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Announcements

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This page is provided for Veterans to post notices of interest such as searching for a friend or fellow bomb group member, notices of births, deaths, marriage of family and loved ones, crew reunions.   If you are part of a bomb group and would like to have your reunion posted here, please let us know.  Send your messages to: the39thbga@39th.org with "Announcement Notice" in the subject line.

Announcements

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Current Announements


06 February 2014
Final Flight








It is with sadness that I annoounce the passing of Marvin Demanzuk, Chaplain of the 39th Bomb Group (VH) Association.

1st Lt Marvin Demanzuk served as Radar Observer on Crew 02 of the 60th Bomb Squadron. He took his final flight on 03 February 2014.

My first contact with Marvin was via email in 2002. From that point forward I knew he was one special guy. His willingness to share was only limited by comparision to his willingness to share of himself when asked. As the years progressed as questions would come from visitors to the web site ... especially if they were Radar oriented Marvin was right there with the answer.

When asked to "fill-in" for Betty Wyckoff in 2007 & 2009 to lead the annual Memorial Service .. Marvin gave 100% to the task. In 2010 when asked if he take on the position as Chaplain ... he was once again there; a position he held until his passing.

During the year, our family was fortunate to live near Marvin (an hour or so away) so we were able to get together and have lunch, something I will miss very much.

A copy of Marvin's obituary can be viewed by clicking here

Thank you Jane, Donna and Ruth for sharing your father with us ... and Marvin, thank you for sharing your WWII and life experiences with me .....

 

 

Pete Weiler
Historian/Webmaster
Proud Son of Robert Weiler Crew 30
39th Bomb Group (VH) Association


20 Jauary 2014
Final Flight






1st Lt Arthur Swanberg, Radar Observer, Crew 30 (61st BS) took his final flight on 18 January 2014.

This is especially saddening on personal note because Art was on the same crew as my father, and his passing comes literally 7 days following the passing of Bill Costa, Navigator of the crew (see below).

Art and his wife, Alice attended reunions from 2002 through 2008. Art was very active in Kiwanis Club. In 1993, he was elected president of Kiwanis International.

Here is the link to Art Swanberg's obituary found on The Dallas News web site:

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dallasmorningnews/obituary.aspx?n=arthur-swanberg&pid=169387809&


Here is a news article dated January 29, 2014 about Art that appearred in the Dallas Morning News:

http://www.dallasnews.com/obituary-headlines/20140131-arthur-swanberg-carwash-pioneer-dies-at-91.ece

Art you are missed ....

Pete Weiler
Historian/Webmaster
Proud Son of Robert Weiler Crew 30
39th Bomb Group (VH) Association


13 Jauary 2014
Final Flight






1st Lt William A. Costa, Navigator Crew 30 (61st BS) took his final flight on 11 January 2014.

This is especially saddening on personal note because Bill was on the same crew as my father ... one of last 3 surviving crew members at the time of his passing. One week later ... Art Swanberg, Radar Observer took his Final Flight.

For the last 11 out of 13 years I seen Bill and his wife Lida at the reunions ...

Bill - always willing to answer any questions I asked regarding their missions or his job as Navigator ... always a smile on his face ... Lida and her infectious laugh and always enjoying herself ....

Bill you will be missed .... Lida and the Costa Family .. you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Here is the link to Bill Costa's obituary found on The Journal News web site:

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lohud/obituary.aspx?pid=169068078

For those wanting a hard copy I had some printing issues with regard to missing words on one side of the page. Click here for a copy in PDF

Pete Weiler
Historian/Webmaster
Proud Son of Robert Weiler Crew 30
39th Bomb Group (VH) Association


15 March 2013

Dear 39th members,

My father was commander of crew 19 and died at the relatively young age of 59. My son, also named after my Dad, never knew his grandfather. If any of you have any photos or stories about him you would care to share, I know it would mean a lot to my son.

Thank you for your service gentlemen!

Richard Prevvidi




27 December 2012

Dear 39th members,

Looking for members who served with my father Frank Heberling.

He was a airplane armorer, ground enchelon. 62nd BS, 39th BG on Guam

Jim Heberling


12 August 2012
Final Flight






Major General Leo C. Lewis, USAF Ret. (then Major) Airplane Commander, Crew 8 took his final flight on 21 July 2012.

 


 

 

Pete Weiler
Historian 39th BGA


24 September 2010
Final Flight






Lt. Colonel Urban F. Thinnes USAF, Ret, (then 2nd Lt) Bombardier, Romspert Crew (61st BS) took his final flight on 21 September 2010.

