: gigi1137@aol.com

James Donohue May 28, 2010 at 3:21 PM
I am trying to track down information about the plane and crew that my dad flew with in WW II. His name was Robert F. Donohue, and he was a navigator. He was part of the 323rd Bomb Squadron. I believe he was assigned to the 323rd in late November or early December 1944, and stayed through the end of the war. If you happen to know his plane or the name of his pilot or crewmembers, would you let me know. Thanks. Jim

James Donohue May 28, 2010 at 3:24 PM
This is a follow up to the request for plane and crew information involving Robert F. Donohue. My return email address is james_donohue@wawd.uscourts.gov. Thank you. Jim

Elliot May 30, 2010 at 12:27 AM
I’m the grandson of Technical Sergeant George Witt, who served as radio operator for the Nine-O-Nine from March of 1945 through the end of the war in Europe, when the Nine-O-Nine was piloted by Lieutenant Russell Blanchet. Back then my grandfather’s name was George Kwasniewski (he changed it after the war). I’m interested in learning about the other men who served on the same crew.

Any information you can provide would be helpful—names, where they were from, etc. My email address is LEit714@aol.com.

Thank you!

David June 4, 2010 at 8:09 PM
I am David J. Lord ,brother of Lt. Col. Marvin D. Lord KIA 3 Feb. 1945 in a raid over Berlin.
Marvin was Group Leader on A/C No. 632 and took Manny Klettes place on that day .
One account of the raid was : Target : Communications center and another account in the 91st. casualty list states : Target: Berlin Ger Railroad Marshalling yards.
Mr.Shepherd I believe you were on this mission and saw Marvin's aircraft go down and would you tell me which target was being bombed.
Also ,Marvin was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action on a raid Dec 20( year??) against Bremen,Germany and where can I find more info on the official wording of the citation and year?? It's my info he was a Major at the time and had his A/C named "Big Time Operator".
Thank You David J. Lord Sr. mdlord49@gmail.com

Derfcrow July 3, 2010 at 8:29 PM
I am looking for anyone who may have known or have information about my father, Charles Frederick Crowgey. He was assigned to the 8AAF,91BG in England 1943-45.He was enlisted and in intelligence. Unfortunately, this is all I know of his military service. If anyone out there knew him or anything about him (good or bad) please e-mail me at derfcrow@gmail.com. Thank you.
His son, Charles F. Crowgey, Jr.

mike mcgeough July 4, 2010 at 3:36 PM
I am looking for information regarding Francis "shorty" Trahan. Francis (ball turret gunner) was shot down on 857 on May 21 1943 and became a POW. The pilot was Jack Miller and copilot was Roscoe Black. I have found an amazing amount of information already on the website, and was particularly struck by the very personal account by Mike McClanahan. Hopefully Mike is still involved with the 91st BG.
I am looking on behalf of Francis Trahan's son, Gary and the rest of his family.
Thanks!
Mike
mcgeough3@verizon.net

Anonymous July 7, 2010 at 10:37 AM
I'm doing some research on my great uncle Walter E. Forest. I have yet to find him on any rosters but have a newspaper clip listing him as an aerial gunner on a B-17. From his registration card I know he signed up on Sept. 2, 1942. His hometown was Pueblo, Colorado. Walter died Aug. 9, 1977 in Sacramento, California. If anyone in the 91st BG has any info please send it my way.
Thanks,
Casey
caseylmills@gmail.com

Perry L July 18, 2010 at 11:07 AM
My uncle and godfather, Laurent "Larry" Lamy, served with the 323rd Bomb Squadron as a waist gunner and aerial engineer on "Out House Mouse" between Jan 1945 and when the aircraft returned home to the US after the war ended in Europe. I cannot find reference of him on the 91st Bomb Group web site and wondered if anyone may remember him. He died on 8 Jan 2009 and only talked about his war experience once to his grandson who wrote an interesting recollection of his war experiences. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Perry Lamy
PerryL@attglobal.net

Nhoj July 19, 2010 at 11:58 AM
I am looking for anyone who remembers my father MSgt Woody Marshall. He was a crew chief in the 324th Ground Crew on Red Alert/Dear Becky and Skunkface III.
His photo can be seen at http://www.usaaf-noseart.co.uk/misslist-6568.htm
Also see http://www.91stbombgroup.com/ground_crews/324thground.html
Is there a listing of the planes that were assigned to the 324th?
Thanks, John Marshall, Kent, WA.
jomarshal@comcast.net

Linda Mustion July 31, 2010 at 4:50 PM
Lt Elmer T. Perry, JR., 8th Air Force, 401st Bomb SQ, 91st Bomb Grp. Looking for information on Lt. Perry, he survived the war and stayed in the Air Force and served in Korea where he was a Major and retired in 1963 as a LT Col. He passed away in December 2009 and was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. His parents Elmer T.Perry Sr. and Ora Isabel Hilton Perry were my great aunt and uncle. I am looking for plane Serial #, crew, photos, etc. There is a video "Wing and a Prayer" that features him on UTube and that gave me some more information. Any help would be helpful, Thanks!

Linda C. Mustion
LindaRdwhtbl@aol.com

PS: I am a follower of this blog.

Tiff August 15, 2010 at 8:58 PM
My great grandfather was Roy A Wright. He died in war in January 1944. He was in the 322nd BG. I was just wondering if there was anyone who may have known him and have stories they may be able to tell me. I know this is a long shot, but i thought it woud be worth a try. Thank you!
tiffsgenealogyadventure@yahoo.com
Tiffany Wright

Anonymous August 27, 2010 at 1:19 PM
I am looking for information anyone who knows T Sergeant Sebastian Scavello Aircraft 42-5337: "SHORT SNORTER III" call letters 401 LL-JAll the crew were lost on 17 April 1943 while on Mission 34 targeting
Focke-Wulf-190 aircraft factory at Bremen; ditched into the North Sea due to damage from German Fighters or Flak. On that
fateful day the Crew were: Pilot - 2nd Lt. Nathan F. Lindsey - MIA/missing
in action; Co-Pilot - 2nd Lt. George Slivkoff - MIA; Bombardier - 2nd Lt.
Albert Dobsa - POW/eus (prisoner of war returned to the zone of interior);
Navigator - 2nd Lt. Rocco J. Maiorca - POW/eus; Radio Operator -T/Sgt.
Lawrence J. Brandenburg - MIA; Top Turret Gunner - T/Sgt. Sebastian
Scavello - MIA; Waist 2 Gunner - S/Sgt. Victor L. Hamrick (my uncle) - MIA;
Ball Turret Gunner S/Sgt. Joseph A. Rekas - MIA; Tail Gunner - S/Sgt.
Anthony J. Roy - MIA; and Waist 1 Gunner - S/Sgt. Alvin T. Schippang - MIA.

If anyone has photos or other information please send me an e-mail theo.m.vanhedel@us.army.mil

Anonymous August 29, 2010 at 6:17 PM
My name is William D. Bonezzi. I am looking for anyone who may have known one T/SGT William Patrick Gilpin, who was a radio/gunner on a B-17 Flying Fortress, called Skunkface III. His plane was shot down over Dresden Germany April 17, 1945. He was a member of the 91st Bomb Squadron. He was my father. If you knew him, associated with him or have photos of him-- Please notify me via e-mail: dbonezzi.stpb@gmail.com.

Thank you so much!

Djschmidtsj August 31, 2010 at 10:14 PM
Hello! I'm looking for information or photographs about the 324th bomber squadron, and specifically Pandora's Box or Duane L. Jones. He was my great-uncle and I want to make sure he's not forgotten. Thank you.

Djschmidtsj August 31, 2010 at 10:20 PM
Oh, and my email address is djschmidtsj@yahoo.com Thanks!!

CCHAARRMM September 7, 2010 at 12:14 AM
Hello, I am looking for information on S/Sgt. Milton Wauneka of the 401st Squadron 91st Bomb Group. `cchaarrmm@live.com

Christopher Ames September 7, 2010 at 1:59 AM
Because the July 12, 1973 fire at the National Personnel Records Center destroyed approximately 16-18 million Official Military Personnel Files, I have indexed the men listed on the various documents I have of my father’s service. I am searching for anyone looking for records on those 900 men so I can provide copies. F/O Marion H Havelaar is listed on Special Order Number 288 dated 4 December 1943. I would like to send a scanned copy of the order to F/O Havelaar or his next of kin if he is no longer living. An email address would be most appreciated.

