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us.gif (82 bytes) Leon Cole Goodwin 1920-2006.  Beloved husband and father, Leon Cole Goodwin died on December 26, 2006. Mr. Goodwin was born on December 31, 1920 in Lagrange, GA. He leaves behind his wife, Edith Goodwin; and one son, Leon Goodwin, Jr.

Major Goodwin retired from the United States Air Force in 1962. He was also a past president of the Pensacola Bowling Association. A grave side service and burial was held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, January 4, 2007 at Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola for Major Leon Goodwin. Memorials can be made to the Salvation Army.

Regards,
Stephen D. Curlee
Lieutenant Colonel
Army of the United States Retired

Many posters to the web site would ask questions that only a pilot would know the answer to and Lee was often the first to reply. Lee Goodwin will be missed by all of us. -ms
Date:
12/30/2006
Time:
12:49 PM
 
Hello, I am an ex Spitfire pilot and have just come across Alex Annez message concerning his grandfather who flew in the SAAF 12th Squadron. I did my flying training in South Africa as did many Belgians among others hence their joining a SAAF squadron afterwards. We were very warmly welcomed and looked after by many South African families and for me this included the parents of Jean's wife Jeannie (I'll call her Jeannie to differentiate from her Husband Jean ), the Maxwells. I completed my training in Egypt, where I last saw Jeannie who had joined the Fanny to try and join Jean, which she did briefly later in Italy.

I returned to England in May 1944 to operate for D Day and lost sight of Jeannie; who of course is Alex's grandmother.
I have found a reference to Jean as being in 1961 the Managing Director of Sabena in the Congo, but then I lose trace.
I would very much like to have more news.

Jack Douay
Date:
12/26/2006
Time:
5:52 PM
 
I’m seeking any information and leads which will allow me to better understand and memorialize, for our family, the circumstances surrounding the death of my maternal Uncle “Gib” during a combat mission while flying in a B-26.

Marauderman's Name: 2nd Lt. Gilbert T. Bennett, bombardier/navigator B-26 Marauder.
Bomb Group: Unknown
Bomb Squadron: Unknown
Years in service: Shot down and killed February 13, 1945
Graduation Class: Unknown
Class Location: Unknown
Comments:

Date of Birth: February 13, 1922 --- From Modesto, California
Shot down: February 13, 1945

Germany, believed to be on a bomb run over a German target on on his 23 birthday and on his 25th combat mission.

1) 2nd Lt. Bennett was said to be in the bombardier’s nose compartment and without a parachute when the B-26 was struck by AAA.
2) Not known to me if bombs were away.
3) All crew members were said to have bailed out or blown out of the aircraft and deployed their parachutes, except 2nd Lt. Bennett, as the aircraft “Mushed” downward with the mid-section on fire. Someone was said to have counted parachutes.
4) It was said that my uncle’s remains were located and identified at the crash scene by German nationals and given a proper burial.
5) After the war, his remains were removed from German soil to a National Cemetery in Holland.
6) Some time later (1948-50??) my maternal grandfather, Dwight N. Bennett, arrange to have, his son, Lt. Bennett, repatriated to back his hometown, Modesto, California, where he remains (see attached 2 photos taken 2006).

At a young age of 6 or 7 (1946-47), I do recall an officer, perhaps the pilot, and another crewmen, came to Modesto, California and provided a personal report to my grandparents (Bennett).

Best regards,
Jack Wood
 
 
Dear Mr. Wood,

Your uncle served with the 391st Bombardment Group 573rd Bombardment Squadron.

On 13th February 1945 42-95822 T6-O "Black Jack" received a direct flak hit in the right engine just after bombs away and subsequently crashed.

The crew on that mission were listed as follows:

1.Lt Michael Dobda; pilot
2.Lt Archie A Sink; copilot
2.Lt Gilbert T Bennett; bombardier/navigator
S/Sgt Jeston R Weeks; engineer/gunner
T/Sgt Emil A Uhlig; radio/gunner
S/Sgt Francis P Brown; armourer/gunner.

Regards
Trevor Allen
historian b26.com
Date:
12/26/2006
Time:
8:52 PM
 
I am Roscoe Haller's nephew. I lived with him and his wife, Corrine at Andrews AFB in the early sixties. He was in charge of organizing the F-105 flyby at JFK's funeral. He died about ten years ago. I have a lot of his photos and other things from the war and occupation. I'm not a blood relative, but I'm proud to have known him. He was a man to look up to. Eric Senter
Date:
12/25/2006
Time:
12:49 PM
 
I am trying to find information on my father, who died back in '68. All I know is:

John Millington
BG: 394th
BS: 586th
electrical mechanic
ETO: 3/10/44 to 8/15/45

He was in Avon Park at some point. I saw the posting by Bob Forcella and wondered if he could help in any way.
 
Thanks.
Gary Millington
Date:
12/24/2006
Time:
6:27 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Lee R. Crisman
Bomb Group: 386th
Bomb Squadron: 553rd
Years in service: Not available (flew 78 missions)
Graduation Class: NA
Class Location: NA
Comments: I am writing on behalf of Mr. Crisman's wife Dorothy, sitting here next to me at the computer, with a big smile on her face. Lee flew 78 missions in WW II. He was co-pilot of the "Mad Russian" with Lieutenant Klimovitch. Dorothy is delighted to find the B26.COM website, and would like to find photos or any other information regarding her late husband from this period. She has some photos of her own and we will try to scan them and send them to you so you can post them on your site.

Thank you.
David Anderson
Date:
12/24/2006
Time:
4:20 PM
 
My father, Ralph Carbone, was the flight surgeon for the 34th BS, 17th BG, flying B-26s in North Africa and Italy in WWII. John Carbone, MD
Date:
12/23/2006
Time:
1:58 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Frank Davis
Bomb Group: 319th Bomb Group
Bomb Squadron: 438th Bomb Squadron
Comments: This is my Grand Father who passed away in 05. In the last few years of his life he talked about his service time in the Army Air Corps with a great deal of pride. I am not sure the group or squadron he served with, but the name of his plane was "the Big Ass Bird".
 
"Big Ass Bird" was with the 438th Bomb Squadron 319th Bomb Group. -Trevor
Large image here...
Date:
12/22/2006
Time:
7:20 PM
 
My father, Lt. Calvin Collier, was in the 451st Bomb Squadron stationed at Beauvais/Tille (and later, somewhere in Germany, I think) from September, 1944. His airplane was “Dolly” or “M-Mike.” He flew 36 missions and was wounded several times. His co-pilot for many of his missions was Lt. Jim Crumbliss. The squadron has had an annual reunion over the years. If you would like to contact Maj. Calvin Collier, USAF, ret., feel free to contact me. -Jeb Collier
Date:
12/13/2006
Time:
12:49 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Lt. Col. John Payton Jr. , (Ret)
Years in service: 1941-1945, 1951-1965
Class Location: Texas?
Comments: My father completed pilot training through his solo but was washed out for leaving the base the night before graduation to chase skirts. He eventually became a navigator and flew the B26 in North Africa and Korea, where he was shot down on the final mission of that tour of duty on Memorial day. He served as a POW for 18 months and remained in the Air Force after repatriation. He always was and remains today my hero. Dad passed away in Florida on Memorial Day, 2006 and I miss him every day. If anybody out there knew my dad, I'd be pleased indeed to hear from you.

John Lee Payton
Date:
12/13/2006
Time:
11:26 AM
 
Thank You Trevor Allen for the valuable information that you provided to our family regarding my father's flight crew. I was able to contact by telephone his co-pilot, Dick Richards, who sent me several photos and many stories about my father, Joseph A. Skibinski. Dick said that most of dad's 65 combat missions were flown aboard Pistol Packin' Mama. I was also able to make phone contact with Virgil Jones, flight engineer, and I speak with him regularly. We found 150 incredible love letters that dad wrote to my mother that we published in a book called Softside that is available at Aardvark publishing or aardvarkpublishers.com The front cover photo depicts my dad in the turret, and the back cover shows him holding a puppy named buzzbomb in France in 1942. The letters tell an incredible story of love and patriotism. Thank you again for your help. Sincerely, Joe Skibinski
Date:
12/12/2006
Time:
10:10 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Harry J. Lester, 1Lt
Bomb Group: 386th BG
Bomb Squadron: 552nd BS
Years in service: Unknown
Graduation Class: Unknown
Class Location: Unknown
Comments: I am doing research for my brother-in-law who is seeking information on the subject individual, his grandfather. All he knows is his grandfather's name, rank, and that he was a B-26 Marauder copilot who flew out of England. He also mentioned that Robert Preston, the actor, was also in his unit. Since Preston was an S-2 officer in the 386th BG, I am certain this is the correct group. I understand Preston was in the 555th BS of the group so that is possibly the squadron. Any information on Harry J. Lester would be greatly appreciated. I am seeking any and all information on him. Thanks in advance.

Gary D. Koch, Major, USAF (Retired)
474th FG (WWII) Association Historian
 
Major Gary D. Koch, USAF Ret.
I saw your request for information concerning 1st. Lt. Harry J. Lester. He was a Martin B-26 co-pilot in the 552nd Bomb Squadron, 386th Bomb Group. He died December 1978. I do not know which crew he flew with.

I flew with the 552nd Bomb Squadron for 17 months, beginning in July 1943.

Chester P. Klier-- Historian, 386th B.G.
http://www.b26.com/historian/chester_klier.htm
Date:
12/12/2006
Time:
8:35 PM
 
My father, William Robert Kemp, was a B26 pilot with the 17th Bomber group. I am seeking any info and pictures for his grandchildren as Bill passed on St. Patty’s Day 2004. I am not finding much in the way of historical documentation and it is so important for his decedents to have. I do have his plane and his training dates.

Capt. William Robert Kemp, B26 41-74898
Pilots: Hi Applegate, Bill Kemp
95th Bomber Squad
17th Bomber Group
Graduated in July 1942
Last mission was over Italy in Sept. of 43. The Plane was lost with Pilot Hi Applegate but I am not sure when. Any stories and photos of the crew and pilots would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
David Kemp

David - 41-17898 (not 41-74898) "Barrelhouse Bessie" was shot down NW of Kasserine on March 1st 1943 with Lt Hiram Applegate and crew. More information to follow. -Trevor Allen, b26.com historian
Date:
12/6/2006
Time:
9:50 AM
 
Mr. Thomas W. Handlon was a Marauder Man and his widow is my neighbor and good friend. Mr. Handlon died a few years ago and is buried in his home town. I did not have the pleasure of knowing Mr. Handlon. Mrs. Handlon told me that her late husband was very close to the pilot of this plane. A Mr. Randy Ayres of our little town was a crew member of a B-26 in Reid River Australia. I have a picture of this plane and crew if interested.

Millard Greer
 
Date:
12/3/2006
Time:
6:26 PM
 
I'm trying to research my uncle's experiences in the 387th Bomber Group. Known facts: Marion Bacus, crew member Mitch's Bitch, received DFC. Can you offer any more information or suggestions? Thank you, Harlan Bacus
 
Mitch's Bitch was KS-P 41-31715 of 387th BG 557th BS. On May 26th 1944 damaged/lost due to enemy action. In the book "B-26 Marauder At War" by Roger A. Freeman (ISBN 1-85409-114-X there are several references to Mitch's Bitch in the text, including two photos. The photo on page 173 refers to a take-off accident, but no date reported. Also found on the web that March 2003 issue of the magazine FlyPast has an article about Mitch's Bitch in ETO: "Martin B-26 "Mitch’s Bitch" combat n ETO".

