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

My father Arthur P. McHugh was a ball turret gunner in both B17's & B24's
towards the end of the war. He was a gunnery instructor at Wendover most of
his enlistment. He said that the supply of gunners got so low they brought
in him and others from Wendover. He usually flew at night, and dropped
propaganda and supplies for espionage units inside or on battle lines.
He was very saddened to view much of the damage we had done to Europe
when his crew were picked to fly LIFE photographers to record the devestation.
He may have never had a good look at the ruins of Europe until that day,
when the war in Europe was over.

My dad was Leroy Nelson, holder of the Air Medal & Distinguished Fying Cross,awarded for service as a tailgunner in WW11. In 1944 his B-17 took on 600 holes over France but still reached home in England. He served with the 8 th. I have no info on his bomb group or squadron.
Thanks Neal nelson

I was just a kid during WWII but for some reason I spent most of 1st grade drawing profiles of what I considered to be the most beautiful thing I could imagine, the B17. Since then I have come to realize the calibre of the men who manned these planes.They were truly a special breed and we can never thank them enough. God bless them all.

I am looking for information about my grandfather - he was a ball turret gunner - his first enlistment he was with the 342nd Bomb Sq., 97th Bomb. Group. He was from Chicago. Unfortunately, he died without every sharing anything and I would really like to know more about him.

Any help would be great - his serial number isn't even listed in the national archives!

Wendy

my Dad carl f houser was a ball turrt gunner and mechanic in 99th 247 base unite he had a frind tiny allen has any one heard of them

Great-Nephew of LT. Russell Ford of "The Lady Jane"

My dad, Kendall S Shaner was a tail gunner in the B-17 planes. He completed 50 missions without being injured.
He is now buried at Bushnell National Cemetary in Florida.

He was in the 346th bomber squad-99th bombardment group.

If anyone knows of his time in the US Army Air Forces I & my siblings would love to hear about it.
He had lost touch with us years ago.

We consider him to be a hero, & we are very proud of hime & his courage & patriotism which he kept for the rest of his life.

Thank you in advance

Janice

I was moved by these Real People life's

I am 58 yrs.
and a Viet Nam Vet I was in the Army AirCav

I just wanted to say thank you,My uncle fought in WWII and I became WWII history buff from his stories. If not for you the world would not be free.

MY DAD WAS THE SOLDIER WHO GUARDED THE NORTON BOMB, U.S. NAVY, PETTY CHIEF OFFICER BENJAMIN C FREGOSO JR. DAD IS NOW 86 YEARS OLD.

What an awesome page and the music is cool too. Glad to
see you still have it up,Johnboy.:)

My favorite plane is the B-17. I had a friend that was a pilot of a b-24 in the war.
Thanks for the site.

Larry

My dad Lavern Washington was a ball turret gunner on a B-17
named Morgan's Raiders named after their pilot Robert Morgan. He flew 31 missions during his tour of duty in
dangerous European skies in 1944. He was shipped to the base near Bury St. Edmonds in England in April of 1944.
He joined the 410th Squadon of the 94th Bomb Group of the
8th Air Force. He wrote home to my Mother and I have the
letters. They were written almost daily, some after a long
10 hour day in the ball turret. He is truly my hero.

I fly from Conington and today I caught sight of a B17 (Sally B I think) as it was on route to a display. Really made me think of the history of the field and all those who flew from there. Thanks for the site, the pictures and being able to share some of the memories.

I found this aircraft while going through some old slides of air shows. This morning I struck pay dirt in my search for it. Squadron designation and tail number both match.
During 57 thru 60 I served in the USAF at RAF Sculthorpe also a bomber base at that time. We had two squadrons of B66 "Destroyers" on base eyeballing the Russians.
Thank you for the service you gave this country and the heroic effort a bunch of young men gave, that are being forgotten in the History classes today.
God Bless and thank you again.
Don

Hail to the men and women who through their sacrifices ensured our freedom.
a proud American citizen.
Cesare A. Fiore

I was a copilot in the 457th group and 748th squadron. I 85 years old and still going strong. I remmeber my ball turret gunner and you can be proud of your dad!

must papular site....

My great uncle, James E. Sheehan, Jr., was on the Kidley Divey and was shot down on September 11, 1944. He was a Ball Turret Gunner.

