USN
USS Enterprise
VT-20
c1944
2003
Pilot Ens Donald E. Baxter, 299549 (MIA / KIA)
Gunner ARN1c Arthur C. Miller, 2234574 (MIA / KIA)
Radio AOM2c Wessly R. Stuart, 8857537 (KIA)
Crashed September 13, 1944
Mission History
After taking off from the USS Enterprise. This aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire, exploded and crashed into the island of Peleliu.
Post War Recovery
After the war, AOM2c
Wessly R. Stuart's remains were reportedly recovered from the crash site, and temporary
buried at the USAAF Cemetery, Manila #2, later moved to
a private permanent burial site, in California at the request of next
of kin. Two were still listed as MIAs.
Wreckage
This crash site was revistited by BentProp, and the bureau number identified from the wreck, and reported to JPAC. This crash site was reinvestigated by the US Military's Joint
POW/MIA Accounting Command to search for possible remains of the
crew on site, in January 2004.
Relatives
Mary Ellen Roberts (sister of Wessly Stuart)
Don Haake (nephew of Donald Baxter)
References
Last Flight Home interviews relatives of each crew member and tells the story of this aircraft. Thanks to Terence Geary for the service numbers of each airman, and
burial information. Thanks to BentProp.org for additional information.
Avenger
MIA
Avenger Report via BentProp
When DNA proves MIA is still missing
Wrong Body Buried
