Shot down by fighters on mission to Oscherleben on 11 January 1944 in B-17F 42-29487 'Ritzy Blitz', Killed in Action (KIA).



He was born on July 9, 1918 in Mississippi. His parents John and Libblie were also both born in Mississippi. By 1940 John Jr. had completed two years of college at Mississippi Southern College and was a gifted baritone who gave recitals announced in the local paper. He graduated in 1941 with a degree in music.



He enlisted in the army on July 30, 1941. He was accepted to flight school and was selected to train as a bombardier. He married Virginia Woodall in May 1942, but it appears the marriage did not last. He married Marjorie Landes in June 1943, a fellow music student from high school and college.



He became a second lieutenant in the 324th Bombardment Squadron, 91st Bombardment Group, Eighth Air Force, which was equipped with B-17 Flying Fortresses.



On January 11, 1944 Lt. McKewen was the bombardier on 'Ritzy Blitz' on a mission to Oscherleben, Germany. It was his first or second mission. The Americans were attacked by 400 German fighter planes that day. Nearly 20 of these attacked 'Ritzy Blitz'. Cannon fire took out engine #1 and killed the radioman. Other hits damaged control cables and instruments, sending the bomber to spin out of the formation. Only some of the crew were able to fight the centrifugal force and bail out of the plane. Lt. McKewen was one of those who got out.



Lt. McKewen was first listed as missing in action but his death was confirmed a few months later. The Germans reported finding him dead in the plane which was not possible since he jumped. He was probably killed by angry civilians and his body was taken to the wreckage to coverup the murder. Four of the crew survived the war as prisoners.



His grave is at Lakewood Memorial Park in Jackson, Mississippi.