My grandfather, Sam Feleccia was a ball turret gunner. he presently lives in Tavares, Florida, but is beginning to shows signs of significant dementia. As a tribute, I am working on a short story about him and his time in the War and his never-ending love for my grandmother, who is now deceased.

I've started researching B17 stories, much like yours. Are there any books or other soruces you recommend that will speak about what it was like to be in the B17, particularly the ball turret?

Much appreciated and God bless you for your services during the War.

-Kevin Rice

My dad Edward (Wally)Walzak was a ball turret gunner in the 15th Af 99th bomb group 416 sq. He flew 50 combat missions out of Foggia Italy from March 1944-October 1944. Dad is now 88 years young. On Auqust 25,2011 his two sons and grandaughter took him on a B-17 flight. If you may be interested you can view my dad's TV interviews from that day online. If there is anyone from Dad's plane or bomb group still around we are extremely interested in hearing from you. Also I know this is a shot in the dark all of my dad's gear,including his adorned flight jacket and pictures were stolen from him at the port of Naples as he was awaiting transport back to the states. Even to this day I know this bothers him. If anyone may have any pictures of the 99th bomb group,416th squadron, or just general pictures if we could get a copy I know dad would greatly appreciate. Feel free to email me his son Rich Walzak

My 92 year old father in law died in November of 2009. He was a veteran of the Battle of the Bulge and was wounded by shrapnel in that campaign. He said when he had been in the Army for about 8 months a call came out looking for men to transfer into the Air Corps. He shook his head and said "I always admired those brave bastards but I never had the guts to get up there and do what they did. I figured I'd take my chances on the ground".
Its just a miracle you survived this nightmare. God Bless you, the crew and all those airmen who made it and didn't. Heroes all.

Great story!!!! I'm doing some family history on My great uncle S/Sgt.Edwin Mydlenski...He was a wiast gunner On B-17 Vermont Lady....shot down over France on Jan,5 1944...He along with the rest of the crew were lost at sea...God Bless all who have served this country!!!

My dad, (Hanford "Rusty" James Rustand) was a B-17 Pilot
of "PARD", 8th Airforce, 91st Bomb Group, 323rd Squadron. Dad was KIA on 2 Nov 1944. The mission was Meresburg, the target was the Leuna Oil Refinery where the Germans were making a synthic oil out of coal. There were 650 B-17's in tight formation, on two levels of air space. Dad was in about the worst position (at the tail-end). The plane was hit by flac, the communication system was out, bomb bay and oxygen tanks on fire. The crew abanoned ship, co-pilot (Lt. Wyndham M.W. Peck) stood in the door with my dad behind him when the plane blew. The explosion blew Lt. Peck from the plane and my dad didn't make it. Three of the crew (Lt. Wyndham M.W. Peck, 2nd Lt. Henry A. Schwarz, & T/Sgt. Gilbert Crotte)made it to POW camps. The planes dad flew were: Outhouse Mouse, Bride of Mars, Margie, Happy Valley Express, Ramblin' Rebel, Nine-O-Nine, Hi-Ho Silver, Blood 'N Guts, Qualified Quail, and Pard. I'm particularly interested in speaking with any family of my dad's last crew 2 Nov 1944, & any of the crew of Hi-Ho Silver on that same day. I can be contacted at dlieur8521@aol.com. Thanks, Marilynn (Rusty's daughter).

My Dad was Pilot 1st Lt John L. Davis from Seattle WA 367th Bomb Squadron, 306th Bomb Group, 8th Air Force Sept 1944 to about Feb 1945 36 missions on B17 Lassie Come Home, unknown tail number (still researching). The only member of his aircrew known to me is Cal Owens of las Vegas NV. Cal was the flight engineer/top turret gunner. Dad passed away in 1986. He was and is my greatest heroe. Fly on Dad. any info would be greatly appreciated. Thank you to The Greatest Generation for all of your sacrafices..

My dad was a turret gunner with the 347th -- looking for any information I can find on him.

my dad was a chief mechainc and a ball turret gunner 347th bomb group

I'm trying to find information on Squadron 347 of the 99th Bomb group that my uncle was a turrent gunner on a b17 and KIA February 25 1944

Thank you for relating your personal story. Thank you for serving our country,God

Bless you

I thought it would be easier finding info on my uncle Joe D. Freeland Jr. who was a turrent gunner on B17, 99th bombardment group and I believe 346th squadron. KIA 02/25/1944 over Austria as German fighters shot the plane down and he couldnt get out of the bubble. I've looked for 99th, too much general info, and 346th, and each site that looks good costs. So if there is a specific location for something like this please let me know... Thank you

Name: Paul L Cozine
Inducted From: Kentucky
Rank: Staff Sergeant
Combat Organization: 322nd Bomber Squadron 38th Bomber
Death Date: 10 Nov 1944
Monument: Fort William Mckinley, Manila,
The Philippines

