Memorial

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2nd Lt Richard B. Crater worked in an aircraft factory before he enlisted in Los Angeles, California, on 11 January 1943.

Statement from 2nd Lt Robert M. Draney:
"I was flying red three with Lt Crater as my wingman, red four. We made a strafing pass on a truck and staff car. After pulling off of the target, I turned and saw Lt Crater make his pass and start to pull off. Light flak started bursting around my plane, so I called on the R/T and took evasive action. After getting out of the area, I pulled up and started joining my flight, which was led by Lt Douglas. At that time, I noticed a column of black smoke rising from a position, which I estimated to be about one and a half to two miles from the target. I then began to look for my wingman, when red leader called me and asked me where red four was. Red four did not answer to the check. The column of smoke was unmistakably caused by an aircraft. Lt Crater went down on a strafing pass on a truck and staff car, flying red four."