This is the place where the majority of the warbird (aircraft that have survived military service) discussions will take place. Specialized forums may be added in the new future
Sat Dec 17, 2005 11:51 am
I recently found that I had a relative who flew 68 missions with the 321st BG/446th BS from Corsica who passed away about two weeks ago... his name was Frederic C. Ritger. I've got some decent info from his nephew Robert, including personnel lists showing his transfer and the award of an Air Medal for a nasty mission on 9 March 44 where his aircraft was heavily damaged by flak and he had to force-land at an advanced airfield.
What I'm trying to find out is the identity of the aircraft he was flying on 10 Dec 44 when he was shot down, having to parachute behind enemy lines. He was helped through by sympathetic locals, at one point staying beneath a false floor in a barn, covered by a cow! I have a suspicion it was "Haulin Ass", but I don't have a serial for that aircraft... I do have a serial for the single aircraft lost by the 446th BS on 12/10, which we *presume* to be Fred's aircraft. We've requested the MACR, so maybe that'll help, but any further info you guys can share would be most welcome.
One other thing... does anyone know if the B-25H's of the 12th BG carried those garish cartoon faces while serving in Italy in late 1943/early 1944? I know they had them when serving in India after March 1944.
Thanks much for any assistance on these questions!
Lynn