I never knew my grand-uncle Paul but I cannot count the many times I've heard his name pass my grandmothers lips in remembrance of her brother (I was born in 1969), he has been remembered well. Recently, my grandmother passed, now I will remember him for her. Though I never knew him, I will as my grandmother has, keep him in my heart.
I deeply regret never asking my grandmother of specific details regarding her brother, I had thought of it however I often felt my questions might be disruptive of the warm family memories she reflected upon (aloud) prior to his entering the U.S. Army Air Force.
In my efforts to do my grandmothers remembering I am signing this guest book, a wonderful opportunity and I have very much enjoyed reading the diary written by a man kept in some one else's heart. Thank you-

Looking for any information/pics on 15th AAF 97th BG 342nd Bomb.Squad. My dad was a Gunner/Engineer in WWII. All I have are a few photos, his discharge from Army Air Corp (to USAF) showing his flights and the stories he told me that never left his memory. He died June 4, 2000. His name was George H. McMillen rank then - SSGT. Everyone just called him "Mac"

Can anbody help me? I'm trying to find more info on my grandpa he passed when i was young and never had the honor to talk to him about his service record. From what i know from his eulogy he was in the 97th bomb group, 346th squadron. I've done some searching and have had know luck i believe he may have actually been in the 99th bomb group 346th. Outta italy in '44. He was technical Sgt. Jop carol ( J.C ) Duffield, he was a gunner. If you have any info i would it would be greatly appriciated, feel free to email me. Thank you to all the brave men who faught, and paid the ultiment price for fredom, great site!

Belly turret gunner on a Navy B-24 (PB4Y1) in the Pacific, 1943 and 1944.
God bless America!
How many of us are left?

In no way does this site glorify war. It reveals the terror of the men whose eyes have seen the face of war.

Christmas day, 1944
I was ten, lay with my mother, small brother and little sister on the dirtfloor of a wooden barn, full of straw and hay, in the midst of our small German town, while under earshutttering noise plains dropped 175 tons of all kinds of bombs on us,destroying 85 percent of it. We survived, we were homeless, starved.

I know the meaning of war: It is madness. For the civilian, for the soldiers.
I know it means profit for those who produce those terrible weapons and bombs.

I pray for peace every day.

Saphire

My Grandpa Staff Sergeant Richard O. Gettys, United States Army Air Forces, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Gunner on a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 326th Bombardment Squadron, 92d Bombardment Group (H), EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 4 July 1943, against enemy ground targets at Nantes, France. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Gettys on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 8th Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.

I have pictures of his airplane posted on http://gettysfamilyhistory.blogspot.com/2011/10/richard-oliver-gettys-war-photos.html

Great site. These crews and airplanes are incredible. People need to remember. I just started glider flying lessons and I'm nervous when I fly. I can't begin to imagine doing what these guys did! What amazing courage.

My Dad,Harry Fryar-451st Bombardment Group (H) 724th Squadron,was ball turret gunner on SAKINSHACK and JESSE JAMES.
The Collins Foundation brought a B-24 to Loveland Airport several years ago and we both walked thru that plane.I was in awe when seeing the small,cramped space that he rode in,hanging down in that turret.I watched him as he looked around that plane and could see pride and sadness on his face.He is my idea of what a hero is.
Thanks Dad!

These pages have been and will continue to be, a special place to come and absorb the stories and feelings and experiences of these special men, My father-in-law was a waist gunner with the 95th BG(H) 334th out of Horam. The ship he flew most of his 34 missions was Wrinkle Belly Baby 42-37879 ...they had a "box B" on their ships. There were so many brave young men...boys, who one day, would never return in their ships...never smile with friends again...but would always be a source for our memories and our pride. I enjoyed this very much.

There are so many wonderful, vivid and powerful stories on this site. I am the commissiong editor at The History Press and have published such a book on B-17s titled BELLE OF THE BRAWL.

By all means drop me a line if you have a story to tell.

Jay

Dear John Briol,
Just finished reading your Dad's diary.
Thank you, and the other crew member for having it published.
Have a fiance's uncle who served with the 100th as a Ball Turret gunner too. He didn't come back, only 3 of his crew survived. I recently learned about him and was reading a lot about the B17 Crews etc. But your Dad's account is a bit of experiencing what it really was like!!
I'm so sorry he passed away at such a young age.
God Bless, and thank you again.
Lisa, and John
John's Uncle John Ribuffo, 359th Squadron ..100th

This message is to Jack Mosely, gunner for "Barney's Buzzwagon" My uncle was Barney Hutain. He past away a few years back, but I'd love to hear about him if you flew with him. You didn't leave an E-mail address, feel free to contact me at mine.

I look forward to reading the book. My Father SSGT Richard T. Keough was a Ball Turret Gunner with the 490th BG 850th BS stationed at Eye, England. He passed away in 2002 at the age of 79. Like so many from WW2 my Father also did not talk much about his time in the service. I would enjoy to hear from anyone who might have been assigned to the 490th BG.

I would like to thank the men and women who served in WW2. It is sad to know every day we lose a WW2 service member and a part of history.