Thank you,
Christopher W. Ames
Son of Capt Jay W. Ames, 447th BG
ChristopherAmes@q.com

Robelisa September 10, 2010 at 6:24 AM
Hello,

I write you from Belgium and; sorry, my english is not fantastic !
I would like to have informations and pictures from the teamwi of the aiplane with S SGT Donald W PUBENTZ 323 Bomb Sq - 91 Bomb GP (H) death APRIL 17,1945.
I'm his Godfather in the american cemetery in NEUVILLE EN CONDROZ in Belgium.
Can you helpp me ?
Thank you ;

Sebastien Fontaine
Braine-le-Comte
BELGIUM

Robelisa September 10, 2010 at 6:30 AM
FOR THE ANSWER(s) MY EMAIL IS

ROBELISA@SKYNET.BE

Thank you

Sebastien FONTAINE
Braine-le-Comte
BELGIUM

Murph September 13, 2010 at 6:47 AM
Just found this page the other day and shared it with my 88 YO Dad. he flew 35 missions with the 322nd sq. 91st bg as a RO. T/Sgt Alfred P Murphy. His 17 was the 'Big Gas Bird' often mis identified as Biggest Bird (there are two crew pictures on another site one of each). His brother flew out of the 303rd.

8 years back I took my Dad and sister on a B 17 Flight out of Willow Run MI on the Yankee Lady....what a ride. Memories.

Thanks for having this site and all of the very valuable information.

Mark Murphy
mtmurphydds@gmail.com

Donald October 28, 2010 at 6:17 PM
Hello,
I am trying to find out if my father's cousin James M. Mounts was a member of the 91st and some information on where and when he was shot down over Germany. I believe he is listed as a POW at Stalag Luft I and those records show him as 1st Lt. James M Mounts. The records also show him as from the 91st and from a B-17. That is all I can find. This was a distant member of our family that my grandfather lost touch with during the war. My father does not remember him at all but does remember that he had a cousin that was in the war and was shot down. This is all the information I have. Any information would help in my research.

Thank you for an informative site.

Donald Mounts
donmounts@gmail.com

Anonymous November 6, 2010 at 8:14 AM
Dear Reader,

I’m the author of the book „Not Home for Christmas“ describing th 34 heavy bomber crews of the Mighty Eighth who did not return to their bases after the mission of Sunday, November 26, 1944. One of these bombers crashed behind our house in Nazi-occupied Holland.

I’m now researching the mission of Saturday, April 29, 1944. The 91st lost one crew that day:

Type: B-17G Serial: 42-31353 „Queenie“

MACR: 4236 Air Base: Bassingbourne

Pilot: 1Lt. James F. Purdy, Jr., KIA
Co-Pilot: 2Lt. John P. Garfield, POW
Navigator: 2Lt. Paul P. Bunchuk, POW
Bombardier: 2Lt. John R. Welch, POW
Engineer: T/Sgt.William O. Fischer, KIA
Radio: S/Sgt. Emile Bianchi, POW
Ball-Turret: S/Sgt. Louis S. Carusello, KIA
Waist-Gunner:S/Sgt. George L. Johnson, KIA
Waist-Gunner: S/Sgt. Donald R. Itschmer POW
Tail-Gunner:S/Sgt. Raymond A. Rybarski, KIA

5 KIA, 5 POW

Target: Berlin Friedrichstrasse Railway Station Crash Site: Berlin Kladow Time: 11.42

I would very much like to get in contact with the survivors of this crew and/or members of their families or family members of those who lost their lives. I would like to incorporate their stories in my new book.

Who can help me in locating these people? Many thanks in advance.

John Meurs
Im Gubel 5
CH-8630 Rüti ZH
Switzerland. e-mail meurs.john@bluewin.ch

Anonymous November 9, 2010 at 10:25 AM
Does anyone recognize the name of Lawrence Albert Love possible stationed Banabourne or at Wiltshire England. He was link trainer or synthetic trainer operator instructor during WWII.

Cindy Lane November 11, 2010 at 8:51 AM
A salute to you all on Veterans Day!
So glad you started this blog, as my computer crashed and I lost most of the wonderful information you sent me about my dad.
I reprint here the story I wrote about you in the Anna Maria Island (Florida)Sun on Father's Day, 2008:
What did you do in the war, Daddy?
What started as a simple question has turned into an unlikely cadre of pen pals.
Ironically, it’s the U.S. Department of Defense that is credited for inventing the Internet, which is how a group of 90-something, computer-savvy World War II veterans helped me find out just exactly what my Dad did in the war.
Twenty years ago, the Internet and email were as foreign to most newsrooms as a non-smoking area.
Twenty years ago, I had just lost my Dad to lung cancer and was trying to learn how to arrange his Army Air Corps medals from World War II in the proper order.
Like many veterans, Dad didn’t talk much about what he did in the war; he just enjoyed to the hilt every sunny day that he could play golf. I guess you don’t take the simple things for granted after flying over Nazi Germany 25 times.
All I knew for sure is that Dad flew B-17s, but without the Internet, looking for his military records proved to be more challenging than any investigative reporting.
Dad had been in the 91st Bomb Group, 323rd Squadron in Bassingbourne, England. After traveling there to see the airfield and the white cliffs of Dover for myself, hitting the books, watching every World War II movie ever made and riding in the radioman’s seat in a restored B-17 over Anna Maria Island, I figured I’d covered the bases.
Then, just before Memorial Day two weeks ago, a family member emailed me with a simple question - what squadron was Dad in?
As I looked it up in my records, I noticed something I had overlooked; “Ardennes” was listed among Dad’s battles and campaigns. Reporters being the curious type, I looked it up on the Internet - the first time I had attempted any military research since computers replaced cigarettes in newsrooms.
It referred to the Battle of the Bulge. He never mentioned that.
One thing leads to another online, and soon I was on a website for the 91st Bomb Group Memorial Association, a gang of “gray-haired wonders” just like in the Air Force song, who happen to have Washington Post-caliber research skills.
At 1704 hours, I sent the message. At 1955 hours they sounded the equivalent of an email air raid siren and started scrambling. At 2024 hours, Mike Banta became the first of my new virtual pen pals.
“Your e-mail has been sent to us for answer. We are the participants in the 91st Bomb Group E-mail Ring… We represent all periods of time that the 91st was active and so some of us can answer almost any question.”
It’s no wonder we won the war.
Within four days, four vets made contact. Ray Bowden sent a list of four battles that Dad was in, including Nuremburg. Lowell Getz sent a list of serial numbers for several planes Dad had flown. Turns out you can cross reference the serial numbers and find the plane names, then get photos of the crews and the nose art – the mascot painted on the nose of the plane – at the association website.
Mr. Getz found a mission in which Dad had flown the squadron lead, an honor or a curse depending on your point of view. He also told me about a book he wrote on the last mission of the war in Europe, available on the Internet, which he discovered Dad had participated in.
Then I got the email that was right on target.
“Your father, 2nd Lt. (later Capt.) John Barczak, I can faintly remember,” wrote Marion C. Hoffman, age 85. “Considering 64 years of time and suffering the consequences of being shot down and incarcerated as a POW, my mind does not function well anymore,” he wrote.
I’d say it’s working just fine, Mr. Hoffman.
Thanks for bringing my Dad back this Father’s Day.
Three cheers for the Internet.
And long live the 91st.

Bruce November 12, 2010 at 6:46 PM
I am looking for any information about my Dad, his name is PFC Raymond Story, his name I believe was misspelled in the dailies as Scory. He transferred into the 401st Squadron on 20 Mar 1944I don't know much about his time there and as he died in 2009, I am trying to find out more. Thank you. My email is storycraft@gmail.com and my name is Raymond B. Story

Bruce November 12, 2010 at 6:48 PM
I gave the incorrect email address earlier. The correct address is bstory65@gmail.com

Wilsncon November 14, 2010 at 8:21 PM
Looking for information on any members of Edward C. Gates crew.

