TBF-1 Avenger Bureau Number 23987

USN
VT-305

PacificWrecks.com
September 1945

 

Pilot  Ensign Donald D. Atkiss (Philadelphia, PA) (POW / KIA)
Gunner  AOM2C Richard Lanigan (St. Louis, MO) (POW / KIA)
Radio  AOM2C John B. Kepchia (Greensburg, PA) (POW, survived)
Shot Down  May 21, 1944

Crew History
This crew completed 33 combat missions together. The pilot was 21 and gunner 20.

Mission History
On their 34th mission, this crew took off from Piva, this Avenger was shot down over the Vunakanau Drome. The three crew were captured and interred in a Japanese Prision Camp. Atkiss and Lanigan perished in Prision, Kepchia survived until liberated on September 7, 1945.

References
M.I.A. Over Rabaul South Pacific by John Kepchia

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