I graduated from Armement school at Buckley Field, CO in 1943. B-24's Flew 35 with the 446th Group from Bungay, UK 1944-45. My 35th mission was to Landshut, Germany near Munich. R.J. Powell was my pilot. Only three of ten livinng today. Al Pishioneri Ball turret gunner.

thank you, for this opportunity, and priviledge

I am a USMC veteran of the Gulf War. I just wanted to thank you for the service your father so willingly provided for our country. I am hoping to become a teacher someday and am using pieces of fathers diary in a paper about Randall Jarrells poem The Death of the Ball Turret Gunner. I think some of your fathers words are better than anything I can say on my own. I appreciate the use of the words, I am not publishing anything. I am only writing the paper for an American Literature class. Thank You!
Respectfully,
Jason Martinez- USMC veteran.

The picture of the exploding fortress that was in the national geographic was the Blue Streak of the 486th Bomb Group. It was piloted by Lt. Paris. It was reported as having taken a direct hit by flak. My Uncle and namesake Sgt John C. Burch (known as J.C.)was the ball turret gunner in this plane.

Son of SSgt. Louis F Beske, BTG in the 751st, shot down and captured.

Looking for any info on my uncle Les. Leslie W. Griffiths, Sgt. Leslie W. Griffiths.My mother's younger brother. Ball turret gunner. 352nd. squadron,301st. Bombardment Group, 15th. air Force stationed in Italy.Sgt.Griffiths survived the war and lived for a time in Connecticut. The last contact with my uncle was in 1957, he was building a house for my father in Madison, Connecticut. My other uncle, Homer George Griffiths, United States Navey did not survive the war. Any and all help would be appreciated.
My Thanks!
Don

Just a thank you to the wonderful men who flew this awesome plane!

I SERVED IN THE ROYAL AIR FORCE FROM 1942 TO 1946 AS A FLIGHT ENGINEER ON B24 BOMBERS IN ITALY[FOGIA ] BOMBING TARGETS IN N ITALY AUSTRIA ETC

Beautiful and well done a fine tribute to those that sacrificed so much that we may the freedom we have today. My dad (Canadian Army Signal Corp) and two uncles (1st Battalion Paratrooper) served in WW2 staring at D Day. Being ex Royal Canadian Air Force our hearts are always near those who served in war and peace time. It sad that our schools do so little to tell their story. Thanks to your dad for serving and to you for creating this website. God bless.
Mike

I recently saw a B17 Bomber at a local air show and was stunned by how cramped it was inside the plane, but especially how small that turret was. I don't think I could fit into it!

Thank you to all the brave men (and women# who fought #and continue to fight) for our country.

My uncle, Arthur J. Smith, was a gunner in the 346th squadron 99th Bomb Group. He was shot down over Italy on July 23, 1943 and is buried at the American military cemetery in Florence, Italy. Thank you for this website.

My Dad was a Ball Turret Gunner on a B-17...was shot down over Belgium ...some amazing stories....God bless that generation & all they did.......

Tom McCarthy, the Hoosier Hotshot,
Belly turret gunner on Witchcraft, Navy PB4Y1 32143, August 1943 to December 1944.

God bless America!

Elijah Carter Vaughan 8th Air Force 92nd Bomb Group 327th Bomb Squadron Triangle B flew out of Poddinton shot down Feb 20, 1943 interned Stlag Luft 1 Barth, Ger

I am the great nephew of Eugene "Freddie" Garzini. He was a ball turret gunner. He was a member of the Lucky Bastards. I have his A-2 Jacket painted on it is "Wittle Wonnie" and his bombs representing his missions. He was in the 418th squadron and/or the 100th.

Hope to find some info on Robert W. Mills, 348th squadron heavy bomber 99th,died in 1943, he was a tail gunner have only one picture of him but can hardley make it out does anyone have a clear picture of him with his buddies r anything mayone where he trained picture thanks he started out in Camp Blanding,Fla, sunshinestate56@yahoo.com

my dad was in the 99th bg 416 squadron tail gunner

My brother Angelo M DiCamillo,was stationed at Glatton Air Base in 1944,He fiew on a B17 and was Killed in Action over Harburg.

Does anybody remember a William Reed A Lieutenant Navigator who served with the USAF during WW11 in England

My uncle's name is William (Bill) Casey and piloted a B 17. Shot down and was a POW. He passed away while living in Florida. I think his plane was called Banshee?? I know that Andy Rooney rode with him and wrote about his experience that mission. I'd love to hear from anyone that flew with him or knew him.

I am reading Laura Hillenbrand's "Unbroken: A WWII story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption" with special interest. My father served as a bombadier. He was shot down,and traveled through the underground to Holland, where a double agent caused his capture. He spent 2 1/2 years as a POW. Your father's journal makes for fascinating- although horrifying- reading, and fills in some gaps my father never talked about. Thank you for sharing it.

Thank you so much for sharing your life experiences with me. But more than that, thank you for serving in the armed forces at a time when the lives of free men everywhere were in peril. We can never repay the debt we owe to you and all that served with you. God Bless you.

Great website. A fan page should be started on Facebook.
My granddad was a ball-turret gunner, mainly, and could hardly speak directly about what he saw, even in the letters home, he had trouble, for he lost many of his best buddies before God took him a few months later during the brunt in '43...RIP...Charles Francis Awrajcewicz

My friend Wade Doares was a ball turret gunner in WWII. A member of the Charles B. Blanding crew, flying missions over Germany, Wade passed away in New York City on January 12th, 2011. He was 86 years young.