Thank you
Wilson O'Neal
wilsncon@comcast.net

mc_knight760 November 14, 2010 at 8:29 PM
This comment has been removed by the author.

mc_knight760 November 14, 2010 at 8:30 PM
my names Dannny Wrightsman age 26 grandson of s/sgt wanye c. wrightsman.

he was part of the mary lu crew. he was the bombardier and if any more info could be given to me i was young when he passed away and i am looking for more info on him. my dad passed away a few weeks ago and went threw his old stuff and found this paper that had the info about my gandfathers WW2 bomber plan (its a paper about shooting down a enemy aircraft).

my emails mc_knight760@hotmail.com

Anonymous November 16, 2010 at 2:18 PM
Hello all you brave Vets,
Looking for information on my grandfather Jack Pajet. He was a Tailgunner on a B-17 Bomber that was shot down over Germany. He was in the 91st. bomber group and the name of the plane was Destiny's Child. Would Like to learn more about him. Thnx, Glickie

E-MAIL: glickie30@hotmail.com

Anonymous November 21, 2010 at 3:42 PM
USMC3249@aol.com Trying to get information for myself as well as the grandchildren of Carl C. Colletti,Tech/sargent,turrant gunner with the Eigth. I think on the Berlin First is all I remember him mentioning.I recall seeing boxes of medals hidden he thought we didn't know about but we did. Boys hear from family my dad was a hero, I always knew that.Life Magazine 1944 has picture pages 34&35 of my dads hand being shook.Would like full picture if possible? Also any other information from others who might still be alive or relatives who can provide anything about my dad. I not only lost my dad, but a best friend. Anything I can pass on to my boys to keep dads memory alive I want to do. Thank all you brave men and women who fought for our freedom..God Bless you

Andy'sTreasures December 24, 2010 at 11:52 PM
I'm looking for information on my father's time as a member of the 324th Bomb Wing as a navigator. He was part of a crew that included Monte Crosa and Charlie Falkenmayer. He may have been on the Irish Lassie or the Ruptured Duck. He never talked much about his time in the service. Daddy passed over in 1973. If anyone here has any information or memories of him I would greatly appreciate to see it. I can be reached at andy@kitcabin.com

vandervorst werner December 26, 2010 at 12:35 PM
Bonjour,
Je cherche des informations sur une personne dont je parraine la tombe.
Il s'agit de:2 Lieutenant Thomas C.Jr. Bulter
322 Bomb Sq / 91 Bomb Gp Heavy.
Si quelqu'un peut me donnez des informations sur cette personne, je vous laisse mon adresse hotmail: werneramay@hotmail.com et mon adresse email:vandervorst.werner@scarlet.be
D'avance, je vous remercie.

Anonymous December 28, 2010 at 3:35 PM
I am trying to find information about my grandfather, Leo W. Fontaine. Any information you can provide me would be greatly appreciated. Thank you ... e_fontaine107@yahoo.com

Curtis Norton January 9, 2011 at 7:19 PM
I'm trying to look up information about my grandfather Lt. Col. Robert P. Hare III. I've found his name mentioned only in a couple of things, but if I can, I'd like to find pictures and/or what crew he served with and anything else about him so that I can make it a present for my mother (his daughter).

Thanks in advance,
Curtis Norton

email: miff17@aol.com

Frederic Henoff January 10, 2011 at 3:30 AM
Bonjour,

I would like to get in touch with family or relatives of Lt Raymond J. MURPHY from 324th Bomb Squadron and navigator on Lt James C. CATER’s B-17 bomber the 28th of April 1944. This day there their plane was shot down by German Flak during a mission onto the Avord airfield, France. Murphy is hidden a few weeks by French underground before being returned to England by a RAF pick-up mission during the night of August 5-6, 1944.
(I am acting like a go-between for the son of the French family which hid Lt. Murphy.)

Best regards from France,
Frederic.

Frederic Henoff January 10, 2011 at 3:39 AM
Sorry, I forgot my address in the above message.
My address: frederic.henoffATfree.fr (Please, replace AT by @, thanks)

All the best,
Frederic

Mps January 14, 2011 at 1:12 PM
Is there anyone who has knowledge of Lt John M Perritt who flew REBEL'S REVENGE when stationed in England in 1943?

Rebel's Revenge was downed after an attack on Emden Industrial site, Germany, on September 27th 1943. Two crew were rescued and made POW. Another was listed as MIA. Perritt didn't survive.

Lt Perritt was with the 323 Sq assigned to the 91st BG. I would very much welcome any information about this Squadron's first arrival in the UK and when Lt Perritt arrived in England from the USA for active duty. I can be contacted by e-mail at: mps222uk@yahoo.com

Anonymous January 19, 2011 at 10:01 AM
I am inquiring for a friend who is looking for information on his father, Jack Howard Cassell. He was a crew member in the 401st division on "The Heat is On" from '42-'45 - based in Roycton, England - and in the 82nd Airborn from '46-'49.

Many thanks for any assistance you can offer.
basslappinmama@yahoo.com

Anonymous January 28, 2011 at 8:22 AM
Hello everyone,

I'm hoping someone might be able to give me a big of help/advice - it would be much appreciated. I'm trying to trace details of my Grandfather, who has now passed away. Im really keen to find more about him and his family who sadly lost contact with my Grandmother after the war. He was from Washington and based at Bassingbourn during WW2 and his name was Milton Brown. I would love to find out anything about him and see some pictures.

Thank you

Catherine
cat_f1@hotmail.com

Bairbre Gaynor-Ryder February 2, 2011 at 7:22 PM
My Dad, Robert G. Gaynor was in the 91st bomb group, 323 squadron out of Bassingbourne, UK. His first plane was "Man O" War", (Chuck Bennett crew)then the second "Stupentakit." Shot down on the way to the Schweinfurt raid. Last one out of the plane, I think only 2 survivors.Badly wounded, sent to occupied Belgian Hosp then sent to POW camp Stalag 17.Any info about him or his crewmates greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Anonymous February 6, 2011 at 7:45 AM
Hi,

I am trying to find a living family member of TSgt John P. Quinlan, tail gunner on the B-17 "Memphis Belle". I am creating a tribute to Quinlan on my web site, www.veterantributes.org and I am missing a few pieces of information to make his tribute historically accurate (specifically, trying to find his date of discharge and a list of his decorations awarded in the Pacific later in the war).

Thanks,

Erich Anderson
Veteran Tributes Founder
info@veterantributes.org

Anonymous February 15, 2011 at 12:46 PM
I am trying to find out if my grandfather (Taylor Robert Beynon)served in the 91st or 94th bomb groups. All i know is that he was a master seargent and his aircraft were B-17's with an "A" on the tail. Any info would be appreciated. Many thaks. J.Beynon

bunyonj1@hotmail.com

Lyle Piper February 18, 2011 at 9:00 AM
Hello, as are a lot of folks i'm looking for info on my Father. I don't know which squadron he flew with, but I do have pics from the b-17 he flew in, it was Chief Sly II. He was stationed in Germany, but I have very few records other than pics. I have a 2 ft long pic of a b-17 with a hundred or more servicemen posing under and across the front. His name was Hugh Piper. I wasn't sure if there was a different crew for chief sly II and III. Any info appreciated. send any to lyledpiper@bellsouth.net Thanks!

Anonymous March 7, 2011 at 3:31 AM
Thank you for a wonderful site. I am a community historian trying to compile an appropriate remembrance of our fallen warriors. I need help with this one: Lt. Thomas A. Stricker A/C O-661571 401 Bomb Sqdn 91st Bomb Gr. APO 634 c/o P. M. New York City.
There is no remaining family. We have this quote from the local newspaper at the time: "Thomas Stricker Talks From London. The voice of Lt. Thomas Stricker was heard from London Sunday evening (17 January 1943) on the Soldiers Hour over the network. Many from Kiron listened in when Tommy came on the air.
Lt. Stricker, a co-pilot, took over the plane when the pilot was shot. They were returning from an air raid. Their Plane was crippled but Stricker landed it safely across the channel.
Lt. Stricker is the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Stricker of Kiron. He has been with the American Forces in England for some time."
Not long after, the newspaper reported him missing in action as of 26 Feb 1943. The paper in their Dec 1943 Christmas list of all local servicemen reported no further word had been received. No local cemetery burial site was recorded. Are there any military specifics you can provide that would allow us to personalize a remembrance of Tommy -- plane, crew, location, mission, etc.? Thanks, Glenn Gustafson, kironhistorian@hotmail.com

Jim Shepherd, Jr. March 7, 2011 at 8:29 AM
Re: Thomas Stricker

You can find additional info (dates, A/C, injury, other crew members) on the 91st BG website at
http://www.91stbombgroup.com/Dailies/401st_dailies.pdf
Type Stricker in the 'find' box and enter to search. That should pull up all areas of the text with Stricker.

