CERIGNOLA CONNECTION 455th Bomb Group Association Newsletter

Fall, 2012 Editor: Craig Ward, 813 Peterstow Drive, Euless, Texas 76039 phone : (817) 540-1068 email : [email protected] website : www.awardphp.com

Nevertheless, after As a personal Message from the getting in touch with a few introduction, may I say a few NEW President friends with whom he kept in words about myself? I was By contact, and after reading as raised in Southern California, Norman Crum much as possible about the life graduated from Brigham Young of a USAAF bomber pilot and University in Provo, Utah (Dad crewmember, I think I have a married a nice Mormon girl from pretty good idea of what his, Wyoming), and have lived most and your, wartime experiences of my adult life in Northern must have been like. California. My wife and I have So let me start my term four children and eleven grand- of service with a simple, children. I'm pleased to report sincere "Thank You." I've had that we're all happy and healthy. the benefit of being a member We own a petroleum of the post-WWII " Baby marketing company, Valley Boomer " generation. Unlike Pacific Petroleum Services. Our you, I wasn't raised in the Great website is www.vpps.net. Depression, and I didn't have I look forward to working Hello! I'm very proud and to fight WWII. full-time for another 7-8 years, happy to be of service to the Instead, I was raised in at which time I'll turn the 455th BG, and I'm looking an era where things were business over to my very forward to eventually meeting as always looking up. The capable sons who are now many of you as possible. The economy was growing, NASA senior managers in the Board recently elected me as was on its way to the moon, company. Association President, and I legal and cultural barriers to Once again, thanks for welcome this challenge. women and minorities were the opportunity to be of service My father was Captain softening, and break-throughs to each of you, and to the 455th George W. Crum (742). He in science, medicine and BG Association. Please feel passed away in 2005 after a communications became free to contact me any time. I'd long struggle with Alzheimer's commonplace. It's no wonder love to hear from you. disease. As a result of his that Tom Brokaw so famously Sincerely, condition, and because he was labeled you as The Greatest Norman Crum a very private and modest man, Generation. You are ! 4322 Pebble Beach Drive I didn't have the luxury of talking My own children and Stockton, CA 95219-1911 with him and extracting as much grandchildren now proudly, if Home: 209-473-8136 information about his military sometimes forgetfully, carry on Office: 209-948-9412 service as I wanted to your legacy. Email: [email protected] Can You Help? Dear Editor, Since I was a child, I have wanted to know more about my late Uncle, Lt. Walter Gunn (740). If any of your readers knew Uncle Walter, I would love to hear from them. Thank You. Kirby Holtam 185 Little Burwell Rd. Harvest, Alabama 35749

Lt. Walter Gunn (740) --- Back row, Second from Left

Dear Editor, The other day my father, Harry S. Cepura, and I were going Lt. Walter Gunn (740) through the 455th Bomb Group book. We found a photo on page 243 of my father and his crew in the 743rd bomb squadron. My father’s name was mis-spelled as “Harry Sepura” . We Final Flight knew this, because my father has a copy or original of this same Dear Editor, photo. This is to inform you of My father, who just turned 92, is doing well and enjoys now S/Sgt Jacob “Pete” Sadler's looking through some of the old photos and names from the war. (743) final flight. He does not have a computer, so I thought I would drop you a line Dad was the ball turret to let you know the name was mis-spelled. gunner on the Dazzlin Duchess. Thanks, He passed away in Danville, IL. Harry (Jr) on July 4, 2012. Harry S. Cepura Dad and his family enjoy Building Management Specialist reading the Cerignola U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Connection . Keep up the good Office: 301-415-7830 work. Cell: 202-329-0865 Regards, Jan Sadler [email protected] 2 455TH BOMB GROUP ASSOCIATION, INC. P.O. BOX 93095 The 455th Bomb Group Association, Inc. would like AUSTIN, TX. 78709-3095 to thank the following Association members for their generous monetary contributions: PRESIDENT Norman Crum Son, Capt. George Crum (742) TAXI ($25-$99) EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR / Lloyd C. Kestner TREASURER Gregory E. Riggs Victor E. Murray Col. USAF (Ret.) Anonymous Son, Col. Ed Riggs (740) SECRETARY TAKEOFF ($100-$199) Ted Tronoff L. Harvey Hewitt PAST PRESIDENT Roderick W. Clarke Charles V. Vandoren Col. USAF (Ret.) Francis G. Hosimer DIRECTORS Charles H. Rosenberg John F. Davis Elmo J. Henske Col. USAF (Ret.) Anonymous Ormond H. Buffington T/Sgt. USAAF Carl Loiocano BOMBS AWAY ($200-$499) T/Sgt. USAAF Karen R. Schoene, in honor of Lt Col Horst R. Schoene Craig Ward Catherine Spewock, in honor of S/Sgt Andrew Spewock Son, Lt. J. T. Ward (740) Robert W. Rohler, in honor of 1Lt Charles William (Bill) Rohler Editor, Cerignola Connection REGISTERED AGENT Corsello, in honor of Lt Anthony (Tony) Corsello John F. Davis Col. USAF (Ret.) MISSION COMPLETE ($500 or more) ASSOCIATION HISTORIAN John Rohrer

FINAL FLIGHT OF SENATOR GEORGE McGOVERN (741)

Editor’s Note: Sen. George McGovern (S.D.) passed away Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012, surrounded by his loving family and friends. During his storied life, he was a decorated WWII bomber pilot, multi-term US Senator, Presidential candidate, Ambassador, humanitarian, advocate for global peace, loving husband, family man, and other descriptions too numerous to mention here. He was the subject of a wonderful book, written by the late author Dr. Stephen Ambrose, The Wild Blue . In the few times I had the pleasure of speaking with him (455th BG reunions), I was struck by one overall impression ... he was the ultimate Gentleman . Thank you for your service to our country, Senator McGovern. God Bless You and your family.