I came to this sight, because I wanted to learn more about the experiences a ball turret gunner faced on those bombing flights. Now I understand and appreciate even more the men who performed such perilous missions, where they were jammed tight into that orb under the belly of the aircraft, witnessing the horrors and hearing the sounds of war all around them, and on top of that, being exposed and easily targeted.

This sight is amazing. i have been researching info for my granson, he has to make a family tree. Have looked before, Very hard to find info. He was in the 339 squadron, 96 bomber group. His plane a flying fortress called the Vermont Lady went down over the Bay of Biscayne over France. There were no survivors. (Jan. 5, 1944)
I did find a place WW11 missing in action or buried at Sea. It has a list of memorials. His ios at Cambridge, England.
Thanks to all of you vets, (including all my uncles, dad and hubby) fotr fighting for all of us.
Good luck everyone.

I was a ball turret gunner in the 347th Bomb Squadron, 99th Bomb Group operating out of Italy from November 1944 until the end of the war in Europe. I wonder how many ball turret gunners from WWII are still around.

I've always wondered what "riding the ball" would be like and the things someone posted in the ball would see. But now I know. Jesus, how far we have come, dropping ordinance from laser equipped jet planes or firing MX.

Greetings from the Netherlands. My Respect for you all.

my fathre was a turret gunner i would love to learn moor

My father, Sgt August V Krizek, served as a rear tail gunner for the 8th Air Force, 398th Bomb Group, 603rd Squad, 368 crew that also targeted Merseburg, Germany, that fateful day, 11.2.1944. Just after they dropped their bombs 25,000 ft over their target, "all hell broke loose" according to his handwritten bail out story. Flak hit their #1 engine and tanks, immobilizing the rear tail guns. As they watched one enemy plane "go down in flaming smoke", he writes "We were also doomed". The battle had cost them their left wing, spreading gasoline throughout, and their B-17 soon burst into flames. The crew evacuated at 22,000 ft and "by an act of God, none of the crew was hit and all cleared the ship OK." He describes details of his descent, having no doubts about his parachute which he opened at 2,000 ft. His account ends "Yes, I had landed safely on Mother Earth but directly in the hands of the Heinies." He was a POW at Dulag Luft, Germany, and survived and was discharged with honors in November 1945.

I WAS IN THE 390TH B-17 BOMB GP MARCH 18 1945 BLOW. WE LEFT FORMATION & TWO ME109 FIGHTERS SHOT US UP. A FEW OF US BAILED OUT & THE PLANE CRACKED IN HALF. I WAS A LOWER BALL TURRET GUNNER ON MY 6TH MISSION AS A SPARE GUNNER ON THE BERRYMAN CREW. BAILED OUT OVER POLAND & 1 ENDED UP AS A PRISIONER OF THE RUSSIANS FOR 8 DAYS.THE PILOT + TAIL + WAIST GUNNER WENT DOWN WITH THE PLANE.I ENDED UPN IN NAPLES ITALY HOSPITAL . I GOT HIT IN THE LUNG. I I TURNED 85 YRS OLD OCT. 31 2010.
RICHARD A PROCH ~ rproch860@aol.com

I found this website today while posting a salute to veterans and my Dad, Harry Cornell. I have read the book and have a great deal more respect for what acually took place during these missions. Dad doesn't talk about his experiences much but I know how much of a family this crew was to him. Thanks for letting me share this with my friends. Dad is still kicking and can be reached through me.

It's always good to visit this site. I am the daughter of Ted Braffman.

I never knew untill the other day that 8th AF casualties in WWII exceeded those of the entire marine corps. Wow.
Thanks

My grandfather, Winton Hudson Nelson, Sr. was a belly gunner with the 8th Air Force in England during WWII. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Purple Heart.

my dad was a ball turret gunner 414th squadren 97th bomber group he flew a total of 99 missions trying to find anybody who might have a list of the crew members of the ALL AMERICAN B17 who were on it during the mission when it was hit and sustained the damage to the tail section in the now infamous photo of it being able to fly back i believe my father was the tail gunner , lt . ken bragg the pilot ??sarpolis the tail. my father was also the recipient of the DFC AND HAD 13 OAK LEAF CLUSTERS . anyone having any info on or about S/SGT ED WERNER would love to here from you !! thanks mike w. 10/28/2010 2:19 pm

Just read Joe Mosley's message about his service on "Barney's Buzz Wagon". I have a nice, clear picture of what appears to be "Barney's Buzz Wagon" and would be glad to send it to Joe Mosley, but do not know how to get in touch with him. It may or may not be the same plane. It shows the crew members, designating their positions, but doesn't include their names. The pilot was my uncle, Deane Curry. The only problem is that he served in the European theatre. Joe, if you see this message, please email me at pfields313@hotmail.com if you want to see a copy of this picture. I would very much like to know if this is the same plane. Thanks for all you did!

