Standing (L to R): H. E. Hayes (RO); S. A. Graci (WG); F. P. Guerrero (BG); C.A. Kirschler (TG). Kneeling (L to R): Elmer Meade (P); K. A. Keeler (CP); R. W. Sawyer (N); H. J. Martin (B)

  • MEADE, Elmer C., Pilot
  • KEELER, Kenneth A., Co-Pilot KIA 13 April 1944 Rustad
  • SAWYER, Richard W., Naviagtor
  • MARTIN, Hugh P., Bombardier
  • VITRANO, Frank P., Flight Eng
  • HAYES, Harold E., Radio/op
  • GUERRERO , Fidel P., Ball Turret
  • KIRSCHLER, Clifford A., Tail Gunner
  • GRACI, Sam M., Waist Gunner
  • LINDHORST , Russell J., Gunner

719th Squadron

719logoDavid Councill was the original C.O. from July ‘43 to 8 December ’43 when he and his crew were lost during the movement overseas. Most of the 719th officer and NCO staff were among the 14 men lost aboard Councill’s aircraft. This placed the 719th in dire straits in January ’44. Arthur B. Swan took over as C.O. and began sorting things out in January ’44. He served as the C. O. until he received a serious combat wound on 23 April ‘44. Charles E. Harton from the 717th Squadron was selected to be the acting commander until Art Swan could reassume the position. When Swan was promoted to higher echelon, Harton continued as the acting C.O. until July ‘44. Harold R. Loughran, a lead crew pilot from the 717th became the 719th C.O. in July ‘44 and remained through September ’44. In September ‘44, William Allen became the C.O. and remained so until May ‘45.

Star Eyes*

Star Eyes

An original cadre ship acquired 28 October ’43 and assigned to Meade’s crew who flew her overseas in December ’43.  Disposition unknown. Name uncertain – Lee Davis flew many missions on this ship and reported it as Consolidated Mess.

41-29203

An original cadre ship acquired 28 October ’43 and assigned to Meade’s crew who flew her overseas in December ’43. Disposition unknown.

Pictures of Star Eyes

STAREYES

ConsolidatedMessNoseArt ConsolidatedMessNoseArt2 CONSOLIDATEDMESS3

consolidated mess

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