Enjoyed looking through this site. As a former member of EAA and Warbirds of America, as well as a 20 year veteran of CAP SAR, I spent 9 years at Oshkosh for the Airshow and occasionally actually worked on B-17s and their fellow warbirds.

Check out the pictures of the B17!
http://www.ipmsstockholm.org/magazine/2000/06/stuff_eng_detail_b17f.htm#Links

The following is the mission log (http://www.92ndma.org/missions.htm)from July 4, 1942, where my father, Richard Gettys (d1991), was the ball turret gunner. He lived after being badly shot up to the age of 71.

1 Lt. Robert L. Campbell - 326th Sq - pilot
a/c Ruthie - 25916
just after bombs away two gas tanks punctured by cannon fire
fuselage torn to shreds
wing flaps knocked down into braking system
hydraulic system wrecked
one landing wheel punctured

20 mm shell through floor between waist gunners
entered radio compartment, wounded RO Sgt. Glenn E. Johnson
knocked out radio
John C. Ford - T - also wounded, possibly at this time

Campbell fell out of formation
jumped by FW 190s
one came in from six o'clock low
Sgt. Richard O. Gettys - BT - hit by 20 mm shell which pierced glass, exploded inside turret
seriously wounded in the face, chest, groin
BT still partly serviceable
Gettys getting weak, but continued to fire guns till collapsed

Campbell brought a/c down on deck
two JU-88s tried to shoot down, but were beaten off

a/c approached English coast, still on deck
lone Me 109 flew alongside waist position a few minutes
finally gave a little salute, waggled his wings, flew away

when started to land, Campbell discovered flat tire
held a/c on the runway as long as he could
then whirled her around in front of the control tower

Gettys received the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions.

Great site, and God bless your dad and you for keeping the memories of our glorious flyboys alive. Soon, all those brave men will be gone and it is websites like this that will tell their stories.
My father in law is Rudolph "Steve" Buczak, who was a BTG in the 457th/350th out of Glatton. He also was awarded the DFC. His main plane was 43-37765 "The Duchess", under Capt. Robert Kaufman. On July 12, 1944, The Duchess was out of action. The crew flew the "GI Virgin", but they could not make it back to Glatton. The 457th website says the crew bailed out...actually, Capt. Kaufman eased the bird into the water and they ditched. Eventually the Brits rescued them.
Too many people today do not realize how the whole country basically stopped what it was doing, and turned virtually all it's attention and resources towards ensuring victory.
A far cry from what we witness today, sadly.
Once again, God bless you, and God Bless America!

THIS IS REAL COOL TO BE ABLE TO READ A ACCOUNT OF WW2
FIRSTHAND BY ONE OF THE MEN WHO FOUGHT IT

Thanks to all of you, Heroes who came to save our freedom, and died for us. So many of your young Soldiers are burried in small cemeteries, here, in Normandy. They were only 18th years old! They will always be in our hearts. We will never forget them. I was only 2 years old in 1945, but I have been brought-up, with much respect to the memory of those who gave their live for us.
Be your *Mini-Feast* in May, at Glatton, a success.Friendly yours.From Cabourg, Calvados.

Thanks Johnny for putting together this great website honoring the Heroes of the Greatest Generation, especially my Uncle John Briol. My Mother Theresa Briol Bonnette always told me how brave Uncle John was and how hard they all fought defending our Freedom, but I really had no idea until I read "Ball Turret Gunner". I can't describe in words my Gratitude and Reverance I feel towards all our people who have so Honorably and Bravely Served our Great Country Yesterday and Today. I'm Proud to be an American!

As an aerial gunner today I stand in awe of what these guys did every day. Much of what they figured out paved the way for our sucess.

My name is Sally Heathcote/Parker, my family live at Conington. My uncle George had the farm inside the airfield Rose Court, and my great grandfather Ivy Farm. l grew up living at Porters Lodge the gate house to Conington Castle. My mother and Aunty Vera tell me so many fasinating stories about life in the village when it was "invaded" by the 457st!
We used to have many returning service men come to our house, and to visit the war memorial at the church.
l used to play in some of the old huts which still had engine parts and oil cans.
My granddad, Robert Parker told me when the base finally closed a huge pit was dug and whole engines, moterbikes etc were buried.
There has been a book written about each of the airfields of the 8th USAAF 1ST Division and The Tourist Board have produced a brillant Tour Guide of all the Bases around this area.
Go to www.east-northamptonshire.gov.uk/tourist.

