Paynter's Crew

(submitted by Morris Robley)

American Beauty's first crew. Front row (L to R): Ivan Hofmeister, C. M. Flaig, Frank Edwards, Herbert Hitzke, Morris Robley, William Seitz, Edward Kimball. Standing (L to R): Reinheart Zirbel, Sam Morris, Harry Paynter, Art Beach, Ulysses Miller, Austin Bell.

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Harry Paynter and crew were flying lead of the "C," or low, squadron on the October 3rd mission to bomb the Handorf airfield near Münster, Germany. FLAK was inaccurate into the target, but seemed to be more heavier and more accurate the closer they got. LT Sullivan reported being hit, but stayed at his post to complete the bomb run.

LT Sullivan was actually severely wounded in the upper thigh and was bleeding heavily. At the same time he received his wounds, shrapnel also hit engines #3 and #4. #4 could not be feathered, and #3 was on fire. Despite the efforts of LT Paynter, the fire in #3 refused to stay out. #035 was falling behind and losing altitude. Then engine #2 began to fail.

The severity of LT Sullivan's injuries compelled LT Paynter to try and reach friendly territory, rather than nurse the aircraft back to England. LT Paynter gave the crew the option to bail out, or stay with the stricken aircraft. The decision to stay was made, and the crew gallantly continued on, crossing the front lines at 5,000 ft.

The Navigator gave the recommendation to head West into Brussels, and the crew began jettisoning all unnecessary equipment. A flight of C-47 Skytrains was observed near an airfield in Brussels, and LT Paynter followed them in for a landing. SGT Hofmeister fired two red flares indicating they had wounded aboard. #035 was cleared for immediately landing and was met by emergency personal after coming to a stop. LT Sullivan was treated, and survived his wounds. The rest of the crew was returned to England that night.

The Paynter crew was notified that their combat tour was over after only 28 missions. As a lead crew they would have had to complete 2 more to qualify for a full tour, and receive the Distinguished Flying Cross. For his dedication to duty LT Sullivan was awarded the Silver Star, and a Purple Heart for his wounds.

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