The 6th Bomb Group visits Portland
Co-historian David Wilson’s father, Sgt. Bernard E. Wilson, was a left gunner the 24th Bomb Squadron’s in the Howett crew of Crew # 2404. The crew’s first missions were flown in “Big Joe,” with an experienced Aircraft Commander, pictured with them here, and then later they all flew in “Anonymous IV.” Standing, from left to right, are Sgt. Bernard E. Wilson (Left Gunner), Cpl. Jack B. Denny (Right Gunner), Cpl. Marion L. Long (Tail Gunner), Sgt. Malcolm W. Douglas (Flight Engineer), S/Sgt. Raymond E. Raetz (Central Fire Control Gunner), Sgt. James C. Bishop (Radio Operator).
Kneeling, from left to right are 2nd Lt. Phillip R. Pilling (Radar Operator), 2nd Lt. Charles E. Pickett (Bombardier), 1st Lt. Claude A. Johnstone (Aircraft Commander of “Big Joe”), 1st Lt. John C. Howett (Pilot), 2nd Lt. James H. Aiman (Navigator). (Courtesy Mr. David Wilson, via 6th Bomb Group Association)