We are remembering at our local church the flight of a young crew flying a B-17 called Ten Horsepower on the 20th of Feburary. They had been on a mission to Leipzig, and were heading back to Polebrook, but the aircraft was badly damaged and crashed at Glatton. They will be included in the service.
If my family or l can be of any help, just email we will try our best.
Sally

My Dad, George Gail Little, was a ball turit gunner in WWII. He flew over the hump, Berma and I believe India. He survived many flights and lived to be 86 years old. He didn't talk much about the war but I know he was a great man of God and believed on each mission the Lord would protect him and had a plan for him. He fought two fights with prostrait cancer and won twice. The third time took it's toll, he went blind but still wrote me a beautiiful last letter. A bit hard to read but so precious. Thank you for serving our Country and for doing your very best to protect and work for America. I pray our Country turn from it's wicked ways of today and heal from all the killings, corruption and wrong. But if not, God is in control and perhaps this is HIS way of sending Jesus back. I pray you know the Lord. That you have peace and that you are loved and not ever alone. Thank you again for being you. The Bolands

jimfd kmfao fdmo

kmio mintqz

My father, Herbert Lewis, was a top turret gunner. His ship was named "Lucy Valves". I honor his service by signing this guestbook. I now work in the industry as a production engineer, building the next great advance in vertical lift capability, the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor. Despite the amazing technology of this aircraft, I marvel at the accomplishments of our country in the air war of WWII.

I hve allways wanted to read the book but i dont have a lot of money to buy the book, but the ball turret was the most dangrus job on the B17 but what gets me is they were not scared and did ther job until the end so we all can live in peace. most of the air crew were rilouges, i dont know if u or your dad were but i am. it was sad that most pilots were only in their early 2o'sbut still dien for this naoton wich is now at war again. let prers be with the brave soljers whatever their job.
As u can see i am not that intellagent cause i am only 13, so until later bye

My brother Sgt. Arthur Brunnet BTG of 358thBS 303rd BG was ballturetgunner on B17 Cark"s crew that was killed in action Jan.3,1943. We've been looking at any websites dealing with the mighty eighth 303rd and 358thBs in particular. Even though your site is not of same time as his service it is truly a wonderful tribute,

jimfd kmfao fdmo

kmio mintqz

I was a B-17 ball turrent gunner with the 570 bomb squardron. My aircraft was Miss Carry. If you know of any surviving crewmembers let me know. We were at Frammingham England at the beginning of operations in July 1943 and left in Feb 1944 after completeing 25 missons.

Im looking for the name of my uncle Henry Gornek, I beleive he was a tail gunner in ww2

Hello John,

Long time no see! Hope all is well. I lost my copy of this book and was thrilled to see it available on Amazon. I'm going to order another copy and make sure my kids read it!

My Dad was a ball turret gunner. I regret to say I never listened much to his stories - and now it's too late to ask.

He used to severely punish me for my bad grades. After he died, my mother told me it was because his lack of a high school diploma he was a ball turret gunner. It was a bad experience for him. He would never get on an Airplane again.

I have a beautiful certificate - crossing the 180th meridian on the David W. Branch with the 343rd Fighting Group Shemya.

I joined the Air Force as well in 1971 -the first woman from Creek County Oklahoma to enlist in the military. Viet Nam Era.

Love you, Daddy. I never asked about your war stories...now I'd give anything to have heard them...Love, Aly

looking for as much information on my dads plane.he was in the 384 bg 545 bs.he flew in a b-17 the bomb group was 5404.the planes name was the geezil.in one of his mission the crew was shot down over the english channel they all survied.i would like to know what the names of the other planes where in which they flew in.my dads name was edward r stammel.he was a top turret gunner.
thank you
raymond stammel
957 western rd
castleton ny 12033

I had two uncles who flew multi engine transports in the Pacific theater; both made it ok. As a result I have been a lifelong aviation enthusiast and pilot/flight instructor.