"A great man, he will be missed by all who ever knew him! He served in the USAF from the end of WWII through the end of the Viet Nam war."

 


 

 

Becki Horsewood & Family,
Daughter


12 Mar 2010
Final Flight




This evening I received a call from Beth Chatfield notifying me that her grandmother Elizabeth (Betty) Wyckoff passed away 11 March 2010.

At the present condolences can be sent to the39thbga@aol.com and we will forward them to the family.

Pete Weiler
Webmaster 39th BG Assoc.

23 Feb 2010
Final Flight






Pfc Salvatore Navilio, Mechanic, 62nd Squadron, took his final flight on 22 February 2010.

Services are planned for February 25, at Aloya Funeral Home in Garfield, NJ.

Holly Juba
Grand daughter

24 July 2009
Final Flight






Capt Kenneth T. Trow, Airplane Commander of the Weather Observation Crew, 61st Bomb Squadron, took his final flight on 21 July 2009.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kenneth Schauer,
Grandson



16 July 2009

Dear 39th members,

A close friend of mine, Sara Kenefick Heffernan, is the niece of Crew 52 CFC Gunner Sgt Milton F. Haines. She is trying to collect as much information on him as she can get for her next family reunion.

If any of you knew Sgt Haines, any stories or recollections of who he was, a friend and soldier, would be be very much appreciated.

Feel free to contact me at: jet.gorilla@yahoo.com

Sincerely yours,
Chris Urquieta

13 May 2009
Final Flight






To fellow B-29 members,
My father Charles A Castle of the 39th bomb group P-20 passed away on May 1st 2009.

His memories of those days were some of his most treasured. He has left us with many stories
He will be greatly missed.

Cheryl Castle
Daughter

13 May 2009
Final Flight






Harold Krumnow, (Radio Operator, Crew 33) of West Allis, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 11, 2009, age 86. Beloved husband of the late F. Eleanor (nee Harrop) Krumnow. Brother of the late Kenneth Krumnow. Also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Masonic Service at the Krause Funeral Home on Monday, May 18, 2009, 10:00 AM by the James M Hays Lodge # 331 F.&A.M.

Bob Weiler
39th BG Assoc President

17 Apr 2009
Final Flight






I wanted to take this opportunity to inform you of the death of Waring L Lynch, a 39th BGA member, on January 28th, 2009.  Dad’s health had been in decline for the past couple of years and in the last several months the decline became even more pronounced.  He was proud of his service to the 39th and to his country.  He is survived by his wife, Rose Marie, and three children; Mary Jo, Chuck and Tom.  A mass of Christian burial was held at Holy Name Catholic Church in Beech Grove, IN.  At his wake we played the video of the Nagoya raid and the rescue operations that were carried out by the Pintado.  All who were present marveled at the courage of the young men who risked their lives for this country.

Chuck Lynch
Son


30 Jan 2009
Final Flight






Sheldon E. Elliott, Nav, Crew 51 took his Final Flight on Jan. 6, 2009 at the age of 83 yrs old. He retired from Phillips Petroleoum Company and a long time resident of Bartelsville, OK.

He was born July 9, 1925 in Asuncion Paraguay to Dr. Arhtur E. and Ivy F. Elliott who were serving as missionaries for the Christian Church (Disciplies of Christ). After an early childhood in Paraguay, his family moved to Enid, Oklahoma, where he completed high school and one year at Phillips Univeristy before entering the Army Air Corps in June 1943.

Amy S. Elliott
Daughter

20 Nov 2008
Final Flight





I received an email this morning that Richard G. "Dick" Curry, Tail Gunner, Crew 19 took his Final Flight on Aug 5, 2008.

Here is the link to his dedication page
.

Pete Weiler
Historian 39th BGA

27 July 2008
Final Flight



Howard C. Deeter, CFC, P-56

To whom it may concern,

It is with great sadness that my father T/Sgt Howard C. Deeter CFC Gunner (Central Fire Control) of crew 56, (Snudes Dudes) 39th Bomber Group took his final flight on July 17th,2008.

Born May 23,1925 dad was 83 when he succumbed to Cancer. Dad passed at his home in Atlanta, Michigan deep in the woods,on the lake and with his family as he had wished.

Respectfully,
Robert Deeter

7 Dec 2007
Final Flight



Eleanor Krumnow, wife of S/Sgt Harold Krumnow, Radio Operator of Crew 33, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 23, 2007.

