The 483rd Bomb Group Archive

Mission

Mission 210

20 April 1945 · Fortezza marshalling yard

Date
20 April 1945
Target as printed
Fortezza, Italy M/Y
Aircraft lost
3
Sources
assoc-mission-summary (row 210)

Target

Aircraft lost

Photographs and loss sheets

These pictures stay on the sites that hold them and are shown here by link only, until their owners say they may be copied.

Statements from the loss reports

Casualty questionnaire, page 10: EUGENE T.BISSINGER · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-12
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Your name EUGENE T.BISSINGER
Rank ISILT Serial No. 0828651
LEO C. BROOKS
2. Organization A.C. Gp Commander W. BARTON Rank Coh. Sqn CO
Rank MAjOR
(full name)
(full name)
3. What year 1944
month APRIL
day 20
did you go down?
4.
What was the mission, FORTEZZA
, target,
M/YARds.
, target
t ime, 12:00
altitude, scheduled,
, ,route flown
Where were you when you left formation ? IN RALLY OFF TARGET
6. Did you bail out?
No.
7.
Did other members of crew bail out? ALL BUT ONE ( NAVIGATOR
8. Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is attached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give facts. If you don't know, say: "No Knowledge". EIGHT MEMBERS OF CREW
BAILEd OUT THRU side DOOR APPROZIMATELY TEN To TWENTY FIVE MILES
DUE WEST OF FORTELZA, ITALY. ALL PARACHUTES WERE SEEN OPEN
IN A VALLEYOF A MOUNTAIN 50 To:- MILES
9.
Where did your aircraft strike the ground? S.W.BYW. of FORTEZZA ITALY.
10. What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross check with 8 above and individual questionnaires) NAVIGATOR AND / PiloT
(MYSELF)
11. Where were they in aircraft? PiloTiN PiloT SEAT-NAVIGATOR IN CoPiloT SEAT
NAVIGATOR-DISLOCATEDFINGER RIGHT HAND-CUT OVER LEFT EYE
12.
What was their conditio, BRUISITS AND CUTS OVER FACE PiLoT- - BROKEN LEFT HAND
AND FORFINGER -BRUISA AND CUTS ON LEFT SIDEOF FACE - -BOTh ANKLES SPRAINED
13. When, where, and in what condition did you last see any members not already des-
cribed above? THEENGINEER WAS HiT or shoulder BY FLAK OVER TARGEL
BUT PARACHATED OUT OF PLANE with REST OF CREW MEMBERS.
I LEARNED LATER THAT HE was GIVEN MEDICAL CARE BYA
GERMAN WOMAN DOSTER THRU PARTISAN ACTIVITIES
14. Please give any similar information or. personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. Indicate source of information.
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
6-3862,AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 10 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 11: BARTHAN, Jack · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-11
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
File # 13817
Name of crew member:
BARTHAN, Jack
Rank:
Cpl.
Serial number:
32883370
Position: Crew (Bomber)
LW
Did he bail out?
yes
Where? Between target (near Bressanane) and about 20mi S.W. of Merano,Italy
Italy
If not, why not?
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane:
none with Jack before he bailed out
Was he injured? no
Where was he when last seen?
Any hears ay
information: Believed to have parachuted safely
to ground. Taken by Italian civilians as prisoner.
His tate was due to their actions.
Italian
Source : Lt Henry of Texas (ParisTeras) B-24 pilet who spent bor Zmo. with Partisans.
He saw our plane go down.
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition:
Total number of missions of above crew member: Unknown
Dates and destinations if
possible: 20 March 1945 Target was a
railread junction near Bressanane Italy
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 11 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 12: Na tions, Manton A · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-12
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
-
1. Your name Na tions, Manton A
Rank 11t Serial No. 02068723
2. Organization 15A.F. Gp Commander
Rank
Sqn CO - Brooks Rank Major
(full name)
(full name)
3. What year 1945
month March day 20 did you go down?
4. What was the mission,
29th
, target, R.R. junction (near Bressenanc) ,
target
t ime, 1140 app.
altitude, unknown now
route scheduled, unknown
at present
, route flown unknown now
5. Where were you when you left formation? Between target and Merano, Italy
6. Did you bail out? no
7. Did other members of crew bail out? all but pilot (LtE.T.Bussinger)
8. Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is attached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give facts. If you don't know, say: "No Knowledge". All members, of crew.
except Pilot bailed out between the target and a poin t
some 20 mi S.W. of Mexano,Italy
9. Where did your aircraft strike the ground? thant 20mi S.W.of Merano
10. What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross checi with 8 above and individual questionnaires) Pilot and I
11. Where were
they in aircraft? Pilot 107 pilots seat.
12.
What
was
their condition? Severely bruised on head and legffilet)
13.
When, where, and in what condition did you last see any members not already des-
cribed above? Pilot (ET.Bissinger) and I were put 111 same German
Hospital for medical attentionarcuming there until the war was
over Hospital was in Merano, Italy.
14. Please give any similar information on personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. Indicate source of information. T/S Kolbe 5/5 Mountain,
and another 5/5 were in same hospital at Merano. All five atus
rode back to Verona with us. medical captain. its Kolbe remained
at Florence, Italy for further medical attention or hus eyes.
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
6-3862, AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 12 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 14: FRANCIS X. KELLY · 20 April 1945
AFTPA-12
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Your name FRANCIS X. KELLY
Rank T/SGT Serial No. 12120057
2.
Organization 483 BM Gp Goommander
BARTON
Rank COL. Sqn CO FOWLER, Azank MAJOR
(full name)
(full name)
3. What year
1945
month APRIL
day
20 did you go down?
