LatePass 2023

LATEPASS

THE PRESIDENT’S REPORT

27th Reunion Wichita, KS, September 2022

BY RICHARD LAPHAM, PRESIDENT

The Flying Horsemen

449th Bombardment Group (H) B-24 Aircraft

Long Range Heavy Bomber

WWII European Theater

15th Air Force, 47th Bomb Wing

449th Bombardment Group

Bomb Squadrons:

716, 717, 718, 719

January 1944 – April 1945

Grottaglie, Italy

Bombardment Targets

Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Yugoslavia

254 Combat Missions

In 475 days of combat, 111 B-24 bombers lost, 199 Axis fighters destroyed

Personnel Loss/Intered or Evaded

396 KIA / 63 DED (other deaths) 359 POW / 186 Evaded / 9 Interned

Distinguished Unit Citations (DUC)

Bucharest, Romania, April 4, 1944

Ploesti, Romania, July 9, 1944

WWhat Now? Almost 40 years to the day since the 449th Bomb Group association was formed, there now appears the strong possibility that no veterans will be attending our 28th Reunion in Washington, D.C. — no one in attendance for which the Association was originally formed. I have been asked dozens of times over the last many years, what happens when there are no veterans to attend. Will we continue as an association? I suppose we of the 2nd generation knew the day would eventually come but preferred not to think about it. We can no longer kick the can down the road; the day has arrived.

I have always thought of the 449th second generation as a second family, good people connected by a common cause. As the baton gets handed off at the final hour, I envision the second generation as a reflection of our veterans, merely an extension of the greatest generation. To fight the good fight against a rapidly changing society that tends to dismiss the past in favor of the here and now, striving for instant gratifica-

tion. I feel it is our destiny to carry on with the Mission the Veterans have left behind in our capable hands. Our mission of this association is unchanged. To demonstrate, to educate, to strive by every means possible to ensure that our Country will never forget the Greatest Generation and the men and women that sacrificed so much to make it so.

The Path Forward. “Do something. If it works, do more of it. If it doesn’t, do something else.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt. This quote would seem to epitomize the 449th Bomb Group. Not only in combat, but later as an association. And what has prevailed for so long and given life to the 449th BG is the centerpiece, the Reunions. A place where most legacy projects have come to life: Publication of LatePass, the Memorial at Wright-Pat airbase and later the recovery efforts for the downed Hanson & Kendall crews and the arduous undertaking of the Maximum Effort Tour project, documenting remaining veterans. Then there is the exciting Legacy pros-

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449th BOMB GROUP ASSOCIATION

THIS ISSUE IS DEDICATED TO THE FARRINGTON CREW. THAT WE NEVER FORGET THE ATROCITIES OF WAR THESE AIRMEN ENDURED.

McConnell Air Force Base. Home of the USAF KC-135 Stratotanker Aerial Refueling Tanker

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pects to come: Possible involvement with Museums, increasing website and Facebook exposure, possible partnering with VFW, American Legion, Military installations to name a few.

But our reunions have become far more than a “think tank” for legacy projects. It is an event to which you travel and explore various locations throughout the United States, to reconnect with old friends and make new ones, to share and experience new adventures, and to memorialize and give thanks to our veterans.

Further, several of our members have found our reunions a perfect venue to get together with family members from across the nation. The Schwartz family has taken advantage of such an opportunity and enjoyed their family reunion at the Nashville and Wichita reunions.

For me, and I suspect many other members, the 449th BGA reunions have been a blessing, an amazing gift from our veterans. A place that has enriched the lives for many of us in the second generation. First, the many fine people I have met – good caring people with common interests, united by a common cause. Secondly, the wonderful places I have visited – places that never entered my mind. Places like Rapid City, SD – Ellsworth AFB, Crazy Horse and Mt Rushmore, Reno, NV –honored at the air show and later a private audience with the band Alabama, Dayton, Ohio – dinner under the Wings at Wright-Patterson AF Museum, Louisville, Kentucky – Grabbing a few ounces of turf at Churchill Downs racetrack for a souvenir, Charleston, SC – our buses escorted through town arriving for dinner on the USS Yorktown, San Antonio, TX – the Alamo & Fredericksburg (home of the Museum of the Pacific), New Orleans, LA – WWII National History Museum with an impressive banquet dinner in the main hall, Charlottesville, NC – Keynote speaker Robert Wilke (Secretary of VA) and banquet dinner snuggled up to “Miracle on the Hudson,” Nashville, TN, fun town, great music, great dinner show with Ray Stevens, Wichita, KS – joining the WWI 15th AAF, sharing with other bomb groups that served in Italy, and McConnell AFB home of KC 135 Stratotanker refueling tanker.

President Reagan once said of the 449th, “...we owe these veterans a debt that we can never repay.” For the second generation and beyond we can make our best effort. Not only for their sacrifices in the defense of our nation, but how they have enriched our lives by including us in the 449th Bomb Group Association. We in turn should play it forward by making a maximum effort to educate and cultivate interest in the third, fourth generations and beyond.

An Obligation for the next generation. I have often thought that saying that our Veterans gave us our “freedom” was not enough, a shallow statement. When checking out the next reunion is D.C. I read about the Charter of Freedom, located on the Rotunda of the National Archives Museum. A place that houses the actual Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence. Then it flashed into my head, the veterans were fighting and dying to safeguard our country’s most precious treasure, the core

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• White House

• U.S. Capitol

• Arlington National Cemetery

• Air Force Memorial

• Air & Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center

• Korean War Veterans Memorials

• Library of Congress

• Lincoln Memorial

• Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

• National Mall

• National Museum of the US Army

• National WWII Memorial

• Smithsonian Museums

• Thomas Jefferson Memorial

• Vietnam Wall

• Washington Monument

• Washington’s Mt. Vernon

AND SO MUCH MORE!

NAME:

WASHINGTON, D.C. | OCT. 12 – 15, 2023 WWII 449TH BOMB GROUP ASSOCIATION

REGISTRATION FORM OR REGISTER ONLINE AT: WWW.449TH.COM

SQDN: 716th 717th 718th 719th HQ Unknown

Total of persons attending. Are you the Veteran or Spouse/Widow of Veteran Yes No

If NO, please state relationship & Veteran’s name:

Name(s) of all attendees as they will appear on the NAME TAGS:

Other AFFILIATION: Name: Assgn.:

Name(s) of all attendees as they will appear on the NAME TAGS:

Home Address: City: State: Zip Code: Phone:

Email: Check if appropriate: New Home Address New Email Address

This is my 1st reunion Yes No I have attended # of Reunions You will be traveling by: Plane Car

Please make check payable to: 449th BG Association

Mail check to: Mary Crowley / 449th BG Secretary 16292 Content Circle Huntington Beach, CA 92649

• Rooms: $112 per night (2 Queens) and includes breakfast buffet for 2 per room.

2520

Wasser Terrace

Starting Monday, October 9 through Wednesday, October 18, extra days will be added to the Group Rate for all participants, allowing everyone to take advantage of the nearly endless list of things to see in Washington D.C. area.

– Reserve early: The block of rooms reserved for the reunion is limited. “First come, first served.”

– Last Day to Book: Friday, September 22, 2023

– Online Reservations: tiny.cc/449th

• Reservations must be made by September 22, 2023, to be guaranteed the group rate.

