Memorial

More information

Othniel Keim attended New York University, where he studied to become an aeronautical engineer and was commander of the ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) unit. He was also president of his social fraternity - Zeta Psi.

He enlisted in New York City, New York on 3 May 1943.

Statement of Maj Wilton H. Earle Jr., who flew in the same mission: "Over the northwest edge of Cologne, Germany, Lt Keim received a burst of heavy flak that apparently severed an oil line. He was at approximately 12,000 feet at the time. Lt Keim set course for home. I was dive-bombing at the time he was hit, but managed to catch him and escort him. About 10 to 15 miles out of Cologne, he was down to 9,000 feet and advised that his oil pressure had dropped to zero. At this time, he was leaving a trail of white smoke. I urged Lt Keim to stay with his plane, which he did. Some five miles beyond, his engine quit. He tried to glide on to our lines but, at Eschweiler, was down to about 4,000 feet. He bailed out and his parachute opened. He made the ground successfully. I could not see him after he hit the ground."