Nice website, my father served in WW TWO, THE GREATEST GENERATION!

My late father, James Russel Wilson, was also a ball turret gunner in WWII. He survived, which I am very thankful for. His bomber was: Baby Steve
thank you for serving!

Thanks for this page. My dad, the late Deo F. McClintic, was a Ball Turret Gunner as well.

Thank you for the information. Hal Millett has been especially generous to me regarding my dad Evan Moffitt. My dad died in 1985 so i have very little history of his ww11 days.
keep in touch
my mom just celebrated her 92nd birthday

katherine

Thank you

LOOKING FOR ANYONE STILL ALIVE FROM THE CREW OF B24- PLANE NAME "BARNEYS BUZZ WAGON" I WAS THE TAIL GUNNER ON THIS AIRCRAFT IN WWII. I SERVED FROM 1942-1968. I HAVE NINE THIRD OAK LEAF TO THE AIR MEDAL, ONE PURPLE HEART,ONE SILVER STAR, TWO BRONZE, ONE DFC. I RESIDE IN SCOTTSDALE AZ.

Just a note to say THANK YOU to all of the military men and women from all of the wars - my father in law is arthur l umberger who is a retired military bomber pilot from ww11 - he said his plane was originally named JOKER but they had to change it as when they landed in Italy, if i remember correctly, they were greeted with the sad news that another plane of that name had just crashed - he is a great guy and we just celebrated his 88th birthday

Dad would not talk much about the B-17 so this gives me some idea of what went on thanks.

I was a ball-turret gunner on B-17s in the 15th Army Air Force, 99th Bomb Group (H), 348th Bomb Squadron, Winter 1944, Spring 1945. See mailto:rporter@fstinc.com above for more information.
Like most WWII vets I had erased all or nearly all of those memories from my brain and decided at the presistance of my daughter, that I tell her of my experieces in order for her to pass on those memories to my grandchildren. In 2002 I started looking for the other nine members of my B-17 crew. With the help of my daughter and wife I was able to find five others still alive and located information on the other three that had died through the internet. We arranged a reunion in 2003 to be held at my navigators Ken Becker's home in Lodi, WI. Five of us met and the meeting was very emotional as memories flooded back for each of us. (The sixth, our Tail-Gunner) had died that year). We received an invitation from a Wisconsin Senator to be her guest at the 51st AirVenture 2003 at Oshkosh,WI celebrating 100 years of Flight. We were treated as dignatories since there were very few, if any, crews of five members still alive. We still correspond although there have been no more reunions of all five of us. Some of us still visit each other while the others can't travel any longer.

I read this page doing research on my deceased father-in-law Roy Allen who was with the 457th Bomb Group during the same period of time.

Thanks for all that "the greatest generation" did. God bless you.
Eugene and Ruth Arnold

My step father, Milton Adam, piloted a B-17 out of Thurleigh,England in 1944. He was flying for the 367th Squadron of the 306th Bomb Group. His navigator on board was Russell Strong. Russell wrote a book titled "First Over Germany." The book is very accurate about the accounts of the bombing runs they made. If you are a history buff, check out this book. God bless those who fought and now fight for our freedom.

You have a great website - I added you to the directory I maintain on my site.

Bill

My dad is Arthur H. Porter - he passed away in 1999. He was a Flight Engineer/Top Turret Gunner on a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the Eropean-African-Middle Eastern Theater during WWII. He flew 50 missions with the 15th AAF, 99th Bomb Group, 346th Squadron out of Tortorella-Foggia, Italy from September 1944 to May 1945. His 50 missions were part of the last 135 missions flown by the 99th Bomb Group (the Diamondbacks) in late 1944 and the Spring of 1945--the bombing of oil refineries, marshalling yards, German aircraft factories, transportation systems, etc. in the Balkans, Poland, Itlay, Germany, etc. His awards include the EAME ribbon with 5 bronze stars, Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, and others. I am trying to research and recreate his military service so that my 2-year old grandson will know something of the quiet American Hero: his great-grandfather. We are all so proud of him - but like most of those men they never talked about their service. God bless all those great men and women who saved the world.

I am the daughter of pilot Lauren Spleth. He departed to be with our Lord in 1984 and now his beloved Rita has joined him as of April 10th, 2010. Though this is a sadness for our family, Lauren and Rita leave a legacy of two daugthers, Janice and Becky, a grandson, Casey Michael Howard and 2 great-granddaughters, Sarah Jane and Samantha Lauren Howard, his namesake. Our family is very proud of him and in awe of the many missions he flew in World War II. He and Rita will live on in our hearts forever with joy and pride.

I am the grandson of Lauren Spleth. Rita, his wife, just joined him in Heaven on 4/10/2010. The website is fabulous! I can't wait to show it to the rest of the family.

My father was a Crew Chief in the 748th sqd, 457th BG at Glatton.
His name is Doyle Cobb, it would be nice if anyone out there could tell me if they knew him back then and could pass on some stories.
My dad doesn't talk much about it. Every time he starts thinking about it I can see that it bothers him A LOT.

