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POW Grouping - 8th Army Air Force


MasonK
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Found this grouping posted on Craigslist. Actually quite surprised that no one had jumped on it.

 

I want to preface by saying, I am purposely not posting the veterans name in this thread and would appreciate if others would also refrain from doing so.

 

The initial grouping consisted of the veteran's service coat, 3 overseas caps, 1 laundry bag and 1 khaki shirt. The items were being sold by the nephew of the vet. I met with him today (very nice gentlemen) and was amazed by the items he had. After speaking with the nephew, I was able to add 1 tog tag, a photo of the vet, another khaki shirt, the PT shorts, the flight cap and the 3 SSI; 1 AAF HQ, 2 8th AAF (on British made stubby wing).

 

The diary's, paperwork, POW dog tag, etc, he allowed me to photograph. He wasn't quite ready to part ways, however said I would have first chance once he was. All of the medals are with the nephews son.

 

Regardless, I'm pleased to be the caretaker of a small part of this grouping.

 

Additional research is required, however thankfully quite a bit of what I have interest in, the vet captured in his diary.

 

Some details not in the screenshots/photos below:

 

Service - 385th Bomb Group, 548th Bomb Squadron

POW Date - 8th of May, 1944

Aircraft - B17, Jeanie Ricky (42-31786)

Position - Waist Gunner

Target - Berlin

Ejection area - Bremen

 

I don't have a Fold3 Acct, so was unable to pull the MACR. If anyone does and would be willing to help me out, I would be greatly appreciative!!

 

In any case, I'll start with some of the paperwork:

 

Enlistment and POW records from the Archives

 

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A scrapbook the vet put together. The ledger on the right details his service, specifically when he was captured.

 

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This is the diary he kept while a POW. Some really great artwork, including the complete contents of Red Cross care packages.

 

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The bottom drawing is of the Philadelphia skyline. Obviously trying to remember better times back home.

 

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First photo is of his home in SW Phily. Second starts the details of his capture and eventual release. He was in 2 POW camps. As the Allies began moving closer, the prisoners had to move. The trek to the new camp was 91 miles, over 5 days.

 

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