Reading combat stories like this reminds me how ordinary men were thrown into extrodinary situations yet did so with bravery and loyalty to each other. I salute all who did this for the rest of us.........

a geat site and of great interest

jimfd kmfao fdmo

kmio mintqz

I WAS BALL BALL TURRET GUNNER ON A B-17, 390 BOMB GROUP 568 SQ. ON MARCH 18 1945 I WAS ON THE RICHARD BARRYMAN CREW AS A REPLACEMENT FOR FOR THEIR SICK BALL MAN.I WAS ON WY 6th MISSION & THEY ON THIER 15th. WE BONBED THE BERLIN RAIL STATION. A 88 SHELL WENT THRU OUR GAS TANK BUT DID NOT EXPLODE,WE LEFT FORMATION & HEADED FOR RUSSIA BUT 2 ME109 FIGHTER CUT US IN HALF. I GOT HIT IN THE LUNG & GOT OUT OF THE TURRET & BAILED OUT WITH THE RADIO OPERATOR BEHIND ME.THE PILOT+TAIL+WAIST GUNNER WENT DOWN WITH THE PLANE. I LANDED IN POLAND & APPRX. 30 MEN WITH GUNS BEAT ME UP BECAUSE I DID NOT SAY AMERICANSKI. THEY SHOT AND KILLED
THE RADIO OPERATOR BECAUSE HE LANDED IN A SMALL LAKE. I WAS TURNED OVER TO THE RUSSIANS. I WAS GIVEN SALT WATER FOR BLOOD I WAS A PRISONER OF THE RUSSIONS FOR ABOIT 8 DAYS & I ENDED UP IN NAPLES ITALY IN A HOSPITOL THEN TO FRANCE TO GET A BOAT BACK TO THE STATES,

I lived in Glatton from 1972 to 1992. My Dad was pricipal of the American Schools Overseas. I went to American Jr. High School at RAF Molesworth. We used to play in the old Air Traffic Control Tower. The walls were painted with murals and I remember being awestruck. My husband is retired Air Force and we went back to England from 1999 to 2003 but in Norfolk. My children went to school in North Pickenham which is also an old USAAF base. They have a special monument there and the pub is full of pictures.

jimfd kmfao fdmo

kmio mintqz

750th GI Virgin 2
Btm turret gunner
wonderful web page.

My heartfelt thanks to all of you
80 combat missions, Vietnam

This is a great site. I was looking for the poem "Death of a Ball Turrent Gunner" and found it.
I am a history nut and the B-17 is my favorite bomber and one of my all time favorite airplanes.

My father Dave Erwin was in the 97th/342 from 42-45 he was a engineer and top turrit gunner.

having been in the army i am constantly searching for info and stories regarding all branches of the services,and this is a very well put together tribute to the brave airmen of the war,and from my family thanks for your help during ww2,
bob

I accidentally found this page while trying to look up my granpa's mailing address...His name showed up from having signed the guestbook.

Frank Majeski would have been my father's great uncle. He was killed in his last voluntary mission in 1944 over Germany. I've only seen photos of him & an obituary notice printed in a 1944 local newspaper. His death must have left quite an impact on his survivors-as I am much aware of the legacy he left behind.

My father served with the 301st BG 32nd BS. He too was a ball turret gunner on a B-17. I do not know the name of his plane but the serial number was 42-6168. He was one of only two who survived from his craft when they were shot down over Austria on July 26, 1944. He spent the remainder of the war in a POW camp, Stalag Luft IV.

The only other survivor of that craft was Melvin Stark. He had contacted my family once, after my father passed away in 1985. It would be nice to hear from this gentleman or any others who may have known either Mr. Stark or my father.

May we find peace again soon and may we all remember all the sacrifices these men and women have made.

"What difference does it make to the dead, the orphans and the homeless, whether the mad destruction is wrought under the name of totalitarianism or the holy name of liberty or democracy? "
-Mahatma Gandhi

I saw the link to your site on the 457th BG site. Wow, I've got to get your book. I was looking for info about anything to do with Nov 30, 1944, the day my dad's plane was shot down on the mission to Bohlen, GE. I saw the short excerpt from your book "Dead Engine Kids". Thanks!

Anyone interested in these bombers should check out the poem "The Death of the Ball Turret Gunner" by Randall Jarrell (1914-1965). Great poem!