Jim Shepherd, Jr.
91st BG Webmaster

Anonymous March 14, 2011 at 6:07 PM
I am looking for any information on my Uncle Captain Thomas Bolton McCormick who went MIA on November 23rd 1942. He was the Co-pilot of the Sad Sack that was said to have been shot down over St.Nazaire. Any help would be appreciated.I would love to see a picture of his plane, B-17 F41 24479

maggieowen@comcast.net

Anonymous March 24, 2011 at 6:27 AM
Hello,
I'm looking for information on my grandpa, Gale Haderlie. He said he flew with this unit from mid-1944 to the end of the war in 1945. If anyone has any information about his plane or his crew, please let me know. Thanks

indianaman40@gmail.com

Anonymous March 25, 2011 at 1:30 PM
Hello,

I'm hoping someone might be able to help me with a photo of the MARY KAY airplane, it's crew and more specifically a photo of CHARLES L. JOCHMANN (KIA crash march 18 - 1944).

Thank you very much.

MV
(from Holland)

email : nijmegen1944@hotmail.com

Sam March 28, 2011 at 3:09 AM
Hi i am looking for information and pictures if possible for a freind her father was a radio op in a b17 at basingbourn his name was rudy lopez. The b17s number was bg-h 4229711 it was shot down near sweden all crew were killed seven men were recoverd three never found rudy was one of the three. It went down on 9th oct 1943 she never met her father as she was due to be born three months after his death.he was in 322nd squadron and as far as she can remember the pilot was pining and co pilot was tomer. Email. Samenglestone@googlemail.com

Sam March 31, 2011 at 5:15 AM
Hi further to my question i sent on march 29th the name i stated was missing the radio opps last name his full name was rudy lopez olague.
Samenglestone@googlemail.com

Anonymous April 19, 2011 at 12:42 PM
I am looking for any more information on my father Robert A Mueller of Wood Ridge NJ. He was a tail gunner on the Spirit of 44. There is some information in this great site but if anyone has more I'd love to hear from you.
Thanks
Lynn Human (nee Mueller)
lynnhuman@hotmail.com

Anonymous May 19, 2011 at 9:26 PM
Hi there I would like to know if there is any information on an airman stationed at Bassingbourne in 1944. I know very little about him his name was Robert Carnevale and he came from Boston I know that he had a sister who was into nursing in Boston at the same time[if this helps]outside of this I know very little apart from reading the postings on the ragged irregulars ! I would like to make contact with this person or his siblings. I can be reached on - ted.collins2@yahoo.com

Niek Schoonbrood May 21, 2011 at 4:58 AM
Hi there,

I'm trying to get some information about S Sgt Alvin T. Schippang. I adopted his name on the Wall of Missing at the American Cemetery Margraten (The Netherlands).
I know he was a Waist 1 gunner on the B17 called Short Snorter III. Any information and pictures are very welcome!

Please contact me at niek.schoonbrood@gmail.com

Jan May 29, 2011 at 5:21 PM
Looking for information on S. Sgt. Raymond A. Rybarski who was crew on "Queenie" and died in a combat mission over Berlin, Germany on April 29, 1944. It appears by the casualty list that only one other crew member was killed. So I think the plane got back to the UK and it notes that he was buried in the USA. But there seems to be no mention of him anywhere...so if anyone knows anything please contact me at jan.rybarski@gmail.com. Thank you so much!

james e. klein July 25, 2011 at 1:34 AM
For Sucrea Hutchinson

My doctor, now retired, was the Wicket Witch's Navigator Peter M. Chamberlain. Email me at jameseklein@earthlink.net or call me at 1-818-956-8553 and I can put you in contact with Pate. His mind is sharp as a tack and may be able to help you

Anonymous July 25, 2011 at 1:26 PM
I am looking for information on Martin Brook who was in crew 3276 ( I think that was also the name on the plane) in the 91st 324 Squadron. Dick Kahler DKSHOME@aol.com

Anonymous August 1, 2011 at 3:01 PM
My name is Benjamin H Yarborough, II. My Dad was Lt.Benjamin H Yarborough. He was stationed in Bassingbourne March-August 1944. He was a navigator with the 401st and flew with John L Black's crew.
Years ago I established contact with Bernie E. Stanton, left waist gunner of the crew. We corresponded for a few months but then the transmissions stopped coming.
I am interested in hearing from anybody that may have known or flown with my Dad.
Thank you.
Ben Yarborough (bksn@aol.com)

Anonymous August 13, 2011 at 2:40 PM
My uncle was 1/Lt. John (Jack) T. Evins who was copilot for Capt. Dwyer on the Stupen-Taket, and then later lost his life when the Vulgar Virgin was shot down. I am trying to find out any additional information I can about Uncle Jack. My father (Robert Evins) compiled, prior to his death last year, his WWII memoirs of his service in the 36th Division – 141st Infantry. I decided to add a chapter about his brother Jack. I was stunned that so much information was available online. So, my chapter is turning into a book in its own right. Thank you for such a wonderful website! My only regret is that I didn’t find out this detailed information about Uncle Jack prior to my father’s death. My father would have been so amazed.

I’m curious, are there any records of the crews credited with the various sorties for the 323 (1942 thru May 1943)? That information would help clarify identification of a couple of pictures I have. Also, I have found excerpts from Capt. Maas’s combat diary…is the complete diary available somewhere? You can understand why I would be very interested in reading that. Any information you can throw my way would be greatly appreciated.

For the picture you have online of the Stupntakit, my uncle John T. Evins is in the back row furthest right.

Best Regards,
Barbara Lorenz b-lorenz@tamu.edu

Thierry August 18, 2011 at 9:28 AM
I am the historian of the 42-97292 "Bachelor's Bride."
This B-17G crashed in June 25, 1944 at Bilbao, Spain during a mission in Toulouse, France.
The crew consisted of:

Pilot: 1stLt. Ferrall K. Goodrich
Co-pilot: 2ndLt. Stanley T. J. Spencer
Navigator: 1stLt. John P. Smith,
Bombardier: F/O Harold R. Kurrus
Engineer: Sgt. William V. Zura
Ball turret gunner: S/Sgt William A. Fann
Radio operator : Sgt. Jesse J. Craghead
Waist gunner: S/Sgt Edwin G. Braun
Tail gunner: S/Sgt John F. Callaghan
Navigator (not for the mission) : 2ndLt. Donald L. Brazones

All information about this airplane or the crew would be appreciated.

Please visit my website dedicated to this airplane: https://sites.google.com/site/b17bachelorsbride/

Thank you !

Anonymous September 8, 2011 at 2:37 AM
Can onyone find for me the crash location of Lt meyer's plane "Bull Session" on 14/1/1945. I have adopted the grave of co-pilot Laurin Otting at Henri-Chapelle cemetery (Belgium)
Thanks René

Anonymous September 9, 2011 at 12:07 AM
Can onyone find for me the crash location of Lt meyer's plane "Bull Session" on 14/1/1945. I have adopted the grave of co-pilot Laurin Otting at Henri-Chapelle cemetery (Belgium)
Thanks René
efflux21@hotmail.com

Anonymous September 14, 2011 at 11:42 AM
Hello, I would just like to commend and thank the administrators of this site. My uncle was Lt. Herbert William Chouinard of the "Jub Jub Bird" of the 401. His sister, my mother, never got over his loss and has never been willing to talk about his history during the war. His 2 brothers (now deceased) were able to tell some things, but I never really knew much about his time as a pilot in the 91st. Through the 91st bomber group web site and past issues of its newsletter (the Ragged Irregular) I have learned more about him than I ever knew before.

Anonymous September 15, 2011 at 12:05 AM
323 squadron "Bull Session" - 14jan 1945 pilot Lt Myers. I'm researching the crash location of this plane. Lt Laurin Otting , co-pilot is buried at Henri-Chapelle cem Belgium but his name appears also at the German Cem of Sandweiler Luxemburg. Can anyone explain or help me. efflux21@hotmail.com

Anonymous October 23, 2011 at 7:38 PM
This is just a test message.
Jim Shepherd

Anonymous October 23, 2011 at 7:43 PM
This is just a test of program.