Eleanor was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star - Electra Chapter #75 O.E.S. Private services were held. Burial is Forest Home Cemetery.

Online condolence book can be found by clicking here

Harold - Please accept our sincere condolences.

The Weiler Family
webmaster 39th.org

01 December 2007

 

Happy Anniversary to Bob & Louise Weiler who celebrate their 63rd Wedding Anniversary on December 2. They married in 1944. What started as the 2 of them has grown to 3 Children, 12 Grandchildren, and 3 Great Grandchildren. Bob served on Crew 30 as left gunner and is currently the 39th BG Association's President and served as 1st VP 1990 - 2006; Louise is the Association Secretary.

Pete Weiler
Webmaster 39th.org


12 November 2007
Final Flight





Passing of Harold J. Pfeffer, 1st Lt, Navigator, Crew 15, 60th BS

Born: 3 July 1923
Died: 11 Nov 2007

 

 

 

 

Mark Pfeffer ,
Son of Harold J. Pfeffer


30 August 2007
Final Flight



Herb Greer 1945

Herbert L. Greer age 85, son of Fred and Nellie Greer made his final flight August 30, 2007 and will assume his place next to Hazel Jean Greer his wife of some 63 years. Herbert was born in Chelan, Washington and was the eldest of three brothers and three sisters. He is survived by his son, Ronald Lyndon Greer, daughter Linda Diane Greer, grandson Jonathan Daugherty, granddaughter Susannah Cox and two great grand children Gracie and Jake Cox. Mr. Greer spent 23 years in the United States Air Force and served his country during World War II and Korea. He is a recipient of the “Distinguished Flying Cross” and has published his personal memoirs “FIRE FROM THE SKY” – A diary over Japan.

Ron Greer,
Son of Herbert L. Greer


7 October 2006
Final Flight





39th BG Association Founder and President has taken his final flight on 4 Oct 2006. James W. Wyckoff served as the group's President from the first reunion held in 1990 until his passing having guided our destiny for 17 years.


Click here for letter from 1st VP Bob Weiler.

 

 

 

 





BobWeiler
1st VP 39th BG (VH) Assoc


27 June 2006
Final Flight




During Social Secuirty Death Index database located on the rootsweb.com web site, the name of Ralph A. Weston with a last residence of Goleta, CA, and a DOD of 25 January 2006 was found. The City/State listed in the SSDI is the same as listed in the 39th Bomb Group Association records for 1st Lt. Ralph A. Weston, Pilot, P-47/Repl Airplane Commander, P-41.

A search of the Santa Barbara News-Press resulted in the finding of Mr. Weston's obituary listing the date of his Final Flight as 25 January 2006 - thus confirming that the SSDI entry is indeed our 39th BG (VH) Veteran. Additionally, in the same search for "Weston" an obituary was found for Patricia F. Weston, his wife of 60 yrs, who passed away on 10 January 2006 - just 15 days prior to Mr. Weston.

Our hearts and prayers go out to the Weston Family.

Pete Weiler
Webmaster 39th.org


6 June 2006

TO ALL 39ers and Families:

The 2006 Reunion of the 39th BG Association scheduled to be held in BRANSON, MO 10 -13 August has been cancelled !!

For details please click here

Pete Weiler
Webmaster 39th.org


1 June 2006
Final Flight




My name is Danielle Green and I am Robert Bettinson's grandaughter. Sadly, Pop-Pop passed away on Tuesday, May 30th. He went peacefully with his family by his side. He had been recovering from several strokes in a Life Care Center in MA.

I thought it would be important to let you folks know because your Group meant the world to him and it was a part of who he was. I remember hearing his amazing stories from my earliest days and he still kept that passion to the end. He had his cap with all of his pins right next to his bedside.

We plan to hold two memorial services for him. One will be during the July 4th weekend most likely in Taunton, MA and the other will be in Philadelphia, PA but the date is TBA. We want to incorporate as much of his love for flying and the military as we can into these memorials. I hope you will spread the word and let us know if you would like to attend one of the small memorial tributes we will be having.

Please feel free to contact me via email - know it would mean so much to my mother Karen and the rest of my family to hear from any of my grandfather's friends and fellow servicemen.

Respectfully yours,
Danielle Green


31 May 2006
Final Flight




Be advised that on May 30, 2006 Lt Glen Durkin---P43 Passed away. He had been ill and in the end suffered a heart attack. This reduces the remaining crew members to four. Co-pilot-Bob Johnson--Tail gunner-Tommy Mayfield--right gunner Paul Kasmar and Martin McDonough---left gunner.