Note from Greg Riggs, Executive Director, 455th BG Assoc., Inc.: What constitutes a tribute? Sen. George McGovern will be remembered publically as, among other things, a politician and a Statesman. There were many in our bomb group who agreed with his politics. There were at least as many who disagreed with his politics. However, I'm not aware of anyone who did not like George McGovern, the man. What greater tribute is there than that? When even those who disagree with what you stand for politically can look at you, the person, and say "There is someone whom I like and respect," then you have written your own tribute by the quality of person you were. George McGovern earned much admiration and respect by the life he lived.

3 Can You Help? Final Flight from The Germans realized November, 2006 that he probably knew things Dear Editor, worth knowing, and he was My Dad, Norman W. Gen. Jacob E. Smart, a repeatedly interrogated. Funk, was a member of the four-star General who Although Colonel Smart knew 454th Bomb Group, stationed at conceived the strategy for the details of the Normandy San Giovanni airfield. The name daring 1943 low-level bombing invasion, he divulged nothing. of his B-24 Liberator was Jody . raid on the oil refineries at Final Flight He was the radio Ploesti, , and went on operator and waist gunner. My to help shape the postwar Air Dad passed away on January Force, died in November of James J. Thiel (743) took 30, 2011. 2006 in Ridgeland, S.C. his final flight on August 12, After obtaining his DD- General Smart, then a 2012 at the age of 89. 214, we learned that he was Colonel, came up with the idea He completed 50 awarded 6 bronze stars and 4 of having planes fly exceedingly missions as a ball turret gunner air medals. He rarely spoke of low to bomb the tightly defended in the 743rd. Jim was a his time in the war, and we were refineries, which were believed volunteer fireman for 25 years quite surprised of his war to be producing one-third of the and very active in the Veterans record. We do not have any of fuel oil for the Nazi war machine. of Foreign Wars. these medals. In the face of protests by He was a charter I am writing to you today the five group commanders who member of the St John, Indiana to inquire if your newsletter and would be leading the raid, his VFW post where he served five records cover the 454th. I have plan of flying at treetop level was terms as post commander. He read of some entries about the accepted by Gen. Dwight D. also served as the district and 454th in your newsletter, but I Eisenhower, the supreme Allied state commander, was on the am inquiring if you know of any commander. Among the plan’s national committee for 30 years, records or newsletters for the advantages, Colonel Smart and served as the national chief 454th. argued, was greater accuracy. of staff from 1997-99. Thank you so much for The mission, on August His wife of 64 years, your time, and for your devotion 1, 1943, was deemed a Marion, still lives in St John. to these WWII veterans. success, even though 54 of the Best Regards, 177 bombers that took part were Stephen P. Funk lost, and 53 more were heavily ALTA Investments LLC damaged. The refineries’ output 30 Echo Lake Road was greatly curtailed. Watertown, CT 06795 Five Medals of Honor 860-604-1472 (phone) were awarded, the most for any single American military action. Can You Help? Colonel Smart was not Does anyone know allowed to fly on the Ploesti anything about Crew Chief mission, because his superiors Oliver V. Shaw (740)? thought his knowledge of Allied His name appears on the war plans and secrets was too side of the B-24 named Bucket great to risk his capture. O’ Bolts. However, they later allowed him Please contact your to fly 29 missions, the last of editor if you can help, at: which resulted in his being shot [email protected] down and put in a POW camp.

4 Final Flight on Aug. 2, 1944, when a three- , a son of immigrants man O.S.S. team, taught by Mr. from . He was studying in George Vujnovich, an Vujnovich to blend into the local with hopes of O.S.S. agent in World War II population, parachuted into becoming a doctor when the who oversaw the rescue of more Serbia to help villagers and Germans overran Yugoslavia in than 500 downed Allied airmen stranded airmen carve a landing April, 1941. from Nazi-occupied Yugoslavia, strip for rescue planes in Mr. Vujnovich married his his parents' homeland, died in mountainous terrain at the Yugoslav girlfriend, Mirjana Queens, NY in late 2010. He village of Pranjane. Lazich, a teacher, soon was 96. "I had to show them how afterward, then fled with her to To his friends and to tie their shoes and tuck the , , and neighbors in his Queens laces in, like the Serbs did, and finally West Africa. neighborhood, Mr. Vujnovich how to eat like the Serbs, His new wife went on to was a businessman who pushing the food onto their fork the while Mr. supplied parts to aircraft with a knife," Mr. Vujnovich said Vujnovich took jobs in Africa with companies. on the eve of his medal Pan American World Airways. But in October, 2010, he presentation. He received an Army was formally recognized for The mission, run by Mr. commission there, and the organizing one of the greatest Vujnovich from an O.S.S. station O.S.S., learning of his rescue efforts of World War II. in Bari, , proved flawless. A knowledge of Yugoslavia, soon The U.S. Army awarded him a total of 512 airmen, most of recruited him. bronze star in a ceremony at the them Americans, were flown to Mirjana Vujnovich was Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of safety in Army Air Forces working at the Yugoslav St. Sava in Manhattan. transport planes based in Italy Embassy in Washington when During a six-month without a single casualty or the she learned that Serbian period in 1944, Mr. Vujnovich, loss of a plane. guerrillas were sheltering Allied an Army officer serving in the The first four C-47 airmen. She passed the Office of Strategic Services, the transports sent to pick up information on to her husband, forerunner of the Central airmen at Pranjane arrived at who put together a rescue plan. Intelligence Agency, ran a vast the makeshift, unlit runway at But political problems aerial rescue mission that night. But those landings were loomed. The airmen were succeeded against impossible deemed too dangerous, so later being protected by guerrillas odds. flights were made during the day known as Chetniks, led by Gen. He supervised Operation with large contingents of fighter Draza Mihailovich. But the Halyard (a code name chosen planes providing cover. British and the Americans, at random), resulting in the The nearest German believing that Mihailovich was rescue of Allied airmen, many of troops were 30 miles or so not vigorously battling the them wounded or sick, who had away, and the guerrilla army German occupiers, supported been hidden from the Germans sheltering the airmen secured the Chetniks' internal enemies, by villagers and guerrilla fighters the terrain close to the airstrip. the Partisans, led by Josip Broz in Yugoslavia's Serbian region. German aircraft never noticed Tito, the future Communist ruler Many of the airmen had the runway. Most of the airmen of Yugoslavia. parachuted from planes shot were picked up at Pranjane, but President Franklin D. down during missions to bomb some were rescued from Roosevelt approved the rescue the Romanian oil refineries that improvised runways elsewhere mission, but did not allow Mr. were fueling the German war in Yugoslavia. Vujnovich to lead it on the machine. George Mane Vujnovich ground, because Winston began was born on May 31, 1915, in Churchill did not want him

