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| USN VC-40 |
Pilot Lt. Russell P. Lecklider (rescued) Toledo, OH Crashed March 31, 1944 Aircraft History Built by General Motors, Eastern Aircraft Division as model G-40. Delivered to the United States Navy (USN) as TBM-1C Avenger Bureau Number 25286. Wartime History Assigned to Composite Squadron 40 (VC-40). No known nickname or nose art. Mission History On March 31, 1944 took off from Piva Yoke Airfield (Piva South Airfield) on Bougainville piloted by Lt. Russell P. Lecklider on a bombing mission against Rabaul. Over the target, this Avenger crashed to the east of Rabaul. When this aircraft failed to return it was officially listed as Missing In Action (MIA). Fates of the Crew Lecklider was rescued and returned to duty. Memorials Lecklider passed away January 7, 1977 and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery at Section 67 Site 1398. Relatives Dr. J. Donald Zollinhofer, ADRC adds: "I would also like to know if you have info about my dad's TBF 25286 which was shot down east of Rabaul, New Britain Island. I can provide some information about that as well. References Navy Serial Number Search Results - TBM-1C Avenger 25286 USN Overseas Aircraft Loss List March 1944 - TBM Avenger 25286 pilot Lt R. P. Lecklider FindAGrave - Russell Paul Lecklider (Arlington National Cemetery) Thanks to J. Donald Zollinhofer, ADRC for additional information Contribute Information Are you a relative or associated with any person mentioned? Do you have photos or additional information to add? Last Updated June 9, 2024 |
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