ANY QUESTIONS – Don’t hesitate to call! Mary Crowley California: 714-925-8111

• Cancellation of reservation, 72 hours (3 days) prior to arrival at NO CHARGE

• The hotel is Pet Friendly.

• Free Parking for our group.

• The hotel offers a Free Airport Shuttle to Dulles International Airport and to the nearby Metro light rail station.

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION

Register before August 1, 2023

– A chance to win two free nights at the Westin (Double occupancy/DD Room)

no later than Sunday, October 1, 2023.

In conjunction with other affiliated WWII Fifteenth Air Force Bomb Group Associations — A Joint Reunion

9:30 am to 4:30 pm

449th Veteran / Wife / Widow

Primary Family Member (Not a Veteran, Widow or Companion)

DAY TOUR: A Must See... Monuments & Landmarks

You name it & we will probably see it! White House, U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress, Lincoln, Jefferson & Washington Memorials, MLK, National Mall, War Memorials (Vietnam, Korean, WWII)... AND SO MUCH MORE! Several Step-off stops for pictures /with time for lunch on your own.

to

$67

George Washington’s estate on the banks of the Potomac. (Lunch on your own). 9:30

6:00 pm

8:15 am to 4:30 pm

6:30 pm

OPTIONAL TOUR: Mount Vernon

WELCOME DINNER AND MEETING: Salad /Sandwich/Dessert Bar

Choice of two salads, build your own sandwich, two desserts, plus Starbucks coffee & tea. (If you prefer to dine on your own, please join us at 7:00 pm for the information part of the meeting).

DAY TOUR: National Museum of the US Army & Udvar-Hazy Air & Space Museum

Army Museum provides the only comprehensive portrayal of Army History and traditions. Celebrating over 245 years of army history. Air & Space Museum Udvar Center is the world’s largest collection of historic space and aviation artifacts. Food venues available with lunch on your own.

INDIVIDUAL BOMB GROUP DINNERS / 449th BG SQUADRON NIGHT

# of Meals: Char Crusted Flank Steak Pan-Seared Salmon Artichoke & Spinach Ravioli

9:00

10:00 am to 4:00 pm

OPTIONAL: 15th AF PRESENTATION: 4 Presentations (Times TBA)

John Cappello, Halyard Mission Foundation-The Forgotten 500 in Serbia / Mike Croissant, Mission to Linz, Austria 25 April ‘44 / Phillippe Castellano, 15th AF WWII crash sites in France / (Anticipating but no yet confirmed)

Newly Appointed Commanding General of the 15th AF & 15th AF Historian. Lunch break from 12:00-2:00 pm.

OPTIONAL: 449th BG VOLUNTEER AMBASSADORS: (10:30 am - 2:00 pm) After the 449th BG Memorial Service at the hotel, 449th BG Ambassadors will board a bus to the Air Force Memorial where the Memorial Red Roses and a Flying Horsemen wreath will be laid in honor of the 449th BG. Next, a short 15-minute drive to Arlington Cemetery. Board a private tram for a tour around the grounds with stops at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider, gravesite of President JFK and the Enteral Flame. Admissions and tram tour cost are included. The bus will be return to hotel by 2:00 pm for afternoon presentations OR you may wish to continue your own and catch the Metro or shuttle bus right at Arlington station to the National Mall / Return MetroSilver line - Innovation Center – one mile from the hotel. NO LUNCH STOP.

Bus Transportation to and from Air Force Memorial & Arlington Tram Tour

Arlington National Cemetery TRAM ONLY (Not riding on the bus /taking own car)

OPTIONAL: ON YOUR OWN: A day to explore downtown, visit the sites at the Mall. You can catch the metro!

5:15 pm

6:00 pm

9:15 am to 5:00 pm

6:00 pm

GROUP PICTURES & HAPPY HOUR Location TBD

ALL BOMB GROUPS BANQUET DINNER Musical entertainment by THE DC THREE # of Meals: Grilled Top Sirloin Mediterranean Salmon Grilled Portobello w/Spinach on Wild Rice

15TH

$67

$43

$63

$63/ea

GROUP MEMORIAL SERVICE & TOUR

Memorial Service at the Air Force Memorial, continue to Arlington Cemetery for tram tour, depart Arlington for the National Mall, stopping at the Vietnam Wall, Lincoln Monument, National WWII Memorial. Box lunch of a hearty sandwich, chips, and water included in cost.

FAREWELL DINNER: AZTEC BUFFET

Chicken Tortilla Soup, Chicken Fajitas, Rice & Beans, Caramel Flan & Tres Leches Cake Desserts

$63/ea

$95

$56

Schwartz Family, 717th BS Family Reunion

of our very existence, The Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence. I can only wish that every child in America could visit Washington D.C. to view and understand our history and the foundation of our democracy. Although not possible, we of the second generation can make an effort to include our children and grandchildren – and possibly great grandchildren. To see and feel the Lincoln and Washington monuments, WWII, Korean and Vietnam memorials, the National Archives Museum and much, much more. And to see and understand what their grandfathers, great grandfather, and uncles fought and died for during WWII. A powerful experience, far beyond any classroom!

And lastly a word from one of our own, a Veteran from the 449th BG. A statement I am sure passed through the minds of the majority of 449th Veterans while fighting the war: “I stared at the ceiling as I thought of the names; Zimmerman, Hays, Council, Po link, Garrison, Thiem, Kendall, Frone, Woltkamp, Woodle, MacCormick, Olson, Phillips; the replacements, Heinbuck, Anderson, Rustadt. Each name 10 men, not four officers and 6 enlisted men but 10 damned good American men. Now either a P.O.W. or spread over acres of European soil. War, sure it’s hell, but how many others realize it. I wonder how long it will be after this mess is over that they will be remembered?”

Well, almost 80 years after the question was asked, it can now be answered. No, they haven’t been forgotten. And their memory and heroic deeds will continue to be remembered as long as the veterans- their ideals, courage, and patriotism are carried on in the hearts and minds of their descendants.

Looking forward to seeing everyone in D.C. and BRING THE FAMILY!

RECAP OF WICHITA REUNION SEPTEMBER 2022

BY ELAINE TROGDON, VICE PRES. & DENISE RIEGEL, ARCHIVES

which the PX was located. This positive energy led to a unanimous recommendation from the Board to continue our reunion with the larger 15th AF group, followed by a vote in support of this recommendation by the membership at our Business Meeting.

This was the 449th’s first reunion as part of the larger 15th Air Force group, which consists of a total of 12 Bomb Groups within the 15th Air Force. Since the numbers of our veterans were waning, the 449th decided at our reunion in Nashville in 2021 to “try out” having our future reunions with the larger group of the 15th Air Force, with the understanding that we would still have our own Squadron Dinner and our own Memorial Service. Additionally, the plan was that if we were not happy with this merger, we would go back to having our own individual reunion.

Thursday – The reunion started off with the Welcome Night Dinner and 15th AF Reunions information meeting led by Dave Blake, Reunion Committee Chair. Different groups attending were recognized and a big welcome was given to the 449th BGA attending their first reunion with the 15th AF Group.