I don't have time to review your site entirely today, but it gave me proof that I know a little of the B-17 to give to some of my doubting friends. They just don,t want to take the word of an "oldtimer". I went through B-17 school at Amarillo AB May to Nov., 1944. I will be back

Thanks for the information.

Steve

TAIL GUNNER WWII, 446TH BOMB GROUP IM ALIVE & LIVE IN AZ.

My father, Wayne Marion Grady, served in the 750 Bomb Squadron, 457th Bomber Group in WWII. He is still going strong at 87 and lives in Indianapolis. In a bit of irony, I now live in TUcson, AZ, Home of the Davis MOnthon AFB where he spent his last few months before leaving the Army Air Force after Japan surrendered.

THANK GRANDPA (FRANK BRINCAT) FOR RISKING YOUR LIFE FOR OUR AMAZING COUNTRY. NOT SURE WHERE WE WOULD BE WITHOUT THE MEN AND WOMEN THAT HAVE HELP OUR COUNTRY. THANKS GRANDPA!!! I LOVE YA

Great website! Your dad's diary brings home the reality of being a gunner. My dad, Julian Crnford, was a B-17 waist gunner with 301st BG, 32nd BS. He just celebrated his 88th birthday. He flew 51 missions. I think how young they were, just boys most of them,20 years old or so, who became men really fast. Thanks for your site. We lose more & more of our WWII military each day. I want them to be appreciated & their history remembered.

We can be so proud of these crews! I was trained as the armor gunner,top turret at Ardmore OK and Nellis air force base in Las Vegas. We were stopped by the ned of the war in Europe and were sent to Pyote Army air field in Texas to fly B-29"s ehere I trained as a CFC gunner,snet to Topeka Ks for staging and they dropped the bomb and allstopped,I was very unhappy and lucky! Richard King

My father was a ball turret gunner on a B-17 during WWII. I know he spent some time in Italy but he would never speak of his time in the service. From reading a few excerpts from your father's diary I can start to se why.

Wonderful and spiritual diary of the bravery, courage, and dedication of the men and women who fought our foreign wars. I offer all my admiration and respect to your father and his family for his sacrifice to our beliefs and way of life. I also thank you for sharing these special memories with the community.
May God bless you all,
Lancelot
Veteran of our last three wars...

My father, Leonard A. Luba was with the 92nd at Podington and was with the 326th B.G. as an armorer/gunnerer. His plane #231231 was shot down on March 23, 1944 on a mission where the secondary target of Munster was bombed. Pilot Wall, Co-pilot Abel and Top Turret Turner were killed and the remaing crew bailed and were captured. Stalag Luft 1 at Barth would be my fathers home until liberation by the Russians.

Thank You- for your efforts and losses

My dad was in a B17, 24 and 25. His name was Erwin C Burger. Flew in the CBI Theater. Would love to hear from anybody that would have known him. He was a baLL GUNNER AND TOP GUNNER

Thanks for this page. I am getting ready to teach the Death of the Ball Turret Gunner by Randall Jerrell. It is hard to to make kids today understand what men like your dad went through without a picture of what it was like to sit in the Ball Turret.

Thanks for the great site. I am working on a paper for a World History class and decided to do it on WWII POW's. A cousin on mine was a Ball Turret Gunner stationed in England, shot down and captured. I am doing research now for my paper. He and his wife recorded several tapes (now cd's)for our family about their experiences during that time.

I am the son of William Evans Giesecke, PIC (Pilot In Command) who flew out of England in 44-45 commanding a B-17 G.I have an article from the Louisville Courier Journal, picturing my father as a Louisville Male High School graduate who was amoung the first wave of B-17's who flew in the first Daylight Raid bombing runs on the city of Berlin, Germany. I am proud to know and respect any man who participated in the US Army Air Corps efforts in this war.

wow.... your mom is so pretty and your dad is so handsome... you must be proud. =]

Shot down, July 19, 1944. WAS IN STALAG Luft I. Am alive and well.
Don

Tom Brokaw is right! You are the greatest generation.

My grandfather, Charles Francis Awrajcewicz, served in WWII as an Armory Gunner, which meant he knew every aspect of every position on the airship, thus served in various positions throughout his 20 + missions tour before being killed while flying in the first 'Half Bomb/Half Paper' leaflet drop practice mission @ night. He mainly manned the Ball-turret, and had no time to crawl out of ball or was knocked unconcious when they collided with a British Beaufighter. That occurred on 31 AUG 1943. May he be with Jesus and the angels.

Incredible story and a great website. God bless those guys.

John

My father was killed in a B-17 plane on Jan. 5, 1944. He was the 410 Bomber Squadron, 94th Bomber Group, Heavy. My son and I've looking for any kind of information we can find about his buddies, plane, etc.

Unbelievable account of life as a B-17 gunner. I've always been fascinated with the aircraft, but never really heard or read a personal account of action in missions. I didn't realize how lucky you had to be to survive flying sorties every two or three weeks. And to see your buddies and others hurt and lost from machine gun fire and flak....it had to be utter hell. Like anything else, you had to be there to REALLY know. I'm glad I had a chance to read this, thank you.