5 making direct contact with Mihailovich. Editor’s Note: After the war, scores were settled in Yugoslavia. See pictures below. Mihailovich was executed The Spring, 2012 edition of the Cerignola Connection in July, 1946 by Tito's forces, included a Final Flight notice regarding the passing of Captain who accused him of George Carlisle (743), a communications officer. collaborating with the Germans, His son, Dave Carlisle, sent me some pictures that his father which he denied. He was took while he was based in San Giovanni. posthumously awarded the Anyone who knew Capt. Carlisle, or has any comments Legion of Merit by President about the pictures below, is encouraged to contact Dave. Harry S. Truman in 1948, a Contact information: belated recognition that he had, Dave Carlisle in fact, been a strong American [email protected] ally. 901-756-2300 Tony Orsini, a B-24 navigator who parachuted into Serbia after his plane was crippled while bombing the Romanian oil fields and was rescued in Operation Halyard, attended ceremonies honoring Mr. Vujnovich over the years. "He was a genius in the way he put the plan together," Mr. Orsini, a retired bank executive, said in an interview. "He was a hero."

Can You Help? Dear Editor, I am the new historian for the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing. I came across your Spring 2008 CC newsletter with the Lucky Babe photo, including SSgt. David Yee. May is Asian-American month. Asian-Americans were not that common in the AAF of WWII. Does anyone have information on SSgt. Yee? Thank you. Gerald A. White, Jr. 455 AEW Historian [email protected] 318-481-6053 Capt. George Carlisle (743)

6 Dear Editor, My father, Richard Milligan (742), served with the 455th Bomb Group. Dad passed away last year. He had an album of pictures from his time he served in Italy. I wanted to ask if anyone would be interested in having copies of these pictures. Here are a few examples of his picture collection. Thank you, THE UNINVITED Brian Milligan [email protected]

Editor’s Note: I received several interesting photos from Brian, which came from his father’s WWII picture album. I have included a few of the more compelling ones on this page (see right >>>>) of the Cerignola Connection. Thank You, Brian!

Final Flight

Sebastiano Manzitto (743) took his final flight on March 26, 2012 in Omaha, Nebraska. He was a life member of the 455th Bomb Group Association. Flak Over Vienna ... The aircraft at 2 O’Clock was hit After the war, Mr. and went down after this photo was snapped. Manzitto worked for 43 years with the Union Pacific Railroad.

Final Flight

Philip Root (741) took his Final Flight in January, 2012. Lt. Root flew as Co-pilot with gunner Paul Peters (see archived articles, Page 14) on Aircraft called Lucky 7. Lt. Lester Pinkley’s crew. The nose wheel collapsed and the brakes locked. 6 were killed.

7 Can You Help? service photo of my great-great Dear Editor, uncle that my father gave me. In I was hoping you might addition, I found a link to a photo Final Flight be able to help me with some of the nose art of his B-24. http://www.b24bestweb.com/s information. Dear Editor, tarduster-v2.htm My great-great uncle was I regretfully inform you of Any information, photos, George D. Kellogg, S/sgt. the passing of another one of or direction for additional USAAF. He was assigned to the our WWII heroes. information you might have 740th BS in Italy in 1944, and T/Sgt Norris T. Boswell would be greatly appreciated. was killed in action in an (S/N 16162334), 15th AF, 455th Regards, accident with another B-24 while Bomb Grp, 742nd Sq, passed Jeff Dicks returning from a mission to away the morning of March 20, [email protected] Austria. 2012. I have not been able to His two sons and two find a picture of his crew with daughters were in attendance their B-24. I searched the 455 during the last hours of his life BG History Book and could not as he passed in peace. find a photo. I was hoping that Please find attached a you might be able to provide poem written to Norris by the some information and possibly a love of his life prior to his photo of the crew if you possess departure to the European one. Here is the info I have Theatre. (See poem below) about my great great uncle: Betty J. Smith would George D Kellogg, Jr. soon become his wife and be by Staff Sergeant USAAF his side for 69 years before 740 BS passing away in July of 2004. B-24H Serial Number 42-64497 With all respect, B-24 Nose Art Starduster Blake Boswell Killed in Action 19 March 1944 20 Hampton Circle over the Adriatic Sea Niceville, FL. 32578 Killed during 455 BG mission 11 [email protected] MACR 4026 (I have ordered a copy from the National Archives) Crew: SSgt. George Kellogg, Jr. (740) Pilot: Pidcock, James F Co-Pilot: Markham, William Navigator: Stanley, James Bombardier: Coman, William Engineer: Rockstad, Peter Asst Eng/G: Backstrom, Ben Radio/Gun: Abraham, Arthur Asst Radio/G: Brosz, Buddy Gunner: Kellogg, Jr.,George Gunner: Kilian, John I have seen in several places that your father was a witness to the accident. I have attached the