Glen can best be remembered for his endless efforts at his tiny desk----many times giving his last heading report---when Guam was visable on the horizon......He shall be missed......

Martin McDonough
P-43, Left Gunner


7 May 2006
Final Flight



Sgt Roy Hanning Ground Crew 26R, passed away on May 7, 2006
in Ilwaco Washington.

Joe Murry, Nephew


5 May 2006
Final Flight



To all concerned,

Kenneth J Setzer passed away to a better place at 1:43 Wednesday afternoon on May 3rd 2006.

At his side was his wife of 59 years, Betty - his son James and his daughter Cheryl.

He passed away quietly and without pain.

His cancer was found in December and could not be stopped. He put up a good fight and stayed with us as long as he could.

Thank you for your prayers.

Jim Setzer
Son


13 April 2006

click to enlarge Lauren Taylor Elaine
Weiler

I'd like to announce the newest member of the 39th Bomb Group (VH) family - She is the 12th grandchild of Robert Weiler, LG, Crew 30 and the daughter of Peter & Cammie Weiler .. she was born at 11:31a 13 April 2006 (this photo taken 5 hrs 45 mins after her birth).


submitted by Pete Weiler
webmaster@39th.org

4 April 2006
Final Flight




1st Lt Edmund J. Flynn, Airplane Commander, Crew 6 took his final flight 11 January 2006 at the age of 89.

He graduated from Harvard. His first job as an attorney was on the Washington staff of the National Labor Relations Board; afew years later as counsel at the Printer's Union. From 1969 he became president of the Pacific Maritime Association retiring in 1982.

Flynn met his wife Jean while attending Indiana University at Bloomington. They were married for 50 years until her death in 1992. They have 5 Children, 4 Grandchildren and 5 Great Grandchildren. In 1994 he married again, Noriko Sawada. She died in Feb 2003.

Pete Weiler
webmaster


05 March 2006
Final Flight





S/Sgt George C. Tighman, Left Gunner of 1st Repl Crew 1 (Killpack crew) took his Final Flight on March 1, 2006.

He was the last of 3 of his crew that survived WWII. 8 members of his crew were lost 29 May 1945 - Yokohoma Mission.

Mr. Tilghman served as the Association's Treasurer from 1996 to present.

Mr. Tilghman was a architect by trade in Maryland.

Pete Weiler
webmaster


05 March 2006
Final Flight



Then 1st Lt James W. Frey, Airplane Commander of Replacement Crew 42, passed away peacefully at home with family by his side in Keizer, Oregon on Dec 24, 2005. He was 84 yrs old. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors on 27 Jan 2006. In his later service he flew B-47s, KC97s, B-52s and C-123s in Vietnam.

Nicholas Livingston his Flight Engineer and Herbert Verry his Radio Operator from his WWII crew were present at in Arlington, VA. in addition to family.

Todd Phillips
Son in-law



05 Dec 2005
Final Flight




It is with deep sadness that I inform you that my father, Albert L. Fierro, Sr., passed from this life Saturday morning, December 3, 2005 at 6:55 AM. He had been in a coma since Thursday night. I arose Saturday, early and suddenly, and felt the call to be with him. I was blessed to be present when he opened his eyes one last time, looked at me, took one last breath, and closed them as he left our world.

I am sure he would have liked the fact that he will be laid to rest on Pearl Harbor Day, Wednesday, December 7, 2005.

Al Fierro
Proud Son S/Sgt Albert L. Fierro
Crew 41, Left Gunner


09 Sept 2005
Final Flight



No Photo
Available

James Graves Sherman, S/Sgt, 62nd BS, CFC Maint Section passed away 1 July 2005.

Mr. Sherman had the distinguished honor of being the "Dean of Louisiana Mayors" a title bestowed upon him because of his 41 yrs of service as Mayor of Columbia, LA. He served from 1964 to 1980 and again 1984 until his death.

Pete Weiler
webmaster


27 Aug 2005
Final Flight



Edward L. Bates, 1st Lt, Navigator, Crew 21 passed away yesterday, August 26, 2005.

 

Vic Durrance
Tail Gunner, Crew 21


13 Aug 2005
Final Flight




Dr. James Clayton Wilkes Radio Operator, Crew 43 took his Final Flight on 6 August 2005.