My uncle Lt. Teddy G. Shaw, also assigned to the 748th was pilot of "Tis Me Sugar" which was lost on 24 August 1944 enroute to Weimar. Unfortunately he and the entire crew were MIA and enventually listed as KIA. Reading your journal brings home reminds me of the courage exhibited by many during a very uncertain time. Recently I found a "voice-o-gram" record sent by my uncle just before leaving the states for England to my grandmother. It would have been nice to have known him but I am reminded to enjoy life every day because of the sacrifices made. Thank you for your service and tribute to all our veterans.

Yesterday I gave the wrong URL for my web page.
The above is the correct one.
Les

I flew with the 8th airforce, 92 bomb group, 327 Sqdn as a B17 ball turret gunner, Shot down on 2-22-44 and was a POW for 14-1/2 months. I was on the infamous Heydekrug run, also on the 86 day German Death march.
The above URL was done by Anders Straaup it is in Danish, But if you scroll down it will also be in English.
There are numerous articles written by me. Click on any and the page will open. Also click on Pot O' Gold and there will be a 23 minute documentry of our visit to the crash site.
The name of our plane was " Pot O' Gold
Enjoy, Les

thanks for the freedom dad

My visit here today involves research for an essay I'm writing on the poem, "The Death of the Ball Turret Gunner" by Randall Jarrell.
Eventually, the essay will appear on my blog.

Your site has been an excellent source!

Chip Etier

i have been an aircraft mech for 30 plus years.......and my favorite plane is the b-17 and the brave men that flew them!!!!!! what i would give for just one ride!!!!!!!!!!

My uncle was a tail gunner was killed over Austria July 26 1944

Thanks for the site! My Dad was a Ball Turret gunner based in Foggia, Italy during WW ll and I am fascinated about what it must have been like for him and others.

I was a radioman/aerial gunner in the Navy on a PBM and my older brother was a radioman in the 20th Air force flying missions out of India via China in B-29's, then from Tinian.

Thank you for sharing your account of the air war over Europe and thank you and all the others like you for your sacrifices and service to America. You truly were the greatest generation. God bless and keep you all.

I just read about Bud Meade the B-17 ball turret gunner POW and what his son said about him and was very moved. It's the day after Veterans day and I'm going to get my uncle Burt Gifford a gift certificate to Applebees Restaraunt as a small token to thank him for his service to our country. He was a B-24 Liberator, ball turret gunner fighting the japs in WW2. I really had no idea what he went through being stuck in that cold cramped little ball until after doing some research on the internet. I'm so very proud of him and his bravery in fighting for our country and living to tell his story to the next generation. He and all of you are the true American heroes!

Thanks for putting this online. I am the nephew of a Ball Turrent Gunner who flew with the 379th bomb group in the 8th Air Force. He is passed on now but it's great that there are people out there who appreciate all of the things these brave men did for us.

My Grandfather was a ball turret gunner in WWII also. His plane was shot down in the North Sea one day while he was back at the base. He also had another guy that was not on the plane for some reason. I think it brings back hard memories for him so he doesn't talk very much about it. The only stories i have heard have been from my dad and my aunt. I plan to read your diary an hopefully i will be able to find out some of my questions. Just a pre-reading question for you. Were you drafted like my grandfather was, or did you willingly join the USAF?

John F. Welch was my CFI for my private pilot certificate at Silver Wings.

My father, Richard Colby was a waist gunner on a B17. His plane was shot down in Germany, Oct. 1943. He was a prisoner at Stalag 17 for 18 months. Other men on his plane were Lt. Harold Schuyler and Lt. Earl Anerr. I would appreciate any additional information you have.

My father was a tail gunner in a B-17. He also passed away in 1972. May the sacrifices of these men never be forgotten.

What to say? Thank you, Mr. John Briol. And, I'm sorry. Thank you because I enjoy many things I'm sure I could not today because of true and brave men. I was born the beginning of the year after Vietnam. I apologize because after all that we as a world have been through-we still have not learned our lesson.................

Thank you for this website. I'm compiling my father's military history: S/Sgt. Robert Zellers, ball turret gunner, with the 385th BG; 548th BS stationed at Great Ashfield in Suffolk, England. He also had a mission to Merseberg on Nov. 2, 1944. Based on this entry of your dad's alone, I must read Dead Engine Kids. The more I learn, the more I appreciate the sacrifices that were made during WWII. I didn't understand growing up how amazing and courageous my dad was. If I may, today is Father's Day: "Happy Father's Day, Dad!" Thanks, again, Mr. Briol, for sharing this with us.

Wow! What a great site. Thank you for sharing this diary. It reminds me of stories my Grandfather used to tell. He was also a BTG in the 100thBG, 349th sq. "lassie come home". I came across this page after randomly searching "B-17". I frequent the 100th BG site but am interested in learning more about other bomb groups as well. Theses men were amazing! Thank you...

My father, Roy Berger, built the prototype B-17 ball turret with two other men. I am looking for any information as to who these other men were and if the prototype still exists somewhere.

I am the daughter of Ted Braffman.

Dad, I love and miss you always...especially today.

I never fly without singing the Army Air Corps song upon take-off!