Best regards,
Alf Egil Johannessen
Date:
12/2/2006
Time:
11:21 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Sgt Peter Douglas Batty, ID XXXX747
Bomb Group: 3 Wing
Bomb Squadron: 24 Squadron South African Air Force
Years in service: August 1943 to May 1945
Comments: My father served as a Wireless Operator / Air gunner and flew 60 Sorties On Active Service. I have his Service Log Book detailing every flight.

On 10th September 1944 he flew in 'P' for Peter to bomb German Artillery positions south of Rimini entry reads: 'Bombed gun positions south of Rimini. Flak medium but fairly accurate. One hole in mid-upper gun turret. Found when we came off target that bomb doors hadn't opened. Landed with full bomb load, 10,250 lbs. No enemy aircraft sighted. 6th Op: Other members of formation's bombing fairly accurate.'

His last operational flight was April 25th 1945 Bombing Marshalling Yards at Giorgio. They were escorted by Mustang Fighters, of which air force I do not know?

Peter went on to become a Mechanical Engineer and School Teacher.

He married and had 3 Children.

He did not speak much about what he did and saw in the war, but I know it affected him and he was a very kind and gentle man.

He died December 1984.
Date:
12/2/2006
Time:
6:37 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Evan B. Cook, aka Herbie
Bomb Group: 344th
Bomb Squadron: 494th

My family and I are seeking information regarding my Great Uncle who was an engineer-gunner in the 344th BG, 494 SQ. His name is Staff Sergeant Evan B. Cook (Herbie), from Urbana, Champaign County, Ohio. He flew in the medium bomber, "Coral Princess III", we believe her serial number to be 42-96214. Her Captain was W .S. Allyn. The rest of his crew as of Sept 11, 44 were:

Capt. W. S. Allyn - pilot
1st Lt. F.H. Fuba - copilot
2nd Lt. B.D. Reed - navigator
1st Lt. Chiozza - bomb
S/Sgt E.B. Cook - engineer/gunner
T/Sgt D.A. Johnson - radio/gunner
S/Sgt M. Kasprzyzkowski (aka Stinky) – armour / gunner

We also have found that on the 19th of Nov. 1944 while attacking railway bridges at Neuwied, the "Corral Princess III" was damaged by flax after bombing the target. Capt Allyn and Sgt Bozack were killed in this crash. The crew that day were:

Capt. W. S. Allyn - pilot
1st Lt. F.H. Fubal -copilot
1st Lt. Chiozza - bomb
S/Sgt T.H. Barrows - engineer/gunner
S/Sgt. E. K. Bozack -radio/gunner
S/Sgt M. Kasprzyzkowski - armour/gunner

We are really digging now...and putting our hearts into it...for we have lost our fallen hero & family loved one. My Great Uncle, Evan Cook passed on November 7, 2006.

We aren't certain who is going to receive this message...but if this information is of historical value to you or may be to others...please pass it on. Also if you or others would like to request further information or have information to share with us about Evan “Herbie” Cook who was in the 9th Air Force, 344th Bomber Group, 494th Squadron...please don't hesitate to email us

We have just come across some photo's of the "Coral Princess III" and her crew taken on 23 Sept 1944 – including nose art.

Fond Regards,
Ron Ihrig
Date:
11/29/2006
Time:
5:45 PM
 
Re.: Russell J. Calvert. What a thrill to find my friend in your web site. I met Russ in 1961 when as a 19 year old college student I went to work at Rushmore Mobil Homes in Rapid City, South Dakota. Russ did all the finish work on cabinets, and was final finish inspector on all homes leaving the plant. He had left the auto body business sometime before I arrived, but he did tell me that he much preferred working on cabinets.

Your account of what happened to Capt. Thorne's plane matches what Russ told me about it. He was pretty emotional in the telling of it, I felt really bad about asking him. He told me then that he wanted to return to Europe and visit the graves of his friends. Don't know if he made it or not.

I still lived in South Dakota when Russ died, and did attend his funeral. Russ was a good friend and mentor, I still think of him from time to time. I was reminded again last week when I stayed at the Belleview Biltmore Hotel in Tampa. They tell me it was turned into an Army Air Corps barracks for airmen training in the area. Russ mentioned the "one a day into Tampa Bay" several times, so am I correct in assuming he might have stayed at the Biltmore?

Anyway, it was great finding this site, and what a thrill to see his story! Thanks so much.

Garry Abrahamson
Date:
11/29/2006
Time:
2:40 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: James Weldon Mellody, Royse City, TX
Bomb Group: 397
Bomb Squadron: 597
Years in service: 10/42 - 1945
Graduation Class: Jan. 1944?
Class Location: Basic: Lackland Air Force Base, Waco, TX; Flight training: MacDill Field, Tampa, Florida 1943
Comments: Weldon was trained as a navigator and was the waist gunner on a B-26 bomber. He was shipped out of Camp Kilmer, NJ on Mar. 14, 1944 arriving in Glasgow, Scotland on his 22nd birthday (Apr. 4) and was then based at Rivenhall airfield in Essex County, England to fight in the ETO.

He flew 26 1/2 missions on Spare Parts (42-96121) with his crew: Pilot: Freal C. Knox, Scottsbluff, NB; co-pilot Ossian A. Seipel, Chicago Heights, IL; bomb/nav William E. Gifforn, Newark, NJ; Radio Op Norman C. Edwards, Baltimore, MD; tail gun William F. Koenig, Enumclaw, WA; Photog Jerome Orenstein, Chicago, IL. They were in the air twice on D-Day. On their 27th mission the night of June 24, 1944, they were shot down over Maisons La Fitte, France (NW Paris) along with fellow formation planes 42-96127 (pilot Neill) & 42-96120 (pilot Gatewood) after bombing a railroad bridge. Weldon’s plane was riddled with flak and both engines were shot out & losing power, the left one losing oil. Everyone in Weldon's plane parachuted out safely, unharmed. Weldon reported making the tail gunner (navigator?) return to his post to get the pen he’d loaned him before bailing out. He always carried a pen in his pocket, for good luck, after that. He also courteously let everyone else go first as he despised parachuting. His pilot finally ordered him to bail out. Those who landed on one side of the Seine River (Gifforn, Koenig) were helped by the French underground back to England; all the rest were captured by the SS.

Weldon eventually ended up in POW camp Stalag Luft IV near Groß-Tychow (now Poland) for the duration of the war. He was also on the forced march in the winter of 1945 - one on the harshest winters on record. Beginning Feb.6, 1945, 10,000 Air Corps prisoners of war left camp at 10:00 a.m. to march from the German and Russian battle zone. They marched at least 636 km (395.2 mi.) all in 51 days. (Some report 600 miles in 86 days). While marching they were liberated by American troops of the 104th Division on April 26, 1945. Weldon was one of the lucky ones who survived.

The army fattened him up for a month, then sent him home to visit before serving out his last 6 months state-side. There he met his wife-to-be, Wanda, over a piece of pie at the local lunch counter. They raised 4 girls and 1 boy in Royse City.

He died of heart problems in July 2004. He was a tough survivor until the end. The doctors couldn't get his heart rate down which affected his body the way running a marathon would. After 3 days, the doctor said in 20 years of practice he'd never seen anyone live with that condition that long. He lived 7 days total. He made his kids laugh by waking up and asking "Am I dead yet?". He is survived by all his children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who remember him very lovingly & respectfully. He's our hero!

Sincerely,
Debra B. Garries
coat-tail relative
Date:
11/29/2006
Time:
12:03 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Don Hines
Bomb Group: 387th
Bomb Squadron: 557th
Years in service: 1944-45
Graduation Class: 44-B
Class Location: Turner Field, Albany, GA
Comments: Referencing a question I posted earlier about “Pappy” in the 557th BS, I have discovered that my Father’s “Pappy” was Spencer L. Andress. I just found several photos from that time, including this one of his crew, dated May 28th, 1944. The hand written information is very hard to read but says something about “Crew #4, LC AAF”
Date:
11/28/2006
Time:
6:11 PM
 
Richard E. Robinson, Pilot, 43-A Lubbock, 323 Bomb Group, 455 Bomb Squadron
Date:
11/27/2006
Time:
10:00 AM
 
Rollin D. Childress, Enlisted/Sergeant Pilot, Retired Colonel, 42-H Ellington, 387th Bomb Group, 558th Bomb Squadron
Date:
11/26/2006
Time:
2:37 PM
 
My name is Diana Musquiz-Ramos. I am the daughter of Manuel Musquiz, 456th bomb squadron, 323rd bomb group, from Brownsville, Texas. My dad served the 456th Bombardment Squadron in the 1940’s and I remember him telling of when he was in England, Germany and Italy. I do believe that he and my mom attended one of the reunions. If anyone out there knew my dad, I would like to hear what he was like back then. My dad died in October 2001, from Alzheimer’s. While surfing the web, I came across the B26.com web site and found a picture of him #19. My mom and I had never seen this picture of him. If anyone has photos we would enjoy seeing them. We would enjoy hearing stories about my dad. Thank you.
Date:
11/25/2006
Time:
6:56 PM
 
Greetings, I would like to have the words to this whole song...I think it had about ten verses? If you have a copy, please send a copy. -George Parker, 397 BG, 596 BS
_____________________________________
An Army Air Corps Song (1940-45 era or earlier)
 
The title might be: Come On and Join the Air Corps
Come On and Join the Air Corps, Its A Grand Branch so the Say; You never
do no work at all, just fly around all day.
While others take to their studies, and so grow old and blind, we take
to the air without a care and you will never mind.
You'll never mind, You'll never mind;
Come on and join the Air Corps, and you will never mind

Now yu're flyingover the ocean,
The engine starts to spit....
Oh! Whata dish for the crabs and the fish,
But you will never mind..
You'll never mind, you'll never mind,
Come on and join the Air Corps and
You will never mind!

(numerous stanzas follow, I can't remember-- if you have a copy send to me).
Date:
11/25/2006
Time:
5:11 PM
 
Billie B. Boyd, Jr. 386th Bomb Group 554th Bomb Squadron 1942-1944
 
I offer a salute to all fellow-B-26 fliers and support personnel. I enjoy reading the posts, and am intrigued RE "the youngest B-26 combat pilots"---which prompts me to ponder just how young "the youngest B-26 combat enlisted non-pilot crew member" might have been. While I certainly do not believe that I was, I'm nevertheless interested in knowing the ages of "the youngest"... I was born June 6, 1925 and flew my first combat mission on 30 July 1943, (age 18 years, 1 month, 24 days) with the 386th Bomb Group---on its first combat mission.. I was flight engineer-gunner--flying my 50th and final mission on 12 April 1944.
 
Thanks,
Billie Boyd
 
Billie - the youngest combat crewman we know of to date was Clifford R. Wherley a gunner with the 17th. Bomb Group, 34th Bomb Squadron, in the M.T.O. He was sixteen when his age was discovered and he was then sent home.
 
Trevor Allen
Historian b26.com
Date:
11/25/2006
Time:
1:24 PM
 
Regarding SSgt John Muters posting:
 
Back in 1995, I was in contact with Col Roland Scott and he mentioned the following in a rapport:
 
The day before the mission: 13 May 1943. Because of training in low level flying and violent evasive action the original "Gawja-Jerk" was deemed not to be fit format combat. The stretched control cables had to be re-rigged and Scott was given another a/c, 41-18099 ER-V, "Lorraine". It was to be "Gawja-Jerk II". So they spent all afternoon scrubbing the name "Lorraine" of its fuselage. But they never had the time to put the name on the a/c. Also quote: "Being superstitious as I am, I worried about changing the name of a plane as we had done" unquote.
 