My Father was ball gunner 390th, 570th squadron (Jokers)
His name was Ralph "zimme" Zimmer, Anyone who served
with him, or family members that their Dads served in
the 390th, 568th, 569th,570th and 571th, please email
me, looking for info . Dad's ships were "Chappel in the sky"
and " Blood and Guts". This is a great site, God Bless.

Great site!!! I am a second generation Air Force veteran. My Father was in the Mighty 8th 457th out of
Leeds, England -Ronald Dale Reynolds, (my brother served
in Viet Nam with the Navy) I am a Viet Nam Era Vet (serving
1975-79) My daughter is a 3rd generation Air Force Vet.
Remy served in Kuwait and is now a US Govt employee as is
her father. She is married to an Air Force combat controller. We are very proud of our military service.
God Bless America.

Just discovered this website this afternoon. My husband Earl was a co-pilot on the Moonlight Serenade. Look forward to reading this.

John Briol was my uncle, my mothers brother. I read "Dead Engine Kids" years ago, and as a history buff I never realized until that moment the bravery and dedication that my uncles and father and the family back home had to endure.It's personal, it's real, and it still brings a tear to read. Johnny was really special to me, and one of my dads best friends. He was a Heros Hero.

MY DAD WAS A BALL TARET GUNNER IN THE WAR.HE NOW PASTED ON.I AM TRYING TO FIND MORE ABOUT HIS JOB AND SERVICE.IF ANYONE CAN HELP PLEASE E-MAIL ATTHE ABOVE ADRRESS.HIS NAME WAS ELLISON B. VICKERY

i am glad for all the men and women who gave there lives yo make sure not many people died and wish to meet one of these many veterans.

i am writing this for my stepfather Maynard Card. he was a ball turret gunner in WWII. he is looking for an Alaskan Air Command, Military Air Transport Service patch. if you can help me find it, would you please contact me at the following email address iskutt@aol.com, thank you for whatever you may be able to do
Ira Skutt

Inspirational website. I will have to purchase and read this book. My father, Herbert Lorance McCullough, was a navigator on B-17s in Europe with the 447th Bomb Group, 711 squadron from Nov. '44 to May '45. He flew 24 combat missions and was lead navigator of his Group on 16 of these missions. God bless you all.
Best Regards, Richard.

Took a flight today out of Hayward CA around the Bay Area over San Francisco on "Aluminum Overcast" EAA's B-17G and it was an unforgetable experience/ wwww.B17.org
It is WORTH it! Don't just imagine the experience, check the website and book a flight ~ AWESOME ~ plane is renovated to the smallest detail ~ what an experience to feel, smell what those aviators did for US. God Bless America!

ball turret gunner from 457th bomb group. read all of this, and etc. brings back memories and most of thembad. flew 35 missions in ball from june to dec 1944

I think this is a very nice site. It was very informational and helpful. It is a nice peice of memory for those that risked their lives

I cannot overstate my respect for the men who accepted what was almost certainly a suicide mission. If only we all had that much courage. God bless.

SIR: I salute ALL those brave men on the B-17. I'am also a veteran 64-69 Airborne/Scuba NAVY CORPSMAN Spcial Opts.Tech 8492 with MARINERECON.VIETNAM 67-68. When I was in London at St Pauls Catherdal there is a book dated each day bomber crews listed lost from the first bombing till the end of the war. I stood and looked at all the crew members lost on those days and it gave me lump in my throat. I stood in silence and people on the tour couldn't understand why I just stared at the list of names.I salute all those brave veterans of that era. A era of bravey beyond UNDERSTANDING.

Starting in the autumn of 1993 and through March of 1994 I posted to the news group rec.aviation.mil a series of stories about a B-17 called Boomerang Barbara. On the 50th anniversary of each of Boomerang Barbara’s 25 missions I posted the Radioman’s Diary, Side Gunners Flight Log, Stars and Stripes newspaper story, and a the memoir of the Tail gunner. B-17 Boomerang Barbara flew on the first large scale daylight bombing raid over Berlin on 6 March 1944. On of these days I’ll pull out that old manuscript and do something with it.