Although the format had some minor variations from the 449th’s usual reunion schedule, the overwhelming feeling from the 449th members who attended was that it was a big success - a win-win for both the 449th BGA and the larger 15th AF group. We were welcomed by everyone we met. Our Px was a particular hit! Much information was exchanged and camaraderie developed over the free drinks at the bar in the large meeting room in

Friday – Our first full day started out with the McConnell AFB Tour. And it did not disappoint. The base is home of KC-135 Stratotanker, the US Air Force’s first jetpowered refueling tanker used to refuel strategic bombers and tactical fighters. We toured the Fueler Hanger and were treated to a tour inside the KC-135. The

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proud airmen showed how operations were run from the computer banks and our members were thrilled to meet the woman pilot in the cockpit!

Our last stop was to the Dole Center complex, named in honor of Senator Robert J. Dole, who was a Kansas native, severed during WWII in Italy and was wounded in 1945. The entire group was the guest of the 22d Air Refueling Wing at McConnell AFB for lunch and this was no ordinary mess hall meal! Closing with a few facts: The base operates and maintains 37 KC-135s and 20 KC -46s supporting worldwide aerial refueling and airlift operations with the airfield consisting of 57 parking spots and 7 hanger spaces.

After lunch the tour included a stop at the Kansas Aviation Museum right next door to the AFB. Wichita, nicknamed Air Capital of the World, as early as the 1920’s, gave a quick glimpse of Kansas aviation glory days. The final stop was the Veterans Memorial Park. Located along the banks of the Arkansas River, it features 17 memorials representing six wars and every branch of the military.

Evening – Bomb Group Dinners / 449th Squadron Dinner. The evening started with our traditional Presentation of Colors, the National Anthem and Star-Spangled Banner, Introduction of each squadron and their banners. There were 62 members attending, representing 23 families. We also recognized 6 First-Timer Attendees for the reunion. And not to forget the Hat Parade by the women of 449th!

The main event was the presentation of The Anatomy of a Mission to demonstrate the planning and coordination required for several bomb groups from the 15th Air Force participating in one mission. That Maximum Effort mission was Operation Dragoon, the invasion of Southern France 6 weeks after the successful Normandy D-Day landings. Alan Davis and Mary Crowley narrated the mission accompanied by slides.

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Then a surprise visit to the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit) with exhibits of historical ordnance going back to WWI to the future of high-tech robots equipped for disposal capabilities.

449th BG Campaign Battle Ribbons

716th Bomb Squadron

717th Bomb Squadron

718th Bomb Squadron

719th Bomb Squadron

EOD Classroom

The narrative ended with 11 members sitting in the B-24 personnel formation sharing comments from our own men from the mission reports. Each from the perspective of their position on the ship. It was a fun presentation and gave the perspective of how the 449th was a part of the bigger 15th AF. Just as we shared our reunion with other 15th AF Bomb Groups.

of the meaning of each fold of the American flag. (see page 9)

Speaking on behalf of those who were in attendance, it was a privilege to participate in the RED ROSE walk. As each fallen airman’s name was called, we honored his service by escorting a rose and placing it on his Bomb Squadron table. A somber moment, but a passionate reflection for the Greatest Generation. Thank you to the families who gave a meaningful purpose to this beautiful ceremony. Though not present, your overwhelming support truly defined the spirit and the promotion of the 449th Bomb Group legacy. — Mary Crowley, 717th BS

ALL

The room was filled, stories were shared, glasses clinked and the entertainment by Kenny Ray Horton was toe tapping!

Sunday – Was casual with a tour to the Museum of World Treasures with lunch in Old Town Wichita /Cow Town. The reunion was concluded that evening with a FAREWELL DINNER and all were looking forward to meeting one another next year in DC.

The evening finished with a post mission S2 briefing and the traditional “whiskey” in 449th BGA shot glasses.

Saturday – Our Memorial Service was once again very moving with our Red Rose Ceremony, walking roses for 148 veterans. The Honor Guard presented and retired the Colors, and the service was concluded by two retired Korean war veterans playing a very moving rendition of Echo Taps, making this ceremony especially memorable. A highlight of the service was the description

Sanford Jones 455th BG, 740th Squadron

Bud Pressel, 484th BG, 825th Squadron

Harvey Gann, 449th BG, 718th Squadron

Ken Hoffman, 483rd BG, 816th Squadron

Lynn - Our Very Own Rosy the Riveter

BOMB GROUPS BANQUET DINNER.

Base Honor Guard, McConnell AFB

WWII Vets Attending the 15th AF Reunion Banquet Dinner.

Special thanks to 2nd Generation, Lynn Moran (718th) for organizing the 50/50 raffle that ran for several days. The impressive fundraiser was a great success, and the proceeds she raised were split between the 449th BG & 15th.

AMERICAN FLAG FOLDING

BY ALAN DAVIS, 2ND GEN, 716TH

13 FOLDS OF AN AMERICAN FLAG

First fold: This is a symbol of life itself.

Second fold: The second fold is for a belief in eternal life and legacy. In other words, those who serve the nation are remembered forever.

Third fold: The third fold honors all veterans who no longer serve but have given their service to better the nation.

Fourth fold: This fold recognizes that many trust in God and turn to a higher power for guidance during hard times.

Fifth fold: Simply put, the fifth fold is a way to recognize the country as a whole.

Sixth fold: This is the number where our hearts lie. With our hearts, we pledge our allegiance to the nation and the flag. This is like how you put your hand over your heart when you say the pledge of allegiance.

One of the most symbolic ways we can show our appreciation for our deceased Veterans is by incorporating the American flag into this Memorial Service. Nicknamed “Old Glory” by the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, it has continued to represent and honor those defenders who have sacrificed and fought for our freedom.

Though the flag ultimately defines our country’s historical foundation, we must equally remember the symbolism of its design. Each star stands for a state. Each stripe stands for one of the 13 original colonies. The color RED represents hardiness and valor, WHITE stands for purity and innocence and BLUE represents vigilance, perseverance and justice.

Such a powerful symbol comes with its own unique traditions and etiquette.

The source and date of origin of the 13-fold procedure is unknown, but it has been generally accepted that the flag itself is folded 13 times to represent the original colonies of the United States.

In addition, the folding pays tribute to all those have served in the Armed Forces, their families, and civilians. It honors the many facets of service, commitment and sacrifices that have been made throughout our country’s 250 years of history.

Seventh fold: The seventh fold is a tribute to the United States Armed Forces who serve and protect the country.

Eighth fold: One of the most solemn folds, this honors those who lost their lives fighting for the country.

Ninth fold: This fold symbolizes womanhood. It’s through the strength and love of women that the country’s children are molded. In other words, this is a nod to motherhood.

Tenth fold: Similarly, the tenth fold is for fathers who give their sons and daughters for the defense of the country.

Eleventh fold: This fold honors religion. It particularly represents the seal of King David and King Soloman. It also glorifies the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob for those of the Jewish faith.

Twelfth fold: Another symbol of religion, this fold honors the emblem of eternity in Christianity.

Thirteenth fold: Last but not least, this final fold is for the nation’s motto: “In God we trust.”