Anonymous October 30, 2011 at 12:33 PM
Oct. 30, 2011

My uncle, Raymond Butler, remains buried at Ardennes American Cemetery Neupre, Belgium. Just today I found that info has changed to: Plot A, Row 36, Grave 30. Raymond Butler from Georgia. I am looking for a photo of the cross with his name on it but cannot find a place to request that or to find it, if it is online. Any help would be most appreciated.

mdf6161217@yahoo.com

Anonymous October 30, 2011 at 7:41 PM
I am looking for information about my sister-in-law's brother (Sgt George M. Richardson) 324th Bomb Squadron who was shot down over Germany in 1944, a B-17 ball turret gunner.
Please respond to this e-mail address;
htda553@valp.net. Thank You.
Howard T. Anderson

Anonymous December 21, 2011 at 6:19 AM
I am trying to find more information about Harold Ingraham, my wife's grandfather. He was in the 91st during WW2. If anyone has any information on what squadron and aircraft he was assigned to please email me.

MSG Michael Merzke
michael.merzke@us.army.mil

Wmeroller December 28, 2011 at 12:08 PM
Our family has recently found papers and letters with information of our Uncle William E Roller who was listed KIA in 1943. In a letter from a L Bunshaft from Newark NJ there are references to our Uncle being a POW at some point. The names in his "crew" were Mrs Bunshaft son(no name listed) SGT's Cole, Baker as An AEG (MIA) and my Uncle as a ROG (Radio Operator and Gunner). A picture is also referred to with a Morris whose address was Oneida Kentucky and a Lt Cohalan as a navigator. I have a picture which could be the referenced picture. Any information which could be helpful would be deeply appreciated. This information we have is new to us so if this is confusing I apologize. Thank you

Wmeroller December 28, 2011 at 12:21 PM
The email address for the previous question regarding William E Roller is krisbaby4249@msn.com

Anonymous December 28, 2011 at 2:54 PM
I am the grandson of Raymond C. Ridings who was the ball turret gunner on the Village Flirt. I am looking for any information about him or his crew. I have some photos of my grandfather as well as hi crew photo. Any information would be greatly appreciated. My email is driding2@students.kennesaw.edu.

VR
Derek RIdings

Anonymous December 31, 2011 at 4:22 PM
Looking for info if my late uncle, Stan Stough, flew as a gunner in the 91st. He once told me that he was a gunner, but I forgot which Group he said. My email is hvonhammer@mchsi.com . Thank you in advance.
SFC (ret) Mike Thompson

Edan January 16, 2012 at 1:56 PM
We are a Dutch familie, recently we recieved a Certificate of Adoption from a soldier on Walls of Missing in Margraten (Netherlands).
The soldiers name is Traverso Elio, T SGT, nr: 11032224. State: Massachusetts.
He died on 4th March 1943.
Unit: 322 BOMB SQ 91 BOMB GP/H
The plane's nickname was: Rose O'Day
Target: Hamm Germany
Who can and will give us more information please, we have no photo's from Elio Traverso.
Also we cannot find any Family about Elio Traverso.
We appreciate any kind of information, tips etc.
Kind regards, Ed and Anita

Reply
Replies

Edan January 22, 2012 at 5:10 AM
Nobody knows anything?
Any information is very welcome

Regards

Anonymous January 30, 2012 at 11:22 AM
Hi,

I'm wondering if anyone could post a clear, wartime photo of pilot Hilary "Bud" Evers of the 91st's 401st Squadron, possibly of him in a crew photo by one of the aircraft he flew. Mr. Evers was a friend of my late father (Bob Cook) in college and afterwards, and is the uncle of two of my closest friends, Bill and Jim Evers.

I've been researching Mr. Evers' wartime service in the 91st/401st, and some of the aircraft he flew were "Bad Egg," "Lightning Strikes," and "Yankee Eagle," among many others.

I'd like to see, and be able to show his nephews a wartime photo of him.

Thanks,

-- Drew Cook (rac701@msn.com)
Cincinnati, Ohio

Becky Meyer February 5, 2012 at 6:58 PM
My father, Sgt Merle A Hathorn, was part of the groundcrew of the 91st stationed in Bassingbourn. I believe the plane he was assigned to was Quitcherbitchin. I would be interested in any photos of his plane or of the crew. My email is becky.s.meyer@gmail.com. Thanks very much.

Anonymous February 19, 2012 at 11:42 AM
Hello, I am researching my father (Willard Porter Chandler), ST/Sgt. who I believe was on the Miss Minookie on the day she was shot down over Germany. Any information would be greatly appreciated...
douglas.chandler@ymail.com

Anonymous February 25, 2012 at 12:49 PM
I response to a post dated Mar. 1st 2009 by Dan McNulty regarding Miss Minookie. He stated the tailgunner, My father, Willard P. Chandler was KIA. This is not a correct fact. He survived and was a POW in Stalag 6 till the end of the war. I would be interested in talking to anyone involved with his plane. Douglas Chandler.
douglas.chandler@ymail.com

Anonymous March 16, 2012 at 11:35 PM
Thank you for offering this service. My Great Uncle Willard O. Simpson was a waist gunner on the DF H 41-24515 Marie Jane on its final mission, 21 May 1943. From the SOS casualty report he is KIA will everyone else is listed as DED. Can anyone explain how the distinction was made. Does anyone happen to have any photos of the plane and crew for that last mission? I can be reached at jbony@ochoco.com Thank you again.

Mg April 1, 2012 at 12:21 AM
I have corresponded with Jody Kelly and thanked her for this great website. I am interested in information about Thomas J. Minnick III who was in squadron 322 but assigned to 324 when he was killed on 8/1/1944 near Chartres, France. We have the military report and amazingly found a picture the crash site on the website of a very helpful French organization "Forced Landing" dedicated to the memory of those who liberated France (link below). If there are any veterans who remember him, it would be wonderful to hear from you. He was my sister and brother's father, they were born three weeks after he died. My sister and I will visit both Chartres and Normandy (where he is buried). The president of "Organization Forced Landing" will take us to the crash site in Chartres and we will leave a memorial to this plane (Lt. Stevens). This may be of interest to other relatives. Here is the website:

http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=fr&u=http://forcedlanding.pagesperso-orange.fr/bozarth.htm&ei=MaVqT6XtK8qCgAfM7b2_Bg&sa=X&oi=translate&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CCoQ7gEwAA&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dthomas%2BJ%2Bminnick%2BIII%2Bchartres%2Bfrance%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26hs%3D5Pa%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26channel%3Dnp%26prmd%3Dimvnso

Mg April 7, 2012 at 11:47 AM
email is haller55902@gmail.com

Anonymous April 8, 2012 at 9:05 PM
looking for information on my grandfather, John Kurylo. im am in the military now and would like to know a little bit more about his service. I think his plane was Bucket of Bolts.

Scirishman April 15, 2012 at 2:21 AM
Hello, I'm looking for any information on my grandfather, Harris Franklin Shull. I have records stating he flew on the wicked witch from December 44 to Feb16, 45 as it was shot down on February 20, 1945 He never spoke of the war to my dad or uncle and if likes to find out more information if it is possible. Please respond to scirishman@gmail.com

Sophie Green May 31, 2012 at 12:25 PM
Wow what a fantastic site. I am a British teenager who is mad about the US 8th AF. I live near Parham (framlingham) stn 153 and i volunteer at the 493rd BG museum and Bentwaters Cold War Museum :) i dont know if any one can help me but i have been given the task of tracking down the details of someones father ... she said he was in the 401st Bomb Group but my relentless searching hasnt picked up his name at all so i was wondering if she meant 401st squadron. If anyone could possibly help me i would be very grateful. All i know is his name and rank .... Sgt O E Teel... i would really appreciate either help or advice on where to look or who to contact.

Best Wishes

Sophie Green :)

Anonymous June 29, 2012 at 1:04 PM
Im very interested in finding the group pic and plane name of my grandfather TERRANCE COLMAN, and any other info that might be available. What I have found is he was a waiste gunner in the 324 squadron of the 91 bomber group and a recipient of the flying cross and air medal 3 oak leaf clusters...but that is all i have been told. THANK YOU for any help

Anonymous July 25, 2012 at 11:45 AM
I am still hoping to find my Dad's info from B-17 flying fortress during WWII. He flew over germany out of England, talked very little about any of this. He was a tailgunner during 1943-1945. Last rank we know of was SSGT. He was a very tall, lanky, actually skinny irishman with a wicked sense of humor and jokester. Please if you know of him, have pictures of plane, name of plane, were friends with or any info notify me, his old 66 year old daughter. I also would like to know how and where to get info on his medals, his military history. I have a picture of a crashed plane he was in and he told me it was on the Bonneville Salt Flats, any info on that also. My email is changed from 2009. Its now barbarasteele96@yahoo.com. His name was Francis A McCusker, also known as SLIM. Thanks Good thing he came home, that way I have a life, otherwise i wouldn't exist. Thank you to all the men and women who sacrificed during that time frame and to those that do today. We are free because of those sacrifices.