Tommy Mayfield
Tail Gunner Crew 43


26 July 2005
Final Flight




I regret to inform you that Mr. Morris Yancey died this morning at about 4:30a (Jul 25, 2005).

I don’t know the arrangements as of yet. He is survived by his new wife Kathryn “Pinny” Pinson Cook Yancey. This will be most difficult for her as they have also been life long friends and she has been his caregiver for quite some time. They were the cutest couple, so attentive and loving toward one another and so very playful. I know she will be very lonely. His daughter died about 3 years ago and his wife Jewel has been in a nursing home for a long time with Alzheimer until her death about 2 months ago. His only brother died years ago as well as his parents.

Truly he is in a better place but “I” will miss him greatly. He is one of the sweetest and dearest gentlemen I have encountered. I loved him like my own father.

Meba Finlay


16 July 2005
Final Flight




My grandfather, Julian Arnold of crew 44, passed away yesterday afternoon. He fought lung cancer for almost two years. Please let everyone know and thank them for their prayers.

If anyone is in Orlando or Miami and is interested in coming to the funeral, the service will be next Saturday in Miami, and the burial will be Sunday in Orlando and they can contact me for details.

Lindsey


08 July 2005
Final Flight




"I lost one of my all time wonderful friends, Richard A. Wachs, Sr., he was an ideal crew member, anxious to please, competent, loyal, faithful, of exemplary character and all around great american and human being.

His family had every reason to be proud of dick, an unassuming hero of WWII .

We will all miss this delightful man. may god bless him, his family and Helen Kelly who did a phenomenal job tending him in the final years of his life".

- Bernie Greene,
Bombardier, Repl Crew 31


06 July 2005
Final Flight




My husband, Lt. Col. Francis K. Race died at Ohio State University on June 14, 2005

 

 

 

 

 

Marjorie Race


01 June 2005
Final Flight




Unforunately I am reporting a new member to the "final flight" roll call. My Father in Law, Ralph T Gray passed away on May 20, 2005.

Ralph left a wife of 58 years and six children. Mr. Gray was a retired Northwest Airlines pilot who had a very interesting life. Ralph was on short list of pilots that have logged over 35 thousand hours. If you would like any additional information about Ralph, I would be happy to oblige.

 

Bob Carroll
Son In-Law


05 May 2005
Final Flight



No Photo
Available

Cpl Glenn Allan Porter
Flight Engineer

Passed away 14 December 2003.

 

Tim Porter, Son


05 May 2005
Final Flight





2nd Lt William K. Brooks - Airplane Commander
Replacement Crew 11
"Censored Lady"
B-29 # 44-69810

Passed away 10 February 2005

 

Will Brooks, son


22 April 2005
Final Flight





T/Sgt Gene C. Kolb
Flight Engineer, Crew 15

Passed away 7 April 2005 at the age of 85 yrs old at Clovis Community Hospital. A memorial service was held 22 April at the Chowchilla United Methodist Church. Burial was at Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Gustine, CA.

 

 

 

 

Ben Piteo
Tail Gunner, Crew 15


22 March 2005
Final Flight




Sgt. Thomas Rufus Latta, Tailgunner
Crew 54
Low & Lonely
B-29 # 44-69908
passed away Monday, March 21, 2005 at 8:56 a.m. in Baltimore, MD.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Elizabeth (Betty Jo) W. Latta of Thurmont, MD.

His five children: Lisa Crump, David Latta, Barbara Parsels, Mary Mutter, and Thomas Latta.

Eleven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

He was loved by all and will be missed by many.

Thank you
Lisa Crump. daughter


28 February 2005
Final Flight




Luther A. Jones of Monroe, a retired educator, died Saturday. The memorial service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at First United Methodist Church, Monroe. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. to service time at the church under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Home on Lamy Lane, Monroe.

Luther was AC of Crew 59


 


David Beauvais
Aviation and Military Museum of Louisiana


20 February 2005
Final Flight




I received a call from Bernice Dunn this morning to tell me that Fred had passed away at 0235 this morning (20 Feb 2005). Bernice (his wife) got all the family and they were with Fred until the end.

Fred would have been 89 years young on the 29th Feb. but being a leap-year child, on the 28th he would have been 90
years minus 45 days.

This leaves me the last living member of our original crew.

George Tilghman
Left Gunner
Crew 1 (1st Replacement)


09 February 2005
Final Flight




1st Lt Milton T. Cummings (83), Bombaridier, Crew 24, passed away 08 February 2005 in St. Augustine, Florida.