4. What was the mission, FORTEZZA ITALY target,
FORTEZZA, ITALY ,
target
time (APPROX) 1145 altitude, 26,000
route scheduled, VIA ADRIATION
YUGOSLAVIA, AUSTRIA, rostu FHOOVER THE BRENNER PASS, LIALY
5. left formation? HIT BY FLAK OVER BOLZANO ITALY
Where were you when you
LEFT FORMATION IMMEDIATELY.
6. Did you bail out?
YES
7. Did. other members of crew bail out? YES, ALL EXCEPT THE NAVIGATOR AND
PILOT BATLED OUT IMMEDIATELY
8. Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is attached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give, facts. know say. "No Knowledge"
COPILOT, 3 GUNNERS, AND MYSELW (RADTOGUNNER) WERE E VADEE S
AFTER
BAILING
OUT.
TOGLEEER,
BATLED
OUT
AND
WAS
TAKEN
PW.
OTHER GUNNER
BAILEDOUT SUCESSEULLY, BUT WAS KILLED BY GERMAN CIVILIANS.
9. Where did your sircraft strike the ground?
NO KNOWLEDGE
10. What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross check with 8 above and individual questionnaires)
PILOT AND NAVIGAT0B RODE THE SHIP TO THE GROUND
11. Where were they in aircraft? IN PILOTS AND COPILOTS POSITIONS
12.
What was their condition? NAVIGATOR WAS SLIGHTLY INJURE D BY FLAK, PILOT
WAS OK, BUT BOTH WERE INJURE D BY CRASH. (BROKEN ARMS FOR EACH)
13.
When, where, and in what condition did you last see any members not already des-
cribed above? NONE OTHER
14. Please give any similar information on personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. Indicate source of information.
NO
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
6--3862, AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 14 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 15: BARTHAN, Jack · 20 April 1945
AFPPA- 11
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
File # 1,3817
Name of crew member:
BARTHAN, Jack
Rank:
ople
Serial number:
32883370
Position: Crew (Bomber)
LE
Did he bail out?
YES
Where? ABOUT 10 MILES WEST OF BOLZANO, ITALY
If not, why not?
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane
AT THE SIDE DOOR OF THE PLANE WHILE PREPARING TO BAIL OUT
Was he injured?
NO
Where was he when last seen? I NEVER SAW HIM AFTER LEAVING PLANE
Any hearsay information: FROM GERMAN AND ITALIAN NATIVES, I WAS FULLY
INFORMED OF HIS DEATH. HE WAS KILLED BY GERMAN CIVILIANS UPON LANDING.
i CAN GIVE DEFINITE NAMES AND PLACES AND WILL TYPE THEM ON BACK OF THIS
SHEET. THESE PEOPLE CAN GIVE FULL DETAILS. THE RE ARE A FE14 EYE
WI TNESS' IN THE TOWNS I WILL MENTION
Source:
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition:
NOT TO MY KNOWLEDGE
Total number of missions of above crew member:
IT WAS HIS 33RD MISSION
Dates and destinations if possible: THE 483RD BM GP, 840TH BM SQ HAS THE
MISSION RECORDS OF ALL ITS MEMBERS
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 15 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 17: BARTMAN, Jack · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-11
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
File # 13817
Name of crew member:
BARTMAN, Jack
Rank:
Cpl.
Serial number:
32883370
Position: Crew (Bomber)
LW
Did he bail out? Yes
Where? Bolzaro area, near pondo.
If not, why not' ?
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane: 1saw him
when \ bailed out. He was staNdine by thewawfoutHaist.
Was he injured? No
Where was he when last seen? WI in His aHout ntheair
Any hearsay information: The information Givenbelow was toldto m c <by
several I talian civilians. a full acountofthe insident wasGiver
by me and others of thecrew to am inteliGent officerat Bolzano and
15th A.A.F.F.G. IM Italy
Source :
Any explanation of his fate based in part wholly supposition: He was Killed
or on
by German civilians Acivilian by the name of Wisse shot him,
after being badly beaten by them.
Total number of missions of above crew member: IdonotKnow
Dates and destinations if possible: Iwasnotoreeular Member of the
crew I was fling with that day.
3/2gl. Marvi Grattalall
39146621 AHF.
Enlisted Reserve Corpe.
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 17 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 18: Marver L. Mattatall · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-12
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Your name Marver L. Mattatall
Rank s/sat Serial No. 39146621
2. Organization 483BA Gp Commander &.K Tayloo Rank Colonelsan CO Leofouler Rank
Capt.
(full
(full name)
3. What year 1945
month Apirl
day 19
did you go down?
4. What was the mission, Fortezzas Italy , target, Marshalling yards ,
target
time, 11:45
, altitude, 26000
route scheduled,
, route flown
5. Where were you when you left formation? No.2, Ship.; HISH Box.
6. Did you bail out? yes
7. Did other members of crew bail out? yes
8. Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is attached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give facts. If you don't know, say: "No Knowledge". No Knowledge
9. Where did your aircraft strike the ground? 20 Nules From fordo taly
10. What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross check with 8 above and individual questionnaires) 1st. P.1. ot And Ninerator.
11. Where were they in aircraft? central cabn.
12. What was their condition? No Knowledge
13. When, where, and in what condition did you last see any members not already des-
cribed above? at 15AR.E H.D.Q. EtiGeneo, waist Gurner, Radeo open
Goodcondition.
14. Please give any similar information on personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. Indicate source of information.
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
6-3862, AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 18 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Eyewitness statement, page 19: BARTMAN, Jack · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-11
INDIVIDUAL CASUAITY QUESTIONNAIRE
File # 13817
Name of crew member:
BARTMAN, Jack
Rank:
Cpl.
Serial number:
32883370
Position: Crew (Bomber) 290 Ebtebt
LW
Did he bail out?
Yes
Where?
Near Marona Italy
If not, why not?
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane oxiger
