Tragedy over Kettlebaston

[Tailgunnerdownunder]

It’s really amazing what still exists and is out there if you keep digging away. You must have been pleased to find this Paul. I could only imagine.

Regards Mark

[fischer]

It is amazing that this stuff still exists...being marked secret, I would have assumed it would have been shredded at some point.

[muckaroon1960]

I received this message on my blog page "usmilawards" from a Hayley Marie Pond with reference to the crash:

"Hello, thank you so much for posting this. I am the daughter of Deborah Wilder who’s father was James golden wilder (WW2 navy) James was the cousin of William “Billy” Moore Wilder. My grandfather James who partially raised me was traumatized by Billy’s death, as he was supposed to return home within days of this mission. My grandfather told me the worst part of WW2 for him was losing Billy. Our family has always been so proud of Billy’s bravery. I am COMPLETELY HEARTBROKEN to have to tell my mother that Billy actually jumped from the doomed plane only to find his parachute wouldn’t open. She will be so upset to hear this but I am grateful for the information. If there’s anything more you have in regards to my first cousin Billy, it’d be greatly appreciated. I tried looking up what his planes nickname was and had no luck . I also would like to know if the survivor Elliot Mishler was the psychologist who wrote several books and was a part of civil rights. It could just be a coincidence of names though. I have a photo of Billy from the archives online . His army photo, I can share if you like. Thanks for the time you have put into remembering these men and my cousin."

Lt Wilder was the pilot of B17 6460. I am pleased that i have been able to provide information about this tragedy to family members, it makes the effort worthwhile **==

[Tailgunnerdownunder]

How special is that Paul. The acknowledgment you have received via this message from a family member must be a very humbling experience. The satisfaction you must be feeling that what you do really does make a difference must be immense. Reward well earned my friend.

Regards Mark.

[fischer]

That is awesome Paul :thumbsup:

How fantastic for her this must have been to find this family history and how gratifying for you Paul, being able to provide this connection with the past!!!

[muckaroon1960]

Lest we forget 81 years ago today.

[fischer]

Lest we forget 81 years ago today.

Amen.

[Tailgunnerdownunder]

Remembering…

Regards Mark.

[muckaroon1960]

Recently acquired these three 447th bomb squadron patches for the 708th, 709th and 711th bomb squadrons. Just missing the 710th and a 447th but the hunt is on. All three are repro's as the originals would be very hard to find but we live in hope. These are A2 jacket size for wearing above the front pocket. Approx 110mm. :thumbsup:

[Tailgunnerdownunder]

Very eye catching. Often wondered who designed them? What was the procedure? Did they have a special department for this sort of thing?

[muckaroon1960]

Hi Mark, good question and worth researching, I will update when i learn more. :thumbsup:

[muckaroon1960]

Having done a little research patches were designed by members of the unit, battalion or squadron who used local graphic artists before being approved by the military for official use. The height of this was in WW2 with the number of units etc being formed, then some form of Distinctive Unit Identity was required. Some DUI's were also unofficial. :thumbsup: