BRIEFING DOCUMENT: Sergeant Bob W. Wetzel - B-17 "Paper Doll" Loss

Date: October 26, 2023

Subject: Analysis of the circumstances surrounding the loss of B-17G "Paper Doll" and the death of Sergeant Bob W. Wetzel.

Source: Excerpt from provided text (likely a personal or military record).

1. Introduction:

This briefing summarizes the tragic loss of a B-17G bomber, "Paper Doll," and the fate of its tail gunner, Sergeant Bob W. Wetzel, during a World War II combat mission. The document highlights the specific circumstances of the incident, emphasizing the brutal realities of air combat in the European theater.

2. Key Personnel:

Sergeant Bob W. Wetzel: Tail Gunner, Serial Number 38607162, US Army Air Forces.

3. Unit and Aircraft:

Unit: 561st Bombardment Squadron, 388th Bombardment Group, 8th Air Force.

Aircraft: Boeing B-17G-40-BO Fortress, Serial Number 42-97105, "Paper Doll."

Base of Operations: RAF Knettishall, England.

4. Mission Details:

Date: April 7, 1945.

Target: Kaltenkirohen Airfield, Germany.

Mission Type: Combat bombing.

5. Incident Summary:

The “Paper Doll” was part of a formation that was attacked by enemy aircraft north of Hanover, Germany. The B-17 was hit by an ME-109 in mid-air, causing catastrophic damage: * "The B-17 was struck mid air by an ME-109 which knocked off the right elevator and also the rudder." The collision resulted in the loss of control of the aircraft and its ultimate destruction.

6. Casualty Analysis:

Sergeant Wetzel's Fate: It is believed that Sgt. Wetzel was "most likely killed instantly" during the mid-air collision.

Crew Fate:"Five crewmen were able to parachute to German captivity".

"Four other crewmen were killed in the mid-air collision or in the crash".

7. Post-Incident Timeline:

Initial Status: The crew was listed as "missing" until January 1946.

Initial Burial: Sgt. Wetzel was buried in a temporary grave until the war's end.

Repatriation: In 1949, his remains were repatriated to the United States.

Final Burial: He was reinterred in the Oakwood Cemetery at Comanche, Comanche County, Texas, on July 1, 1949.

8. Main Themes & Important Ideas:

The Deadly Nature of Air Combat: The document underscores the very high risk and violent circumstances of air combat during World War II. The mid-air collision is a stark reminder of the ever-present danger faced by bomber crews.

Heavy Casualties: The high casualty rate of the crew, with almost half killed, demonstrates the cost of such missions.

Loss and Uncertainty: The crew being initially listed as "missing" highlights the uncertainty and grief experienced by families during the war. The delay in identifying and recovering remains added to the suffering.

The Human Cost of War: The document brings a personal story to the forefront, underscoring the terrible price paid by soldiers and their families.

9. Conclusion:

Sergeant Bob W. Wetzel's story represents the many sacrifices made by airmen during World War II. His death, likely instantaneous in a horrific mid-air collision, stands as a powerful reminder of the brutality of combat. This briefing serves to summarize his service and ultimate fate. The delayed repatriation and final burial of his remains further highlight the lasting impact of war on both the individuals who served and their families.