8 Final Flight months of his life. Can You Help Response Services to honor Win's Winfield S. Bowers, Jr (741) life were held on May 24 at the Dear Jeff, First Presbyterian Church of I saw your request for Age 90, took his final flight on Apopka, Florida, followed by information about Ross Strode Armed Force's Day, May 19, interment with full military in the Spring, 2012 issue of the 2012. honors at Woodlawn Memorial Cerignola Connection. Wings carried him to Park in Gotha, Florida. It appears he passed Heaven from his home in Mount An Italian flag was placed away in December, 2005. He Dora, Florida, after passing in Win's casket in an envelope stayed in the military following peacefully following a four- with the name “455th Bomb the war, and eventually retired month battle with multiple Group, Cerignola, Italy” on it. from the Air Force as a Lt. myeloma. The envelope was put in his Colonel, living in Fairborn, Ohio. “Win” was a pilot of hands, as well as the American The following is an obituary I Pindown Girl and Squat and flag, along with the last aviation found on the internet. Drop in 1944. He later returned parts he made for the company Best Regards, to the US to serve as an he helped found, Skybolt. Greg Riggs instructor, mechanic, air rescue He had a lovely Executive Director, 455th BG pilot, and supply squadron ceremony, both in the church commander. He retired as a Lt. and at the graveside. The USAF Ross D. Strode Col. in 1960, after 20 years of Honor Guard did the flag folding service. ceremony, gave a 21-gun Lt. Col. (Ret.) Ross D. Strode of After retiring from the salute, and a bugler played taps. Fairborn, Ohio, died Friday, military, Win started Bowers It was so touching. No Dec. 2, 2005. He was 87. Refrigeration in Apopka, Florida, dry eyes were in the group. He was born Feb. 3, and later became one of the 1918, in Rockville, Ore. founders of Skybolt Aeromotive, He served in the U.S. Air now of Leesburg, Florida. Force, retiring in 1969 after 27 He also flew private years. As a bombardier during aircraft, and the Collings World War II, he logged more Foundation B-24 named All than 250 combat hours on a B- American , which used hardware 24 bomber, receiving the in part supplied by Skybolt. Distinguished Flying Cross and Win was a Life Charter five Air Medals for his combat Member of the 455th Bomb missions. Group (H) Association and Following his military served as Vice President in career, he was employed by the 1997. He and his late wife, Winters Bank as a corporate Dotty, attended many Group finance director, and as an auto reunions over the years, greatly dealer service manager. enjoying the fellowship of fellow In the early 1980s, Ross airmen from The Greatest began volunteering at Wright- Generation. Patterson Air Force Base, He especially eventually becoming head of the appreciated the letters and retiree activities office. He was e-mails that he received from involved in assisting numerous the 455th friends and family retirees with all types of members, especially in the last Winfield S. Bowers, Jr. (741) services.

9 Can You Help? Along with his wife Mary, of 67 years and 355 days, and he ran Aiken Productions, where our families of daughters-in-law, Dear Editor, they would tour the Christmas five grandchildren, six great- My father, David Aiken, Opera, Amahl and the Night grandchildren, and his sister. served in the USAAF in Italy in Visitors , in which David was cast Dick Wurst ’44 and ’45. He was in the 455th in the original NBC Hallmark Jeff Wurst BG, 742nd squadron. Hall of Fame TV production in [email protected] I was finally able to find 1951 as King Melchior. out this information through a David was a key reason Can You Help? recording my brother made that Amahl had become the Dear Editor, where Dad stated he was most performed opera in the I am a Canadian author stationed near the town of world, with thousands of who is writing a book of stories Cerignola. performances done by many about American flyers who I don’t know much more organizations each holiday endured the ordeals of WWII. information other than the name season. One of the chapters will of his plane was Miss Davi, and Surviving relatives be about the crew of the late his belly gunner was John include his wife, Mary M. Aiken George McGovern (741). I have Polkis. of Bloomfield, one daughter, been able to contact some Any more info or links Dava Lee Tobey of Florida, two members of the crew, but I have you could provide to help me sons, Daniel Aiken of Ellettsville, not been able to learn about learn more about my Dad’s time Indiana, and Timothy Aiken of Ken Higgins, the radio operator in the Air Corps would be greatly Evanston, Illinois. He has three from Virginia. appreciated. grandchildren; Kelly Aiken, Kyle I would greatly Thanks! Aiken and Macy Aiken, two step appreciate if anyone could let Dan Aiken grandchildren, Catherine me know if and how I could 812-325-2827 cell Christiansen and Carolyn contact Mr. Higgins. [email protected] Stombauth, and five step-great- Thank you. grandchildren. Ian Darling, Final Flight 410 Running Brook Pl., Waterloo, Ont., Canada, David M. Aiken (742) of Final Flight N2K 3S5 Bloomfield, passed away [email protected] Saturday, July 23, 2011. Dear Editor, Mr. Aiken was born It is with sadness that we October 4, 1917, in Benton, inform you of the passing on 6 Can You Help? Illinois. Sept., 2012 of your former Dear Editor, He was a USAAF comrade in arms, our father, I am researching a veteran, piloting a B24 in the Meyer (Mike) Wurst, Sgt., 455th former member of the 455th 15th Air Force, 455th Bomb BG, 742nd Sqdn. BG, 741st squadron. His name Group, 742nd Air Squadron in His service for our is Raynor M. Thatcher, a B-24 Italy. His plane was named after country formed the prism flight engineer. his daughter, Miss Davi . through which he viewed the Please contact me if you He was a Professor of world for the rest of his life. He know anything about Mr. Music at Indiana University was proud of, and humbled by, Thatcher. Thank you. Jacobs School of Music in serving with so many Best Regards, Bloomington, where he taught courageous and committed Matt Rimmer. voice and performed in various men. [email protected] IU Opera productions. He is survived by his wife

