Memorial

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Sgt. James W. Cothran graduated from York High School in 1941. He was employed at the Agriculture Adjustment Administration before he entered the service.

There was only one survivor who lived through this ordeal, Co-Pilot Lt Robert W. Darnall, who was blown literally out of the plane when it exploded while under enemy fighter attacks. His report indicated that most crewmembers were in their assigned positions when the plane suddenly blew up, and surmised all of them had been killed. Some having been wounded during the ensuing fighter passes, and the Tail Gunner Sgt Frank J. Orlando definitely killed in his Turret. He related further that the Pilot 2nd Lt William M. Milliken and Radio Operator Sgt George F. Stella Jr were standing up beside him and both were attempting to open the jammed bomb bay doors when the plane blew up. He and Co-Pilot Lt Darnall were blown out of the forward section.