USAAF
5th AF
Cargo Service
Formally with
380th BG
528th BS
1944
Aerothentic 1999
Justin Taylan 2003
Passenger Lt. Kilcheski (USAAF)
Passenger Lt. Routt (USAAF)
Passenger Lt. Owen (USAAF)
Passenger Sgt. Lemons (USAAF)
Passenger Sgt. Tucker (USAAF)
Passenger Flight Lieutenant Cook (RAF, Spitfire pilot)
Passenger Flying Officer Cannon (RAF, Spitfire pilot)
MIA February 26, 1945
MACR 12758
Discovered August 2, 1994
Aircraft History
"Beautiful Bestsy" had experienced a wide combat career with
the 528th BS of the 380th BG, but she had by now been retired into purely
a cargo role and was soon due for retirement.
Mission History
Took off from Darwin at 2200 hours on an administrative flight bound
for Eagle Farm near Brisbane. Aboard the bomber were two RAF Spitfire pilots in addition
to the American crew. "Beautiful Betsy" failed to arrive,
and despite many searches it was never found.
Discovery
The wreck was located August 2, 1994 by loggers near Monto (Biloela).
Recovery of Remains
Remains were recovered by US Army CILHI, who found at the site: dental prosthesis (bridge), bone
fragments (153) Personal effects/material evidence: Dog tags (9), Bracelets
(2), Coins (38), gold rings (4), Aviators ring (1), Flare gun with
flare, Aviator badge, Bomber Badge, whistle, Dress Uniform belt buckles
(2), expended .45 cal rounds (9), British buttons (2), American buttons (12),
razor, cigarette lighter, eyeglass frames (3), pocket watch, 1938 Class ring.
Wreckage
The wreckage remains
in the Queensland National Park west of Biloela.
References
The
Searchers covers this wreck discovery.
Thanks to Aerothentic
Publications for additional details.
B-24
MIA
24.27
150.54
View on Google Earth
Legacy of Beautiful Betsy
McDaniel's Widow Lorene McDaniel Sands