Really enjoyed your site. Am a member of the Dixie Wing down in Georgia. Have a ball turret that operates if anyone get down this way. (Dixiewing.org) Rodney Higginbotham

I'm looking for anyone who knew/knows my Father-in-law Salvador Velasquez. He was a Top Turret Gunner on the B-24. He was assigned to the 8th AF, 453rd Group, 732nd Squadron. He flew 25 missions in Europe from about May 1944 to about Sep 1944. He says his plane was called lucky 13.

Luis

I'm looking for anyone who knew/knows my Father-in-law Salvador Velasquez. He was a Top Turret Gunner on the B-24. He was assigned to the 8th AF, 453rd Group, 732nd Squadron. He flew 25 missions in Europe from about May 1944 to about Sep 1944. He says his plane was called lucky 13.

Luis

My dad was a ball turret gunner. I don't know his outfit or plane. I only know it was a B-17. His name is Leo Earl Paglow. I would so like to find his plane and crew picture. Anyone out there with any information would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

Excellent website. Thanks for sharing this with us!

Luke Waaler
Boulder, CO

Simply Thank you! You and all our heroes from my father's WWII generation allow us to live a life never dreamed of in the past.

The first war poem I ever read (when a teenager) was Randall Jarrell's 'Death of the Ball Turret Gunner. I can imagine nothing more horrific than being in that situation. The heroism of those men must have been equal to the terror they felt. Tragic.

Hello,writting to tell you my passoin for W.W.2 aviation.To think how this country was able to use it's resorces to acomplish building so many of the aircraft that was needed to win the war.This will never be seen again.

I was researching the B-17 and found your site. Awesome, powerful stories. God bless your father, all war veterans, and those who gave their lives in battle, as well as those who continue to protect us and our right to freedom every day. Were it not for these brave men and women, our lives would be so very different.

Best regards,
Carol

My uncle was Charles S. Lail Jr. Bombadier with the 388th / 562nd. He was killed during the November 29, 1943 raid on Bremen. Take a look at my url ; all comments welcome. That is just my small attempt at honoring these heroes. Thanks for your efforts.

I was with the 388th Bomb Group, Our ship was namrd Satansister we went for 14 missiom. I flew the ball turret and liked it . Was shot down and taken pow in 17-B for 18 months and returened home . The rest of my crew are all resting in heaven now I am by myself. Thought you would like to know . Regards Frank.

I flew with the 8th Airforce, 92nd Bomb Group, 327th Sqdn. Out of Podington,England. I flew as a ball turret gunner/ Aerial Engineer on a B17 Bomber. I flew 10 boming missions from Dec, 1943 until Feb. 22, 1945 at which time we were shot down and I became a POW. First at Stalag Luft 6, Heydekrug, East Prussia, Then was subjected to the infamous Heydekrug run, where we were shacled, run with vicious dogs and jabbed with bayonettes. From there Sent to Stalag Luft 4, Grosty Tychow, Poland. From Feb. 6th I was on the 86 day German Death march until Liberated by the English Army, May 2nd 1945

Pleased to see your site, My Father( Reno D. Neitzke)was assigned out of the 379th to the 526th out of Kimbolton,England, He flew 33 missions from 9/43 to 4/44 He was bombidiar and shared duties as ball turrett and nose gunner positions. He was shot down over Belgium and made refuge on a farm where for 2 weeks before he got back to his division,Shot down again and forced landed into the English channel as they only had one good engine which was not able allow their aircraft the power to climb over the cliffs of Dover.I am so proud of my Father and all others who stood in the face of Evil and defended freedom, What a honor!

My dad was a ball turret gunner in the 774th BS, 463rd BG 15th AF out of Fogia , Italy. Just checking this site out, looking for a squadron patch.

Just happened to come across this site. I am now 81 years old but still remember my days with the 8th Air Force, the 388th Bomb Group, based in Knettishall, England. I too was a Ball Turret Gunner on a B-17 named the Cisero Kid, simply because the Crew Chief was from Cisero, Ill. Just happened to be "flying" a B-17 on one of my flight simulators when I came across this site. To the few of you BTO'S that are still around, have a great day and "Keep 'Em Flying."

RGB

Was watching the History Channel about the Ball Turret Gunners and thought I would check out the Web.
Thanks you for sharing your site.

Complimenti per il sito, è emozionante vedere un pezzo di storia vissuta.