10 Can You Help? of veteran members. We 1944. I had previously stated maintain a technical distinction December 24, 1944. Dear Editor, between members and I located a list of crashes I'm interested in learning associate members for tax sustained by 455th aircraft and more about your bomb group exemption purposes, but the there are entries for both dates, association. only practical difference is that in Italy, involving B-24 aircraft. My wife's cousin served one must be a full member to To the best of my with the 455th BG in Italy during serve on the board of directors. knowledge, and from an archival WWII. His name was T/Sgt. If you join, you would be an photograph, I'm certain Elmer Elmer Tacy. associate member, and you was assigned to a B-24. Elmer Elmer was K.I.A. on Dec. would begin receiving the was born in 1925 in West 24th, 1944, during a bombing newsletters. Virginia, and moved with his mission. I've recently located The primary activity of mother to Baltimore, MD his burial site in the Sicily-Rome the association, at this point, is sometime before the war. American Cemetery. I was told producing a newsletter twice a I'll send payment for his jobs were waist gunner and year. Craig Ward, our editor, membership in your radio operator. does an excellent job. I will organization. Please circulate his name forward your email to him so he Thank you again for your and this information to your can put your request in the next help. membership. Hopefully edition of the newsletter. Regards, someone will remember There is a website which S. Neal Riley something about him and can you might find interesting for [email protected] relay it to me. information about the bomb Thank you for your help. group, and a little bit about past Regards, association activities. Dear Neal, S. Neal Riley http://www.15thaf.org/304th_ The 740th bomb [email protected] BW/455th_BG/index.htm squadron was assigned to the http://www.awardphp.com. 455th. In fact, my father, Can You Help? If I can answer further Clarence “Ed” Riggs, was a first Responses questions, please do not pilot on one of the original crews hesitate to contact me. deploying to Italy via North Greg Riggs Africa, leaving the U.S. at the Dear Neal, Executive Director very end of 1943. Thank you for your email [email protected] He completed his 50 and your interest in the missions, and returned home in association. July, 1944, probably before Annual membership in Dear Mr. Riggs, T/Sgt Tacy arrived in theater. the association is $15, check I just learned from the B-24s were the only payable to 455th Bomb Group newsletter that President Barr aircraft flown in combat by the Association and sent to: passed away, and I offer my 455th, so if your wife’s cousin 455th Bomb Group Association condolences to his family and was in the 740th BS, you can be P.O. Box 93095 your organization. sure he was involved with B- Austin, TX 78709-3095 I've also learned that 24s. Lifetime membership is Elmer Tacy was assigned to the I look forward to having $60. The association still has 740th Bomb Squadron of the you as part of the association. several hundred members, most 455th Bomb Group (H) of the Greg Riggs of them veteran members of the 15th Army Air Force. He was Executive Director 455th. In addition to those, we listed as K.I.A. on December 25, [email protected] have some family and relatives 11 455th BG E-mail Roster Janet & Russell Crocker Vervin “Gil” Gilson (741) [email protected] [email protected] Harry W. Anderson (740) San Antonio,TX. Norman Crum William C. Graves (742) [email protected] President, 455th BG Assoc. Jacksonville, FL. Son of Cpt. George Crum (742) [email protected] Dave Bathie (assoc. 740) [email protected] [email protected] Lt. Col. R. J. Haney (743) John Davis (741) [email protected] Joel Beauvais [email protected] Son, Raymond Beauvais (741) Fred Hamilton T/Sgt (740) [email protected] Jack Dekker (743) [email protected] [email protected] 1st. Lt. Thomas A. 'Tom' Bell L. Harvey Hewit (743) 840 Kimberly Ct. Theodore Deppe (741) Haverford, PA. Lander, WY 82520 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] George Defenbaugh Robert Hilgendorf Jack Blum (741) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] John Devito (assoc.) Frank Hosimer (741) Thomas Boyd [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Curtis (Curt) Diles, Jr. (740) Joe Kiernan (741) Ormond Buffington (741) [email protected] 280 Middle Holland Rd, #719 [email protected] Holland PA 18966 Paul H. Ditchett (742) (215) 396-7905 Mario Capocefalo (Italy) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] William M. Doyle (742) Erling Kindem (742) Rod Clarke (743) Jupiter, FL 33477 [email protected] Alexandria, VA [email protected] [email protected] Viliam Klabnik Robert Emick (741) [email protected] Howard Cooper (740) [email protected] [email protected] George L. Liddle (742) Marc Gaynes [email protected] Robert D. (Bob) Collette (740) Son of Seymour Gaynes (743) South Pasadena, Fl 33707 [email protected] E.J. Ledbetter, Jr. (743) dotybob@verizon .net [email protected]. Sy Gaynes (743) Bill & Joyce Crawford 585 Live Oak Lane John L. Larma (740) [email protected] Weston, FL. 33327 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 913-712-8773

Albert E. Cratch (741) Ann Genge [email protected] Daughter of Allen Durkee (743) [email protected]

12 455th BG Email Roster (cont.) Irving (Irv) Rubin (743) Craig Ward 205 Buccaneer Ave, Apt 108 Editor, Cerignola Connection Mark L. Mason Merritt Island, FL 32952 Son of Lt. J. T. Ward (740) Son of Robert G. Mason (742) 321-514-3445 [email protected] [email protected] Dr Gary R. Schoene, son, Carl J. Wiskirchen Frank Mastroleo Lt Col Horst R. Schoene (743) [email protected] [email protected] 295 Schultz Road West Seneca, NY 14224 Leland L. Young (743) Dave Matheson (742) [email protected] Allison Park, (Pittsburgh), PA [email protected] [email protected] Sid Schoengold (740) Mike McFadden (Assoc. 743) [email protected] Paul A. Young (741) Son-in-Law of Austin Herrity [email protected] [email protected] August R. “Gus” Seefluth (742) [email protected] Jim Merritt Can You Help? Son of Lt. Jim Merritt (741) Sgt. John E. Skelton 51 N. Main St. [email protected] Dear Editor, Pennington, NJ 08534 My father flew in the [email protected] Michael Spewock 455th Bomb Group. He said Son of Andrew Spewock (743) there was a German pilot who Vic Murray (743) [email protected] defected in an ME-109, and [email protected] landed at Cerignola. Charles E. Stark (740) There was another guy Christine Painter [email protected] fastened up in the fuselage, and Daughter of the late Col. they had to take the panels off to Charles W. Painter, Jr. (741) Ted Stiner get him out. [email protected]. Son of Lt.Theodore Stiner (741) Was that story ever in the [email protected] newsletter or written up Peter Payant (743) anywhere? If you have a [email protected] Angelo Synodis (741) reference, I would like to look at [email protected] it. Roland J Pepin Thank You. 327 Al Harvey Road Julie Summerfield Roger Merritt Stonington, CT 06378 Daughter of Walter [email protected] [email protected] Summerfield (743) (See ME-109 picture below) [email protected] Wesley Powell (740) [email protected] Ted Tronoff (742) [email protected] John Rohrer Son of Carl Rohrer (740) Dr. Stanley Vogelfang (741) [email protected] [email protected] John R. Worster (742). Charles H. Rosenberg (741) [email protected] [email protected].