Check was made and he reported D.K.
Was he injured?
No
Where was he when last seen? Leaving the plane
Any hearsay information
That he was Captured and
best to death by civilian personell ]
Source:
Escapee Crew members
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition: I Saw in
the prison CAMP Where I was held a few of
his personal belokins and dog tags. There WAS
a)so a report stating that he was Killed While
Resisting Arrest. There was also a Map Showing his bural
Total number of missions of above crew member: Not KNO WN
Plaz
Dates and destinations if possible:
6-3861,AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 19 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 20: Lee Hugh Shead · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-12
r
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Your name
Lee Hugh Shead
Rank s/spt. Serial No. 38420520
2. Organization 483 Gp Commander Barton Rank of Sqn CO Fowler Rank capt.
(full name)
(full name)
3. What year 1945
month Apr)
day 20 did you go down?
4. What was the mission,
33rd ,
target,
Fartezza Itar! target
time, 11:50
,altitude, 26000
route scheduled,
, route flown
5. Where were you when you
left formation? Rallering off target
6. Did you bail out? Yes
7. Did other members of crew bail out? Yes
8. Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is attached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give facts. If you don't know, say: "No Knowledge". No knowledge
9. Where did your aircraft strike the ground?
Do Not KNOW
10. What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross check with 8 above and individual questionnaires) Navigator of
Pilot
11. were
Where they in aircraft? IN pilots Com partment
12. What was their condition? Pilot O.K. Navigator shot in Nech
13.
When, where, and in what condition did you last see any members not already des-
cribed above?
14. Please give any similar information on personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. Indicate source of information.
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
6-3862, AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 20 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 21: BARTHAN, Jack · 20 April 1945
- AFPPA-11
\DIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
File # 13817
Name of crew member:
BARTHAN, Jack
Rank:
Opl.
Serial number:
32883370
Position: Crew (Bomber)
EN
Did he bail out? Yes
Where? 10miles North of Bolzano Italy
If not, why not?
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane Crew
members Talking before Loss of plane
Was he injured?
No
Where was he when last seen?
siges
ON The Ground IN Solibia ITaly
Any hearsay information:
Was beaten with club and
Later shot Through Back of bedd
By German Civilians
Source: : By people who Took care of The Crew.
Any
explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition: ONly
Because he was of Jewish NaTionality
Total number of missions of above crew member: 33
Dates
and destinations if possible: April 20,1945
Target 10 miles North OFBolzzas ITalz
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 21 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 22: McDaniel Willie D · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-12
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1.
Your name McDaniel Willie D Rank T/sgI Serial No. 18169294
2. Organization 483 R Commander BarTon Rank Col. San CO Leo Brookstank Major
(full name)
(full name)
3.
What year 1945 month April day 20 did you go down?
4. What was the mission, Bombing , target, Raillards
, target
time, 1145
altitude, 28,000
route scheduled,
,
route flown
5.
Where were you when you left formation ? 2minutes off Target
6. Did you bail out?
7.
Did other members of crew you bail out? All buT Two
Pilot & Navigator 8 others Bailed ouT
8. Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is ottached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give facts. If you don't know, say: "No Knowledge". Seven
member 5 Beiled OUT when The First
word To bandon ship 3persons were
Raptured By GermoN Soldiers
9.
Where did your aircraft strike the ground? 10miles from Sw, Tzerland
Border
10. What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross check with 8 above and individual questionnaires) Pilot - Bissinger
Navigator Nations
11. Where wers they in eircraft? IN Pilots of Collots SeaTs
12. What was their condition? Serious CoNdition
13. When, where, and in what condition aid you last see any members not already des-
cribed above? No one was wounded buT myself
IN left S hou der, Rig ti arm Right Cheek
14. Please give any similar information on personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. source of information
IN The same TOWN as I who were shot
Indicate ISaw Two persons
downin December 0 701944 They we - e
Never Captured and returned To Their Base
may 10, 1945
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
6-3862, AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 22 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Eyewitness statement, page 4 · 20 April 1945
CONFIDENTIAL
840TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (H)
483RD BOMBARDMENT GROUP (H)
Office of the Operations Officer
APO 520
21 April 1945
STATEMENT OF WITNESS
I wes flying Airplane 44-6405 which was :/6 in the formation. After bombs
away and just after closing the bomo docrs Airplane dropped back and
started to loose altitude. I had to drop down and to the side so I could clear
and as I pulled up and to the right there appeared to be gas spraying from the left
wing of ship 861. I noticed a hole in his left wing behind #1 engine and midwing of
about 6 to 8 inches in diameter. There was no fire and the ship was level and
skidding when I last saw it but loosing altitude fast. Gumners observed five (5)
chutes almost immediately and two more soon afterward. The ship was level as they
lost sight of it behind the mountains.
Arward & Schmedt
HOWARD G. SCHMIDT
Ist Lt, AC
Pilot, Ship 44-6405
CONFIDENTIAL
N°.
-
328

