MM386
The crew of Lts. Grimes/Jodar flew a weather flight to Germany on 6th November 1944. The crew encountered adverse weather on return to Watton and diverted to North Pickenham, again because of very strong crosswinds at Watton. Flying on starboard engine only due to fuel shortage, the pilot prepared for an emergency belly landing when contact was lost, On descent, the Mosquito flew into a row of trees shearing off six feet of the left wing. This caused the aircraft to roll over on to its back, then crashed inverted into a field and explode upon impact. Both crew members were killed instantly. The tragedy occurred near the Wending Schoolhouse at approximately 21:10 hrs.
Crew: Lt. Robert C. Grimes (pilot) and Lt. Clarence W. Jodar (obs) USAAF - killed in action.
Connections
See how this entry relates to other items in the archive by exploring the connections below.
Units served with
- Unit Hierarchy: Group
- Air Force: Eighth Air Force
- Type Category: Reconnaissance
- Unit Hierarchy: Squadron
- Type Category: Reconnaissance
People
- Military/Civilian/Mascot: Military
- Nationality: American
- Unit: 25th Bomb Group 653rd Bomb Squadron
- Highest Rank: First Lieutenant
- Role/Job: pilot
- Military/Civilian/Mascot: Military
- Nationality: American
- Unit: 25th Bomb Group 653rd Bomb Squadron
- Service Numbers: O-874312
- Highest Rank: First Lieutenant
- Role/Job: Navigator
Events
Event | Location | Date | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Manufactured |
Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK | 24 November 1943 | Built Hatfield, contract number 555/C.23(a), between 24-11-1943 and 4-5-1944. |
Crashed |
Wendling, Dereham, Norfolk NR19, UK | 6 November 1944 |