Capt Jack Crain took it on the 2nd mission on 17 May 1943 and it was lost.
 
On the first Mission. Col R.M. Stillman flew in number two spot, to Scott. On the second Mission; Col Stillman flew lead in: 41-7982 DR-P. He was shot down near Rotterdam, and taken POW.
 
Notes on a Xerox copy of Lorraine in Marrakech, showing the following;
1/ Capt. Roland B. Scott: Pilot
2/ Capt. Othel Turner: Co-Pilot Squadron Commander
3/ Lt. Charles Lane: Bombardier/ Navigator, died in San Diego: 7 July 1995
4/ T/Sgt. William Taylor: Radio/Gunner
5/ S/Sgt John Muters: Eng/Top Turret Gunner
6/ S/Sgt Tony De Maria: Tail Gunner, died approx: 1991
 
...and in a the letter that came with the above: "We have been unable for many years of effort in locating TSgt Bill Taylor or SSgt John Muters, both of them the best of air crewman"
 
John Maljers
Australia
Date:
11/24/2006
Time:
6:16 PM
 
Richard E. Robinson, B26 Pilot
323BG – 455BS
Class- 43A
 
Here is another story about the “Youngest B26 Pilot”: Richard was born 28 Aug. 1923 and enlisted in the AAAF on 8 Dec. 1941 at the age of 18 as a Pvt.. He always thought he was the youngest pilot at the start of the war, it seems he could have been near the top of the list.
 
At the age of 19 Richard earned his Silver Wings on 14 Jan. 1943. As a Flight Officer he was rated multi-engine and did his B26 training in early 1943. I think he was assigned to 336BG 478BS at Avon Park, FL.
 
He flew the northern route and was stationed at Earl Colne, #358, Eng., 8th AF and later to the 9th. His first combat mission, one of 68, he flew was on 16 Aug 1943 at the age of 19. At the time he must have been in a very small group of 19 year old combat mission, B26 pilots.
 
As pilot of Liberty Lady, YU-V41-31781, B26B, Richard’s missions included Schipol and D-Day.
 
Liberty Lady’s crew: Robinson, pilot; R.L. Oakley, co-pilot; Lloyd E. Kisner, nav./bombardier; H.G. Graham, engineer; L. Arthur, radio operator; Martin P. Dishong, tail gunner.
 
It is amazing that so much was entrusted in these young lads, so much confidence, skill and responsibility for any age. I had a hard time with these qualities with my own children when they asked to borrow the family car at that age. My hat is off to them and my heart is with them, God Bless.
 
Richard “Robby” passed away July 30 2005, he was my wife’s Uncle.
Date:
11/23/2006
Time:
10:34 AM
 
Marauderman's Name: SSgt. John Muters
Bomb Group: 322
Bomb Squadron: 450
B-26 (Gawja-Jerk) 41-17929
Pilot-Capt. Roland B. Scott
My Father-In-Law, SSgt. John Muters was in the first raid on Ijmuiden in 1943 with Capt. Roland Scott, apparently neither was in the second raid. Could someone tell us why, and any info. about the Gawja-Jerk, and the Gawja-Jerk II.  Their crew picture is under Capt. Scott's name on your site, and others.
 
Thank you.
Dan Penrod
Date:
11/22/2006
Time:
11:02 AM
 
Marauderman's Name: Eli S. Radanovich
Bomb Group: 322 Bomb Group
Bomb Squadron: 452 Bomb Squadron
Comments: My name is Christine Bonneur. Eli S. Radanovich was my great Uncle. He was on Elliott S Moorhead's crew, which I found on website. I would appreciate any stories or memories from anyone who knew him!
 
Thank you and God Bless,
Christine Bonneur
Date:
11/19/2006
Time:
10:12 PM
 
I would give all the credit possible to any "Marauder" person or their story. Without any interest in refuting a word I read several stories of "youngest B26 combat pilot" in the past and now another in the B26 com. The last story is in the 2006 guest book dated 10/10/2006, 6:29 PM, regarding Clifton Freeman born Feb. 26, 1924. The entry makes 2 references as: "youngest B26 Combat Pilot" / article in one of their newsletters. The next entry was: "youngest in their group." I was born June 30, 1924. I entered combat in B26s during the spring of 1944 and flew with the 95th Sqd., 17th Bomb Group (a different group from Freeman.) . I served as a Flight Commander, Capt. Max Petrisek serial # XXXX540. I have been mentioned several times in the B26 com and entered several stories with all the suggested personal information. Oddly there are also several written documents of my small town newspaper, Bentleyville, Pa, publishing the story of my being "one of the youngest B26 pilots." I commend the writers of the Freeman article and just say you have another "like" brother in arms. I have never experienced a fellow Marauder who wasn't straight, gave his best and deserved all the credit bestowed on them. My regards to those comrades and I'm grateful for the fond memories of them. I would be glad to expound further on my service. Sincerely, Max Petrisek
Date:
11/19/2006
Time:
10:11 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Dan Bove
Bomb Group: 17th
Bomb Squadron: 34th
Years in service: 1942-1945
Graduation Class: E-43J
Class Location: Lawrenceville, Illinois
Comments: Hello. My Name is Tim Blanco. I am a grandson of the late Dan Bove of the 34th Bomb Squadron, 17th Bomb Group (1942-1945).
 
About 2 years ago, I asked my grandfather for his old photos. My idea was to preserve these photos by scanning them and storing them on a computer. Upon completion of scanning these photos, the plan was to then review each photo with my grandfather and to try to document the people in the photos as well as the places and dates they were taken. Unfortunately, this project was never finished.
 
The reason for this email is to try finish this project as well as share these photos with others that might be interested. Here is the web page where the photos can be viewed: http://photos.timblanco.com/family/familyarchive/1940s/. Please note that there are separate albums for each year as well as a generic album "1940s" for items that an exact year is unknown. Each item can be blown up/made bigger by clicking on it. You can also leave comments for specific photos by clicking the 'item actions' and the 'add comment' menu at the left of the page. Any info you could provide regarding specific pictures would be greatly appreciated!
 
Also, if you have any photos containing my grandfather during this era, please let me add them to my archive.
 
Finally, feel free to forward this email to anyone you think might have interest in these photos.
 
Kind regards,
Tim Blanco
Date:
11/19/2006
Time:
9:52 PM
 
Looking for Marauder veterans:
 
I'm not a Marauder veteran. I was in the Air Force not long after the last Marauder was retired. I'm an Air Force veteran (1957-60), a retired senior American diplomat (1964-89), and an author (1954- ) of books, magazine articles, and newspaper columns about the Air Force. The last of my seventy-some books "Air Combat," by Robert F. Dorr (New York: Penguin, 2006) is about fighter pilots but I am now doing research and interviews for a book about bomber pilots and (especially) crew members. I write a weekly opinion column and a weekly history article in Air Force Times newspaper. For the weekly history article, which is aimed at young readers, I am especially looking for enough information about toggliers to give readers a brief version of their story. So far, I have not found a togglier who would be available to interview with me on the phone.
 
I am also a collector of photos and documents and have my own small archive on the B-26. A few years ago, I participated in discussions about the Marauder archives question - some veterans will remember me from that time.
 
I would like to hear from anyone associated with the B-26 Marauder willing to be interviewed about his experiences. In the long term, I want to talk to anyone connected with the aircraft but my most urgent, short-term interest is in finding a toggliers to talk to.
 
Robert F. Dorr
 
Let me answer your question by recalling my first experiences. I graduated from Bombardier Training and received my Wings as a qualified Bombardier and Celestial Navigator. Classified as a Bombardier-Navigator having been checked out on the Norden Bomb Sight which I must assume the average Togglier probably never saw or operated. My first 15 Combat missions were flown with Bob Brockett he was referred to as a Wingman. Wingmen flew on the wing of Flight Leaders, Box or Group Leaders and their Deputy Leaders, whose aircraft were supplied with Bomb sights. Wingmen did not have sights so my first 15 missions I was a togglier as a lieutenant. Later When I Joined Clyde Harkins crew we initially flew in the Flight- Deputy position with a sight I would only use when the Flight Leader were to abort. Again I functioned as a togglier, salvoing my bombs when the leader dropped. Now all aircraft without Norden or other Sights required someone to Salvo the bombs on the assigned leader. I would say that Mr. Dorr is correct in his description. I only want to clarify that there are exceptions to toggliers always being enlisted men, etc. -Warren Butterfield
Date:
11/19/2006
Time:
2:47 PM
 
Marauder Men - beside a book on the B-26 Marauder I am also working on a book on the Messerschmitt Me 262, the Marauder's worst enemy during World War II; I know the walls of flak were a very bad thing too. This is also a project for the American publishing company Squadron/Signal.
 
Perhaps there are some photos available taken by former Marauder crews. A number of former B-26 crews had visited airfields were the Me 262 was based and any photo showing these aircraft would be great.
 
Perhaps you can distribute my message to archivists and enthusiasts interested in the B-26. I thank you in advance for your kind co-operation. I am very interested in first hand accounts between the Messerschmitt Me 262 and Martin B-26 Marauders.
 
Sincerely,
Hans-Heiri Stapfer
Date:
11/16/2006
Time:
2:57 PM
 
History of the 69th Bombardment Squadron (M)

The story of the 69th Bombardment Squadron (M) really begins with the acquisition of B-26 aircraft in November 1941, by the 38th Bomb. Group, of which this squadron was a part. The group, composed of the 69th, 70th, and 71st Squadrons, and the 15th Reconnaissance Squadron, had until that time only seven B-18’s and five PT-17’s. In January 1942, the group was ordered to leave Jackson, Mississippi, where it had been stationed for several months, and the personnel departed in sections on January 17th, 18th, and 19th respectively for San Francisco, California, and overseas duty. Read more...
 
Thank you  Merv Neis, for sending the History of the 69th Bombardment Squadron to b26.com. Now our challenge is to add a dedication page for everyone listed on that page.
Date:
11/13/2006
Time:
11:36 AM
 
My family and I are seeking any information regarding my uncle who was an engineer-gunner in the 344th BG, 494 SQ. His name was Evan B. Cook, from Ohio, and in 1944 at the time of his return from ETO, he was a staff sergeant. He flew in the medium bomber, "Coral Princess". He was a member of the Silver Streak Marauder group. He flew under the command of Colonel Reginald Vance and the captain of his ship was Allyn. We found the number K9-R listed but do not understand what this number means.
 
Can anyone out there help us in this quest to help keep his memory alive.
 
Thank You,
Irene Greer Ihrig
 
Hi Irene - K9*R would have been the radio call number (buzz number) for that ship It would have been painted in large letters right behind the wing with the US insignia between the number nine (9) and the letter R All the aircraft in the 494BS would have had the K9 followed by the individual assigned letter Other aircraft the bomb squadron for example "Willie the Wolf" K9*D, "Tom's Tantalizer K9*H serial number 42-107573. Would you happen to know the serial number of "Coral Princess? And or have a photo of "Coral Princess". -Don Enlow
Date:
11/12/2006
Time:
1:14 PM
 
I'm Raymond K. Rowland. I got my flying training in the Western Flying Training Command. I graduated with class 44E at Ft. Sumner, New Mexico. I joined the 323rd bomb group (B-26) 453 bomb squadron in Earles Cone England, in July 1944.
 
