The Bigelow Collection
Captain Bigelow went to England in 1943 as 709th Squadron Navigator. In September 1944, promoted to Major, Bigelow assumed the position of Group Navigator for the 447th. He remained with the group until the end of the war and flew home with Col. Wrigglesworth in July 1945.
Col. Bigelow retired from the Air Force after 30 years of service.
447th Staff at Harvard, Nebraska; October, 1943
Standing, left to right:
| Harris | 709th Squadron Bombardier |
| Rall | 709th Squadron Ops Officer |
| Bigelow | 709th Squadron Navigator |
Men in front are unidentified. Aircraft is 42-97538 Dallas Dottie, lost November 21, 1944.
Captain Bigelow heading to debriefing after a mission
Left to Right:
| Lt. Col. William Ready |
| Lt. Edward Boisson |
| Capt. Wallace Goetz |
| Capt. E.D. Bigelow |
Promotion to Major
Capt. William Flaherty, who replaced Major Bigelow as 709th Squadron Navigator
Col. Hunter Harris, Jr., C.O. of the 447th ready for take-off
Several group officers
Officers Club at Rattlesden in 1945
Left to Right: Capt. Walsh; Capt. Bigelow; Lt. Whitney; Maj. David and Maj. Rall
Maj. Robert David and Maj. Royal Stewart
Although not specifically dated, the following photographs were certainly taken during 1944. The originals were given to Bigelow by Capt. Wallace Goetz.
“Hold steady” Low Group in formation
“Close flak” (Aircraft has not yet been identified)
Over the target, bomb bay doors open
“Flak Alley”
“Home again” and on final approach to Rattlesden. Aircraft in foreground is 43-38230-E Wolf Wagon of the 708th
Photographs on this page were provided by E.D. Bigelow, Col. USAF (Ret.)