Memorial

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Alphonse J. Kech graduated from Campion Jesuit High School in 1939.

He enlisted in Miami Beach, Florida on 30 January 1943.

Statement by David E. Olsson, Capt, Asst. Operations Officer:
"B-17G 44-6098, piloted by 2nd Lt Robert W. Hamilton, was seen to be hit by flak at 1330 hours at 53⁰ 28´N, 10⁰ 00´E. The aircraft began to drop out of formation about one minute after bombs away. Fire began in #3 engine, spreading over the right wing and then the left wing. Four chutes were seen to come out, and one delayed jump. At this time, 1340 hours at 53⁰ 20´N, 09⁰ 05´E at about 23,000 feet altitude, the aircraft exploded."

Surviving crew member reports indicate that 5 crew members bailed out prior to the explosion. The pilot, bombardier, and engineer were thrown clear through the explosion of the plane. Their chutes were opened by the force of the blast. All 8 survived and ended up POW. Lt Kech was at the controls when the plane exploded. He was found dead in the wreckage.