Narrated by Gary Smith (717th) & 3RD GENERATION MEMBERS: Chris and Kimberly Hoglund - Grandfather Donald Hoglund, 716th BS Elliot Crew, Navigator / Darby Crowley - Grandfather Wally Green, Ivers Crew, Radio Op & Rt Waist Gunner

BOMB GROUP ASSOCIATION BOARD

449TH BG LEGACY

TThe 449th BGA Board of Directors have been bestowed with the responsibility (and privilege) to investigate all means available to carry on the legacy of the 449th Bomb Group; to seek opportunities wherever and whenever possible to ensure that our veteran’s sacrifices and commitment to our Country will never be forgotten.

As fate would have it, it appears that such an opportunity has presented itself to our Group. Dan and Carol Livingston have made the decision to move the David Duane Livingston Memorial Museum / Home of the WWII 449th BG, from their private location in San Jose, CA to the Wings of History Museum located in San Martin, CA. As most are aware, Dan and Carol have been major supporters of the 449th BGA for many years. Together they have collected and preserved donated 449th BG memorabilia and without any reservation, have housed, cataloged and privately funded the 449th BG museum over the last decade. Both have spent untold hours working to preserve the 449th BG legacy and there is no greater pride than to observe some of these displays that they bring to our reunions.

The Wings of History is a historical aviation museum that has been in existence for over 25 years and is a nonprofit organization that operates using donations and membership dues. Please check it out at: wingsofhistory.org. In viewing the site, you can see that Dan has already done an amazing job constructing cabinets and setting up the exhibits that are inclusive to the 449th BG.

With continued support from members of the 449th BGA through PX sales, individual donations, reunion support and Red Rose Memorial, the 449th BGA finds itself with additional funds in our operating account. Since the primary goal of the BGA Board is to actively promote and preserve the legacy of the 449th BG, these funds could possibly assist in our endeavor.

In light of this new opportunity for the 449th BGA to partner with the Wings of History Museum, the Board is seeking the support of the membership to have the authority to make donations that promote the 449th’s legacy for future generations.

BOARD ACTIONS:

The Board is now calling for the support of the membership to go forward, to give the Bomb Group Association Board the authorization to make donations.

1. Are you in favor of the 449th Bomb Group Association making donations to organizations OUTSIDE of the 449th BG which support our goal to enhance and promote the legacy of the WWII 449th Bomb Group Association?

2. If so, are you in favor of granting the Board the authority to make decisions regarding OUTSIDE donations, to include donation recipients and donation amounts consistent with the guiding principles described above?”

The Board would like to act upon this issue and would greatly appreciate input from the membership.

Please direct all your responses and or questions to: Mary Crowley, 449th BGA secretary. 449thsecretary@gmail.com or written responses: 16292 Content Circle, Huntington Beach, CA 92649

Responses need to be received by July 31, 2023.

No response will be counted as an affirmative position

Your support and membership are greatly valued for the future of the 449th BG Association!

449th Bomb Group Association Officers | 2023

President: Richard Lapham, 2nd Gen, 719th

Vice President: Elaine Trogdon Martz, 2nd Gen, 719th

Secretary: Mary Crowley, 2nd Gen, 717th

Treasurer: Thad Mahoney, 2nd Gen, 719th

449th BG Historian: Mark Coffee, 2nd Gen, 718th

Archives Manager: Denise Riegel, 2nd Gen, 718th

449th BG Museum: David Duane Livingston Memorial Museum

Dan & Carol Livingston, 2nd Gen, 718th

Chaplain:

Rev. Denise Trogdon, 2nd Gen, 719th

Executive Assistant: Rod Miller, 2nd Gen, 716th

Public Relations: Sandra Latta, 2nd Gen, 718th

PX Officers: Gary Smith & Debbie Utz, 2nd Gen, 717th

Veterans Correspondence: Lynn Moran, 2nd Generation, 718th

Social Media Research

Tad Garner, 3rd Gen, 717th

Work continues at the home of the 449th BG as part of the David Duane Livingston Memorial Museum at the Wings of History Museum in San Martin, Ca.

The website offers among other aviation artifacts, WWII displays including a recent cabinet dedicated exclusively to the 449th as well as a B-24 cockpit section constructed by Dan Livingston and Jose Lara in remembrance of Lt. Thomas Chandler (pilot) and his crew noting his name and missions flown by Sinner’s Dream.

As we are a part of display planning, we are looking toward additional areas to expand our ideas. Interest in the future of Wings of History is assured with the recent acceptance of the donation of an autonomous electric flight airplane which can soon be viewed on the sight as well.

449th Bomb Group Cabinet includes the following items:

• Kendall crew print “Discovery of Kendall’s B24”

• Shadow Box of DPAA Ceremony opening new building in Oahu and presentation of “Just a Bad Day” in 2015 by Dan Livingston on behalf of the 449th Bomb Group

• “Just a Bad Day” print

• “Escape I must” riveting book written by Harvey Gann (718th BS) of his experiences as a POW in WWII,

• Photo of Todd Price artist of “Just a Bad Day”

• “Sinners Dream” pilot Thomas Chandler KIA (718th BS) in shoot down 1/30/44 briefcase and papers donated by his nephew William Brewer

• Albert Schwartz, cook (717th BS), jacket and cookbook donated by his daughter Barbara.

• Complete aircrew combat uniform and photo example

• Hand carved walking staff commemorating the crew of “Sinners Dream” gifted to Dan Livingston (son of Bombardier David D. Livingston) by William Brewer

Wings of History Air Museum | San Martin, CA 12777 Murphy Ave Suite 201, San Martin, CA 95046

www.wingsofhistory.org

www.wingsofhistory.org/449th-bomb-group-display

HISTORIAN’S CORNER

FROM THE DESK OF MARK COFFEE, GROUP HISTORIAN

BY ALAN DAVIS, 2ND GEN, 716TH

REMEMBER THEIR SACRIFICE

MAY HISTORY NEVER FORGET THE ATROCITIES OF WAR

get. In the Bratislava area a middle layer of clouds began forming and built up to a solid undercast in the target area. Approaching the target area, Ship #71 flown by the Farrington crew in the B-2 section began lagging behind due to an engine mechanical failure. About seven minutes before the Group reached the target, Ship #71, s/n 44-41218 could no longer keep up with the formation and turned south to return to base. The Group proceeded to the target and because of the undercast bombing was by PFF (radar) methods.

They live forever in the Legion of Patriots who have died in the service of the Flag. . . Top row (L to R); James Bradley (G), Donald Brown (R/O), Preston Hill (G), Hubert Burnette (AG), Kenneth Rost (G), Felix Kozekowski (F/E). Bottom row (L to R): William Farrington (P), Albrecht Allen (N), Bob Ruff (CP), Eugene Gosfield (B).

BBy the end of February 1945, the Western Allied ground forces were on the doorstep of Cologne, Germany. Preparations were being made to cross the Rhine River, the last major geographic barrier to the heart of the Reich. To the east, Russian forces were nearing Frankfurt. Germany was being squeezed from both sides. The war was not yet won but at this point Allied victory was inevitable.

The German Air Force had pulled its fighter forces back into the interior of Germany and were now only a limited threat to the 15th Air Force. However, anti-aircraft guns had also been pulled back from territory about to be overrun with the result that flak concentrations intensified around the remaining targets. Strategic targets were becoming scarce for the heavy bombers but enemy oil facilities

were still considered the most important. Transportation targets were also a priority to interdict German lines of supply and withdrawal.