I and a number of comrades direct out of twin engine advanced, learned we were a problem for the squadron as none of us had ever even been in a B-26. We were made copilots and assigned to a crew and learned the B-26 in a hurry. A couple of orientation rides, then off on missions!
 
The group moved to a base in southern England in August near the Isle of Wight (our flying pattern took us over the White Cliffs of Dover).
 
I flew on 50 missions, mostly with first pilot Charles A. Haught. (A few years ago our radio man, Bertram Abrahams (Allen) and I both attended a squadron reunion in Colorado Springs. Bert and I together had made a number of "excursions" in the French countryside. He also went with me to visit my brother Fran up near Metz. Fran was an ambulance driver attached to Patton's 3rd army. All that is another story!
 
Bert had located Haught and told him I had wanted to correspond with him but he said to Bert "oh, you mean that kid" (was 20, Haught was 24 or 25) and I never realized how, on 40 or so missions we flew together, that he felt that way about me, he never contacted me.
 
The ship that we flew most of the time was "949", I think it was "Miss Twister". We also used "QQQQ" (pronounced fork you) some times.
 
I finally was given some first pilot time, after VE day, and got my first pilot rating.
 
I did not pursue a career in flying after the war. I attended the University of Denver to get a BS/BA degree. I worked 25 years for a wholesale paper merchant both in office jobs and in outside sales. I retired in 1990.
 
Happy Holidays
Date:
11/12/2006
Time:
11:51 AM
 
Steve; I may have the answer to your question (question for B26 pilots). I spent the early part of my Marauder training in the old "Straights" and "A"s. One of the problems was what I presumed to be a malfunction of the fuel mixture. Sometimes under maximum a (take-off) power, an over leaning of fuel mixture would cause the exhaust pipes to become so overheated they literally glowed a bright red. Continuing flight was very dangerous. The hot pipes also produced a horrible racket. However the tremendous low-pitch noise made by those great engines and the electrically controlled props prevented the pilot's hearing the trouble. I understand that at some bases having this problem a watchman was stationed at the end of the takeoff runway and upon hearing the faulty engine would wave a flag (or a light at night) to notify the pilot of the danger, at which he would immediately execute an emergency landing before before becoming a casualty. Possibly this happened to your father's friend on takeoff and he proceeded on, never knowing the trouble until too late. If such was the case, and he lost one engine at low altitude in an "A" at night, and was a low-time Marauder pilot, he very definitely was in serious trouble. The problem was soon corrected, and later models did not experience this.
 
I hope this will shed some light on your father's friend's unfortunate death.
 
Robert Mims
Pilot, 323rd BG, 455th BS
Date:
11/10/2006
Time:
11:34 PM
 
Recently I walked the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea and afterwards visited Gona. At Poppondetta airfield I saw the remains of a B-26 called "Barfly". Can anyone provide information about this aircraft? I am a pilot myself and an Australian National Serviceman, and naturally interested in our 'local' WWII history. Thanks, Brian Humphries
 
Brian - This is most likely to be 40-1529 of the 2nd Bomb Squadron, 22nd Bomb Group. It was last seen leaving the formation on the way to Buna 17th December 1942. Pilot was 1.Lt Franklin J Anderson, copilot F/O W L Scanlon RAAF. There were no survivors.
Regards,
Trevor Allen historian b26.com
Date:
11/07/2006
Time:
10:06 AM
 
Lyle Wolff, Marauder Man, 323rd BG, 455th BS and his crew.
 
Date:
11/07/2006
Time:
8:50 AM
 
I would like to write to all of you personally, but then I'd be at this all day. My dad, your friend, brother-in-law, uncle, Harold Luntey, passed away October 29, 2006 at about 12:25am. He had been in the hospital a little over a month with complications from his lung cancer. I never once heard him complain about anything while he was in the hospital. He was very much at peace when he died and there was no struggle. As you all know, he was a very practical man and had everything laid out for me. He cherished his family and his friends and he will indeed be missed. There will be a service, but I'm not sure when yet. I'll let you all know. Thank-you for your many forwarded jokes, correspondence, and friendship you have shown our dad over the years. I will try and respond to any new emails I get. Love, Lisa and Erin
 
Mr. Harold G Luntey, Marauder Man, served with the 386th BG/553rd BS and 394th BG/587th BS.
Date:
11/07/2006
Time:
8:48 AM
 
“The Last of the Bombardiers”
 
On a lonely road through a cold black site,
A miserable beggar trudges through the night;
The people whisper over their beers,
"There goes the last of the BOMBARDIERS" Read more...
Date:
11/06/2006
Time:
10:04 PM
 
To B26.COM - A few years back I contacted you at the request of a Marauder Man, Dan Murphy, I was helping to locate the crash site of his B-26, Blackack, 44-67903, March 23, 1945. You provided me some great information that I was able to give him to help locate his plane.
 
In the summer of 2003 he returned to Europe and found the crash site. His search was covered by the Dutch newspaper "Tubantia." Attached is the translated article which Mr. Murphy received. I thought you might be interested.
 
Thank you for your help.
Ken Buatala
Date:
11/06/2006
Time:
12:39 PM
 
Please have Mitch Mesa contact me regarding his uncle Capt. Frederick Partridge. He flew the Jolly Roger over seas with my husband Charles W McKenna as copilot. Have many pictures he may be interested in seeing. Eleanor McKenna
Date:
11/03/2006
Time:
5:03 PM
 
I would like for you to forward my contact information to the gentleman who left this post in your guestbook. I believe my father, William D. Lewis, served with his uncle in WWII. My father kept a journal which I have put on the web, along with some photographs, some of which I believe include Mr. Mesa's uncle. For your information, the website address for my Dad's journal is: http://www.kathyamen.net/journal
Date:
11/02/2006
Time:
6:01 PM
 
What a terrific web site. Thank you for all of your efforts to maintain it. This is in response to an inquiry posted on 4-7-2006 by David Alton White. David, if you visit John Perry's page you can find a photo of the Invadin' Maiden with whom I believe is Pilot Lt. Potter and Co Pilot George Judd. Unfortunately your father, John William White is not pictured. My father, John B. Perry knew George Judd and they flew many missions together. My dad's ship was The Flyin' Dutchman and the missions he flew are listed. Good luck finding more information on your father. - Carl A. Perry
Date:
11/02/2006
Time:
6:23 PM
 
Hi! My Father was Don Hines. He passed away one year ago today. I’ve been working on a “history” of his experience as a Marauder Man. Luckily he left a diary that covers that time. He joined the 557th BS, 387th BG on August 11, 1944. He mentions a “Pappy” several times in the diary but there is no other name associated with the nickname. His “Pappy” made captain on May 16, 1945. Another diary entry is as follows:
 
“May 11, ’45 – A71 - Pap & I had to test hop “Pappy’s Playboys” with a new engine (R) and a bad engine (L) - Ticklish situation - Cut out once flying to Y44.”
 
I was wondering if the “Pappy” mentioned below was the man Dad knew. My “history” is almost complete and I will be sharing it with any who are interested.
 
Thanks!
Mike Hines
Date:
11/02/2006
Time:
9:05 PM
 
Hello, my name is Joel Mattingly. I'm looking for information on my uncle, Howard Ryan Mattingly. I'd love to find a picture of his plane or any info you can help me to gather. I know he was a radio man and flew 65 missions with, I think the 585th and the 339 group. I'll ask him for sure what group no. he was with. Thanks so much and anything you might be able to share would be great. Any thing you can share would be wonderful. Ultimately I'd like to wind up with a picture of his plane, the "Little King" or pictures of his crew.
 
Howard Ryan Mattingly
9th Air Force
585th bomb squadron
394 bomb group
He went to radio school in Madison WI
Gunnery school in Florida.
 
That's all I have. any more you can provide we'd be so grateful.
Thank you,
Joel Mattingly
Date:
11/01/2006
Time:
10:56 PM
 
Dear Mabelle,
 
My son James Norgaard found your letter on this website. It was great to relive memories so many years later. He felt you might like to hear a little more of the story.
 
I am the Mary Jo, Lt. Col. Jens A. Norgaard named his plane after. His parents were both Danish, not Norwegian. He was born in Danish owned St. Croix. I am 91 years old and still have a mind and memories of your Jim (that’s what we called him). Read more...
Date:
11/01/2006
Time:
10:57 AM
 
Looking for information on my dad, Joseph D. Jenkinson, who was with the 443rd. Any and all info would be great. I believe he was with the unit from 43-45. -Scott Jenkinson
Date:
11/01/2006
Time:
9:12 AM
 
My name is Jim Tuscano. Carl Tuscano was my father, a member of the 386th, 555th BS. He was classified as missing in action October 7, 1944. One B-26 shot down that day was Serial # 131970 Code YA-F, named Spam Burger. My dad passed away October 26, 1984. I'm trying to piece together anything I can find out about him, that mission and anything about his crew.
 
To: Mr. Chester Klier..."Thank you for your dedication and service"
Date:
11/01/2006
Time:
8:32 PM
 
I have a question for pilots of the B-26. A friend of my Dad’s was killed in a state side accident. He was flying a B-26A1 at night. He was flying at around 2000-2500 feet and was flying somewhat fast. Eyewitnesses said there appeared to be flares coming from the plane. However, we know that the plane did not have flares on board so we assume there was fire, perhaps in the engine. Or is there something else that could look like flares? It appeared to witnesses that the plane was running wide open when it hit the ground. Was he trying to extinguish the fire by accelerating or trying to gain altitude? Or is there some other reason? Why would he have been flying cross country at such a low altitude? Was this a normal training mission?
 
Thanks,
Steve
Date:
10/30/2006
Time:
7:28 PM
 
Did you do your Basic Training at Walnut Ridge Army Air Field, Walnut Ridge, Arkansas? Do you know of someone, living or deceased, who served at Walnut Ridge AAF? If so, Please contact: Harold Johnson, Walnut Ridge Army Flying School Museum, 70 South Beacon Road, Walnut Ridge, AR 72476. Phone: (800) 584-5575.
Date:
10/26/2006
Time:
6:34 PM
 
My Granddad Robert H. Livingston Was a B-26 Pilot in WWII, the name of his plane was the "Roc" That is pretty much all I know about him, and I am really hoping someone can tell me something about him and his time as a Pilot. Thank you very much.
 
Sincerely, his Grandson,
Robert H. Livingston
Date:
10/24/2006
Time:
4:29 PM
 
Reamer Sewell, Age 85, As a World War II bombardier, he recorded in a secret diary the months he spent in a German POW camp
 
Reamer E. "Buzz" Sewell, a retired airlines ticket agent and Air Force navigator and bombardier who kept a secret diary documenting his experiences as a World War II prisoner of war, died of heart failure Friday at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Baltimore. The longtime Severna Park resident was 85. Read more...
Date:
10/23/2006
Time:
10:14 PM
 
My uncle flew the B26 in the ETO. BG323 squadron 455. His name was Capt. Frederick Ray Partridge. Anyone out there that knew or the name of the plane he flew, I would love to here from you. He made it out of that war, but then he was shot down in august 1953 in the Korean War and his body was never recovered. I think he was flying a P51 in Korea. I don't really remember him. I was 3 years old at the time. I would just like to say a special thank you to all pilots and crews of the B26. A job well done, I might add. -Mitch Mesa
Date:
10/23/2006
Time:
7:12 PM
 
Hello - I am the historian for the 474th FG Association. The 474th was a 9th AF P-38 outfit in the ETO during WWII. I am doing research for a friend of mine trying to find out information about his late grandfather who was a B-26 Marauder crewman in the 9th AF. Below is all I have to go on for now:
 
Name: Harry J. Lester
Rank: 1Lt.
Position: Co-pilot
Unit Unknown, but flew with the 9th AF out of the UK.
 
