Memorial

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2nd Lt John N. Wilson, Jr volunteered in October 1941

2nd Lt Thomas R. Kelly: "I observed B-17 No. 42-31459 leave the formation, gaining speed and forging ahead, in course but in a gradual decent. While on this course, I observed five parachutes open, the last three coming from the nose hatch. During this time, blue smoke was coming out of number two engine. B-17 No. 459 was on this course for about eight minutes before it crashed into the mountain. At the time it crashed into the mountain, it was flying level and straight. I believe it was on AFCE. About two minutes before the crash, number two engine fell off. It was at 1318 Hours. When he crashed into the mountain. On its gradual level descent, P-38’s were following B-17 No. 459 down and circled a couple of time after the aircraft crashed. All the crew members wo were able to bail out had plenty of time to do so."

2nd Lt Robert C. Gamache: "I believe a shell exploded inside the cockpit and injured or killed the pilot and Co-Pilot."

Lt Wilson is remembered at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Arlington County, Virginia with a memorial marker.