(F. Birtciel)
2/Lt. John R. Gehrig
(F. Birtciel)
2/Lt. John R. Gehrig
343rd FS 07 January 1945 - September 1945
| Assigned Aircraft |
P-51D CY-W 44-14379 "Hiya Mert" |
| Mission History |
Not Known |
| Mission List |
Not Known |
| Air Scores | 0-0-0 |
| Ground Scores | 0-0 |
| Notes | Born on 27th January 1924 Known as 'Lou' 07th January 1945 - Joined the 343rd Fighter Squadron April 1945 - Promoted from Flight Officer to 2nd Lieutenant April 1945 - Awarded 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal April 1945 - Awarded 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster to the Air Medal September 1945 - Transferred to the 27th Fighter Group Passed away on 23rd February 2009 |
| Memories | "A most likeable person and a good pilot"
Frank Birtciel "Lou (as we of the 55th Fighter group called him) was a wonderful man and good friend. We flew together and had much "fun" during the war in Wormingford, England. I (we all) will miss him." Dick Baribault "I was John's commander in the 343rd Fighter Squadron in England during WWII. He was a great fighter pilot and a superb human being. I have treasured his friendship since the war. He was active in our 55th Fighter Group Association. I am sorry to lose such a fine friend." Edward Giller "I didn't know John during our combat days, because I was flying in the 38th Squadron. However, I was fortunate to meet and enjoy his humor and wisdom during many discussions at our 55th reunions." John Cunnick |
| Additional Photo |
(L-R) Lts. Erickson, Cohen, Gehrig and Gifford (F.
Birtciel) Nb. Photo opens in new window. Close window to return to this page. |