The operational plan for March 1, 1945 called for the entire 15th AF to attack the oil refinery at Moosbierbaum, Austria, northwest of Vienna. The Moosbierbaum refinery was considered the “highest priority oil target within range of the 15th AF.” All five Wings comprised of 21 Bomb Groups would attack between 1115 hours and 1445 hours. The 47th Wing would be second in the bomber stream with the 449th’s target times between 1230 and 1240 hours.

The 449th began takeoffs at 0827, rendezvoused with the other Groups of the 47th Wing and proceeded on schedule to the tar-

The Farrington crew of the 716th Squadron were experienced veterans having begun their tour of duty in September 1944. However, for the March 1 mission three of the normal officers, co-pilot Robert Ruff, navigator Albrecht Allen and bombardier Eugene Gosfield did not fly. The co-pilot position was taken by John P. Knox, a new crew pilot flying his first mission. Warren F. Ames of the Copley/Morrison crew flew as navigator and Floyd Bremermann of the Hoffman crew was the bombardier.

After leaving the formation, and probably because of the solid undercast, the Farrington crew flew over a flak concentration and took heavy damage including the wounding of navigator Warren Ames. Proceeding south the crew flew into another flak barrage near Graz, Austria which killed one crewman and wounded another. Without the guidance of the wounded navigator, Farrington made the decision to turn east toward the Russian lines.

Approximately an hour after the Farrington aircraft turned south, a weak radio message was received by the Group from Ship #71. “We ran into a lot of flak north of Lake Balaton and lost two more engines. One of our men is dead and we are going to bail out. We are south of Lake Balaton.” Nine members of

(Continued on Page 12)

Mission 216: Austria / Moosbierbaum Oil Refinery, 1 March 1945 At approximately 0827 to 0840 hours 25 B-24’s in two waves of 12 and 13 A/C respectively took off to bomb MOOSBIERBAUM Oil Refinery. One aircraft turned back due to engine failure. Another aircraft (Farrington Crew) turned back to base near the target due to engine failure and flew into accurate route flak. At last radio contact, the crew was abandoning ship someplace South of Lake BALATON with three engines out, one crewman dead and three injured. Lost: Aircraft 44-41218. Nine airmen bailed out, eight were captured by Hungarian SS near the village of Sur, (approximately 20 miles from Budapest.). One captured by Germans and held POW.

the crew bailed out near Sur, Hungary and the aircraft crashed with the dead enlisted man aboard near the town of Aka. Highlighting the disadvantage of having a wounded navigator, the crew were actually 10 miles north of Lake Balaton when they bailed out.

Bombardier Floyd Bremermann was one of the first to bail out of the stricken plane and had trouble with his chute during the descent. As a result, he drifted a considerable distance from the other men and landed in a tree. After freeing himself, he walked south toward Yugoslavia for three days before he was captured. Bremermann was taken to the POW camp Stalag Luft 7A where he was liberated on April 29, 1945.

The remaining eight crewmen landed near Sur, Hungary and were immediately captured by men of the Hungarian SS-Kampfgruppe Ney. The SS-Gruppe was still aligned with Germany even though Hungary had signed an armistice in January 1945 with the United Nations. The crewmen were beaten during interrogations at the Gruppe headquarters.

The following day the three officers Farrington, Knox and Ames were taken by the SS-Gruppe Executive Officer Major Ferenc Karolyi to the German Fourth SS Panzer Corps Headquarters at Inota. The officers were handed over to a Captain Grund and a receipt was given for their delivery. During discussions with Grund, Karolyi got the impression that the execution of the 5 enlisted men was desirable to the SS headquarters, although no direct order to that effect was given.

Karolyi returned to his base and reported the transfer of the officers and the discussion regarding the enlisted men to the Commanding Officer Karoly Ney. Ney and Karolyi summoned Capt. Miklos Bakos and ordered him to deliver the enlisted men to Aka the following day. Bakos would later claim that he was later told by Ney’s Adjutant that new orders had arrived from IV. SS-Panzerkorps HQ that the prisoners were to be executed.

The next day Capt. Bakos called Lt. Istvan Csihas and 4 Sergeant’s into his office and

gave the following order: ‘These Americans are to be taken to Aka but they are not to reach there. They will be shot in the head somewhere on the road. They deserve no better. They have ruined many Hungarian families. They have bombed Budapest and have just come from the bombing of Gyor. You boys know what to do.’

The five airmen were taken out of the headquarters and two who were wounded were loaded in a wagon with the others following on foot. A few kilometers from Sur the men were dismounted and at that point they realized what their fate was to be. They asked via sign language for permission to pray which was granted. The men were then led into the woods and on Lt. Csihas’ order, they were shot in the back.

The airmen were stripped of their uniforms and personal effects and buried in a common grave. Lt. Csihas reported to Capt. Bakos that the order had been carried out. The uniforms were given to a local woman to wash to remove the blood stains. Bakos distributed personal effects among the execution squad, keeping a wrist watch for himself. Four of the dog tags from the airmen were given to Ferenc Albitz by the wife of Captain Bakos with the instructions to destroy them but Albitz buried them under a shed instead.

After the war ended, many members of the SS-Kampfgruppe Ney fled to Austria as Hungary was now in the Russian sector and would later be behind the Iron Curtain. Some of the Sur locals who had knowledge of the execution had also fled to Austria where they informed U.S. authorities of the atrocity. The U.S. War Crimes Commission began an investigation into the matter and in October 1945 the five bodies were disinterred and the 4 dog tags were located with the aid of Ferenc Albitz. The details of this atrocity came to light during the trial of six Hungarians by the U.S. War Crimes Commission.

The accused were Lt.Col. Karoly Ney, Commanding Officer; Major Ferenc Karolyi, Executive Officer; Capt. Miklos Bakos; Lt. Istvan Csihas; Sgt. Istvan Lengyel and Sgt. Istvan Eros. The other two sergeants of the execution squad were not located to stand trial. The above were charged “that they did, on or about 1st March 1945, at or in the vicin-

(Continued on Page 13)

ity of Sur, Hungary, willfully, deliberately and wrongly encourage, aid, abet, and participate in the killing of Donald P. Brown, Hubert R. Burnette, Felix Kozekowski, Preston J. Hill, members of the United States Army, and an unknown member of the United States Army, all of whom were surrendered, unarmed POW in the custody of the German Reich.”

Since only 4 dog tags were recovered, there was initial uncertainty of the identity of the fifth murdered man and who had killed by flak before the crash. Either S/Sgt. Kenneth C. Rost or S/Sgt. James F. Bradley was the fifth man executed with the other being killed by flak.

The six Hungarian SS men were tried on the charge of Violation of the Laws of War in Salzburg, Austria in late May into June, 1946. Each of the six were found guilty by the Commission. Ney, Karolyi, Bakos and Csihas were sentenced to death by hanging. The sergeants Lengyel and Eros were sentenced to life imprisonment.

A thorough review of the case by the Office of the Judge Advocate in Austria was performed. Both Karoly Ney and Ferenc Karolyi claimed that no order for execution was given to Captain Bakos and that they had ordered the prisoners to be delivered to Aka. The Judge Advocate recommended that the sentences of Karoly Ney and Ferenc Karolyi be commuted to life imprisonment. The same review upheld the sentences of Miklos Bakos and Istvan Csihas and they were executed by hanging at Landesgericht Prison in Salzburg on October 1, 1946.

