A U.S. Army Air Forces Martin B-26G-11-MA Marauder (s/n 43-34565) from the 497th Bombardment Squadron, 344th Bombardment Group, 9th Air Force, enveloped in flames and hurtling earthward after enemy flak scored a direct hit on left engine while aircraft was attacking front line enemy communications center at Erkelenz, Germany.
Capt. Carl F. Chapman,Jr. – Pilot (KIA) ….. (O-659663) Macon,Georgia 1st Lt. John J. Sheehan – CoPilot (KIA) ….. (O-816603) Boston,Massachusetts 2nd Lt. James R. Harl – Bombardier (KIA) ….. (O-722452) Pulaski,Iowa 1st Lt. Kenneth G. Bowdish – Navigator (KIA) ….. (O-741451) Seattle,Washington 1st Lt. Frederick D. Storey,Jr. – GEE Operator (KIA) ….. (O-765744) Houston,Texas T/Sgt. J.P. Herndon – Radio Operator/Gunner (KIA) ….. (18005969) Dallas,Texas S/Sgt. Ballard J. Bentley – Engineer/Gunner (KIA) ….. (6941901) Neon,Kentucky S/Sgt. W.T. Williamson – Tail Gunner (KIA)
….. (18083363) Dallas,Texas