Ciao Roberto

Dear Sirs
I live in the village of 'Holme' England, this is only half a mile from the old runways. For the second year I have taken and lit a candle on Christmas Eve . This burns on the war memorial to the men who flew from Glatton Field.
I wanted to let you know that I and many local people still remember those young men who gave their lives for the fredom of Europe.

Best Wishes
Stuart Gibbons
11 Church St
Holme
England
PE7 3PB

CORRECTION: John, my dad's last mission was to Ruhland (not Bremen) the day before your dad's, 9/11/44. There is a museum in the Czech Republic dedicated to this mission which liberated their people.

John:

My dad was a ball turret gunner in a B-17 as well. He was with the 100th BG 350th squadron out of Thorpe Abbotts. They were shot down on their 32nd or 33rd mission (Bremen) when the 'Bloody 100th' was pretty well decimated. His crew survived and were taken POW. He passed away on 11/11/87 at the age of 70. He you can assume Veterans Day now has additional significance.

I found your site by searching for B-17 crew books/diaries and particulary anything specific to ball turret gunners.

Have a very merry Christmas and a happy, prosperous and safe new year!

Thanks!

wow, this is very interresting.

My father served as a carrier pilot in the Pacific Theatre in WWII and Korea. I was an Air Force Reserve Officer and F-4E pilot from 1974 to 1983. I can only imagine what it was truly like over Europe in your B-17s and B-24s. It always amazes me that we can always find outstanding young men and women to serve and do almost impossible things almost routinely. I am currently building a B-17G diorama and I wanted to get as authentic a scene as I could. Your site not only honors the men you served with, but plays an important part in keeping a historical record of the part you and your fellow airmen played in keeping the "world safe for democracy." Thanks for your service and this site.

Thank you for serving our country. Your dedication is greatly appreciated. I enjoyed reading your contritubution to American History. May the Lord continue to bless, guide and keep you in his care. Sincerely- Carla Key

South African medical doctor.

Interested in B-17's and B29's. Saw Twewlve 'o Clock High and read widely on Hisroshima, and last three years of WWII: sparked interest.

Interesting web-siste.

Regards,

Manie.

Thanks for sharing,,,,,,, Fabulous info,,,,, more people need to read stories like these , to remember what it sometimes takes, to remain in the standards of living that we have today......

The U.S and its people are forever indebted to those who fought and continue to fight for freedom. I found your sight while researching a college paper on Randall Jarrell'
"The Death of a Ball Turret Gunner"
Thank You
Kevin

MY FATHER WAS ALSO A B-17 BALL TURRENT GUNNER IN WWII. HE WAS IN THE 306TH ECHOES_368TH SQUADRON. I HAVE GREAT RESPECT FOR ALL THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO SERVED OUR COUNTRY IN WWII. YOU HAVE ONE HELL OF A SITE!

Great reading, my Dad was a ball turret gunner with the 379th.
Thank you and all the men and woman that defended this land during WWII.
Oct 2006

I recently started reading a new book entitled "In The Shadows Of War" by Thomas Childers, and saw that teh pilot of the B-17 in the book flew with the 45tth bomb group. I was surprised to see that there were web sites related to the group. My father was the personell officer in the 457th, Major John F.Shinners (Jack). He died in 1972, but I remember hin talking about the group and Col. Luper and others. I have several pictures from the group, including strike photos and mission boards etc. I would enjoy hearing from anyone who served with my father. Thank you for your service!!!!!

My uncle,Sgt.Frank Majeski was a Turret Gunner on a B-17.he was killed over Politz,Germany on his last mission in witch he volantereed to fly.The name of their plane was the "SONOFABLITZ."His father was born close to where he was killed! We would like to hear from any one who had relatives that knew him.That was an unbelieveable bomber.You had to be really small to fit in the space to be a turret gunner.Those men were all HEROES IN THAT WAR.He was my best friend,and my HERO!

I had a uncle,Frank Majeski that was a Ball Turret Gunner on a B-17 and was killed over Germany in 1944.