I am continuing to search the web for info on Lt. Lester but would appreciate any possible leads you can provide.
 
Cheers,
Gary D. Koch, Major, USAF (Ret)
Date:
10/23/2006
Time:
6:58 PM
 
Hello - Looking for information about the Robert F COLEMAN crew. Shot down by German Fighters of II./JG 26 on February 21st 1945 at Vragender, in the East of Holland. B-26G 43-34562 394 BG -M- 585 BSQ. Five of crew were killed in fighter attack/crash (Blossman/Black/McFarland/Brennan/Coleman). Buried at Lichtenvoorde, reburied in Ardennes. Individual identification proved to be impossible, and all received a group burial in Zachary Taylor National Cemetery, Louisville, Kentucky.
 
3 crewmen baled out:
Edward H Adamowicz CP
Paul J Barnochia or Barnaskie # (name badly legible in MACR) Nav
Karl T Gilgen TTG
 
All information about this crew is welcome!
With kind regards,
Karl Lusink
Chairman of ARGA
Drempt, The Netherlands
www.arga-nl.nl
Date:
10/22/2006
Time:
10:51 AM
 
Hello, Mr. Richard Ainsworth! My name is Mike Cushing, and one of my great-uncles flew the B-26, and I think he was with the 387th. His name is Leonard Liekhus, he was a 2nd Loo, and he flew a plane named "Contrary Lady". I'm trying to get info on his A/C number and squadron letters, as I am a professional modeller building out a B-26 as a gift for him. Is there a roster of aircrews and aircraft they flew in? I appreciate any help you might be able to offer. Thank you in advance. Also, THANK YOU for your service to our country during the war.
 
Sincerely yours,
Michael D. Cushing, MD
Date:
10/17/2006
Time:
7:05 PM
 
Marauder Man: Bill Ryherd
BombGp: 397th
Squadron: 598th
Years in service: 42-46
Graduation Class: 42J
Class Location: Lubbock, TX
 
Bill was a B-26 pilot in the ETO and stationed at Rivenhall, England. The name of his plane was the Sharon Rozanne II. He had flown 35 missions and was due for some liberty in Scotland but he and his co-pilot chose to fly one more mission into France. He was shot down on August 4, 1944, while trying to bomb a bridge near Chartres, France. Bill parachuted out of the plane after his crew and landed in a field. He broke his ankle and was taken in by some farmers who eventually got him to a safe house in Paris. The man who led him to the safe house eventually turned him and the other pilots over to the Gestapo. Bill was taken by boxcar, along with 167 other men, to Buchenwald. He was there for three months and was then taken to Stalag Luft III, Stalag XIII, and finally to Stalag VIII. Bill is looking for anyone who might know what happened to his co-pilot Ira Vance. He never heard from him and has always wondered what happened to him. He would also welcome any correspondence from anyone who cares to share their experiences with him.
 
Thank you all.
Karen Bale
Date:
10/17/2006
Time:
11:05 AM
 
Re.: 344th bomb group D-day 1st. mission
 
Hi to you all on the B26.com ! My name is Jesper Nørregaard – I’m 41 years old and from Denmark I’ve made an interesting and jaw-dropping discovery when surfing my way onto the site of B26.com. I’m a far away relative to Major Jens Norgaard flying the Mary Jo Marauder 56th airborne on D-day. Mr. Jens Norgaard was the son of emigrated Nørregaard-family leaving Denmark to settle down on the Virgin Islands. He was the cousin of my Grandmother who grew up and lived in Denmark – and gave birth to my father. When the Virgin Islands were sold to USA by the Danish government in 1917, all inhabitants got the choice of being American citizens or remain Danish. The family decided for America and changed name from Nørregaard to the much easier Norgaard. Actually I have met Mr. Norgaard and his wife Mary Jo when they were visiting Denmark in 1989, as they wanted to meet their relatives in Europe before it would be too late. Several times I’ve been told from my relatives that Mr. Norgaard was flying the leading US bomber on D-day – but stories do tend to develop over the years, so I never really took notice – I always thought “yeah he was there all right but in the very first bomber – nope never”. With that wonderful internet, I one day tried to search for the words “Jens Norgaard D-day” , and suddenly this marauder-site b26.com came onto my screen with a picture of Mr. Norgaard and crew at his plane Mary Jo named after his wife. Below was displayed the Box-formation of 56 airborne on D-day with Jens Norgaard & Bob Witty as the very first plane. Let me tell you It gave me chills! After all, D-day was a brave and necessary task, which changed both Europe and the rest of the World in the right direction – giving that freedom me and my family enjoy today. And there it was – it was confirmed that my family and blood was in that very first plane. Therefore I would be very much interested in reading more stories and receive some more pictures (if possible) relating specifically to the Mary Jo with Major Norgaard and crew. If someone should have some footage or stories on their PC, I would be very very thankful if you could supply some of this by email. Over the years, I’ve grown an interest in the pedigree of my family and I would be very happy, if I could add a wonderful chapter, telling the story of Mr. Jens Norgaard on D-day – as detailed as possible. It’s a wonderful web-site by the way.
 
Thank you very much in advance for any kind help!
Best Wishes,
Jesper Nørregaard
Odense
Denmark
 
Here's link to the photo etc of Major Jens Norgaard and an article by Bob Witty [D-Day lead crew].
 
The book edited by Lambert D. Austin 344th Bomb Group (M) "Silver Streaks" History & Remembrances World War II have some pages about this D-Day mission + some aerial photos of the beaches in France on D-Day. These pages attached as PDF-file. It's large, but hopefully Jesper Nørregård in Denmark can receive it.
 
The plane that Captain Jens A. Norgaard flew from Savannah, Georgia to England via the Southern Route was 42-95922. The order for Shipment No. 5109-CZ was issued from HQ Third Airforce Staging Wing at C-6, Hunter Field, Georgia, on January 9th 1944 (info from book ed by Austin).
 
Crew on this flight:
P Captain Jens A. Norgaard
CP 1st Lt. Ralph E. Finch
N 2nd Lt. Louis (NMI) Offenberg
CC M/Sgt Erble F. Leamons
RG Sgt Leroy R. Weaver.

42-95922 was assigned to 495th BS (code Y5-?) and was shot down by FLAK near Malo-les-Bains in France (near Dunkirk) and crashed on May 11th 1944, MACR 4515. Pilot was 1st Lt. Ralph E. Finch.
 
Alf Egil Johannessen
Date:
10/13/2006
Time:
9:44 PM
 
Hello - Marauderman's Name: Paul H. Guertin.  I was looking for info on my family name.  I came across a Paul Guertin from the B26 group.  When I clicked on it, a picture of a plane with Idiot's Delight with the name Paul Guertin from 1944.  My dad was in the Army Air Force at that time.  I remember a picture of my dad standing by a plane and recalling the name to be "Idiot's Delight".  The picture looks like him.  I was wondering if anyone can tell me if they remember him and if they recall if he was from Holyoke, MA, as my dad was.  My dad was a tail gunner.  The rest of his service time, other than being a tailgunner and being in France is not well known to me.
 
Thank you very much for any info,
Donald P. Guertin
 
The post he refers to is at your site and refers to 322nd BG 451st BS, then the Marauder "Idiot's Delight" must be 41-34847 SS-K. There were at least five Marauders with that name in various Bomb Groups of 9th AF and 12th AF. -Alf Egil Johannessen
Date:
10/12/2006
Time:
2:17 PM
 
Thanks - For all your help in winning the war in Europe, we could have not done it with out all your sacrifices. It was the combined forces of the men on the ground & the men in the air that stopped the axis of evil from trying too rule the world.
 
W.T Walker Jr.
644th Tank Destroyer Battalion
B Company
Date:
10/11/2006
Time:
7:35 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Hillis E. Quick
Bomb Group: 344th
Bomb Squadron: ?
Years in service: 1943-1945
Graduation Class: ?
Class Location: ?
Comments:  I'm afraid I don't know a whole lot about the numbers used for the bomb group, squadron, etc. All I know is that on the back of one of my father's pictures it says, "Led the 344th over (cannot read the city) Germany in this old wagon, for my 55th mission".
 
I do know he was a pilot of a B-26, and he received the DFC, two bronze clusters and the Purple Heart. His medals were stolen from his house several years ago, and my brother got them back for him. He died last year at the age of 86. He never talked much about the war, and only told us a few things.
 
I am very proud of my father, and also proud of all of the rest of you brave men who flew the B-26. If anyone remembers Hillis Quick, I'd be happy to know.
 
Sally Quick
Date:
10/11/2006
Time:
7:35 PM
 
I am trying to find any info I can about Robert C Hoff who was in class 43 F at Pampas Air Force Base I think he went to B26s from flight school.
 
Wally Hoffman
Date:
10/10/2006
Time:
6:29 PM
 
Hi - could provide flight log information for B-26 pilot Clifton Freeman, 322BG 451BS, KIA 2/29/44.
 
Do you have any information on the "youngest B-26 combat pilot?" There was an article in one of their newsletters of a pilot who was a month or two short of his 20th birthday. Clifton Freeman was born Feb 29, 1924. He enlisted March 1942 and was commissioned just short of his 19th birthday. He flew his plane to England in June, 1943. Assuming he was on duty in June, he would have been 19 years and 4 months old.
 
I have a local newspaper clipping from April 21, 1944. Clifton Freeman was seen in a newsreel shown at a local theater. His parents (my great aunt and uncle) through the help of the theater owner, was able to obtain a couple of photos from the newsreel. Also in the same news clip, a B-26 is shown belly landing at its base in England. The voice over said the pilot was the youngest in the group, a nineteen year old. I am making the assumption this was Clifton Freeman. Would your records validate that?
 
I have purchased a copy of the newsreel showing Clifton and the belly landing. It was purchased from the University of San Diego bookstore. I don't know if you are aware of their availability and thought I should mention it.
 
Thank you.
John Smithwick
 
large image...
 
John, thank you for helping us tell the story of Marauder Men. MS
Date:
10/10/2006
Time:
7:26 AM
 
Name: Edward B. Moser, 1LT
BombGp: 322
Squadron: 451
Years: ?-'44
Class:
Location: Biloxi, MS
 
My name is Robert Moser and I am the youngest son of Marauder Man 1 LT Edward B. Moser. I enjoy the stories and information shared on this web site.
 
My father was assigned to the 322/451 and was a the co-pilot on Major Simler's crew that was shot down on 8Jul44. He and Simler evaded escape, were assisted by the Underground and returned safely to the US. As with many WWII veterans, he simply returned to his previous job and put the war behind him. He married Betty Kane and raised 7 children on the North Side of Pittsburgh, Pa. We lost him in November 1979.
 
I enlisted in the USAF in 1974. My first assignment was to Columbus AFB, Ms. My parents drove to Florida in early 1975 and stopped to see me in Columbus. My father made a comment to my mother that he felt he would come across someone he knew from his time in the service. Interestingly, he made little or no mention of his time in the military, we just knew he was a pilot who was shot down and came home. As a child it seemed to me that every pilot was just shot down then went home!
 