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 4 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Eyewitness statement, page 5 · 20 April 1945
CONFIDENTIAL
840TH BOMBAROMENT SQUADRON (H)
483RD bOMBARDMENT GROUP (H)
Office of the Operations Officer
APO 520
21 April 1945
STATEMENT OF WITNESS
Immediately after bombs away at the target at the target this day (20 April
1945) Airplane # 44-6861 received a hole through the left wing near # 2 engine.
Flame flared under 11.1.1 eng no around the supercharger with a persistent gray smoke
trailing. Airplane 1/4 -6861 droppi back bein ap arently out of good control
for a moment. The ship lost consideral le altitude rapidly to the left of the
formation. Crew of Ship 257 in the formation Was alerted and tail gumer
reported ship 861 was turning slight right, and the smoke from #1 engine
turning to black. Tail gunner and bombardier of ship 257 reported seven para-
chutes opened.
Airplane; 44-6861 was last seen flying under control but loosing altitude
over the alps in a northwest direction from the target. Crew on Ship 257 rep-
orted Ship 861 cleared one range of mountains before going out of sight due to
haze and turning of formation.
It was undecided whether the parachutes were drifting toward the valley or
an elevated area.
DamDDlup
DAVID 0. CRUAP
2nd Lt, AC
N:-
2028
CONFIDENTIAL
under 3

