B-17G " What Next? " 42-97464 614th
13 April 1944 Mission # 50 Target: Schweinfurt , Germany
13 April 1944 , 09:50 engines are on.
22 aircraft on mission #50 , target today is Ball bearing plant in Schweinfurt , Germany.
Enemy fighters were agressive and persistent, with as many as 150 to 200 encountered during the mission,
and some coming as close as 75 yards.
Flak was heavy as well. Clouds over the target made observations of strike results impossible.
The 401st lost two aircraft on this mission
Missing Air Crew Report : 39411. Organization : AAF Sta 128.
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Harold H. Domm S/Sgt. 18176517 613 th
Clark G. Merrill S/Sgt. 13098643 613 th
Frank G. DeWitt S/Sgt. 19064865 613 th
- About 10 minutes past the target the ship was attacked by 14 FW 190 and 109's.
After fighter had attacked aircraft and right wing tip burning , pilot peeled off, flew parralel to the formation at
about 15,000 feet and crew bailed out.
Four chutes ( 2 immediate , 2 delayed ) were definitely seen.
Others had an opportunity toget out and there is a possibility that there were more chutes.
A/C turned back and seemed under control for about 40 seconds , the went into steep dive and blew up
at 16000 Feet.
Mission to Schweinfurt, Germany, After fighter had attacked aircraft and right wing tip burning.
Crashed near Weibersbrunn, Germany
Will be continued soon
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