Tracy Clark


29 December 2004
Final Flight




1st Lt Joseph F. Callaghan (88), Navigator, Crew 10, passed away 29 December 2004 in Venice, Florida. Joe will be cremated in FL; Beulah will remain here in FL during the winter months then return to their home in Rode Island for interment.

Pete Weiler
webmaster


4 December 2004
Final Flight




Major Wetsel Daniel Waggoner "Wag" (86) airplane commander of P-18 passed away November 8, 2004 in Salt Lake City, Utah after a long struggle with Parkinson’s Disease..

He loved to fly and he loved to work.. He will be missed.

“When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life so that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice.”

Cherokee Expression

Michael Waggoner


2 December 2004
Happy Anniversary to Bob & Louise Weiler who on this day 60 years ago (1944) were married. What started as the 2 of them has grown to 3 Children, 11 Grandchildren, and 3 Great Grandchildren.Bob served on Crew 30 as left gunner and is currently the 39th BG Association's 1st VP; Louise is the Association Secretary. On 4 December they celebrated with 75 of their closest friends and family. Present were all 3 of their children and 8 of their grandchilden and their 3 great grandchildren.

submitted by Pete Weiler


8 July 2004
Final Flight


39th BG Association's 2nd VP Hollis Logan announced the passing of his wife, Maxine.

M. Maxine Logan 78, died Sunday,June 27, 2004 in Topeka She was born April 30, 1926 in Topeka, the daughter of I.M. and Bertha Carlson Price. She graduated from Topeka High School and attended Kansas State University and Washburn University.

Mrs. Logan's career included stints at Kansas Power & Light, Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Modern Office Methods, where she retired in 1978. She was an Adult Volunteer with the Girl Scouts of America Kaw Valley Council.Her hobbies included gardening, painting, bridge, travel and golf.

Complete obituary and online condolence book can be found at:
http://www.penwellgabel.com/

Hollis & Family - Please accept our sincere condolences.

The Weiler Family
Webmaster 39th.org

13 May 2004
Final Flight


I am the daughter of WWII veteran, Carl E. LeVan, a member of your group. He was Radar Observer of Replacement Crew 26.

Sadly, I must report that Dad passed away yesterday morning, May 12, 2004 at the age of 79 in his home in Shillington, PA.

He and surviving crew members had been put back in touch with each other through the efforts of Wayne Stone, the son of a deceased crew member. I brought my father to the 39th bomb group reunion held in York, PA last August, and he was reunited with fellow crew member, Herman Spain, whom he hadn't seen since their discharge in '46. He would have wanted me to let you know that he wanted to join you again this year in St. Louis, but after his diagnosis of leukemia in February, he knew it was not to be so. To those of you who put this organization together, thank you. It helped me to know more about my dad and his part in history. He was a quiet, humble man, a caring friend, a loving father, and my hero.

Karen Hull

12 March 2004
Final Flight



I am the youngest daughter of Joseph H. Feldhake. My father passed away on February 29, 2004. He suffered from Alzheimer's Disease and had been in a nursing home since February 2001. My mother, Jean, continues to reside in Sigel, Illinois. At my father's death he had nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Teresa Feldhake


21 January 2004
Final Flight



Lewis Dale Barton
BARTON, LEWIS DALE (AGE 86)

On January 20, 2004 of Bowie, MD., U.S. Army Air Corps veteran of World War II. Beloved husband of the late Susan I. "Pat" Barton; father of the late Phillip Barton; brother of Merle D. and Leslie Wayne Barton. Family will receive friends on Thursday, January 22, 2004 from 12 to 1 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church, 7210 Race Track Rd., Bowie, MD where funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. Interment Lakemont Memorial Gardens, Davidsonville, MD. Memorial donations may be made to Grace Baptist Church.
Arrangements by BEALL FUNERAL HOME, Bowie, MD.

This ad appeared in The Washington Post on 1/21/2004.

Webmaster 39th BG (VH)


14 January 2004
Final Flight



Sadly, I must inform you that David Potters passed away on Monday, January 12.

I had mailed him prints of the last couple of update emails, hesitantly, being as they had more reports of passings. He had struggled with health issues the last few years but his mind was sharp to the end.

He is my maternal uncle and I had the privilege of spending a day with he and his wife Marian and my children this last summer. David was a man of integrity and grace and he will remain an influence on my life as a man and a hero.


John Bermudez


21 December 2003
Final Flight



I wanted to let you know that my Uncle died this morning from pneumonia. From what I understand he was having trouble breathing and was on an oxygen machine which could not sustain him. They switched him to a bottle but he couldn't hold on. His heart started to race and they tried to shock it back to the correct rhythm and it didn't work.

