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| USAAF 5th AF 312th BG 387th BS |
Pilot 1st Lt. James L. Knarr O-797844 (MIA / KIA) PA Gunner S/Sgt Charles G. Reichley, 13093592 (MIA / KIA) PA Crashed July 22, 1944 Pilot History Knarr was a school teacher prior to the war. He had flown and survived the April 16, 1944 "Black Sunday" mission against Hollandia when severe weather was encountered on the return flight. He was overseas for a year and had flown at least 70 combat missions prior to his death. Reichley flew at least 46 combat missions. Aircraft History Mission History This A-20 was part of the last flight of three aircraft over the target, led by Captain Jack W. Klein, with wingman 2nd Lt. Melvin H. Kapson and this aircraft. Approaching from the inland side of the the target, they dropped 250 lbs bombs and strafing gun positions. Hit by antiaircraft fire and crashed into the bay off Kokas, exploding when it his the sea. The other A-20s, involved in their own runs and evasive maneuvers were unaware of the fate of this A-20, until the photos of the mission were developed. A series of four photos, taken by another A-20 ahead of it captured the plane's last moments in the air. These photos were later released to the media and appeared in Yank Magazine and TIME Magazine in support of the war bond drive captioned "Death of an A-20". Memorials References Contribute
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