I read some of the dairy of A turret gunner by the name of Bristol. He mentions a mission to bomb Rurhland on Sept. 12, 1944. I had a friend who was turrey genner in the 350th Bomb Sq., 100 Bomb Group in the tth. Air Force. They flew their 24th. & final misson to bomb Rurhland on Sept. 11, 1944 as they were shot down about 5 to 10 minutes from target. He spent the rest of the war in German prison camps. They were liberated May 2, 1945 by the English Army. He was S/Sgt. J. C. Klutz & passed away several years ago but left a short dairy for his son & daughter.
Charles White

Oldest living child of Norman A. Depelteau of the 457th Bomber Group/"Flak Dodger" first replacement team.

Thanks for the website.

My father Ernest C. Brock flew 30 missions as a ball turret gunner for B29 K-28 City of Omaha aka Yonkee Doll-ah.
His crew unknowingly at the time, flew the first reconnaissance mission after the A-bomb August 6,1945. Hiroshima was not their originally assigned target but the unusual glow drew them there and to photograph the overwhelming sight.
Presently he is in great health for 84 and still works out at the gym 4 days a week. He is a retired orthopedic surgeon in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

I never cease to admire the courage of those who flew in WW2 bombers over Germany

Hi,

I'm doing some research and I found your website. I hope to read your father's book. It really sounds amazing.

Thanks,

Zoe

My name is Keith Sharratt and I am signing your guest book to represent a Mr. Don Satra who also was a ball turret gunner stationed in Glatton with the 457th. He flew 28 missions and you can see his mission records on the flight logs of the 457th web site. These guy's are treasures and should be revered.Before and after the war he logged the Seattle area for 65 years,unbelievable record.Don is a good friend and I know that he is coming to the end of his journey and I know the world will not quite be the same without guy's like him and your father.

Respectfully,

Keith Sharratt

Tucson, Arizona.

Si émouvant et un "tel exemple" pour les jeunes générations !!! Merci de votre travai sur ce site !

It is interesting to read accounts of the USAAC in WWII. My Grandfather served in N. Africa and Europe with the Air Corps.

Daughter of Edward J.Grybos,he was one of the crew.Miss you dad, keep on flying.

My father who was also in the 457th Bomb Group, has just published a book based on a diary he kept of his missions, "Into Life's School". He was a gunner and radio operator. He has also done research on the missions in which he participated to included loading lists, targets, objectives, etc. It's a very well done book. My father turns 86 in May and is still in good health and very active. He enjoys discussing his experience, attends 457th BG reunions and stays in touch with crew mates.

sirs I flew b24s from fogia 1944 raf bomber command any contact who served there Iwas flight engineer

My father flew for the R.A.F. and flew a Flying Fortress.
I just wanted to do some research on the American flyers/squadrons based in England during WWII.
My husband spent over 30 years in the USAF.

This is in memory of Edward Paul Grumbeck, Belly Gunner of a B-24J Liberator, 1944.

thank you for your service to our country..my father was
a flight engineer on b29s...ball turret gunner was the most
dangerous job during ww2...

My grandad farmed at holme fen about 2miles from conington airfield during the war still got some B17 bits somewhere Thanks Boys

Hello,

My father Lt Robert B Hermann was a navigator on a B-17 in the 3o6th BG, 367 sq from the start of 1942 ubtil he was shot down in March 1943 on his 13th mission. He spent the rest of the war in Luft Stalg III. He is now buried in Arlington National Cemetery with my mother.

I was assigned to the 388BG in England I was shot down over Lugwigshaven. One of my crew were killed with the plane I and three others were taken by the Germans. I was keep at stalog 17-B, Barth, officer camp, stalog 6, and Kiel. Where we were put on the road til we were freed by The first Royal Britsh out fit near Frankfurt and sent home.

My childhood best friends father was a radioman on a B-17 based in England during WWII. When the plane became airborne he switched places with the ball turret gunner. His name was Paul Lemann. He was from Mass. He survived his missions and went home to mary a nurse, (Pat Tracy),moved to So. Cal. He had 3 children. Pat died of Alzheimers a few years ago. Paul soon followed. He didn't talk much of the war much to our frustration, but was the finest man I ever knew.
God Bless You Paul C. Lemann

I really enjoyed your diary. My father,Reid Johnson ( 451st bomb group H, 725th Bomb squadron) was a turret gunner on a B-24J Liberator based out of Castellluccio, Italy. His plane went down from flak Mar 26, 1945, his target was Strazhof Marshalling Yards, Austria. The entire crew was taken POW and he was in Neurenberg, Germany (Stalag VIIa and then they were marched to Stalag XIIId in Mooseberg until liberated.) I have researched it pretty well and finally located a surviving member of his crew that I spend the evening with and got some great stories. My father passed away in 1991 from cancer, but would never even mention it to us. When we asked he said that it wasn't something that he wanted us to know about. I am a history buff and would love to have heard his account!!!He instilled in me my love of country and the great sacrifices that are necessary to keep us free. My love and thanks go out to all of the brave men and women that have given it all to keep us FREE!!! Joan