I live in peterborough and remember well the boys of the 457th, I remember the aircraft returning over my school
many were battle damaged and fired off the red flares
for wounded aboard

My father S./Sgt. Joseph Ribeck was a ball turret gunner during WWII. He flew in a B-17 nicknamed "Boomerang" with the 97th Bomb Group 342nd Squadron. He completed his 50th mission on his 23rd birthday, May 10, 1943. He passed away 5 years ago on January 31, 2001. I filmed him when he was about 70 years old. I wanted to document his commitment and dedicated service he so bravely gave to our country. He was awarded many medals but never received the D.F.C. (Distinguished Flying Cross), which he should have received. If anyone can assist me in doing so I would be forever grateful! My father, Joseph Ribeck was and always will be my hero.

Whenever I visit his grave I bring along Lee Greenwood's song: "God Bless The USA". It is because of all the brave men and women who fought for our country that we have freedom today. Thank you. You shall never be forgotten.

I'm 52. My father Joseph was in Belgium and a brakeman on a train transporting prisoners and ammo and attacked by the Luftwaffe despite night time operations. The Luftwaffe pilots saw the smokestack cinders.I've always been fascinated by the B-17 and the ball turret battle station and the day to day life of the B-17 crew.

There is no just war. There are only just and brave men who do the right thing. J.W.

My gradfather was T/SGT. Paul K. Ellis Jr., an Engineer/Top Turret Gunner on "The Lucky Strike" S/N: 42-29923 from the 8th AF 532nd BS 381st BG out of Ridgewell, UK. He flew twenty-seven missions before his tour was up and was awarded various metals including the "Air Metal" & "Distinguished Flying Cross".

I am looking for any pictures that might have his plane or crew in them, as well as anyone who might remember him.

HELLO :
MY DAD WAS A B 17 PILOT, but sadly he is gone.
I FLEW ON THE (909), the restored version . I am
really surprized at the juice these babys had.
God bless you for your web page.
My son now has and cherishes the ww 11 sheepskin
flying suit.
Those were the days of glory, maybe Tom Brocaw
was right... You were the best generation.
We're not done yet ....
THANKS DAVID

I am 80 years old but I thought I had written my story several months ago. I'll try again

I served with the George Cathey crew at the 384 group and 547 sqdn for 28 missions. On April 5, 1945 we were returning from a milk run when we ran into heavy clouds from the ground up. I was in the ball and due to orders remained there until the pilot told me to get out because of the danger. I laid on the radio roon floor and fell asleep. It was one of those times when you sleep for minutes and think it has been hours. I woke due to sudden jerking and with the bail out bell ringing. We had ramed another B17 and lost part of our left wing. I bailed out and landed in trees. Since I had slept so long I thought we were over England. On the way down I had spotted a large "castle" and hoped I would spend time drinking scotch with the resident while waiting to be picked up. I got out to an open space and there was a german helmet on top of a new grave. Walking toward what looked like a dirt path there were signs posted "danger Mines" and "Actung Minen". I hoped I was in friendly territory. It turns out that I was right close to a village called "St Vith" Belgium which was right on the German Belgium Border. It was friendly territory and we were given directions to walk to an American Unit Luckily we ran into a squad who helped us start bck to England

With deep gratitude to all our airmen for their sacrifices during WWII.

Ted Lehwald

I'm 73 now and flew in a B-17 in 1998!! No place for a portly senior. Collingwood Foundation plane. I worked for a gentleman who was command pilot, Fred D. Gillogly was his name. Would like to hear from anyone who knew him. I am an avid modeler and the B-17 is my favorite aircraft.

Ran across your site while researching "The Mustang", B-17F41-24554 of the 43rd and 19th BG in Port Moresby, New Guinea for a model that I am building. If anybody haas any information I would really appreciate it. Not a lot of information on these guys.
Your site, and your Dad's diary are really interesting. My Uncle flew c-46's out of England and his only remark abou;t the B-17 was," That's a wonderful Airplane." So were the guys who flew in them wonderful. My thanks to your Dad and the others.

it's nice and I'm proud to be briol

Hi!
I'am young man living in Politz. Now it's polish land and I want to BIG THANKS for everyone who was fighting for this land. Words are not enought to say it, but now I can learning, working, living in peace in Police( now Politz is called Police in polish language)because of Yours bravery and so big courage. I am very grateful for all You've done for us.
PEACE!

Had a second cousin that died in a lancaster over europe
and just wanted to say thank-you.
Daren Revell