Stephen Semanek - nephew
ssemanek@rcn.com

2 December 2003
Happy Anniversary to Bob & Louise Weiler who on this day 59 years ago (1944) were married. What started as the 2 of them has grown to 3 Children, 11 Grandchildren, and 3 Great Grandchildren.Bob served on Crew 30 as left gunner and is currently the 39th BG Association's 1st VP; Louise is the Association Secretary.

submitted by Pete Weiler

26 November 2003

My late father, Major A.W. Calcote is listed on your site as then Capt as an Aricraft Engineering officer (MOS 4823) in the 60th Squadron.

Is there anyone viewing who might have memories to share with me?

Thank You
Donna Calcote Mc Laughlin


15 November 2003
Final Flight



This morning 15 Nov 2003 at 3:30a Marion D. (Bud) Foster, Tail Gunner, Crew 48, 62nd Squadron died after suffering a heart attack.

We had a normal day on Friday Nov. 14 and no warning that anything was amiss. However, at 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, Bud had a heart attack and died instantly. The paramedics were here within 5 minutes and worked on him for 20 minutes without success. He has suffered so much the past year that I am consoled by the thought that he is no longer in pain and is with Our Lord in Heaven. We had 56 years together and I will have trouble getting used to the idea that he is not with me.

Please let the members know that Bud has gone on to a better place and that I hope to see them at a future reunion. We have enjoyed seeing everyone in past reunions even though we couldn't make them all. A wonderful group of people. Thank you for your email today and your support.

Irene Foster

7 November 2003
Final Flight


It is with great sadness that we inform you that following quadruple by-pass surgery and complications Ben Hill passed away Friday, October 31, 2003.

The Hill Family


26 September 2003
Happy Birthday to Bob Weiler, Crew 30, who turns 84 today ...

From your loving Family ...

 




Your Son Pete


15 September 2003
Final Flight


1st Lt Leonard A. Kuther, Bombardier, P-43 passed away 25 August 2003 at the age of 83

 

 




Tommy Mayfield, Tail Gunner, P-43


1 September 2003
Final Flight



Charles D. Buchinski, Nose Gunner of the Weather Observation Crew, 61st BS Squadron passed away 25 August 2003. Buchinski was better known as Charles Bronson.

 

 

 

 


Webmaster 39th.org


4 August 2003
Final Flight


Glenn E. Haas passed away on Sunday, August 3rd (2003) from pancreatic cancer. He enjoyed being a member and the e-mails he received.

 

The Haas Family


4 August 2003
Final Flight


No Photo
Available

2nd Lt. Robert J. Helhorst, a pilot who flew the first missions with P-56, passed away On July 27, 2003, in Kokomo, Indiana. He was laid to rest at Sunset Memory Gardens in Kokomo, Indiana.

Judy Fulmer
Daughter


23 July 2003
Vic Durrance, TG, Crew 21 and Association Historian has written a book entitled "Boys at War: Recollections of Conflict"

It covers training at Smoky Hill Army Air Field, Batista Cuba and missions flown from Guam. It includes many photos including ones taken of the USS Doherty picking me and my crew as well as combat photos. There is a section about the time we did some fancy maneuvers over Tokyo as the result of getting into a thermal.

For more information about this book, please contact Vic Durrance at vrdurrance@beggstelco.net


16 July 2003
I'd like to announce the birth of Eli David Weiler, Grandson of Robert Weiler, LG, Crew 30 born 14 July 2003. 9lbs 2 oz. He is the son Bob and Louise's son David and his wife Teresa of Apalachicola FL.

 

Pete Weiler

11 July 2003
Final Flight


Ed Kosmowski, Asst Crew Chief, P-08 called and notifted the Association that John Danhof, Crew Chief, P-08 died in an auto accident today.

 

 

 

 

Jim Wyckoff
39th Bomb Group Assoc, Pres

02 July 2003
Final Flight


Dear 39th Bomb Group,

Nancy Wiley called me this afternoon to tell me that Ted Wiley, Radio Operator on Heimlich's crew (P-37), had taken his final flight just after fathers day, (24 July 2003) may god bless him.

Ted was a lovely guy, a privilege to know and spend time with.
he and nancy were a great couple, along with fred and bernice dunn. we partied at the reunions when we could and also in the Winter Park, FL. area where both couples lived.