I took my parents on a tour of the base. We stopped at the hangar where I worked, I showed them the T 38 and T 37, and visited various base facilities. When we were leaving I took my normal left turn onto Simler Boulevard. My father remembered "a Simler" so to continue the tour I stopped by the main entrance of the base where there was a monument to General George B. Simler, Commander, Air Training Command. After reading the monument he said he thought this was the Major who he was shot down with. I was shocked! We went to the base library, did some research and we confirmed it was the same man. That evening we all sat in my rented mobile home and my dad told us the whole story of his last mission. It was a great father-son moment.
 
I would like to know if there is any other information available about that aircraft; i.e. Serial Number. I recall Simler named his plane after his wife, she had an uncommon name, and I've failed to find any reference to her on the Internet. I am also hoping that you may be able to put me in contact with George B. Simler V who left a posting on 25Dec02. Also, any information about photos that may include my dad will be appreciated and surely bring a smile to my mother's face.
 
Bob Moser
Date:
10/10/2006
Time:
7:25 AM
 
I was in SAC, stationed at Fairchild AFB in Spokane WA. I was ECM and Radar recon on a B-36 from Oct '54 to Feb 57. During one period of time we had a 2nd Lt assigned to the crew also named Andy Anderson. Is he related to the Andy Anderson B-26 pilot? If so, is he still living? I wondered if he would remember any of the B-36 moments on the crew of Captain John Herberg.
 
Richard Lynch
Date:
10/9/2006
Time:
2:38 PM
 
Clifford A. Thompson, Pilot
397th BG, 599th BS
Plane: Lassie Come Home
 
Since my message of 8/13/06, I have been provided a copy of "Rivenhall, the History of an Essex Airfield" [Rivenhall], and I found the following about my brother: "The next day saw the first fatality for the 397th when the group were assigned a Noball target at Le Grismont in the Pas de Calais. Lt. Thompson's aircraft was hit by flak and 2nd Lt. Frank Evanick, the bombardier was killed when a fragment penetrated his compartment. With the co-pilot wounded and severe damage to the hydraulics and rudder and elevators, the plane returned to Rivenhall and landed safely. 'Tommy' Thompson had a bad spell in May when on four occasions his aircraft received widespread damage, but each time his skillful airmanship got the crew home. During the mission of May 24th against the well defended harbour at Dieppe his aircraft was hit in the main fuel tank and other parts, but he pressed on with the attack. His right tyre had also been punctured which caused some anxious moments when landing at Rivenhall. Thompson was in trouble again two days later on May 26th when attacking the Luftwaffe airfield at Chartres. One of his engines began running rough soon after turning away from the target and he had to feather the propeller. Three of the Mustang escort kept him company on the two hour flight back, on a single engine, and he landed safely at Rivenhall." For this mission he received the DFC.
 
Cliff made 40 missions in Lassie Come Home. On the plane's 41st mission, he was assigned to other duties, and another crew took the plane. Sadly, neither Lassie Come Home nor any of the crew came home that time. Cliff went on to fly twenty-two more missions, one of them being over UTAH Beach on D-Day. Following 62 missions, Major Thompson was re-assigned to the States to train B-26 pilots.
Date:
10/9/2006
Time:
1:49 PM
 
I want to thank all of the Marauder men and their wives who were so friendly and answered many of the questions that I had for them at the reunion Rendezvous of the 391st Bomb Group that was held in Scottsdale two weeks ago. My dad was a member of the 391st but he died in 1972 and my sisters and I never really had any history about our dad’s missions because he did not talk about that time period of his life. The stories and information about flights, planning, bomb runs, life in captivity, and what the Marauder Men did once they returned home were very interesting and informative. Please keep telling your stories to your children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren. You have been referred to as the “Greatest Generation” and I truly believe that description applies to the group of individuals that my wife and I had the honor of meeting in Scottsdale.
 
Thank you,
Rich Erickson
Son of Clarence Erickson
391BG – 575 BS
Date:
10/9/2006
Time:
10:15 AM
 
Marauderman's Name: John R. Hartman
Bomb Group: 394th
Bomb Squadron: 587th
Years in service: 1943-1946
Graduation Class: ?
Class Location: ?
Home Town: Connelsville, PA
Comments: My wife's father, John Hartman, was a B-26 tail-gunner (we think) and was shot down a number of times, we think in Germany once. We're sure of the Bomb Group and Squadron. We know very little as he didn't talk about it much when he was alive. Any history, friends, stories or fellow crewmen would be greatly appreciated. We would just like to know more.
 
Thank you, in advance.
 
Alf H. Peterson
Date:
10/8/2006
Time:
10:39 AM
 
Name: Erdman Kiehm
BG 323
Sq. 453
Years 1938-1945
Class 42J
Class location Chandler, AZ
I flew 65 combat missions in the ETO, 3 battle stars, 13 Air Medals & a DFC. My Bomber was named Truman's Folly (note: crew chief Nels Cassano) because it flew back from a mission on one engine which Truman said it could not do.
 
Follow-up: Yes, I remember Sgt. Cassano, jogged my memory a little. Never did thank him enough for the great job he did taking care of Truman's Folly. Do you have his phone number? Would like very much to talk to him.
Date:
10/8/2006
Time:
10:29 AM
 
Mr. Crouchman, 387th BG historian - attached you will find that what happened to the 387th. On 25 February 1944 when 4 Marauders were shot down by FW 190’s of JG 26. This happened to take place just west to southwest of Walcheren Island.
 
I am researching the air and sea-war at and over the Dutch Islands. The chain of (former) islands in the southwest of Holland. My research is done on a day to day base and so I arrived at the point where I believe I could use some help from a dedicated 387 historian and hence my request.
 
What I need is a summary of how the 387th. Experienced this mission something like Mr. Chester Klier has done with his 386th diary of missions.
 
Would it be possible to provide such details as to make this history more complete than otherwise feasible?
 
I am always ready and willing to co-operate and provide assistance.
 
Looking forward to your reply, I remain
 
Wim de Meester,
The Netherlands
Date:
10/8/2006
Time:
10:20 AM
 
Marauderman's Name: Frederick J. Foster
Bomb Group: 344th
Bomb Squadron: 494th
Years in service: 1943- 1945 (?)
Graduation Class:
Class Location:
Comments: What a wonderful site. I am friends with Fred. He was a b-26 pilot with the 344/494. As I recall he said the name of his plane was "Flak Hak III". Any information about reunions, or people who want to contact Fred can email me. Thank you again for this truly inspirational site.
 
Mike Lode
Date:
10/2/2006
Time:
5:27 PM
 
Any information regarding the death, or mission, of 2nd Lt. Albert Paine KIA May 29,1944. Buried in the American Ardennes cemetery? My uncle was pilot of a B-26 I understand and his headstone indicates he belonged to the 576 Bomb squadron, 392 bomb group. No surviving family members exist to fill me in. -Humble appreciation, Larry Miller
 
Larry Miller - This will most certainly answer many of your questions.
 
Regards,
Alf Egil Johannessen
 
Albert E. Paine
Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army Air Forces
Service # XXXX721
576th Bomber Squadron, 392nd Bomber Group, Heavy
Entered the Service from: Colorado
Died: 29-May-44
Buried at: Plot A Row 14 Grave 13
Ardennes American Cemetery
Neupre, Belgium
Awards: Air Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster

http://www.b24.net/missions/MM052944.htm 
http://www.abmc.gov/search/wwii.php  search for Paine Albert
Date:
10/2/2006
Time:
12:12 PM
 
USAAF Historian: My dad, Captain Harry T. O'Brien, was head controller for 312th Fighter Control squadron (Ninth Air Force) supporting Patton on his war across Europe. I know he controlled P-47s and 51s, but I don't know if he also had responsibilities relating to B-26s. I have heard that he occasionally helped B-26s that couldn't make it back to their bases find friendly landings. I hadn't started my quest with any knowledge of the role B-26s had in close ground support - but am learning as I go.  I'm curious if his work would have involved controlling / supporting B-26 crews when they were engaged in close air support for the ground troops. And if so - where could I find more information regarding what contributions my fathers group might have made.
 
Dad has been gone for over 40 years and I am assembling some information for his children & grandchildren that number about 30. Great to know there are still folks out there keeping the stories and the history alive. Any expanded information on my Dad's role for the B-26 pilots would be of great interest and appreciated.
 
Thanks in advance for any info.
Tom O'Brien
Date:
10/2/2006
Time:
11:49 AM
 
Marauderman's Name: Col. Allen Wright Stephens
Bomb Group: 379th
Bomb Squadron:? (Would like to know)
Years in service: Career
Graduation Class: Army Aviation Cadet Program (?)
Class Location:
Comments: My uncle, ret. Col. Allen Wright Stephens, is going to have a 90th Birthday party on Oct. 28th, 2006. He was a Marauder pilot with the 379th bomb group who participated in the Utah Beach D-Day bombing on June 6th, 1944. If you enter his name on line, you will find information on him, principally his diary of his experiences, quoted by Stephen Ambrose. He was married to the late Arlene Stephens, also in service. I would like to invite all who might care to participate to send him greetings.
 
I would also like to know more about the 379th bomb group, such as which insignia would have been his and anything that would be of graphic interest since I am a scrap booker and would like to make him a memory book, hence the greetings and memorabilia.
 
I believe he is a member of the Marauder Association and perhaps an officer as well?
 
Thank you for any assistance you can provide me; I know it would also be appreciated by my uncle who remains proud of his marauder days.
 
Linda Stephens Collins
Date:
10/1/2006
Time:
1:50 PM
 
On or around 6 September 1944 a B-26B made a belly landing along the road between Poperinge and Proven in the SW corner of Belgium. A picture of the aircraft shows no readable serial number or squadron code. The area was liberated by that time and since crew seemed to be accounted for, no MACR was filed.  The mishap is not recorded as a "normal" accident either, according to the AAIR database. It therefore seems to have gotten into trouble during an operational mission.  Interestingly enough, the USAAF Chronology says that on 9 September 1944 B-26s flew a leaflet dropping mission to N. France and Belgium, but this sets the date a few days later then the presumed date of the forced landing.  Who can shed some light on the identity of the B-26 and/or crew involved?  Any help is greatly appreciated.
 
Regards,
Leendert
Brugge/Belgium
Date:
9/30/2006
Time:
12:10 PM
 
I am trying to get information on Maj. Paul J. Stach who perished on D-Day (6 June) 1944,while leading his formation of B-26 Marauders against a target at Caen France .I know he was from Rosenberg, Texas and belonged to the 9th Air Force 391st Bombardment Group stationed at Matching Green RAF air base England. Any information about Maj. Stach would be appreciated . -Allan Pantin
 
There was in fact a photo of Major Stach for sale online some time ago. Major Paul J. Stach was with 323rd BG 455th BS. Their base at D-day was Earls Colne north of London. The mission to Caen Road Junctions was 323rd BG mission #199, and the third on D-Day. 36 Marauders participated on this afternoon mission. Major Stach's Marauder was YU-W 41-31961, MACR 5527.
 
From the book "Marauder Men" by John O. Moench page 203: "With lowering clouds, the Marauder attack in the Caen area went in between 2000 and 3000 feet. Well-directed, intense 20 MM and 40 MM antiaircraft fire was encountered with the Group losing one aircraft, that of Maj. Paul J. Stach. Six parachutes were seen, suggesting that Maj. Stach stayed with his aircraft and tried to to belly it in. Rumor soon reached the Group that Maj. Stach survived the crash but was shot by the Germans when he refused to cooperate with them during interrogation."
 
The auction referred to the book "Time Over Targets. The Story of the 9th Bombardment Division."
 