13 Editor’s Note: Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of speaking to Paul Peters regarding the stories above. He also spoke of the Final Flight of his Co-pilot, Philip Root, this past January, 2012 (see Final Flight notice, Page 7). The interesting stories copied above first appeared in the Spring, 1996, Cerignola Connection.

14 Can You Help? Connection (Fall 2012). Lake City from Sept., 1943 until Mr. Truex was in the April, 1944, when I was Dear Editor, 742nd squadron. He was a transferred from Cerignola to I am the Granddaughter Sergeant, and he may have Foggia. I went to the 301st BG, of Robert Truex, and I am trying been a gunner on a B24. flying B-17s. to find any information I can My father, Lt. J.T. Ward I flew on the first five about him. (740th sq., died 1986), was in combat missions with the 455th I recently received his the 455th BG in Italy at the same BG, then transferred to finish my death notice. I found he was time your Grandfather went missions with the 301st . part of the 455th Bomb Group. I missing in Austria. My dad flew I also flew as the found his name in the roll-call several missions into Austria in navigator for Col. Cool in the book. 1944, so it’s possible that my Dec., 1943 flight from Langley to He went missing in dad was on the same mission in Italy, by way of N. Africa. I Austria in June of 1944. I am which your Grandfather went navigated for him on several of hoping there is someone that missing. Small world. the first missions out of may have some photos or some If you discover any other Cerignola. memories of him. information about Sgt. Truex, My original crew pilot was I just recently found out please send it along to me. Jerome Slater, with co-pilot Jack that he is my biological Best Regards, Montgomery. Both of these Grandfather. My understanding Craig Ward pilots, along with the entire crew, from family is that he feared he Editor, Cerignola Connection were killed on a mission a few wouldn't make it home from the [email protected] weeks after my fortuitous war, and that he wouldn't be transfer. remembered. My father was Kari’s Response I have been trying to find adopted by a wonderful man, Dear Editor, out what happened to Col. Cool. but no one ever spoke of Mr. Thank you so much. Any I know he died many years ago. Truex. help is greatly appreciated. I would like to know what, I want to make sure he is I have been scanning where, and when he did after remembered the way he should through the book on the website the war. be. Thank you in advance for (www.awardphp.com ), and it is full His decision to transfer any assistance you can give me. of information that gives us a me was a life-saver, so I have a Regards, connection. It looks like my special interest in him. Kari Child Grandfather and your dad were This much I DO know: 109 Crestview Dr on some of the same missions. Col. Cool was born Nampa, Id 83686 I also read through the 12/13/1905. He died 208-442-0063 latest newsletter. It is wonderful 01/19/1977. His son, Kenneth [email protected] and very informative. Adams Cool, Jr. was born Thanks again. 04/02/1939. He died Editor’s Response Kari Child 09/15/1990. Hi, Kari, [email protected] Do you have any other Your story is compelling. information on Col. Cool? I'm pleased you're doing your Can You Help? Thank you in advance part to keep the memories of all for your help. these American heros alive Dear Editor, Best Regards, forever. Mr. Truex is a hero and I have just discovered William H. Johnson a patriot. your wonderful website! [email protected] I will put your request in I was in the 741st from the next edition of the Cerignola the beginning. I was in Salt

15 Dear Editor, Dear Editor, I'm a Italian researcher, Would it be possible to ask your readers who know Col. and I am interested in Richard "Dick" Haney (743) to send him a greeting card for his 90th Bombardment Groups that birthday? were active during WWII in 1944 Here's his email address: [email protected] in Italy. Lt. Col. R. J. Haney (743) home address: In particular, I am seeking 15535 Prince Frederick Way news of the crew of the B-24H Silver Spring, MD 20906-1318 (41-29290) Howlingwolf, (741), Thank You, downed on April 28, 1944 in Peggy Truesdale Haney (daughter-in-law) Porto Santo Stefano, Italy. [email protected] I only know the name of the pilot (Jerome Slater) but not Col. Haney’s 90th birthday was on Oct. 13, 2012. of other members of the crew. Also, the crew of B-24H Editor’s Note: On Sept. 1, 2012, Col Haney welcomed his (42-64456) Arkansaw Joe (741), great-grandson, Richard James Haney, IV, into the world! also downed on April 28, 1944 on the same site. The Pilot was Richard Callan. I would be very grateful if you could fill this gap. Thank You, George Bacci [email protected]

16 Can You Help? Final Flight I've found. Editor’s Note: This Dear Editor, Col. Don M. Rawls (743) spreadsheet is too large to include Can you post this photo in this newsletter. If you are interested in receiving a copy, of the guys next to the Dear Editor, please email your editor and I will Pittsburgh Babe, and ask if I wanted to have my forward your request to the anyone who knew Gerald Dad’s “Final Flight” obituary in appropriate person William Becker to contact me the next newsletter. This is a work in with information. He was a B24 pilot. He progress, something that I was shot down and captured on started a few years ago. I was May 18, 1944. trying to tie the MIAs to the Dad passed away on applicable Missing Aircrew Feb. 16, 2012. Reports (MACRs) or Accident Thank you, Reports (ACCREPs). Ruth R. Morgan (daughter) Also, sometimes the men [email protected] that were listed as FOD (Finding Would there be any clue of Death), DED (Declared due to the fact that he's the only Dead), or PDD (Presumed Date one wearing the dark uniform? Dear Editor, of Death) never made it into the Gerald W. Becker is I found your contact official government records as listed as a member of the 455th information on the 455th MIA, even though their remains BG, 742nd squadron. Any idea Bombardment Group website. were never recovered. I was what position he held on the I was hoping to find a list checking to see if this happened flight crew? Thanks in advance. of those members of the Vulgar to any of the 455th BG Jack Vultures who are still listed as casualties. [email protected] MIA. I was unable to find such a The official government list anywhere on the web site or database of MIAs from WWII is elsewhere. now available online at This is a personal http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo/wwii/reports/. Can You Help? request of mine. I am looking at As you can imagine, ways to honor these men who there are bound to be errors and Dear Editor, we, at the 91st Missile Wing, are omissions. I am a group My Father, Melvin Junior connected to. enthusiast, and not a Dickinson, was a nose turret Any help would be professional researcher, so gunner in the 740th. His crew appreciated. apologies in advance. This is was led by Pilot F. Lee Thorne. David Schrader, Lt. Col., USAF more reference material than an I have spotted some Chief of Safety, 91st Missile official listing of any sort. photos in the newsletter of my Wing My next project is to Fathers crew. DSN 453-2869 / Comm (701) review the KIAs to see if any of I was wondering if there 723-2869 them were listed as missing. was any way I could obtain a BB 701-240-0267 There is still work to be done. Vulgar Vulture Stick Pin. [email protected] Regards, Thanks, Dave Ungemach M. David Dickinson Can You Help? Response Son of 2nd Lt Bill Ungemach, [email protected] 742nd BS Dear Col. Schrader, POW on 26 June, 1944 I've attached an Excel Moosbierbaum Mission spreadsheet with the MIAs that