No trace has ever been found of the three missing officers, 1Lt. William R. Farrington, 2Lt. John P. Knox and 2 Lt. Warren F. Ames. An investigation by the War Graves Commission found information that two of the officers were taken by the German SS to Kisbber and likely executed. The third wounded officer [likely Ames] was reported to have been taken to an unknown German hospital but there were no records to substantiate the report. The Commission concluded that the three officers were probably victims of war crimes and that their remains be classified as nonrecoverable.

It was determined after the war that Kenneth Rost was the crewman killed by flak. His re-

mains had been recovered from the crashed aircraft and he had been buried near Aka by locals. That meant that James Bradley was the fifth man executed in the woods by the members of the Hungarian SS.

After the war, survivor Floyd “Bix” Brememann and original navigator Albrect Allen sought information regarding the fate of their crew mates. Brememann was able to obtain portions of the trial transcripts in 1989 and with the aid of a letter from Col. Jack Randolph, additional files were released by the Bush Administration in 1990. Both Brememann and Allen had maintained communications with the families of the fallen.

Bremermann was haunted by survivor’s guilt – why did he survive, and what did the Hungarians think of what he did? In 1998 he took a trip back to Sur, Hungary seeking some measure of closure. Although uncertain of the reception he would receive from the Hungarians, what he found was forgiveness and shame. The Hungarians held no ill will for the bombing missions into Hungary and there was profound shame for the cold-blooded execution of the others in the crew. There were several elderly residents in Sur who had memories of the events of 1945 including one who had seen remnants of Bremeremann’s parachute in a tree. Floyd Bremermann was given a letter published in a local newspaper in 1985 marking the 40th anniversary of the war. The letter called the deaths of the 9 members of the Farrington crew as “A heroic death for the liberation of our homeland.”

Original navigator Albrect Allen compiled many documents related to the fate of the Farrington crew. These were his concluding words. “This story ends here. Their young lives were ended with blood stains and pain. But their story will never end. They live forever in the Legion of Patriots who have died in the service of the Flag, and the Nation for which it stands. We whose lives were spared in WWII are grateful they were our friends and Comrades in Arms. We hold them daily in our hearts and testify to their sacred place in history.”

Compounding this tragedy, these men were among the last members of the 449th to die in service to their country. There were only two subsequent deaths of 449th service men until the end of the war.

1Lt. William R. Farrington, Pilot, Philadelphia, PA, age 25, 48 missions, assumed executed. Memorialized on the Tablets of the Missing, Florence American Cemetery, Italy.

2Lt. John P. Knox, Co-pilot, Boston, MA, age 25, 1 mission, assumed executed. Memorialized on the Tablets of the Missing, Sicily-Rome American Cemetery, Italy.

2Lt. Warren F. Ames, Navigator, Dorchester, MA, age 20, 25 missions, assumed executed. Memorialized on the Tablets of the Missing, Florence American Cemetery, Italy.

1Lt. Floyd B. Bremermann, Jr., Bombardier, Laramie, WY, age 22, 50 missions, POW Stalag Luft 7a.

T/Sgt Felix D. Kozekowski, Flight Engineer, Sayreville, NJ, age 26, 48 missions, executed, buried Lorraine American Cemetery, France.

S/Sgt. Kenneth C. Rost, Waist gunner, Harley, IA, age 21, 48 missions, Killed in Action, buried Lorraine American Cemetery, France.

T/Sgt. Donald P. Brown, Waist gunner/radio operator, Syracuse, NY, age 21, executed, buried Saint Mary’s Cemetery, DeWitt, New York.

S/Sgt. James F. Bradley, Tail gunner, Long Island, NY, age 22, executed, buried Long Island National Cemetery, East Farmingdale, NY.

S/Sgt. Hubert R. Burnette, Ball gunner, Jackson, KY, age 24, executed, buried Haddix Cemetery, Haddix, Kentucky.

S/Sgt. Preston G. Hill, Nose gunner, Clover, PA, age 23, executed, buried Lloyd Cemetery, Ebensburg, Pennsylvania.

T/Sgt Felix D. Kozekowski

BACK TO THE FUTURE WITH “TH’ INHOMMIN CRITTER”

BY MAJOR STEVEN SMITH, USAF, RETIRED

fight for freedom until the beginning of the new century.

AAs a young man, I would spend time with my cousins at Vandenberg AFB, where my uncle and godfather, Major Allen Carrico was stationed as a missile safety officer. I would enjoy the stories between him and my father, who also spent four years in the Air Force during the Korean war. These memories eventually lead me to a career in the Air Force to carry on the family tradition. It was after my uncle’s death in 1979 that I began to hear from my aunt the story of his WW2 adventure with the “Drigger crew” and “Th’ Inhoomin Critter.” Little would I know 78 years later I would go “back to the future.”

Our story begins with a B-24, Serial # 4278341, a replacement aircraft received on 5 May 1944 to the 718th Bomb Squadron, 449th Bomb Group, ship #21, “Th’ Inhoomin Critter” with a crew of nine. It’s 9 July 1944 and the mission is the Concordin-Vega oil refinery, Ploesti, Romania. Ship#21 will be one of the lead aircraft over the target. Ship 21 is hit with flak taking out engine #2 and causing the crew to feather engine #3. The aircraft has taken shrapnel cutting fuel and hydraulic control lines, Th’ Inhoomin Critter is beginning to bleed its life. In the struggle to stay airborne, the crew jettisons equipment to maintain altitude and make it to Italy. Finally ship 21 has lost its struggle and the crew bails out over Uzice in the Zlatibor district.

Below Chetniks under the command of General Draza Milhailovic are waiting for the airman of Th’ Inhoomin Critter. For the next thirty days they would fight side by side, both Chetniks and Americans risking everything to make it to an airfield at Pranjani to be evacuated on 10 August 1944. For the Americans came freedom, for the Chetniks a continual

It will take seventy-eight years to go “back to the future” to reunite the Chetniks and me, a descendant of one crew member of “Th’ Inhommin Critter,” 1Lt. Allen Carrico. The journey will begin at the 449th Bomb Group reunion at Nashville, TN in 2021 where I will meet John Capello, President of the Halyard Mission Foundation in Serbia. With a Viber call in July 2022, John will help my family in a reunification pilgrimage to the very same airfield in Pranjani and Zlatibor. My goal is to personally thank the Chetniks descendants of those who saved my uncle, 1Lt. Allen Carrico. The dream was to come true.

The airfield at Pranjani, Serbia where allied airmen were evacuated in August 1944. Now, I & Phyllis with the descendants of Chetniks from 1944.

After reuniting with Chetniks in Pranjani, it’s off to Uzice to meet Miladin Lekic, a grandson of a Chetnick who rescued my uncle after he bailed out of the Th’ Inhoomin Critter. A small coincidence, both Miladin and I were born on the same birthdate, 12 February with 24 years difference.

The future continues to grow today after returning from Serbia. I’m in contact through Facebook with thirty Chetnik families, some of them government officials. The legacy continues to grow, as it did in my hometown of Fayetteville, NC where John Capello and the Halyard Mission Foundation in conjunction with the Airborne and Special Operations Museum is establishing a permanent display to Operation Halyard. A dedication was celebrated in November 2022 where I was able to exchange “Back to the Future with the Inhoomin Critter” story with the Ambassador of Serbia to the US, Marko Djuric and presented a coin from him.