This is in fact a small 34-page pamphlet issued by the "Stars and Stripes" during WWII, and passed by censor for mailing home. It's printed in Paris, and last date mentioned in text is February 22nd 1945.
 
"Maj. Paul J. Stach, Rosenberg, Texas, led his formation against a target at Caen D-Day. While approaching his bomb run at 2000 feet through intense light flak, his Marauder was hit by a series of bursts which knocked out his left engine. Nevertheless, he continued his bomb run. The left engine burst into flames. More flak started another fire in the bomb bays. Maj. Stach held his plane in formation until his bombs were away, enabling the remainder of his formation to bomb. He continued to hold his plane straight and level until his crew bailed out. He attempted to escape as the plane nosed downward, struck the earth and exploded. His parachute had not opened.
 
As there are two versions here, I will assume that the MACR can shed more light on this history.
 
Best regards
Alf Egil Johannessen
Date:
9/30/2006
Time:
12:08 PM
Hello - I am a navigator on a MC-130W in the USAF. After searching for lineage of the 73rd Bomb Squadron it brought me to your website. You and your team have done a wonderful job compiling stories and photos of the B-26 and her crews. As the squadron historian I was looking for any kind of 73rd history I can get my hands on. Any kind of information and pictures would be helpful. If you know of anyone who might have served in that squadron I would love to email or call them. Thanks for everything. And keep up the great work for the B-26 Marauders.

K.C.
K.C. - The 73rd Bomb Squadron became a component of the 28th. Bomb Group (provisional) at Elmendorf, Alaska. It operated against the Japanese in the Aleutians from 4th June 1942. More details to come...
 
Sincerely,
Trevor Allen historian b26.com
Date:
9/30/2006
Time:
12:07 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Robert “Pappy“ Leggett
Bomb Group: 387th
Bomb Squadron: 559th
Years in service: 1943-45
Graduation Class: 44-C
Class Location: Laughlin Field, Del Rio, Texas
Comments: My father was in the first class at Del Rio for B-26 pilot training. He flew 41 B-26 missions in Europe and was given the nickname “Pappy” because he was so much older than most of the crews – 27 when he went into the service.
 
I just found your great sight last week. I’ve sent you a posting for the guest book for my father but also have some information for Michele Pusateri Nichols who was looking for information on her uncle Mathew “Buck” Pursateri in 1999/2004.
 
My father and Buck were in the first class at Del Rio for B-26 pilot training and tent mates in France. Bob flew 41 B-26 missions in Europe and was given the nickname “Pappy” because he was so much older than most of the crews – 27 when he went into the service.
 
My parents spent the first few days of their honeymoon in Oct., 1945 visiting the families of Buck and his crew. Buck’s was one of the 11 planes from the 387th shot down on December 23, 1944. Pappy and Buck had an understanding that if either of them didn’t make it back; the survivor would stop to see the families of the others crew as soon as possible after his return. He considered that his hardest mission and my mother said if she could make it through that, she could make it through anything with him. They’ve been happily married for 61 years. William Mullican was Daddy’s AG. His original crew were R. F. McVey, co-pilot; E. J. Krane, Bombardier; R. H. Morris, Eng. Gunner; T. F. Minges, O.G.; and W. M. Mullican, A. G. (1st 13 missions). Mullican needed the hours so flew that fateful day in Pusateri’s plane.
 
My mother kept all his letters from the time he entered the service until his discharge in 1945 and had them bound into a book, Dearest Sylvia which she gave him upon his return. I hadn’t gotten around to reading it until this year but it’s a good description of everyday life from boot camp thru the war. I’m working on an index of all the servicemen mentioned in it and hoping to get the book inputted into the computer this year so I can send copies to you and some of the other places with B-26 Archives. He also has a bound photo album of pictures from the war including a few service men from his squadron.
 
Bob is 90 and pretty frail but would like to talk to Michele.
 
Please let the historian – Trevor Allen know that the name of the AG that went down with Pusateri was Mullican, not Mulligan. I have a copy of his obituary. My father kept in touch with Sarah, his widow until she died a few years ago. Sarah and her son visited us when I was about 2 and I visited them in 1981.
Date:
9/30/2006
Time:
12:05 PM
 
Hi - My father was Joseph A. Meere and flew with the 310th BG, 428th BS on the B-25. He was a Navigator/WG. He was stationed in Corsica last half of 1944. I notice his name is on the 320th Roster. I believe he may have flown a mission or two with the 320th. He died in March 1994. Can anyone tell me if they knew him or know someone who might? Why would his name would be on the 320th Roster?
 
Thank You,
Jonathan J. Meere
Date:
9/30/2006
Time:
12:04 PM
 
Hi, I am Malcolm Hobbs, and my family has owned the airfield at Earls Colne, England since 1965, when my father Eric Hobbs bought the airfield to farm. Well, a lot of changes have happened to the airfield here since then, and although there is still some farming, most of the airfield is now a thriving active area, with a 27-hole golf and country club, (including a hotel, swimming pool, indoor tennis courts and a gym,) and also there is a large business park at the western end of the airfield which provides employment to over 1200 local people.
 
If you are interested to find out more for your members I would be more than happy to provide you with photo's of the airfield as it is now (I have attached a few for your interest ) and send them to you in a CD-Rom. Also, my mother has compiled a short history of the airfield since we took it over which I can send to you if you would like.
 
The main reason for me contacting you now is that we decided to commission a memorial to all those who served here during the second world war, and it has now been finished and put in place beside the first tee on our golf course here, so that when golfers come to play here, (some from all over Europe) they can pause to reflect on the history of the airbase. I thought that you would like to let your members know this at your reunion next month.
 
Also, we are preparing a much larger memorial to be displayed at the entrance to the airfield, and this will be ready in about 6 month's time, unfortunately I don't have an artists impression to show you, but will keep you updated if you wish.
 
You can find out a little more about us on our website www.ecbp.co.uk
 
Yours sincerely,
Malcolm Hobbs
 
View large images here...
Date:
9/30/2006
Time:
11:14 AM
 
One of the 323d/455th is looking for a crew member. Pilot Robert (Bob) Mims was shot down in 1944. He took the aircraft down and survived the crash-landing. He was able to exit the aircraft and ran for cover. He, and crew member, John Brush, were captured separately and spent about 15 months in a stalag in Russia near the Caspian Sea. Mims would like to contact John Brush, his best friend. Brush was originally from Washington state and was known to have lived in Florida. If anyone knows John Brush, or knows where he is, we would appreciate any information you can provide. I will see to it that Mims gets the information. There is nothing more I would love than to be able to give him this information at the 323d's annual reunion.
 
Marauder men: Thank you all for the courage and love for America you demonstrated when you were oh-so-young and defending our freedom. The 2nd generation Heritage Flight members will not forget you and we are now teaching the 3rd and 4th generations the history and importance of the Marauder in WWII.
 
I am the event planner for the 455th Bomb Squadron Association, 323d Bomb Group (M). The 2006 reunion was held in St. Louis, MO. Specs: Reunion dates - 23-27 September, 2006; Location: Sheraton-Clayton Plaza Hotel, St. Louis, Missouri. Special events include a private tour of the historic FOX Theatre and a special tour of the St. Louis Holocaust Museum. The staff of the Holocaust Museum are very excited about meeting these Marauder men because they are the first WWII group of veterans to visit the museum. The staff have planned many opportunities to honor these men and have arranged for the group (along with families and guests) to have a private meeting with a survivor of the Dachau concentration camp.
Anyone who wants more information about the reunion can contact me via the Guest Book. We would be happy to send you a 323d/455th newsletter containing specifics about the upcoming reunion. If you live near St. Louis and cannot attend the planned events, we invite you to join us in the hospitality suite for a glass of your favorite brew. Anheuser Busch is sending over a bunch of its best Bud and Michelob! Schlafly Brewery is doing the same. Snacks and beverages on us. The stories are on you.
 
Nina Brewer, daughter of T/SGT Frank, navigator/radio operator, 69 missions primarily out of Earls Colne, England, now 89 years old.
Date:
9/16/2006
Time:
10:36 PM
 
Re: Richard "Dick" Lane
 
He flew with 24th Squadron RAF but was attached to the SAAF based in southern Italy towards the end of WW2 and was radio operator/gunner.
 
My Father has recently passed away (at 82 yrs) and told very little of his war years. Now that we have lost him I am curious to hear from anyone who new him and of the years he kept so secret.
 
Peter Lane
Date:
9/11/2006
Time:
2:16 PM
 
Someone named (John) Jack Lane asked if anyone had information on some men he knew. One of which was Irving Pincus. He was my grandfather and I  was searching for more information from the war. John asked for more information but left no contact information.
 
Thanks,
-Josh Pincus
Date:
8/30/2006
Time:
1:50 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Frank C. Porter
Bomb Group: 387
Bomb Squadron: 559
Years in service: KIA December 23, 1944
Graduation Class: ?
Class Location: ?
Comments: Looking for information.
 
Back in January I asked a question about my Uncle. This is Jim Stevens response: To Ken Porter: A-71 was the airfield the 387th bomb group was operating out of during Dec. 1944. The airfield was in Clastres, France, near St. Quentin. If Frank Johnson was lost in Dec. 44, there is a good chance he was shot down on Dec 23, 1944 on one of the Mayen RR Bridge missions (bombardier Warren Butterfield), which was a very tough mission for the group. The 559th lost six planes on that day. My father was a pilot in the 559th during that time, but he does not recall Frank Johnson. Jim Stevens, son of Joe Stevens, 387, 559 pilot.
 
To Jim Stevens, Joe Stevens and other members of the 559th. My apologies but I've believed, for the past 55 years, that my uncle had kept his biological father's name and did not take his adoptive father's last name (Porter). Hence, I've been looking for Frank Johnson. Sheesh. Let's try again.
 
I'm interested in any information regarding Frank C. Porter, a bombardier from Montana in one of the planes that went down on the 12/23/44 "Mayen RR Bridge" mission. I'm interested in the name of the plane, photos and I'd love to hear from anyone who knew him. I don't know much about what he was like as a young man and soldier.
 
Here's a list of the crew he was with on that last mission.
 
1.Lt Wayne W Church, killed; 2.Lt Harold D Wagoner, killed; Capt Jeff B Newman, killed; T/Sgt James A Logas, killed; S/Sgt Frank C Porter, killed; S/Sgt Paul D Dunkan, returned; S/Sgt Jimmy G Bort, returned; Cpl Aubrey Waldron, killed.
 
I'm also interested in more detail about what happened since it looks like two members of the crew, Dunkan and Bort, made it out alive.
 
I must say, I'm very impressed with the level of work and research that's been done on this web site and the care folks give to answering such questions. Ten years ago it never even occurred to me that I could find so much information.
 
Thanks again,
Ken Porter
Date:
8/29/2006
Time:
7:52 PM
 
Hi to all and thanks so very much for posting this information. I posted a similar request back in February but was hoping with the recent B26 Reunion in Dayton, that someone else might be checking.
 
Marauderman's Name: SSgt Robert E. Ryan (Deceased 9 August 1975)
Bomb Group: 397th
Bomb Squadron: 598th
Years in service: 12/14/42 to 02/01/46
Graduation Class: Unknown
Class Location: San Antonio, TX and Fort Meyers, FL.
Comments: I'm doing research on my father who served as an Armorer Gunner for the 397th Bomber Group, 598th Bomb Squadron between 6 Feb 1945 and 1 Feb 1946. If anyone remembers Sgt. Robert "Bob" Ryan and/or any information on his plane's name, please contact me. He is survived by his wife Pattie Lacy and 10 children (Kevin, Kathleen, Bridget, John, Sarah, Richard, Matthew, Anne (deceased), Michael, Meghan).
 