17 Can You Help? A Big “Thank You!” Final Flight to Dave Ungemach Dear Editor, Richard H. Hollrock I am a professor and Dear Mr Ungemach, (740), at 91 years of age, historian from Novi Sad, Serbia, I would like to convey my passed away peacefully Sept. (formerly Yugoslavia). sincere thanks to you for your 23, 2012 at a Bangor hospital, Can you provide me help. surrounded by his loving family. more data about Mission 107 It was just what I needed, Richard was born in and Mission 112 (bombing of but never expected! I am truly Crestwood, NY December 9, Novi Sad) ? touched by your generosity, your 1920. He graduated from I am writing a piece about spirit, and willingness to go out Brown University in 1942 with a that day. In Serbia, it is very of your way to help me. degree in Aeronautical hard to find information about The photo of Mission 107 Engineering. Early on in his Allied bombings during WW!!, shows the bombing of a train career, he was employed by because during to Cold War, station. The photo of Mission Sikorsky Aircraft Corp and was Yugoslavia was in the 112 shows the bombing of a a pioneer in the helicopter communist bloc. train station, PLUS the street industry. He later worked as a I hope that you will help where I live now ! Amazing! research engineer at Kaman me to inform Novi Sad We can see the electrical Aircraft Corp for over 40 years. intellectual community about the power station and residential Lt. Hollrock served in the heroic acts of the 455th Bomb buildings that were hit. Air Corp as Group. We can also see an a B-24 bomber pilot. At age 23, Thanks for your time and help! amazing hit of a building which he was awarded the air medal Sincerely, was the German cultural center for meritorious achievement in Petar Djurdjev (Kulturbund). Just before the aerial flight while participating in [email protected] attack in that building, leaders of sustained operational activities the Germans in the Backsa against the enemy. Can You Help? region held a meeting. The Richard will be greatly Response building received a direct hit, missed by his family for his and there where many kindness, encouragement to Dear Petar, casualties. It was the most others, his sweet smile, and I have the bombing intense bombing of Novi Sad gentle ways. photos for mission 107 and 112. during WWII. Richard is survived by his The 107 photo (1 Sept) Your ancestors were loving and devoted wife of 61 was taken from B-24H-20-DT, indeed heroes. Thanks to their years, Anne of Hampden; his Serial # 41-28994 Chattanooga struggles and successes son, Rick and wife Pat of S. Choo Choo (740) at 11:45 AM, against the Nazi regime, our Deerfield, MA, their six children, from about 19,500 ft. country got back its freedom. Alex, Ruby, Leah, Neal, Lynn The 112 photo (7 Sept) Thank you again for and Richie; three daughters, was taken from B-24H-25-CF being so thoughtful. Alane Bamberger and husband Serial # 42-50400 Bucket of Sincerely, Gary of Conway, NH and their Bolts (740) at 10:59 AM. Petar Djurdjev two children, Katie and Marc, Warm Regards, [email protected] Joyce Harrison and husband Dave Ungemach Dan of Hampden and their two children Craig and wife Lauren [email protected] Editor’s Note: and Heidi, and Ardelle Hollrock See photos of Missions of Hampden and daughter 107 and 112, Next Page Anna.

18 Mission # 112 Novi Sad, Yugoslavia September 7, 1944

Mission # 107 Novi Sad, Yugoslavia September 1, 1944

19 Final Flight of Romania and Vienna, Austria. grandchild will soon earn his. Tony Corsello (741) After 35 missions, he Aviation continued to be returned to NY. He attended his love. He was a supporting Brooklyn College while working member of the "Cradle of nights, printing several NY City Aviation Museum" nearby at newspapers. There he met Roosevelt Field, where Virginia Rutesky and moved to Lindbergh took off for his historic Long Island, NY. They had eight trip to Paris in 1927. He was an children: Bruce (Marguerite), active member of the A.F.A. in Jane, Ginger (Martin Webber), City, the American Joyce, Michael (Robyn), Perry Legion Aviators' Post, and the (Dianne), Joan (Patrick Daly) Long Island Early Fliers' Club. and Tony (Laurra). He owned He was involved with the Nash Lumber Merchandising Collings Foundation which Corp., and was a distinguished restored the B-24 that currently and respected salesman. flies all over the US. Tony's love of aviation He was a constant son, continued as an active reservist brother, husband, father and with the 514th Troop Carrier grandfather, and as Dick Wing at nearby Mitchel Field. Armellino noted, he was a He was recalled during the Constant Warrior . He now rests Korean War. By that time, he in Arlington National Cemetery had three children. He and his after receiving full military former fellow 741st member, honors, aptly in full view of the Dick Armellino, flew many week- U.S.A.F. Memorial with the ends over nearby Jones Beach. comforting sounds of planes Dick was sent to Korea, soaring overhead. and Tony to Laon (France) Tony loved life with a Airbase, with the 38th Bomb passion, and shared it with Wing. He flew missions in B-26 everyone. The world is not the Douglas fighter bombers over same without him! Anthony Michael Corsello, France and Germany, hoping to Virginia Corsello of McLean, Va., passed away on deter the Russians. [email protected] January 10, 2012. He resigned his He was born in Brooklyn, commission in 1953. He was Frank Hosimer NY, in 1922, and was a first awarded five Campaign Stars, remembers Tony Corsello generation Italian-American. As three Oak Leaf Clusters and the Tony was a navigator for a youngster, he would sit on the Distinguished Flying Cross. Grady Mormon's crew (741). He fire escape and watch planes Returning to Long Island, arrived in Cerignola as part of a take off from Barren Island, he continued to grow his replacement crew in July, 1944, admiring the pilots. Charles business and his family. He was after a three-week boat trip. Lindbergh was his hero. an active member of his church There were more planes When WWII started, he and was Chairman of his sons' than crews, so he flew every had no doubt about volunteering Boy Scout Troop, all four of mission the group had for the for the US Army Air Force at the which earned the rank of Eagle first 25 missions. Then he had a age of 18. As a B-24 navigator, Scout. He was very proud that one week rest at Isle of Capri. he was based in Cerignola, Italy, four of his grandsons earned He finished the required bombing oil facilities in Ploesti, their Eagle Scout rank. A fifth 35 missions in December,1944,

