USAAF
13th AF
11th BG
42nd BS
|
Pilot Maj Earl O. Hall, Jr., O-325099 (C. O. 42nd BG) Crawford, TX
Co-Pilot 1/Lt Joaquin Castro, O-428914 (TX)
Navigator 2/Lt Frank N, Jr Stern, O-438256 (IL)
Engineer T/Sgt Paul Adler, 6147915 (MA)
Bombardier S/Sgt James Y. Bales, 15058894 (IN)
Radio S/Sgt James C. Stephens, Jr., 6953552 (CO)
Asst. Engineer S/Sgt Francis S. Banasiak, 11020224 (MA)
Asst Radio Sgt Jesse N. Olmstead, 11033041 (CT)
Gunner Sgt Martin T. Grady, 6980875 (NY)
Shot Down February 1, 1943
MACR 15093
Mission History
Nine B-17s took off from Henderson Field on Guadalcanal to bomb shipping in the Shortland area, led by Hall. This bomber was part of a four plane second element with 3 B-17s from the 42nd BG (this aircraft, B-17E "Eager Beavers" 41-9122 and B-17E "Yokohama Express" 41-2442) plus one B-17 piloted by Captain Thomas (5th BG, 72nd BS). The second element was commanded by Captain Hall (CO of the 42nd BG).
Hall's B-17 targeted a supply vessel near Tonolei Harbor. After scoring hits on this target, they turned right toward Choiseul Bay, and were jumped by 15 to 25 Zeros.
The sole surviving fourth plane, piloted by a Captain Thomas was also badly damaged but managed to crash land at Guadalcanal. Two crew members (radio and bombardier) were wounded.
Relatives
Hal W. Hall (relative of Hall)
"Families of the crew of B-17 9151 have uncovered a letter in which an witness to the action reported that this aircraft may have crashed on or very near Choiseul Island. All previous records and reports did not indicate a possibility of an island crash. I have unsuccessfully sought the Coastwatcher's report on this action. I have seen it mentioned, but have been unable to find any reference to where those reports might be housed. Do you have any information about where the reports might be archived?"
Contribute
Information
Do you have photos or additional information to add?
Last Updated
November 8, 2009
|
B-17
MIA
|