The story of “Back to the Future with “Th’ Inhoomin Critter” continues, and only the future will be written next in the time travels of two people of two countries carrying on the fight for freedom.

Miladin Lekic and I pointing to a picture of our family relatives from a picture in 1944.

The Lekic and Smith Family reunited 78 years later after our families were together in 1944.

A picture of descendants in front of the same shack from 1944.

A picture of Chetniks and Inhoomin Critter crew in front of a shack in 1944.

MAXIMUM EFFORT TOUR

LOOK WHO’S STILL STANDING IN THE 449TH BGA

BY ALAN DAVIS, 2ND GEN, 716TH

TThe Maximum Effort Tour (MET) team is delighted to announce we have 15 of our 449th Vets still standing. We keep in communication with these wonderful men and their families. They may not be able to attend reunions, but they are deeply proud of their membership and commitment to the 449th BGA. The arrival of the LatePass newsletter is always a highlight for them!

After our 2021 visits we posted pictures in the LatePass taken at that time. We thought it would be fun to use pictures of these youthful airmen as remembered during their WWII days. Enjoy the young and eager faces. Think of them and their commitment to our nation often. Remember them in your prayers.

There were approximately 5,000 airmen who served in Grottaglie between December 1943 and May 1945 and there are many who have never been located by the Association. It is our hope that more are still standing. We give our thanks to each and every one of them.

“Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world. A veteran does not have that problem.”

– President Ronald Reagan

Clarence Copping, 102 yrs / IL 719th, Pilot

Francis “Bob” Herres, 102 yrs / FL 717th, Tail Gunner / POW

Joseph Loviglio, 98 yrs / PA 718th, Mess. Sgt

Don Beck, 99 yrs / PA 716th, Co-Pilot

Louis Beggs, 100 yrs / FL 718th, Flight Engineer

Harvey Gann, 102 yrs / TX 718th, Flight Eng / POW

William Hirsch , 99 yrs / PA 717th, Navigator

Tony Orsini, 100 yrs / NJ 716th, Navigator

Stanley Grapp, 99 yrs / FL 717th, Navigator

Harry Horak, 101 yrs / CA 716th, Bombardier

Edward Stringham, 98 yrs / TX 716th, Ball Gunner

Adrian Buchholz, 100 yrs / OH 716thn, Tail Gunner

Ervin Clower, 102 yrs / TX 718th, Flight Engi-neer

Thomas Guzzardi, 98 yrs / NJ 717th, Flight Eng/Gunner

Clarence Hunziker, 100 yrs / CA 718th, Tail Gunner / Nav

MET TEAM DENISE RIEGEL & TERESA ANDREIKA

Portraits

449th

Aircraft

Camp Life

Rest Camp

Gravesites

Letters

Italian Landscape

Bombing Runs

Basic Training

ONE PICTURE AT A TIME

There is little question that the 15 Air Force, and even B-24’s, were short-changed on publicity in World War II. The Eight Air Force, the “Flying Fortresses,” received the lion’s share of publicity in World War II. During the war no one was more sensitive than those in the 15Air Force, who were living in tents (and even muddy floors) eating C-rations and flying off dirt runways.

So, when Yank magazine mentioned that the 15th Air Force “had a soft touch,” this was too much for three gunners from the 449th.

They responded to Yank Magazine / Italy, 31 August 1944.

DEAR YANK:

The men in our outfit were happy to hear via the EIGHT AIR FORCE that the FIFTEENTH AIR FORCE in Italy has a soft touch.

Up until this time we thought the Cross-Channel Hops with six fights per bomber were the “Original Milk Runs.”

We were poor hosts too have arranged a propaganda flight to Arad, Roumania. We do have some targets here for the neophytes to simulate combat conditions before their real baptism of flak at Vienna, Weiner-Neustadt, German Oil Refineries, and up until very recently Toulon and Ploesti.

At one time we had a few exchange crews from the EIGHT AIR FORCE. After their first missions they were eager to go home to the EIGHTS. Their reason was that in England their escorts consisted mainly of P-47’s, P-51’s, and P-38’s, as the only escorts we had to offer were FW-190’s and ME-109’s (the Germans).

It has been our experience that combat crews with horse sense do not ridicule but appreciate missions where there has been no chance of earning a PURPLE HEART. 716th

PINS

THE PX

DID YOU KNOW? The Post Exchange was established by General Orders of the US War Department No. 46 in 1895 to provide goods and services to military members and their dependents. —Military Times

15TH AF WWII

BY ALAN DAVIS, 2ND GEN, 716TH

POSTERS

This unique poster depicts the Fifteenth Air force bases of operations during WWII in southern Italy and indicates the various Bomb Wings and aircraft flown during late 1943-1945. One-of-a-kind and exclusive to only the 449th BG membership.

Size: 18 x 24

Price: $25 (includes container & shipping)

DOG TAGS

Size: 1” | Price: $10 (includes shipping)

Come with ball chain

Price: $12 (includes shipping)

PATCHES

FLYING HORSEMEN Size: 4.5”x 4” | Price: $12

WWII 15TH Size: 3 1/4” | Price: $12

BOMB SQUADRONS Size: 3” | Price: $10

CONTACT PX OFFICERS: Gary & Debbie at jetgreydogs@aol.com

WWII 449th (H) BG

Flying Horsemen

World War II

Mediterranean Theater of Operations

FRONT BACK 2 in

RED ROSE MEMORIAL SERVICE

WWII 449th BG B-24 Flying Horsemen

Service: Westin Hotel, Herndon, VA

Wreath Laying: U.S. Air Force Memorial, Arlington, VA Saturday, October 14, 2023

Located in Arlington, VA, the United States Air Force Memorial honors the service and heritage of the men and women of the United States Air Force. The three memorial spires range from 201 feet to 270 feet high and appear to be soaring; its array of stainless steel arcs against the sky that evokes the image of contrails from a jet and space vehicle flight. The memorial is adjacent to the Arlington National Cemetery and overlooks the Pentagon.

To all who have climbed sunward and chased the shouting wind, America stops to say: your service and your sacrifice will be remembered forever and honored in this place by the citizens of a free and grateful nation.

— President George W. Bush at acceptance ceremony, 14th Oct 2006.

CONVEYS RESPECT, LOVE, AND COURAGE

Names to be read at the Washington, DC Reunion Saturday, Oct 14, 2023

As part of this sacred and honorable tribute given to our fallen heroes each year, it has come to our attention that there are families who have not been able to attend the service, but wish to have their AIRMAN’S name or a specific CREW to be included in RollCallofHonorduringthe Memorial Service.

For a minimal donation of $25 or more (to cover cost of roses and facility expenses) your airman’s name will be placed on the Roll Call of Honor and read within his squadron. A RED ROSE will be escorted down the aisle when the name is read and then placed on the Missing Man Squadron Table. After the service, the RED ROSES will be taken to the Air Force Memorial and laid with the 449th Flying Horsemen wreath.