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 5 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Eyewitness statement, page 6 · 20 April 1945
CONFIDENTIAL
840TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (H)
483RD BOMBARDMENT GROUP (H)
Office of the Operations Officer
APO 520
21 April 1945
STATEMENT OF WITNESS
While flying as tail gumner on Airplane 1/44-6405 on a combat mission, I
another B--17 (44-6861) come out from under our plane, and it was dropping
back and loosing altitude very fast. This was approximately a minute or two
after "bombs away". Deciding that he was in trouble I started watching him.
After watching for several minutos I called the ball turret gunner and asked him
to
watch the plane because the formatio vas starting to turn to the loft and the
plane in trouble was about to pass under us and out of my vision. The plane was
approximataly ei ht to ton thousand feet below us, and just as the ball gumnor
said that he had found the plane, I Saw a chute open a little distance behind
the plane in distress, and just a second or two later I saw four nore chutes
open out behind the plane. Then it passed on out of my vision- still flying
upright but seeming to be skidding to the right.
howard E. HUNT, Sgt.
Tail Gumner, Ship 405
Howard E. Hunt
N°.-- 2028
CONFIDENTIAS
that 4

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 6 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 9: BARTHAN, Jugk · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-11
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
File # 13817
Name of crew member:
BARTHAN, Jugk
Rank:
Opl.
Serial number:
32683370
Position: Crew (Bomber)
LW
Did he bail out?
YES.
Where?
APPROXIMATELY 25 MILES WEST OF FORTEZZA 7Y ITALY
If not, wby not?
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane : THE LAST CONTACT
WAS Baih OUT OVER INTERPHONE, No REPLYS, AND RINGING OF ALARM Behh,
Was he injured? NOT WhEN he LEFT PLANE
Where was he when last seen? COMING DOWN in PARACHUTE BY OTHER CARN Member
Any hearsay information: JACK BARTMAN WAS BRUTALLY BEATEN BY ITALIAN
OF
civilians AND Finally SHOT BY ONE OF THEN. The NAME THE TOWN
AND THE MAN who DiD THE SHOOTING CAN BE Found IN THE
STATEMENT oF A 2nd LT. RObERT G. HENRY 02058804 SUBMITTED To
ESCAPE SECTION, OF HEADQUARTERS FIFTEENTH AiR FORCE, BARI ITAY.
Source:
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition:
NO.
Total number of missions of above crew member: APPROFIMATELY 30
Dates and destinations if possible: UNKNOWN
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13817, page 9 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 10: GLYNN, Martin J · 20 April 1945
AFFPA-11
File # 13819
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Name of crew member:
GLYNN, Martin J.
Rank:
5/3gt.
Serial number:
37 575 701
Position: Crew (Bomber)
Ball Gunner
Did he bail out?
NO
Where?
If not, why not? He Asked permission To Remain with THE SHIP
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane : MAde
when we Relnened FOR Home (APPROX. 12:00 NOON April 20, 1945)
Was he injured?
yes FATALLY
Where was he when last seen? IN THe AIRCRAFT PRioR To CRASH
Any
hearsay information: we crazned, MARTIN GLYNN WAS
AFTER
The ONLY ONE we CONLDN'T ACCOUNT FOR. AT FIRST we THOUGHT
He had escaped but LATER Funnd OUT FROM 4 German Policement
That MARTIN hAd been crushed beneath THE AIRPLANE, where
he was hidden FROM our view (THE PoliceMAN possestsed HIS
dog the 5
Source: GERMAN Policeman
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition:
Buried INTHE ChurchyARd AT THE LITTLE TOWN
MIA RIA ELAND, (APPAOX. 10miner SOUTH OF VILLACH)
AUSTRIA
Total number
of missions of above crew member NO Knowledge
Dates and destinations if possible: CRAShed ON A MISSION To
FOR Tezza R/Y in NORTHERN, ITALY April 20Th 1945
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 10 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 12: KIRKLANd JAMES CARL · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-12
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
inactive R.S.
1. Your name KIRKLANd JAMES CARL
Rank 2ND IT Serial No. 0-2039258
2. Organization A.C. Gp Commander PAUL BARION Rank CoL Sqn Lso BRooks Rank CAPT.
(full name)
(full name)
3. What year 1945
month april day 20 did you go down?
4. What was the mission, Bombing , target, FORTeZZA R/Y
, target
time, Aporo x. 12:3 o P.M., altitude, 26,000
route scheduled, To CIRCLE
ANd MAKE RUN FROM flown A=1 PLANNed
5. Where were you when you left formation? WesT CenTRAL PORIAN OF THE ALps
6. Did you bail out? NO
7. Did other members of crew bail out? NO
8.
Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is attached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give facts. If you don't know, say: "No Knowledge" NO CREW member
bained ONT, THEY ALL Remained WITH THE ship w hen
it CRASHed
9.
Where
did
your
aircraft
strike
the
ground?
mile
OR
so
ENST
OF
MARIE
ELAND,
PNSIRE
10. What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross check with 8 above and individual questionnaires) Keen , 10017 Kosinski
Tech SgT MOURE, Tech Sg s TAFF Sg (zipanon), STAFF age WILSON
s T4EF sgI GLYNN (THE NAV'S + ONE GUNNAR -I CANNOT REMEMBER THEIR
NAMES)
11.
Where were they in aircraft? Kosinski, 5/69/ MooRe ANd
MY SALF were ON the FLIGHT deck -The REFT in THE Rann
12.
What was their condition? THe FOUR mex on The FLight deck were NOT
enjured From THE Radio ROOM z were killed 3 injured
13. When, where, and in what condition did you last see any members not already des-
cribed above?
THE THREE MEN who were injured
were TAKEN with us To - hospital IN VILLAGY, ANSTRIA
H Nd THAT WHS THE LAST Time we SAW THEM.
(I NOT Remember THeir Names/py posiTion)
ONe had A bad CUT NITE DACK OF head +A DROKEN Leg.
THE OTHER5(2)4Ad CUTS ANd MAY be broken bonks
14. Please give any similar information on personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. Indicate source of information. No Knowledge
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
OVER
6-3862,AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 12 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 14: WILSON, Charles H · 20 April 1945
PDA-11
File # 18819
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Name of crew member:
WILSON, Charles H.
Rank:
s/Sgt.
Serial number:
$5 225 754
Position: Crew (Bomber)
Left Waist Gunner
Did he bail out? No
Where?
If not, why not' ? CREW VOTED TO STAY WITH THE PLANE
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane : I WENT BACK
BEFARE
To RADIO ROOM AND COULDN'T CROWD IN, DUE TO RCM EQUIPMENT.
Was he injured? HE DIED ABOUT it To 2HRS. AFTER THE CRASH
Where was he when last seen?
Any hearsay information: CATHOLIC PRIEST IN MARIA ELAND PROMISED
(WILSON)
To BURY HIM BESIDE HIS CHURCH
Source:
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition: WAS INJURED
INTERNALLY AND WAS LOSING BLOOD FROM A LARGE CUT IN HIS
HEAD AS WELL AS HIS MOUTH. WE WERE NOT PERMITTED TO GIVE
FIRST Aip AND THE GERMANS DID A GOOD JOB OF IGNORNING
TOVER)
US WHEN WE ASKED FOR A DOCTOR. THEY WOULDN'T ALLOW AN ARMY
Total number of missions of above crew member: HAD APPROXIMATELY 30
Dates and destinations if possible:
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 14 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 16: Martin J · 20 April 1945
AFPPA- 11
File , 138.19
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Name of crew member:
Martin J.
Rank:
s/sgte
Serial number:
87 575 731
Position: Crew (Bomber)
Did he bail out? No
Where?
If not, why not? CREW JOTED TO STAY WITH THE PLANE
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane:
Was he injured? HE WAS PROBABLY KILLED INSTANTLY
Where was he when last seen?
