RTD crashed near Kustrin on 17 Mar 45 in B-17 'Naughty Virgin' #4338014

On his 12th combat mission, his plane was shot down over Berlin by one of the new German fighter jets. Staying on the strickened plane along with other crew members until it crossed over the front lines, Truett parachuted out of the plane. He was immediately captured by Russian soldiers, but unfortunately they spoke no English. Only after sketching out a drawing of his plane being shot down did the Russian commander understand that he was an American. Truett said he had a great love and respect of the Russian and Polish people he met during his rescue. Truett Kester was awarded the Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in sustained bomber combat operations over Germany and German occupied countries.