In honor of Airman / Crew Squadron (if known)

Given in honor by

Any questions, please call: Mary Crowley, 449th BGA Secretary (CA) 714-925-8111

Requests need to be received by October 1, 2023

CHECK: Please enclose Veteran/Crew Information

449th BGA

Thad Mahoney, Treasurer 205 Lynn Dr., Seville, OH 44273

QR Code: Quick & Easy After payment, email or text information to Mary Crowley 449thsecretary@gmail.com (CA) 714-925-8111

Subject: Red Rose Memorial Veteran/Crew Information

2022 HONOR ROLL

NAMES READ AT THE 27TH REUNION – SEPTEMBER 17, 2022 - WICHITA, KS

Names in Bold UPPER CASE denotes Airmen whose families were in attendance. Names with an *ASTERICK denotes a RED ROSE Denotation to be walked in honor of the Airman. Names that appear in Small Print are known deceased Airmen who have passed away since October 2022 and Airmen whose names have not been previously acknowledged.

POW: Prisoner of War DFC: Distinguished Flying Cross KIA: Killed in Action MIA: Missing in Action EVD: Evaded Capture

716th Squadron

JOHN “DOC” ALLEN , JR *

Albert Allumbaugh, KIA *

Lyn Austin, KIA *

CALVIN “TED” BEALE *

John Beam, POW *

Kenneth Blake, Jr *

Bernard Bowers *

Lawrence Brady, Jr *

Porter Chadick *

Paul Christoff *

James Collins, POW *

John Dacy *

Jesse Dalrymple, POW *

Arnold Denh, MIA/KIA *

John Eberhart

PAUL FARRELL *

Antonio Fermano *

Robert Gundlach

Howard Hanson, MIA *

Cecil Harmon *

DONALD HOGLUND *

William Imlach, KIA *

Arthur Jean *

Wayne Kennedy *

James Miller *

EINAR NIKLASON*

Wallace Osborne *

JESSE PRIEST *

Harold Swenson *

Gerald Warren *

LEONARD WILLNER *

716th Crew

EASY QUEEN * 11 POW

Bruce Bryan, POW

William Bolt, POW

Robert Sundfor

William Friedberg, POW

Russell Flegal, POW

Joe Foster, POW

Edward Kwit, POW

Edward Schnurstein, POW

Robert Heylmun, POW

Donald Zumwalt, POW

Donald Schwartz, POW

Gordon Patterson

Sheldon Silverman, POW

Hanson * 9 KIA 3 MIA

Fearless Fosdick* 7 KIA 3 POW

717th Squadron

ROBERT ANDERSON,* POW

Richard Asbury *

Lenville Ashworth *

John Aulner * POW

Howard Bourdon *

Leroy Compson *

Ellsworth Daniels *

Raymond Daugherty *

John Desmond *

Arthur Fallon *

WALLY GREEN *

Clarence Grimes *

John Howell *

Charles Joy

Robert Kaley *

John Mueller *

Tony Lopez/Pompa, KIA *

George Potts, KIA *

Hal A Ross *

ALBERT SCHWARTZ *

BEN SMITH *

Avery Trumbull *

William Witham *

Peter Zuzzolo *

717th Crews

Holy Joe 2 KIA 8 Injured

Lurchin Urchin* 3 KIA 7 POW

Elliott Thompson, POW

Lloyd Smith

Ross Bush

James Gallaher, KIA

Steven Babiec, POW

Wayne Ross, POW

Lloyd Buehrer,POW

Samuel Scott, KIA

Tony Lopez (Pompa) KIA

Arnold Cain, POW

718th Squadron

Richard Barrett *

Jack (John) Bertke

John Bloomingdale

FLOYD E.BYFILED *

Allen Carrico *

Frank Catanzarite *

Morris Coffee *

Donald Dietz *

George Ditzhazy *

Thomas Duffy, Jr. *

Edwin Edwards

Raymond Eriksen *

Salvatore Esposito *

Reuben Feld *

Nick Gavalas, KIA/MIA *

CHARLES GRAN *

Raymond Grinold *

Given Grooms, KIA/MIA *

Paul Harper *

Robert Hathorn *

Wayne Huffman *

Arnold Kohler *

Loman Largen *

J. EDWARD LATTA *

James Latta *

David Livingston, POW *

Richard Macak *

Cornell Maier

Reese Mathieu *

Harry McGuire, MIA/KIA *

RODGER MEEK * EVD

Peter Peterson *

Cornelius Reisdorf *

Saul Shaposhnikow*

Charles Shepherd *

Maurice Sherer *

Dwaine Shinliver *

FRANK STERNER, KIA *

Edward Way, KIA *

718th Crews

Kendall Crew* 2 KIA 7 MIA 1 POW

Peppy * 3 KIA 8 RTD

Sinners Dream * 6 KIA 4 POW

(Continued on Back Cover)

449th Bomb Group

LATEPASS

Mary Crowley, Secretary

2nd Generation

16292 Content Circle

Huntington Beach, CA 92649

Phone: 714.840.1805

Email: 449thSecretary@gmail.com

The term LATEPASS refers to the control tower CALL SIGN at Grottaglie

Info RE: Mailing List / Removal / Deceased Member

Please report any changes, or removal, of your mailing address or information regarding a deceased Veteran to Mary Crowley.

For WWII 449th BG documentation and research, please contact: Mark Coffee / Group Historian 449historian@gmail.com

*No membership dues assessed. Reprinting in whole or in part, without written permission, is prohibited. All rights and contents are reserved by the 449th BGA, A Not for Profit Organization, funded by member donations and contributions. Contributions to the 449th BGA are deductible on IRS1040 Schedule A, if not made for merchandise or services.

HONOR ROLL

(Continued from Page 19)

Thomas Chandler, KIA

Robert Winter, KIA

David Livingston, POW

Peter Ihrie, Jr. KIA

John Wood, KIA

Roland Vickery , POW

Julis Steward, POW

Edward Rechko, KIA

Edward Lucy, POW

Charles Tibbetts, KIA

Paul Zickler, POW

Big Noise From Kentucky* 9 Evaded 1 POW

Paul Harper

Bernard Sermersheim, POW

William Mann, Jr

Robert Boren

Demetro Barna

Harold Tombre

William Jones

Robert Williams

Donald Clark

Joseph Clark

Don Brown

Lee Farris

Floyd Byfield

719th Squadron

Emil Baer *

Arthur Abell

James Bubenko *

Hershel Bunker *

Leslie Caplan *

Wilbur Debnam *

Henry Flesh *

Innocencio Garcia

Robert Geisert, POW *

William Herrmann *

Robert Hughes *

J.R. Kervin *

Donald Liddycoat *

DONALD LAPHAM*

HARRY MAHONEY *

Ernst Mellor *

FERNANDO O’DELL*

CHARLES PUTNAM*

Thomas Sommers, POW *

FLOYD TROGDON *

Joe B Truemper *

DONALD VAN LIER*

SHELDON ZIMMERMAN*, KIA

719th Crews

Our Baby* 2 KIA 8 POW

Head Quarters

Colonel Jack Randolph *

Commander of the 449th BG 1944-1945

John Anderson *

Cecil Petterson *

Robert Riffle *

Burr Tarrant *

In Loving Memory

MRS. EDITH VAN LIER *

DEBORAH HILL *

“Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.”

– Unknown