B17 crash at Mareeba Far North Queensland Australia

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ironrange
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B17 crash at Mareeba Far North Queensland Australia

Post by ironrange »

Seeking Information and Relatives to honor tragic events at Mareeba Queensland Australia

In the early hours of the 14th of September 1942 a series of tragic events occurred along the Mareeba Airstrip of the Far North Queensland’s Australian airfield. USAAF, B-17 Flying Fortress 41-24391 nicknamed “Hoomalimali” (Hawaiian for Kid-em-along) with a crew of 9 US Servicemen were preparing to take off. The B-17 was one of many B-17’s based at Mareeba at the time attached to the 43rd Bombardment Group. 63rd Bombardment Squadron that were carrying out a bombing mission on targets near Rabaul.

As the B17 – “Hoomalimali” was taking off with a heavy bomb load, as well as being overloaded it crashed at the end of the airstrip into large trees and exploded on impact. All on board perished in the tragic crash.

US Servicemen on board were

Captain Hershell R Henson - Pilot
Francis Fritzmacher - Co-Pilot
James Bastion - Navigator
John Doran - Bombardier
John Samara - Engineer
Lawrence Donker
Louis Camp Jr
Robert Case
Jack Kaynor

On the 17th September 2011, as a sign of respect and honor the townspeople of Mareeba will honor and dedicate the crew of Hoomalimali by erecting a bronzed plaque within the confines of the Mareeba Airfield, Far North Queensland Australia. A formal dedication and service will also be a formally carried out to remember the servicemen that were tragically killed on that fateful day.

The organiser of the plaque and dedicated service is actively seeking anyone that may be able to help about this tragic crash with any information.

If you are able to assist with the location of any descendants, relatives, colleagues, or witnesses to this tragic event please contact Michael Musumeci PO BOX 37 Ravenshoe Queensland Australia 4888. Ph 0429601942 or email ironrange@bigpond.com

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