20 and arrived home by boat for the 459th Bomb Group and the wings, and maneuvered the Christmas. 756th SQ. He delighted in this plane back to right-side-up. All One of his favorite stories story that Jarvis told him. of us are safe. After landing, was that he was having a meal "During late 1944, when I comment by the checked out co- at a local family's house was assigned as an instructor pilot: "I've just been through 35 (probably of his tent-boy). The for B-24s at Gowan Field, Boise, combat missions from England, grandfather made an Idaho, I was given a task to but this flip on the B-24 today is uncomplimentary remark in check the co-pilot out as is my worst ever flying Italian (assuming that Tony customary to do before he flew a experience." didn't understand) - "the B-24 aircraft at Gowan Field. Such is the art of flying! Americans just have big guns He was a young and machines". Tony responded lieutenant pilot originally from Can You Help? in perfect Italian, "You're Omaha, NE, who had just Dear Editor, DARNED right they do!” completed a combat tour of duty I am the son of John Tony kept in touch with a of 35 missions from England as Kelly (bombardier), who flew lot of his bomb group friends, a B-24 co-pilot. After a couple of with the 741st Bomb Squadron. especially Dick Armellino, even excellent landings he asked I went online and found after Dick moved to Florida. It is about the B-24 automatic pilot. the 455th BG website. I read in amazing how many people he We got a bit more altitude and I the BG history book the part knew, wherever the reunions showed him how to set it up on about the 741st, and found my took us. When the 15th Air the airplane to fly on automatic father's crew picture (below). Force had a reunion at a big Las pilot. This was to show how the My father (back row, on Vegas hotel, he had dinner with good automatic pilot was right) retired in 1974 with the the hotel owner and his wife. reliable, even when two engines rank of Colonel after 31 years of When the squadron were cut back on one side. I'd service in the Army Air Corp and leader was not well enough to done this successfully more USAF. He also fought in the continue to organize the reunion than 100 times, but not this time. Korean War, and the Vietnam dinners, Tony accepted the job WHEN I PULLED THE War. and did it very well. TWO THROTTLES BACK ON Is there a way to get a Tony will be missed by a THE RIGHT SIDE, THE WING hard copy of the 455th BG lot of folks. DIPPED AS USUAL - BUT - History Book? Frank Hosimer (741) THE AUTOMATIC PILOT GYRO Thank you for your time [email protected] TUMBLED, AND THE PLANE and effort. TURNED OVER ON ITS BACK. Regards, I immediately turned the Patrick Kelly B-24 INSRUCTOR PILOTS automatic pilot off, pulled the [email protected] HAVE EMERGENCIES, TOO! other two throttles back and By Jarvis Strong pushed the stick forward to keep USAF (Ret.) Command Pilot the load of the aircraft weight on the underside. The B-24, like all Tony Corsello retired to bomber aircraft, is not like a Vinson Hall, in McLean, VA, fighter aircraft. If I let the weight which was primarily a senior of the aircraft bear on the top of residence for retired service the aircraft, one or both wings officers. Tony's new friend at would buckle and the four of us Vinson Hall, Jarvis Strong, Lt. would be dead. Col., turned out to have spent I managed to keep the time at the Cerignola base, in weight of the aircraft under the

21 22 23 455th Bomb Group Assoc., Inc. NON PROFIT ORG P.O. Box 93095 US POSTAGE PAID Austin, TX 78709-3095 GREEN BAY WI PERMIT 460 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

A MESSAGE FROM THE 455TH BOMB GROUP ASSOC. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Greetings! I have two major news items. First, as you've probably already noticed, Norman Crum has been elected to fill the remainder of Carl Barr's term as President of the Association. Norm has been a long-time, second-generation supporter of the Association, and we are fortunate to have him serving as President. All positions on the Board of Directors, including the officers, will be up for reelection, for four-year terms, in November 2013. If you have an interest in serving on the Board of Directors in any capacity, please contact me. Email may be directed to [email protected] . U.S. mail may be addressed to: 455th Bomb Group Association, P.O. Box 93095, Austin, TX 78709. The second major item is that the Board of Directors voted to join the 451st Bomb Group Association in a joint reunion in Phoenix, in October, 2013. If you've been missing the reunions, this is the opportunity you've been waiting for! The 451st has graciously agreed to serve as the lead in organizing details and registration. It is possible the 301st and/or the 376th (both were 15th AF B-17 units) will also join us as co-sponsors. That will be interesting! Come join in those discussions! At the annual Board of Directors meeting in November, 2011, the directors asked me to present to the membership opportunities for giving to the Association. That appeal was included in the Spring, 2012 Cerignola Connection. In response to that giving opportunity, we have received enough contributions to fund an additional edition of our much-loved newsletter. Acknowledgments are listed on Page 3 of this newsletter. Opportunities still exist to extend the life of the Cerignola Connection. Checks can be made payable to 455th Bomb Group Association, and mailed to the Association address. If you pay your Association dues annually, don't forget that dues for 2013 are due by December 31, 2012. This is a great nation in which to live. Thank you for helping keep it that way!