Any hearsay information: GERMANS MOVED WRECKAGE AND FOUND HIS
MANGLED BODY TRAPPED BENEATH
Source:
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition: WAS SITTING
NEAREST TO BALL TURRET, SHIP SA SPLIT IN TWO IN CENTER OF
RADIO Room, WE DIDN'T LOCATE HIMATALL AFTER WE HIT EARTH.
(CATHOUC)
GERMANS PRODULED HIS DOG TAGS. PRIEST IN MARIA ELAND PROMISED
TO BURY HIM BESIDE HIS CHURCH.
Total number of missions of above crew member: HAD APPROXIMATELY 30
Dates and destinations if possible:
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 16 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 17: RAYMOND S. KOSINSKI · 20 April 1945
AAPPPA-12
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Your name RAYMOND S. KOSINSKI
Rank 1STLT. Serial No. 0-722498
2. Organization 483 Gp Commander P.L. BARTON Rank COL. Sqn CO A. FOWLER Rank MAJOR
(full name)
(full name)
3. What year
1945
month APRIL
day 20
did you go down?
4. What was the mission, BOMBING
, target, FORTEZZA m/y
, target
time, ABOUT 12:30
,altitude, 27, 500'
route scheduled,
, ,route flown
5. Where were you when you left formation? APRREX. 1/2 HOVE FROM TARGET N. of VILLACH
6. Did you bail out?
No
7. Did other members of crew bail out? No
8. Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is attached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give facts. If you don't know, say: "No Knowledge".
9. Where did your aircraft strike the ground? ABOUT 2 MILES FROM MARIAELAND, AUSTRIA
10. What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross check with 8 above and individual questionnaires) All 10 MEN.
BOMB. + ENG. ON FLIGHT DECK
11. Where were they in aircraft? NAVIGATOR AND FIVE E.M. IN RADIO Room
12. What was their condition?
13. When, where, and in what condition did you last see any members not already des-
cribed above? ONLY WE FOUR UP FRONT ON THE FLIGHT DECK
WERE
ABLE
TO
WALK
AWAY
FROM
THE
PLANE.
RADIO
MAN
(HAJJAR)
CAME To AND WAS IN FAIRLY GOOD CONDITION so THA - HE
HELPED WITH THE OTHER MEN WHEN WE MOVED THEM TWO HOURS LATER
IT WAS 8 HOURS BEFORE A DUCTUR TOUCHED ANY INJURED MAN. ABOUT
16 HOURS TILL WE PUT 3 / N THE HOSPITAL AT KLAGENFURT, AUSTRIA
14. Please give any similar information on personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. Indicate source of information.
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
6-3862, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 17 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 18: WILSON, Charles H · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-11
File # 15819
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
pe
Name of crew member:
WILSON, Charles H.
Rank:
s/Sgt.
Serial number:
35 225 754
Position: Crew (Bomber)
Left Waist Gunner
Did he bail out? NO
Where?
If not, why not' ? PILOT DECIDED SAFE LANDING COULD BE MADE - CREW
HAD CHOICE - DECIDED TO STAY WITH SHIP
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane: WILSON
SAT or MY ME RIGHT IN DITCHING POSITION IN RADIO ROOM
Was he injured? KILLED
Where was he when last seen?
Any hearsay information: 4 GERMAN SOLDIER CAMETO THE HOSPITAL
A FEW DAYS LATER WITH INFORMATION THAT WILSON of
GLYAN HRD BEEN BURIED IN A CHURCH CEMETARY A FEW
MILES FROM VELDEN, AUSTRIA
Source:
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition: / WAS
INJURED AND IN A SHOCKED CONDITION FOR 10 Hands AFTER
THE CRASH so KNEW HERY LITTLE OF WHAT TOOK PLACE. THE
INFIRMATION / RESEIVED ABOUT THE DEATHS OF WILSON YGLYNN
GAME FROM THE PILOT LT.KEEN LATER THAT WIGHT
Total number of missions of above crew member: OVER 20 L BELIEVE
Dates and destinations if possible: IT WHS MY 1st MISSION WITH
THIS CREW so KNEW NOTHING OF THEIR PREVIOUS
FLIGHTS.
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 18 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 19: GLYMN, Martin J · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-1)
File # 13819
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Name of crew member:
GLYMN, Martin J.
Rank:
s/sgt.
Serial number:
87 575 701
Position: Crew (Bomber)
Ball Gunner
Did he bail out? No
Where?
If not, why not?
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of lose of plane: GLYNN
SAT IN RADAR OPERATORS CHAIR AT TIME OF CRASH
Was he injured? KILLED
Where was he when last seen?
Any hearsay information:
SAME AS FOR WILSON
Source
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition:
Total number of missions of above crew member: UNKNOWN
Dates and destinations if possible:
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 19 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 20: SAMHEL MACKEY JR · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-12
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1.
Your name SAMHEL MACKEY JR
Rank 1st l t Serial No. 0-718369
483 BOME GP
2. Organization
Gp Commander BARTON RankCob Sqn CO BROOKS Rank MAJOR
(full name)
(full name)
Jo What year 1945
month APRIL
day 20
did you 80 down?
4. What was the mission, BOMBING
9 target, FORTESA ITALY
, target
time, 1215 APRROK.
,altitude, 22, 000
route scheduled, WOULD
MEED MAPS
, route flown as SCHEDWLED
5. Where were you when you left formation? NEAR LEINZ AUST. 30 MILES WEST
NORTH WEST OF VILLACH AUSTRIA
6. Did you bail out? NO
7. Did other members of crew bail out? NO
8. Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is attached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give facts. If you don't know, say: "No Knowledge".
9.
Where
did
your
aircraft
strike
the
ground?
ABOUT
10
MILES
SOUTH
OF
VELDEN
AUST.
15 MILES SOUTHEAST OF VILLACH AUSTRIA
10.
What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross check with 8 above and individual questionnaires) ALL MEMBERS
11.
Where
were
they
in
aircraft?
SIX
IN
RADIO
ROOM
FOWR
INPILOT
COMPARTMENT
INCLUDING PILOT- COPILOT BOMBARDIER of ENGINEER
12. What was their condition? BACK OF PAGE
13.
When, where, and in what condition did you last see any members not already des-
cribed above?
14. Please give any similar information on personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. Indicate source of information.
No KNOWLEDGE
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
6-3862, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 20 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 22 · 20 April 1945
\AFEPA-11
File # 13819
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Nama of grew member:
WILSON, Charles h.
Rank:
s/Sgt.
Serial number:
35 225 754
Position: Crew (Bomber)
Left Waist Gunner
Did he bail out?
No
Where?
TH .
OPPORTUNITY To OUT
If not, why not? CRASH LAMDED WITH PLAWE - AT HIS
own
DECISION - WAS GIVEN A
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane:
"LEFT WAIST OFF INTERPHINE."
Was he injured?
YES - SERIOUSLY - LATER DIED OF HEAD INJURIES I BÉLIEVE,
Where was he when last seen?
LYING UNDER RIGHT WING OF WRECK.
Any hearsay information:
NONE . I WAS AM ACTUAL OBSERVER.
Source:
Any explanation of his fate based in part : wholly on supposition: As PILOT I was THE
ONLY ONE ALLOWED FIRST ) TO SEE AND HELD INSURED CREW
I would so. WAS DUE TO MULTIPLE NEM INJvRIES - BLEEDING AT
MOVTN NOSE AND EANS WAS NOTED - AND TIME ABOUT P.M. I WAS PRESENT
WWEN BREATHING AND STOPPED. BODY LATER was FELT AND COLD TO Teeca.
Total number of missions of above crew member: I AM NOT SURE - ABOUT 20 OR 22.
Dates and destinations if possible: THE ABOVE HAPPENED APRIL 20. 1945
EASY
ABOUT
A MILE OR So OF MARIE ELAND, AUSTRIA - T#E TOWN,
Acress THE RIVER OR CREEK A HALF MILE OR MORE ALONG THE ROAD
AND THEN TO THE LEFT IN FIELD TWO FARM HOUSES.
I REMEMBER Two CIVILIANS CLEARLY:
1. A MAN - 30-35 yeme - STIFF KNEE - APPE4RED AT SCENE IN A vexy
FEW 6-3861, AF
2. A Bov ON - 18-20yrs. - T° SPEAK AND
THAKER WITH VS UNTIL PORSIDDEN TO >o se.