Anonymous August 19, 2012 at 5:54 AM
Hello, I am researching my great uncle "Wordon Ryder" who flew in the 91st Bomb Group 322 Squadron and died in Nov of 1943. The records indicate he was on "Sad Sack" and became MIA on 23 Nov over the English Channel.

I would like to find out where he is memorialized and will be traveling to England in 2013 and would like to pay my respects. Additionally our family has no information on friends, crewmates, stories or pictures to remember him and I would appreciate any help I can get.

Thank you very much and I can be contacted via email at "kgnboy@verizon.net".

Dean Artigue

Jim Shepherd, Jr. August 19, 2012 at 11:40 AM
Re: Wordon Ryder

It appears he is memorialized in Cambridge. You can search on http://www.abmc.gov/home.php

Jim Shepherd, Jr.
91st BG webmaster

Michael Bloodgood October 22, 2012 at 9:48 PM
My relative, Lt. William T. Bloodgood, piloted the B17F 41-24449 "Short Snorter". He and his crew were KIA on May 30 1942 after attacking the German sub pens in Lorient, France. I am looking for any crew or individual pics of Bloodgood along with the nose artwork and/or picture of his plane. I have found the nose art for the "Short Snorter II" on line, but can only guess that it was a probably a copy of the original artwork.

Thanks so much,
Michael Bloodgood
michael.bloogood@gmail.com

Steven6095 November 27, 2012 at 7:06 PM
Hello. I am looking for anyone who may remember Cpt. J.W. Eanes / John Eanes(. I have his log book and all the dailies, but trying to help his daughter make some connections and get more info on her father. Of particular interest is a plane named Kickapoo (A/C 447 with the 401st). There was a story told of it returning heavily damaged. Dec 30 42 I believe. Tail gunner severely injured. Any information or photos of him would be GREATLY appreciated. Thank you very very much. Steven@ComputerServices.bz or Steven@BluegrassCustomFraming.com

Hyatt Dunn December 3, 2012 at 2:57 PM
Hello, i am looking on info on former members of my grandfather's (Robert E Crans) crew, Edward L Witty, John B Ackerson, Patrick J Walsh, and Clayton Hahn. There are a few other men i have identified in the pictures i have and some of the men i don't have names for, the pictures are posted on the 91st facebook page. They flew with the 324th BS from June 1944 to October 1944, mostly flying the Fearless Fosdick #43-37890. I can be reached at hyco1973@yahoo.com Thanks for any info yall can offer.

Theresa Doran-Lunny January 9, 2013 at 4:26 PM
I'm looking for any info or photos on S-Sgt. Frederick J. Maynard. He was with the 91st BG, KIA 30 July 1943. Any help is greatly appreciated.

tmdl125@gmail.com

Lee Ann Nichols April 5, 2013 at 2:40 PM
My father was co-pilot/pilot Lt. Horace C. "Nick" Nichols of the 91st Bomb Group, mainly of the 401st Bomb Squadron (although he shows up in the 324th bomb squadron dailies as well). It looks like he served from July 1943 through April 1944 --- the personal notes from his album say that he completed his tour with 28 missions, receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross at that time.

Thank you so much for providing the dailies! I see that he flew mainly in the B-17's "Lightning Strikes," "Just Plain Lonesome," and "The Keystone Mama."

I am interested to know if there's anyone out there who flew with him and might remember him. I am his daughter, and can be reached at the following e-mail address: lan7577@aol.com

Thank you --

marly youmans miller May 27, 2013 at 7:25 AM
http://www.91stbombgroup.com/crewphotos/incendiary_blonde.html

You have left off the name of the tailgunner at right, standing: Hubert L. Youmans. As his daughter, I wish for him to be remembered--and this is Memorial Day...

Dakota N July 7, 2013 at 6:50 PM
Hello, I'm a 14 year old collector of US Military Items. I aquired a WWII Enlisted Dress Uniform to 2ND LIEUTENANT EDWARD H. TOMER. 2nd Lt Tomer was a Co-Pilot on CHIEF SLY III. The crew of the Chief Sly III were KIA on October 9th 1943. I was hoping that I could possibly find some more information on 2nd Lt Tomer aswell as his Headstone at Svinø Churchyard cemetery with 2 other crew members. I would like to honor him by creating a findagrave for 2nd Lt Tomer. If you have any information on 2nd Lt. Tomer contact me VIA email:

Cop246@yahoo.com

Thank you!
Dakota

Anonymous August 7, 2013 at 7:40 PM
My name is Rich Vitacco and I am affiliated with the East Bronx History Forum, http://www.bronxnyc.com I am interested in finding out more information about Lt. William J. Warose (401st Bomb Squadron) who flew on Frank's Nightmare. His plane went down on August 17, 1943 while flying a mission to the ball-bearing plant in Schweinfurt. Your site has been very helpful especially the last account of Lt. William J. Warose by Lt. Eugene Cook as transcribed by Lowell Getz. Any photographs of him, fellow servicemen who knew of him, or family members are encouraged to contact me at RFVitacco@gmail.com Lt. William J. Warose is buried in St. Raymond's Cemetery in the Bronx (section 17, range 17).

Thank you

Anonymous August 21, 2013 at 3:13 PM
My father, Cpl. Joe McGinty (Alexandria, Louisiana) was attached to the 91st Bomb Group, Bassingbourne from Oct 27, 1942 - July 18, 1943. I recently found his WWII diaries and he mourns the loss of 4 friends aboard the B-17 Panhandle Dogie, January 3, 1943 after a raid on St. Nazairre, France. I found an article about Lt. John Roten which describes the last flight of the Panhandle Dogie. I don't even know if Dad knew the details of how his friends when down.

He referred to them by nicknames:
"Irish", "Mac", Senn, and Rex. I found Laverne Senn of Minnesota and Rex Barker of Michigan. If anyone can shed any light on who any of them were (are) I would love to know.

"The plane was the first loss to our squadron and the following crew is missing - Pilot, 1st Lt. Anderson, Co-Pilot, Lt. Lee, Nav., Lt. Roten, Bombardier, Lt. Karnarth, Engineer, T/Sgt. Marrar; Assistant Engineer, S/Sgt. Senn, Radio Op. T/Sgt. Barker; Assistant Radio Op. S/Sgt. McCauley, Tail Gunner, S/Sgt. Odegard; and Utility Gunner, Sgt. Flint."

Dad also mentioned another friend, Ssgt. Anthony Gaeta, Binghamton, NY, who flew aboard the Texas Bronco.

Please address any information to marymboyd@yahoo.com. Thanks so much, Mary Boyd, Georgetown, SC

Anonymous September 2, 2013 at 10:48 AM
Looking for any information on Lt. John (Jack) Godburn, Navigator in the 323rd
at Bassingbourn. He arrived very near the end of the war (Apr) and flew at least one mission in a B-17, I think to transport prisoners not sure. Any info would be appreciated.
rgodburn@verizon.net

InSearchOf StricklyGi323 September 12, 2013 at 2:05 PM
Hello,
I was doing some research on my Great Great Uncle, SGT Donal H. Laird and I came across this website 91stBombGroup.com. I found my uncle's name under the casualties list page prepared by John Howland and Bret Humphries. I noticed there was a small misprint in his name. On the page his name is listed as (Laird H. Conal) however my uncle's name was
SGT Donal H. Laird- (Ball Turret Gunner of San Luis Obispo, Ca.)

I was so glad to see this information on him as I never knew that there was someone who survived. I would love to get more information on him and their mission. Maybe the people that survived are still around with an amazing story. I would love to know about it.

He was in the 91st Bomb Group (H) Strictly GI -323rd squadron. C.M.S# 19073475
If you have any information on him or this particular crew, I would love to find out more about them.

