B-17F-35-VE 42-5909
709th SQ
Previously identified in several books as 42-31431 with the Chardi crew on board, this is clearly a B-17, modified to carry the H2S radar system (white dome visible under the nose).
Permanently assigned to the 482nd Bomb Group, providing pathfinders and radar crews to all groups in the 3rd Division in early 1944, flying with the 447th on February 2 mission to Frankfurt when hit by flak.
Flight listings for 42-5909
These lists are NOT limited to officially credited Combat missions, and may include Aborts, returns and non-takeoff occurrences as well.
| 447th Mission (Date) | Target | Pilot | Notes |
| #14 (04-Feb-44) | Frankfurt, Germany | Sheppard, L. W. | PFF-909; Actually co-Pilot with completely unidentified crew |
Additional Notes: Assgn 482BG 06/43 (H2-X); FTR Frankfurt, flak, cr Koln w/ Sheppard, 11KIA 1 POW; total crew of 12, 9 from 482nd, 3 from 447th. Two MACRs issued, 2511 and 3361. MACR 2511 initially incorrectly identified aircraft as 42-3909.
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