Memorial

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Christian W. Cracknell graduated from Madison High School and was employed by the Lincoln-Alliance Bank.

He joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in January 1942 and was transferred to the U.S. Army Air Corps in June 1944. He was sent overseas in October 1944.

Statement of 1st Lt John W. McGlelland, who flew in the same mission: "Lt Cracknell was fourth man in my flight and had been instrumental in finding the targets which we were strafing. When we rejoined to return home, he was missing. When called over the radio, we heard a faint reply, which was believed to be Lt Cracknell. We could not contact him again. He was last seen in the target area about three miles west of Olpe, Germany at approximately 0845 hours."

Statement of 1st Lt Marvin W. Heiden, who flew in the same mission: "Lt Cracknell was flying number four in red flight and had called in a train which we dive bombed. He went down to strafe and rejoined the formation. He was last seen when he went in strafing barrage balloons, following red leader. We received a faint answer, but could not understand him when we asked for his position. The time was 0845 hours, 16 March 1945. Target area was three miles west of Olpe, Germany."