Anonymous October 6, 2013 at 8:35 PM
Im looking for nose art for the B17 my great uncle flew..He was Marvin D. Lord..He was shot down over Berlin 2-3-45..My grandfather told me he was on 909 and another one called Big Operation 2..I've found plenty on 909, but nothing on Big Operation..I know he was in tail #632 when they took flak, but Im looking for a photo of him with either 909 or the mysterious Big Operation 2..
Thanks
John Lord

johnlrd@yahoo.com

Anonymous October 7, 2013 at 9:18 PM
Looking for information about my mother's first husband, Lt. Nathan F. Lindsey who piloted the short snorter III during 1942 and 1943. He was Killed in Action April 12, 1943 over the North Sea after his 34th mission. You may contact me at luramartin@me.com. we welcome anything you have to share. Thanks so much. Lura Williams Martin

Jim McCurdy October 26, 2013 at 8:10 AM
I'm looking for information about Kenneth Leroy Minette, ball turret gunner on Bride of Mars. They went down on 12/05/44. He passed away on 10/16/2013. My email is JGrump@cox.net.

Anonymous November 13, 2013 at 9:35 PM
I was wondering if anyone has any info on my grandfather Robert Goon?
kandj0715@gmail.com
Thanks

Anonymous November 23, 2013 at 4:00 PM
Anyone who new my father Bernard (Barney) Offley while he was a POW at Stalag 17B or while stationed in England with the 8th Army Air Force. Please contact me at obernard@q.com
SFC Bernard Offley, USA Ret

XURocks December 30, 2013 at 12:31 PM
I'm looking for information about my father, Thomas J. Minnick III. He was killed on a mission to Chartres France on 8/1/44. I know very little about him and would appreciate any information anyone has no matter how seemingly insignificant. Thank you.

Darrell Besser February 27, 2014 at 9:16 AM
On 09 Dec 2002 my mother in law received a letter from Dana and Laura Morse. Dana was 1 of 2 surviving aircrew members of My Darling Also (aircraft # 42-31578) that was brought down during a bombing raid over Berlin. In the letter he mentions a book with the title "Storm the Fortress" by Barry Smith, which was do for publication by 06 Jan 2003. does anyone know if this book was published? I have an excerpt from the manuscript which gives information of the German pilot and his FW-190 that he flew to ram My Darling Also. I would love to find a copy of the book or a complete copy of the manuscript.
e-mail Darrell3559@gmail.com

Darrell Besser February 27, 2014 at 9:19 AM
On 09 Dec 2002 my mother in law received a letter from Dana and Laura Morse. Dana was 1 of 2 surviving aircrew members of My Darling Also (aircraft # 42-31578) that was brought down during a bombing raid over Berlin. In the letter he mentions a book with the title "Storm the Fortress" by Barry Smith, which was do for publication by 06 Jan 2003. does anyone know if this book was published? I have an excerpt from the manuscript which gives information of the German pilot and his FW-190 that he flew to ram My Darling Also. I would love to find a copy of the book or a complete copy of the manuscript.
e-mail Darrell3559@gmail.com

Anonymous March 13, 2014 at 3:17 PM
I'm with the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum (http://evergreenmuseum.org/ ) and conducting research on the former fight surgeon for the 323rd BS - Dr. Weldon Ross.

I'm attempting to gather details on his research work which lead to the installation of Plexiglas covers on both the Radio Room (mid) Hatch and waist gunner positions. Information in records donated to the museum archives indicate that he flight research and was actively involved in the design of not only the covers but gun mounts in all three positions. It appears that the bulk of his work occurred during September and October of1943. It also appears that at least two aircraft may have been involved - The Eagle's Wrath & Stupntakit.

Any help or hints would be appreciated.

Thank you mickey.anderson@evergreenmuseum.org

Dennis McManus May 13, 2014 at 7:30 PM
looking for info about my father Marvin E McManus aka Little Mac. lower ball gunner on the G string murders. wounded on Nov. 13 returning from Bremen raid. Was subject of Stars and Stripes story about Flight Surg. with photo of him being removed from plane.I know that the tail gunners name was Frydell or Fridell. Any info would would help. Thank you Dennis McManus @ spook592ct@gmail.com

Anonymous August 18, 2014 at 5:57 PM
My Name is Thomas Hughes And I am trying to find some info on my Stepfather Ira l. Rhodes (Dusty) Who was stationed around Bedford, England I do not know what bomb group he was attached to all I know is that he was a pilot of a B-17. I would like to find out more info about his service days but do not know where to look could some one help me out? My email address is "T.M.Hews@verizon.net"

Steve November 6, 2014 at 7:40 PM
Followers of the 91st:

I have connections in Bavaria south of Augsburg where two B-17s collided on a mission on July 19, 1944. The aircraft were named Bunky and Champagne Girl. The commander of Bunky was Lt. Norman Nelson from Texas ( follow this link).

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=56653347

Bunky was destroyed with the loss of the entire crew; Champagne Girl made it to Switzerland. The people of the village of Etting, in the Kreis ( like a county ) of Weilheim-Schongau have erected a monument to Bunky and its crew with a dedication to all those who lost their lives in the air war in Europe in WWII.

They have a picture of Bunky but not of the crew that was flying her that day with the exception of the individual picture of Lt. Nelson in the post reachable through the link I posted above. The people of Etting would like to be able to show on the memorial the crew that perished that day; they would also be glad to be of help to anyone seeking more information about the crash site and the disposal of the aircraft wreckage.

The people who put together the memorial do not have fluent English and have asked me to be an intermediary. I have family connections in the area, visit almost every year ( I just got back from my almost-annual trip) ( written Nov 6, 2014) and would be happy to forward messages in both directions and to translate.

I'm from Santa Fe NM; I can be reached at stevemerlan@yahoo.com

I and the people of Etting hope to hear from interested parties and family members and to continue the work of remembering.

Steve Merlan
Santa Fe NM

Anonymous November 12, 2014 at 2:10 PM
I am looking for any information about my great-uncle Nello F Ripanti. His friends called him Frank. Anyone who knows what specific airplane(s) he may have flown, missions he was part of, or just knew him at all. He passed away several years ago and I would like to know more about his time in the service.

Christina (lady_liberty_86@hotmail.com)

Anonymous December 17, 2014 at 2:43 PM
I am looking for information on my uncle, Howard E. Black who was a tail gunner in a B-17 bomber group. I am unsure of which group he was in. He was deployed to England in 1942. If anyone has any information on him, I would appreciate hearing from them.

Anonymous May 22, 2015 at 12:20 PM
My name is William St. John Chubb. I was named for my father’s cousin, a member of the 91st Bomb Group who was bombardier on the first Short Snorter, missing in action 30 December 1942. I have read most of the material on the 91st’s wonderful website and the Ragged Irregulars. I would be interested in any recollections or photos that survive of him or the crew with which he served. Respond to coastie154[AT]aol.com

Jack June 6, 2015 at 7:34 PM
WJW
Any information about 2nd Lt. Wayne E. Murdock would be appreciated, as input to his history.

joshwfifty5July 11, 2015 at 11:46 PM
Hi Guys,

As a kid in around '96 I used to write to Mike Banta from way down in New Zealand, and I wondered if it would be possible if someone could pass his email address on to me so I could send him a message please?

Thank you,

Josh Walby
nzknut@hotmail.com

Anonymous September 2, 2015 at 4:09 PM
I am interested in obtaining information about Lt. John Allen, navigator, 401st squadron: his mission history, post-combat tour assignments, awards, Navigation Class, etc.

Thank you,
Doug Collar
dcollar@woh.rr.com

Unknown September 15, 2015 at 2:56 PM
Hi I am the daughter of Sgt Earl Brooks who was a mechanic, instrument specialist on the ground crew of the 91st Bomb Group. I have a photo that he is in. It is dated 1943. I would love to find out who the other men are and share with their families as well. I can be reached at bizzygirl1212@gmail.com Any information is appreciated.. Thank you so much

Anonymous September 27, 2015 at 3:57 AM
Hello I'm a WWII researcher

An elderly man contacted me about an crash he witnessed of a B-17 in august 1943. With his information I'm pretty sure he is referring to the crash of V-Packet a B-17F-40-BO Flying Fortress
s/n 42-5225 from 323rd BS, 91st BG, 8th AF.
8 of the 10 airmen died in this crash:
2nd Lt. Don S. Von Der Heyde - Pilot (O-793468) Pennsylvania
....................KIA - buried in Ardennes American Cemetery, Belgium
2nd Lt. Donald Primeau - Co-Pilot (O-799857) Massachusetts
....................KIA - buried in U.S.
2nd Lt. Edgar J. Yelle - Navigator (O-678811) New York
....................POW - Stalag Luft 3, Sagan
2nd Lt. Walter S. Brown, Jr. - Bombardier (O-734644) Wyoming
....................POW - Stalag Luft 3, Sagan
T/Sgt. Peter Comac - Engineer/Top Turret Gunner (13028702) Pennsylvania
....................KIA - buried in Ardennes American Cemetery, Belgium
S/Sgt. John R. Klopolsky - Radio Operator (39240963) California
....................KIA - buried in Ardennes American Cemetery, Belgium

I want to make a little monument on the location in remembrance.
In couple of months of research I found different pictures of the crew but I can not make out which one are the correct ones.
Who can help me? please contact me at gil.geerings@telenet.be

Kind regards

Gil Geerings
Belgium

Theron Snell November 9, 2015 at 10:32 PM
Looking for photos
1. of Lt. Schaper's crew, 323rd Squadron.
2. Any photo showing the 323rd Squadron on 4 October 1943

Did Ship#274 have a name/nose art? Any photographs?

