USAAF
5th AF
3rd BG
13th BS

Pilot  2nd Lt Henry A. Keel, O-004018
Co-Pilot  2nd Lt Durward R. Reed, O-431512
Bombardier  Sgt George H. Bengel, 6705073
Gunner  Cpl Louis E. Murphy, 11013602 (survived)
Engineer  Sgt Danforth E. Wilkins, 14006575 (KIA 12/6/42)
Radio  RAAF Sgt Thomas Marsh, 411504
Crashed  May 23, 1942
MACR  15937

Wartime History
Five B-25s bombed Lae Airfield. Five minutes off the target, the formation was attacked by approximately eight Zero fighters. The right engine of this aircraft was hit and being unable to remain with the formation, the pilot ditched near to Salamaua.

All the crew exited the aircraft which sank quickly. Four Zeros then proceeded to strafe the survivors, who decided to separate for safety. The Zeros remained overhead until dark, presumably signaling the position of the crew in the water.

Fates of the Crew
It is believed that Lt Keel's body was found in a mass grave at Matupi near Rabaul after the war. Only one member of the crew returned to duty.

Relatives
Paul Wilkins (nephew of Danforth Wilkins)

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B-25