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 22 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 23 · 20 April 1945
ATRPA-11
File # 13819
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Name of prew member
GLYNN, Martin J.
Rank:
s/Sgt.
Serial number:
37 575 701
Position: Crew (Bomber)
Ball Gunner
Did he bail out?
No
Where?
-
THE To 2414 OOT.
If not, why not? CRASH LANDED WITH PLANE - AT HIS own DECISION - WAS GIVENA
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane:
a
" O.K. SKIPPER - BALL TURREY OFF INTERPHONE."
Was he injured? YES - SERIOUSLY
Where was he when last seen? SEEN BY MYSELF IN WAIST - BY OTNERS IN RABIO Roem
Any hearsay information: OTHER CREW MEMBERS AFTERWARD STATED NE
WAS IN HIS CRASN POSITION IN RADIO ROOM.
Source : S/S cr. E.E. HANAR L.T. MACKEY (NAVICATOR)
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition: A search For
His BODY PROVED NOPENESS - WE PRESUMED HE was CRUSHED To
DEATH UNDER THE CRASHED PLANE. GERMAN AUTHORITIES LATER
SHOWED ME His DOC TAGS AND INDICATED THEY NAD FOUND HIS
CRUSHED BODY UNDER THE PLANE,
Total number of missions of above crew member: I am NOT SURE - ABout 20 to 22
Dates and destinations if possible: THE ABOVE HAPPENED APRIL 20, 1945
EAST
ABOUT A MILE OR so
OF MARIE ELAND, AUSTRIA - THROUGH THE
TOWN ACROSS THE RIVER ORCREEK - A AALE MILE OR MORE ALONG THE Rond
AND
THEN
TO
THE
LEFT
IN
A
FIELD
TWO
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 23 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 24: CLARENCE MILBURN KEEN JR · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-12
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Your name
CLARENCE MILBURN KEEN JR. Rank 1st LT. Serial No. 0-826899
483 3.G
2. Organization 840B. Sa. Gp Commander UN KNOWN Rank - Sqn CO ALFA FULLER Rank CAPT
(full name)
(full name)
3. What year
1945
month APRIL day 20 did you go down?
ITALY
4. What was the mission, BOMBING (+30fr myself) target, RAILYARDS on BRENNER Pass Roore target TO
time, between 12:0/330 altitude, above 20,000 (not sure) route scheduled, NORTH ACROSS
ADRIATIC of YUDOSAAUIA To route flown ALONG INDICATED, PLANNED ROUTE
TYALY - wesr To TARGET.
5. Where were you when you left formation? #7 position in our box
6.
Did you bail out?
No - CRASH LANDED
7. Did other members of crew bail out?
No - GIVEN OPPORTUNITY BUT NOT
ORDERED To,
8.
Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is attached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give facts. If you don't know, say: "No Knowledge". NONE JUMPED - ALL CRASM
LANDED WITH THE PLANE. NAVIGATOR (LT. MACKEY), RIGHT WHIST (S/Sqt. I. J.
DOBBIE) AND TAIL GUNNER (S/Sg W. 2IMPFER) WERE ALL INJURED AND WE
Took
THEM To A HOSPITAL AT VILLACH AUSTRIA THEY WERE ALL LIBERATED
T. MY BEST 1-2 Mises
9. Where did your aircraft strike the ground? east of Marie Eland, AUSTRIA (across
not that far away)
or
10. What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross check with 8 above and individual questionnaires) TEN MEMBERS - PILOT,
Co-pilot NAVIGATOR BOMZARDIER, ENGINEER , RADIO, BALL TURRET GUNNER,
RIGHT WAIST CUNNER LEFT WAIST GUNNER, TAIL GUNNER.
PILOT BEMBARDIER - IN Prears
11.
Where were they in aircraft? COMPARTMENT -ALL OTHERS IN CRASN POSITION IN TNE
RADIO ROOM.
12. What was their condition? EVERYONE ALL RIGNT -No INJURIES - ALL NORMAL
13. When, where, and in what condition did you last see any members not already des-
cribed above? SEE REVERSE SIDE.
14. Please give any similar information on personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. Indicate source of information.
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
6-3862, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 24 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 26: Charlos H · 20 April 1945
AFFPA- 11
File # 15819
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Name of crew member :
Charlos H.
Rank:
s/Sgt.
Serial number:
85 225 754
Position: Crew (Bomber)
Left Haist Guener
Did he bail out?
No
Where?
-
If not, why not?
By CHOICE
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane HE
PILOT CALLED FOR HELP (WILSON WAS BESIDE ME BEFORE THE CRASH)
Was he injured?
KILLED
Where was he when last seen? UNDER THE WING OF THE SHIP
Any hearsay information: THE INFORMATION RECIEVED WAS THAT
HE WAS DEAD AND WAS buRIED AROUND APRIL 25 1945
WITH 5/sgt GLYNN , MARTIN J.
Source: : GERMAN DOCTOR AT PRISON HOSPITAL VELDEN, AUSTRIA
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition:
HE WAS FOUND DEAD UNDER THE Wing of THE BombER
Total number of missions of above crew member: 23 COMbAT MISSIONS
Dates and destinations if possible: SAME AS MY missions SAVE
MY FIRST MISSIONS
LIST AND DATES INCLOSED
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 26 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 27: GLYNA, Martin J · 20 April 1945
AFFAR 11
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
Name of crew member:
GLYNA, Martin J.
Rank:
s/sgt.
Serial number:
87 575 901
Position: Crew (Bomber) Boll Sack Gunner
Did he bail out?
No
Where?
If not, why not? By CHOICE
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane: PILOTCALLED
FOR HELP - GLYNN WAS IN THE RCM. CHAIR BEFORE THE CRASH
Was he injured?
KILLED
Where was he when last seen? IN RADIO Room
Any hearsay information: HE (INFORMATION OR GUESS OF NAVIGATOR
1st LT SAM MACKEY 1 WAS KILLED By BALL TURRET , WHEN
BombER HIT THE BALL CAME FORWARD INTO RADIO
ROOM. HEWAS buried AROUND THE 25th OF APRIL, 1945
WITH slagt WILSON CHAS. H.
Source:
GERMAN DOCTOR AT PRISON HOSPITAL UELDEN AUSTRIA
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition:
HE WAS FOUND DEAD IN RADIO Room
Total number of missions of above crew member:
28
Dates and destinations if possible: SAME AS my MISSIONS SAVE
MY 10TH (THEN HEWAS D.N.LF.) LISTAND DATES INCLOSED
6-3861, AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 27 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Casualty questionnaire, page 28: Dobbie IRA JAMES · 20 April 1945
AFPPA-12
CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Your name
Dobbie IRA JAMES Rank 5/sat Serial No. 33743333
2. Organization 483B68 P. Commander
840 BS.
Rank
Sqn CO AA.FALOWERank MaJOR
(full name)
(full name \
3. What year 1945
month APRIL
day 20
did you go down?
4. What was the mission, 24th
, target, FORT1220 IT.
, target
time,
altitude,
route scheduled,
, route flown
5. Where were you when you left formation? RUSTRO-GERMAN BORDER
6. Did you bail out?
NO
7. Did other me. Jers of crew bail out? No
8. Tell all you know about when, where, how each person in your aircraft for whom no
individual questionnaire is attached bailed out. A crew list is attached. Please
give facts. If you don't know, say: "No Knowledge".
9. Where did your aircraft strike the ground? VELDEN AUSTRIA
10. What members of your crew were in the aircraft when it struck the ground? (Should
cross check with 8 above and individual questionnaires) ALL CREW MEMBERS
WERE IN THE SHIP
11. Where were they in aircraft? IN RADIO Room & PILOT'S SECTION (B-176)
12. What was their condition? BEFORE THE CRASH ALL u ERE WELL
13. When, where, and in what condition did you last see any members not already des-
cribed
above? EVERYONE WAS IN THE DITCHING POSSITION
14. Please give any similar information on personnel of any other crew of which you
have knowledge. Indicate source of information.
(Any additional information may be written on the back)
6-3862,AF