At least one member of the Schaper crew, S/Sgt Donald irons, came home on board the S.S. SANTA MARGARITA; I am writing a history of this ship and would like to flesh out her story with that of the Schaper crew.

My e-mail: tpsnell@gmail.com

Anonymous November 12, 2015 at 6:25 PM
Greetings!
I'm looking for information about my Uncle, Tech/Staff Sgt. Phil Reuter. According to his daughter:

"His discharge papers say 323rd AAF Base unit at time of discharge. Enlisted 26 Jan 44 Active duty 22 Feb 44 discharged date 12 Jan 46 Battles and campaigns show Ardennes,Rhineland, & Central Europe. Listed as airplane armorer gunner 612. Destination showed EMAE Theater 12 Dec 44 date of departure and 27 may 45."

My mother says he flew in "Wee Willie" (333) as a TG until very shortly before 8 Apr 45, and in some way this ties into "13" becoming his lucky number from then until he passed away.

Since he was enlisted his name doesn't appear in the dailies for the 322nd or 323rd that I could find.
Any info would be appreciated!
Glenn Carter
mammynun@insightbb.com

Jayne Barnes June 12, 2016 at 10:47 AM
I am looking for anyone who knew Ben dickens 401 squadron at Bassingbourn. I can provide photograph. Jayne21077@gmail.com

Jayne Barnes June 12, 2016 at 10:50 AM
I am looking for anyone who knew Ben dickens 401 squadron at Bassingbourn. I can provide photograph. Jayne21077@gmail.com

Deb Traut August 29, 2016 at 3:17 PM
I'm wondering if my uncle, George Williams, from New York was part of the 91st. He was a tail gunner and was shot down in 1942 I think. He did survive. Thanks for any help you can provide.

James Urling September 22, 2016 at 10:25 AM
Any information on my father, Lewis H. Urling, Jr. would be appreciated. He was a navigator, and I believe arrived in Bassingbourn in Nov. of '44. My email address is jim@urlinglaw.com

Unknown October 26, 2016 at 11:15 PM
Hello, I'm not sure where to look for answerz but I found a armed forces issued cockpit leather jacket with a handpaintsd picture of the infamous mount n ride girl and saying on the back along with 91st BG and I found the initials inside the painted on little bombs they read as "BJH" I'm curious as to what I can find out from this very important piece of military history. My email is wandah52@outlook.com

Anonymous October 29, 2016 at 4:57 PM
Looking for the family of Philip S. Cardin. They lived in Walker County, Alabama. A family heirloom has been found and wish to return it to the correct family. You can contact me at denfree5670@yahoo.com.

Anonymous December 10, 2016 at 3:24 PM
Hi There all, recently found the aircraft name that my great uncle Robert Mersereau flew Mount`N Ride. After a search have found out a little information but also found a link to a Doyle E Bradford who also was a pilot on Mount`n Ride and says that information gathered was from his war time memories. would anyone have any information on Robert, Mount`n Ride and other crew members but would love to see if able to find copy of Doyles war memories.

many thanks Richard Hands

hands_richard@yahoo.co.uk

Ted Price March 2, 2017 at 11:56 AM
My uncle was thomas Price the ball turret gunner on 42-29587 Jolly Roger. Crashed 19/4/43. He died of wounds in a German POW camp. I'm told the pilot stayed with the plane and brought it down because Thomas could not parachute out. Would like to hear from anyone who has knowledge of the crew. Bob Ball, Wilbur Rowland, Walt Ferguson, Bob Heller, Bill HOlmes, John Turner, Ken Jones, Andy Pasztor, Harry Hammon (another POW) thank you .. TPrice

Michael P. Dreiling March 13, 2017 at 3:00 PM
This comment has been removed by the author.

Reply
Replies

Anonymous March 13, 2017 at 5:17 PM
Must have email address to answer questions. Have over 80 veterans and historians that will do research to answer questions.

Michael P. Dreiling March 13, 2017 at 5:55 PM
This comment has been removed by the author.

flyer469 April 4, 2017 at 11:51 PM
Hello gang. Can anyone tell me any stories they may have of my great great uncle Col. Stanley T. Wray. The first group CO of the 91st? Any info would be really much appreciated. I know he retired a 3 star.
thanks
franksewell71@gmail.com

Anonymous April 18, 2017 at 9:56 AM
Hi and thank you to all the veterans and their families for your sacrifices. My father was T-Sgt John H. Weber of Ohio. He enlisted in the Army in Oct 1942, moved into the Army Air Corps and served in the reserves until about 1950. He served in the 1402nd BTU at an airfield in Hertfordshire, Eng and was part of a unit called Air Transport Command, but I don't know during what time he was there. He moved around to several bases in England...not sure which other ones, but he was definitely in Hertfordshire. He arrived at Normandy on D-day and fought through France and eventually to Berlin. He NEVER, EVER spoke about his experience when I was a kid except for faithfully watching the TV show "Combat" and making many comments about doing similar missions, which I politely ignored. He died when I was a teenager and the stories were lost forever. The Dept of Defense says all of his personnel records were lost in a big fire at a storage facility and they could provide no details about his service. They did send me all of his medals, including 3 Bronze stars, but I have no idea what they were for. I have his mementoes and several photos that he brought home, obviously taken at airfields, with other staff but they are not identified. There are also aerial photos of 2 planes that crashed...he was bumped off that flight in favor of somebody higher in rank. I know it's a long shot to ask of this group since he wasn't part of the 91st BG, but thought I would give it a try, as I've pretty much exhausted all other resources. Any info would be sincerely appreciated. Please feel free to contact me at 3coyles@comcast.net. Thank you so much, Melissa Weber Coyle

Ronald Forstner July 4, 2017 at 8:40 PM
My Uncle, Bill McGavern flew with the 91st BG, does anyone know which plane he was a crew member of? thanks, Ron Forstner, rwforstner@gmail.com

Anonymous November 14, 2017 at 11:38 AM
Hello,
I am looking for any information on the Gunner on Skunkface III (William Gilpin) whose plane was shot down in WWI out of a formation of three planes. Is there any crewman from the other planes still alive that saw what happened or knew him personally? Any pictures? He was my husband's biological father that he never got to meet.

Thank you,
Dawn (dbonezzi.stpb@gmail.com)

Harold Ferenz January 19, 2018 at 5:19 PM
Hello, my name is Harold Ferenz, (CDR USNR Ret, Naval Flight Officer) and I am looking for information about First Lt. Harold Herman Henderson, 324 Bombardment Squadron, and the members of his crew, killed on the Hamm mission, 4 March 1943. He was on his first mission as first pilot. He was my mom's cousin and I am named for him. I have some information from a letter the surviving member of his crew, T/Sgt. Elwood Nettles sent to Harold's parents, but I would welcome more information about his squadron, aircraft, etc. My e-mail is hferenz@verizon.net. Thank You.

Unknown January 28, 2018 at 10:02 PM
This comment has been removed by the author.

Ol_Man_Jenkinz January 29, 2018 at 10:59 PM
hello I have a great uncle who was in the 91st 323 squadron. He flew in the plane named the shooting star as a Waist gunner. The plane went down in the channel and he sadly died due to mae west failure. If there are any pictures of his plane or him I would greatly appreciate it! If possibly anyone from his crew is still alive even better :) NAME RAY, BERNARD D SERIAL # 17127362 RANK S SGT AIRCRAFT #42-29540 DATE OF DEATH 06-Sep-43 MISSION #71(or) N/N . MACR 515 RELIABITY FACTOR A LAST UPDATE 11-Aug-03 tdray@liberty.edu

End of Blog Page 1