SSgt. Zapalac was a gunner on B-24J #42-73189 (Squadron #80), assigned to the 10th Air Force, 7th Bombardment Group, 492nd Bombardment Squadron. They were flying a cargo of gasoline from Kurmitola India to Kunming China when they had an engine failure and fuel leaking inside the airplane. The pilot ordered the crew to bail out. Three men made it to the ground safely, Zapalac and two others (Pilot Milford E. Boesker & Radio Operator John A. Kilpatrick) were killed.
Staff Sgt. Raymond E. Zapalac, ASN 18158416
Tail Gunner - Boesker Crew
10th Air Force / 7th Bombardment Group / 492nd Bombardment Squadron
Air Medal / Distinguished Flying Cross w/OLC
KIA 27-June-44
(Images/Info Courtesy of Patti Zapalac)
SSgt. Ray E. Zapalac
Mother, Mrs. Agnes Zapalac displaying medals
Missing Air Crews Report: (Click on images to enlarge.)
Statement of surviving crew member Map of crash site
:
Statement of search:
SSgt. Zapalac's
Find-A-Grave.com Memorial
492nd BS Personnel
7th BG Personnel
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