My Bernice and I last saw them all just before thanksgiving 2002.

Bernie Greene, Bombardier P-31R

28 April 2003
In Loving Memory ...
Mya L. (Spencer) Weiler
Mya L. (Spencer) Weiler

With deep saddeness and tears I must report the loss of Bob Weiler (Crew 30)'s daughter in-law (my wife) Mya Weiler (23 yrs old) passed on 27 April 2003 due to cancer.

She left behind not only myself but our 17 month old son as well as her mother and step-father and father and step-mother; a brother; 2 step-brothers as well as both her sets of grandparents ... and many aunts and uncles.

Donations can be made to Give Kids the World or Locks of Love.
Pete Weiler
webmaster

19 January 2003
Final Flight


S/Sgt Carmine Camperlino - CFC Gunner Crew 8

Dear B-29ers of World War II,

Many of you may have met me at the reunion in Wichita, Kansas, 2001. Many of you may also know my grandfather Staff Sergeant Carmine "Campy" Camperlino and you may have even been his crewmate. I have some really bad news for you on January 2, 03 he went into the hospital because he had fallen and blacked out. He then had to have oxygen and on January 19, 2003 around 12:30 am he passed away.

This is heartbreaking to my family and me and it may be hard for some of you also. Thank you very much for your letters of courage to help my grandfather out of the hospital last year it helped him last time and this time if I would have asked for letters of courage he might have made it out. Thank you for all your help. I deeply appreciate all your help for he might have died sooner and this would be even harder for me.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Conlin


06 January 2003
Final Flight


S/Sgt Herman T. Hagan - Mechanic Crew 26R

I am sorry to report that my brother, Herman T. Hagen, passed away on Saturday, December 28, 2002 after a long stroke related illness.

Prior to his passing, he enjoyed information about the 39th obtained from your website as well as a contact he made with Allen Neidhardt from the 39th.

Without your help none of this would have been possible and I wish to thank you for that. In addition, Jay Ivey had mailed some never before seen photos to Herman's home in Grand Forks, ND which were deeply appreciated. The information from the website was a source of great enjoyment to him.

He is deeply missed by me, his family and friends.

George Hagen

31 December 2002
Final Flight


No Photo
Available

Ronald P. Jemmott, 61st SQ passed away at home after a long illness on 27 December 2002. He is survived by 2 sons and 2 daughters, a brother, 2 sisters, 15 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours.

Interment will be at St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Amsterdam.

Memorial gifts in Mr. Jemmott's name may be made to the Community Hospice of Amsterdam, 40 Guy Park Avenue or to G.A.V.A.C., P.O. Box 11, both of Amsterdam, NY 12010.

(Information from the Amsterdam (NY) The Recorder, 30 Dec 2002 edition)

webmaster 39th.org


15 December 2002
Final Flight


1st Lt Graham "Bud" E. Elvgren, Pilot, P-28

I am sorry to report the death of my father, Graham "Bud" E. Elvgren, (1st Lt, Pilot, P-28) on 14 December 2002 in St. Paul, MN.

A visitation will be held Dec 23, 2002 in St. Paul. Detailed information will be available in the St. Paul Pioneer Press and Minneapolis Star on December 22, 2002.

Bud is survived by his wife, Margy, daughters, Anne and Joan and 2 grandchildren.

For additional information, you are welcome to contact me.

Anne Elvgren


11 December 2002
Final Flight


On 10 December 2002 Chester G. Juvenal, Airplane Plane Commander, Crew 7 passed away.

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that donations be made to the Hospice Foundation.

Elmo Huston, FE, P-07

27 October 2002
Final Flight


No Photo
Available

William C. Sullivan, AC, Crew 15 passed away Sunday 13 October 2002 of heart disease in Boulder, Co. at the age of 83. Mr. Sullivan lived in Boulder County since 1930.

A tree memorial can be made in care of Crist Mortuary, Boulder, CO or contributions can be made to the American Free Press, Washington, DC.

Pete Weiler
webmaster


22 October 2002
Final Flight


We lost another friend.. Elias T. Schutzman, Radio Operator, P46.

If you look up his crew, they were shot down and spent a day in the water before being picked up by the Submarine USS Tigrone. The waves were so high (estimate at 40 feet) A b17 dropped a Dumbo life boat at 4 PM and it took them 8 hours to get to it in the storm. They estimate the boat turned over about every half hour---making it a problem to get back in. Shutzman was wounded and one of the others had a broken shoulder.

Martin McDonough, LG, P-43