His crew was as follows:
 
1st Lt Kenneth H. McGill - Pilot
2nd Lt Morton S. Goldber - CoPilot
F/O William S. Clark - Bombardier
Sgt Winston R Glidden - Flight Engineer/Gunner
Sgt. John N. Masteller - Radioman/Gunner
Sgt. Robert E. Ryan - Armorer/Gunner
 
Thanks,
John Ryan
 
"Carpe Diem!" [aka. Conquer the Day!]
Date:
8/29/2006
Time:
7:43 PM
 
Hello - My father now 84 is Douglas Colin Jackson born 18/02/22 in Pietermaritzburg South Africa. He was a tail gunner in the 2ndWW in the B26's and in Squadron 21 of the SAAF.
 
Is there somewhere I can post some detailed information where I may be able to make contact with other fellow Squadron 21 soldiers. I know that he would be overwhelmed if I could make contact with anyone of them. He lost his farm in Zimbabwe two years ago and now resides and relies solely on me (his daughter).
 
I would like to bring a little light to his life! Any info would be greatly appreciated!
 
Regards,
Deb Coney
Date:
8/23/2006
Time:
6:30 PM
 
I wrote in 2003 regarding my grandfather, 1st Lt. Toivo W Piippo. I have a good knowledge of his history and was very close to him, I just wanted to know if there's anyone still out there that flew with him or have any knowledge of his days in WWII. He was in the 449th bombardment squadron, 332 bombardment group, and flew over Europe from, I believe, 1942-45. Let me know if you have any information. Thank you, Scott T Piippo
Date:
8/23/2006
Time:
8:30 PM
 
Name: Charles V. Hinton, pilot "Ollie-L"
BombGp: 387
Squadron: 557
 
I am the son of Charles Hinton, pilot of the "Ollie-L". I just came across the following posting from 2000 and wonder if Steve is still looking for information.
 
Chuck Hinton
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date:
11/12/00
Time:
9:42:27 AM
I am Sgt. George Brienza's grandson. He was the crew chief on the "Ollie-L". BombGp: 387th; Squadron: 557th; Years: 1942-1945; Location: European Theatre. I'm looking for information or persons of the 557th Sq. "Keller's Killers". Steve Wood
Date:
8/23/2006
Time:
8:30 PM
 
My grandfather, Donald L Hayes, flew a B26 during WWII and I need some help trying to find out what bomber group he is with if anyone could point me in the right direction to get started to find out this information. He has since past and while he was alive he did not like to talk about the war. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
Thank you,
Ken Farley
 
Mr. Hayes served with the 597th bomb squadron, 397th bomb group.
Date:
8/19/2006
Time:
2:16 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Lt. Austin Roberts
Bomb Group: 344th
Bomb Squadron: 495th
Years in service: ?
Graduation Class: ?
Class Location: Barksdale Field
Comments: Seeking information on my uncle Lt. Austin Roberts Co-pilot of "Ma's Blasted Event" based in England around April, May, 1944 as confirmed by "V-mail" dates. Anyone with any recollections please contact me.
 
Many thanks in advance,
Mike Roberts
Date:
8/18/2006
Time:
9:51 PM
 
Greetings: My name is Bernard Silva, I was the ambulance driver for the medics in the 599th Bomb Squadron. I joined the Group at the time of inception at MacDill Field, Tampa, Florida.
 
I spent all of my service ministering to crews of the 599th Bomb Squadron and worked with Captain Glenn Judson who passed away in 1983. I returned home in October of 1945 and have attended reunions in Virginia, Baltimore at the Marauder Conclave, and at San Antonio, Texas.
 
In 2002 I returned to Perrone, France for a memorial for a B-24 Bomb Group plane that went down near our base. I responded to the crash as a medic and recovered three bodies of soldiers returning from Germany from a clandestine mission.
 
I'd like to hear from former squadron members.
Date:
8/17/2006
Time:
10:32 PM
 
Name: Willard Christensen
Bomb GP 94th
Squadron 332nd
Year 1944
Comments: I am trying to find information on my Uncle Willard's plane. All I know is that around May 1944 they were on a mission over I think Berlin! My uncle's plane was hit by a bomb dropped by a plane above his plane. The plane he was on was the Ms. Donna Mae II. I think the pilot was Marion Reid. This was my grandfather's brother and he was telling me this story before he died 2 years ago and I thought I would look into it. My Pa didn’t talk about Willard much. He had 3 other brothers in the war my grandfather was Manley Christensen and brothers were Willard, Tony and Olie. Tony got drafted but his wife was expecting so Willard went in his place so it was always a touchy subject around them and they would not talk about it so now that there gone we are struggling to find out exactly there missions and where they were. Can you help me find information on the mission and what happened to the Ms. Donna Mae II?
 
Duffy Dunbar
Date:
8/13/2006
Time:
1:13 PM
 
Clifford A. Thompson, Pilot
Bomb Group: 397
Bomb Squadron: 599
Service School: AFS, Lake Charles, LA
Years in Service: '41 - '46
Plane: Lassie Come Home
 
My brother died in 1987. Recently, I discovered B26.com, and in an effort to honor him with a dedication page, I ordered his records from NARA. It was devastating to receive only his Separation Report with a statement from National Personnel that Cliff's records were destroyed in the 1973 St. Louis fire. However, the paper I did receive stated that he had been awarded the DFC and the Air Medal with nine OLC. I had not known that, nor did his daughters or nephews. We feel a great loss in not having his DFC Citation and in not knowing the reason for his receiving it.
 
I realize that there may be few living who would remember Cliff, but we would so grateful if anyone could tell us something of his combat record. I believe he was on the Eller RR Bridge bombing raid, but I have nothing to prove or disprove that.
 
Thanks for any reply - and God Bless B26.com for the wonderful service and comfort you give!
June Henson
Date:
8/13/2006
Time:
1:13 PM
 
My name is Tonello Odorico, living in Ala on Brenner Pass, Italy. On 11.05.1944 I saw the crash of the Marauder B26 of 320 BG 441 BS n°43 34396. Pilot Cole Truman. If the matter is interesting to you too, contact me please.
 
Many thanks
Tonello Odorico 38061 ALA (TN) Italy
Date:
8/11/2006
Time:
5:38 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Joseph B Doyle
Bomb Group:
Bomb Squadron:
Years in service: June 1944
Graduation Class:
Class Location:
Comments: The information above is almost all I know of my grandfather, who I was named for. I know he served with a B-26 squadron based in England during June of 1944 as an intelligence officer. During the first week of June 1944 he flew between six and ten missions as a gunner. He would have been in his mid-forties at the time and had served in the Air Corps during WWI as well. He grew up in Boston , MA and was living in Maine at the time he joined up for WWII. He once told my father he was helping train pilots in Florida before being assigned as an intelligence officer. If anyone has any information about him I would be very grateful to learn more about him. My own father passed when I was a small child and had told my mother little of what he knew of his father. I request additional information. Thank you for your service and your help.
 
Joe Doyle
 
Mr. Joseph B Doyle served with the 497th Bomb Squadron, 344th Bomb Group (referred to WW2 344th Bomb Group Association)
Date:
8/6/2006
Time:
7:59 PM
 
Mr. Nels Cassano, 323 Bomb Group, 453 Bomb Squadron, was the Crew Chief for Truman's Folly for 2 1/2 years; Nels served 4 years in the USAAF in World War II. Truman's Folly flew 177 missions without a scratch - Nels only had to change 5 engines in 2 1/2 years - a good plane and great crew chief and pilots!  Nels would like to hear from Erdman D. Kiehm, a Korean/American pilot who flew 50 missions in the 453rd, many in Truman's Folly. Nels would also like to hear from Robert L Sprague, another pilot that flew missions in the 453rd and many in the Truman's Folly. Of particular interest is Mr. Donald A. Nelson, a bombardier, who flew in the right seat many times until it was time for him to crawl into the nose to release his bombs. Many pilots in the 453rd bomb squadron flew combat missions without co-pilots. Nels would like to hear from any crew member or their descendant, that flew in Truman's Folly.
Date:
8/6/2006
Time:
7:59 PM
 
"While on a mission to bomb the Rovereto railroad bridge, the B26 piloted by Capt Max Petrisek and crew was hit by a flak shell just behind the bomb bay. It did not explode on impact but exited above the rear gunners position and exploded there killing the tail gunner, Sgt Gunnels, and severely damaging the stabilizer controls. Capt Petrisek landed at a British airfield near Ancona. Sadly, this was Sgt. Gunnels last combat mission prior to returning to the USA." Trevor Allen, historian B26.com
Date:
8/5/2006
Time:
5:58 PM
 
Hi, my name is Carlos Rostand Medeiros. These photographs are of an old B-26, from actual location at the Natal Air Base (in World War II is Parnamirim Field), from Brazilian Air Force. Thank you!
 
View large images...
 
I am adding your excellent Douglas A-26 Invader images to b26.com, a site dedicated to Martin B-26 Marauder Men.
Date:
8/4/2006
Time:
12:35 PM
 
I am looking for any kind of information concerning with the liberation (27th April 1945 ) in Italy of my native village Cavarzere. From August 1944 to end April 1945 was more than 260 Allied Forces bombardments by 12th and 15th Air Force 319th 485th and other BG. I would like to gather aerial photos /videos/ B-25 and B-26 Marauder, Liberators aircrafts about the bombing of Cavarzere RR & Road Bridges over Adige River. Cavarzere (map) is located 40km from Venice between Rivers Po and Adige, in the Po Valley. Also personal records, diaries, memories, pictures of Vets and their families would be appreciated. I am having an exhibition for this day of Liberation and would like to remember the special contribution of Allied Forces, in collaboration with the City Council of Cavarzere.
 
I appreciated your time and attention to this request and thank you for your consideration.
 
Giancarlo Tagliati
Date:
8/3/2006
Time:
10:34 PM
 
We have been trying to find any member of the three planes on December 28, 1944 that came to the aid of our B24 that was shot up badly over the Brenner Pass.  The B26s came into our formation when the Messerschmitts appeared in Italy and saved the day for us.  We have looked for those Marauder Men a long time.  If anyone knows any of those crew members we would appreciate helping us.  We already lost three members of our crew over the target they jumped.  We had wounded aboard and a feathered engine and one with only some power.  We headed south as we had no navigator and threw out all the ammo to lighten the plane as we were losing altitude.  Any help would be appreciated as we tried for years to find them to thank them.  We know that maybe they were our flyers but they could have been Australians or South Africans as they flew these planes also.  Our plane was the lady in the dark and their navigator took us to P47 base but we all had to jump as the plane was too damaged to get the gear down the hydraulics was shot out and the manual did not work.
 
Any help at all will certainly be appreciated.

Bud Rosch, B24 Crew Member
Date:
8/3/2006
Time:
12:05 PM
 
Marauderman's Name: Hugh Morton
Bomb Group: None- Technical Training Command
Bomb Squadron: NA
Years in service: '42-45
Graduation Class: ?
Class Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
Comments: I am writing this for my late father, Hugh Morton. He was an instructor for the Martin "250" top turret at the Army Air Corps training facility at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis. He mentioned that later in the War he talked to a few of his former "top turret" pupils who had been in action when they passed back through the ar