Memorial

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S/Sgt Elson E. Frost graduated from Raytown Senior High School in 1938.

He volunteered for the Army of the United States at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri on 17 June 1942.

The aircraft was shot down by enemy fighters. The bombardier, 1st Lt Wilton H. Power, stated that they left the formation between the IP and the target. The pilot, co-pilot, bombardier, top turret, ball turret, tail gunner, radioman and right waist gunner all bailed out. He believed that everyone was out but Hamilton, left waist gunner, who was shot during action and he was almost positive about his death. He also states that all other members were in good condition, except for minor wounds. However, after interviewing parachuting crewman of other shot down B-17´s that day, he believes the remainder of his crew, pilot, top turret, ball turret, tail gunner and right waist gunner were all shot in their parachutes as they were descending.

Six crew members were killed. Their remains were initially buried at the Garnison Cemetery of Kiel on 17 June 1943. Four crew members were taken prisoner.