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 28 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Eyewitness statement, page 4 · 20 April 1945
CONFIDENTIAL
840TH BOMBARDEENT SQUADRON (H)
48SRD BOMBARDMENT GROUP (H)
Office of the Operations Officer
APO 520
22 April 1945
STATEMENT OF WITNESS
The undersigned wes flying airplane number 42-31651 on the right wing of
Airplane number 44-6877 on 20 April 1945. Airplane number 44-6877 was flying
the number four position in the 840th Squadron box.
About one and one half hours after leaving the departurs point Ship 877
began to drag behind the lead element, and was heard calling airplane 143,
asking that 143 take the number four positi on and let Ship 877 fly number seven
position. The undersigned did not hear any reason given. Approximately one
half hour later the undersigned heard Ship 877 call the formation leader and
ask for fighter escort, saying that two engines had failed and that he Wes returning
to the base.
The undersigned did not at any time see one or more feathered engines on
ship 877, or any other indication of trouble except an obvious imability
to keep up with the formation, and did not see the airplane after it dropped
out on its place in the formation.
JOS L. RUTAN
Capt, AC
N°.
603°
CONFIDENTIAL
check

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 4 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Eyewitness statement, page 5 · 20 April 1945
CONFIDENTIAL
84OTH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON (H)
483RD BOMBARDMENT GROUP (H)
Office of the Operations Officer
APO 520
22 April 1945
STATEMENT OF WITNESS
On 20 April 1945 I was flying on Lt Keen's wing. About an hour before
he turned back he had dropped out of number four (4) position. This was taken
by Lt Kyker in airplane 143 and Lt Keen in airplane 877 tried to hold number
seven (7) position. He was having difficulty doing this, when he dropped out
he reported that he had lost two (2) engines and was turning back. my
crew reported that his ship appeared to be under control.
RICHARD D. deslauriers,
2nd Lt., Air Corps.
N.
2030
CONFIDENTIAL
chall 3

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 5 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

Eyewitness statement, page 8 · 20 April 1945
AFFPA- il
File # 15819
INDIVIDUAL CASUALTY QUESTIONNAIRIS
Name of erew member:
WILSON, Charles H.
Rank:
s/Sgt.
Serial number:
85 225 754
Position: Crew (Bomber)
Left Waist Gunner
Did he bail out No
Where?
-
If not, why not? He Asked permission To RemAiN WITH AIRCRAFT
Last contact or conversation just prior to or at time of loss of plane: LAST CONTACT
MAde WHEN we Turned FOR Home BASE ( THE APPROX. day OF 12:00 CRASH Noon)
Was he injured? yes FATALLY
Lying or THE ground AFTER CRASH
Where was he when last seen? AIRSRAFT PITION To ERASH
Any hearsay information: when we creashed,
was THE ONLY one we ARGONNY FOR.
LATER JOHNANDER we KEFI THE
Crushed
beneriting THE PLANE t NONE
Source Patrice main
Any explanation of his fate based in part or wholly on supposition:
Buried in THe Churchyard AT THe LITTLE
TOWN MARIA ELAND, (Appox. 10miles SOUTH OF
VILLACH) AUSTRIA
Total number of missions of above crew member: No Knowledge
Dates and destinations if possible: CRAShed ON A Mission
10 ForTezzA R/Y IN NORTHERN ITAby; ApRIL 20TH 1945
RemARKs : : FOR MORE ACCURATE INFORMATION
CONSERNING THe Two MeN CONSULT. THE
INFORMATION
6-3861, AF
(over)

National Archives, MACR 13819, page 8 · Machine-read from microfilm, uncorrected.

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