Memorial

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William Fortwengler enlisted at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana on 7 April 1942.

Approximately 5 seconds after the bombing run began, the left wing of the airplane was hit by a close burst of heavy flak. Immediately, a long stream of fire swept back from the wing and began to spread. At this point, the pilot immediately feathered his left propeller and, by brilliant flying technique, kept his airplane on course and in formation. With the plane under control, he proceeded to lose altitude very slowly. The fire along the right wing was spreading despite efforts taken to bring it under control. It was clear to observers in the formation that the airplane was doomed. At this time, the airplane was still flying straight and level, due to the skillful and resolute action of the pilot and co-pilot. They were successful in keeping it under control for the duration of the bombing run, in spite of the flames which had now spread to the fuselage. Immediately after the bomb release by the lead plane, the bombardier released his bombs. The airplane turned slowly over on its back and went into a dive. Its plunge down was followed by several observers in the formation, but no parachutes were seen to open. A short distance above the ground, the airplane was seen to explode.

All seven crew members were killed.