Personnel

CREW



 2nd Lt John T.Griffin          P CPT

 2nd Lt Elbert W.Johnson  CP WIA  8 Oct 43-Bremen (transferred to non combat job after this mission)

 2nd Lt Thomas R.Kizak  NAV  CPT

 2nd Lt Edward L.Dunlap    BOM  CPT 

 T/Sgt Raymond M.Harjo   TTE  WIA  (Purple Heart awarded for  0ct. 8, 1943, returned to States)

 T/Sgt Roy O.Howell      ROG CPT

 S/Sgt Pascal A.Delpriorre   BTG  CPT 

 S/Sgt Berbard G.Siegel    WG CPT 

 S/Sgt Sldney L.Nicholas   WG NOC

 S/Sgt Warren G.Lush       TG EVADEE (15/9/43 with crew of A.M.Vetter)  Paris 



351st Sqdn. This crew, as above, joined the 100th Group on 12/9/43. 

See photo of crew on p.212 of "CONTRAILS". Also see p.21/23 SOC .



Lt. Kizak appears on crew of R.V.Monrad on 8/3/44.



Wrote J.T.Griffin 20/3/84 and received reply 14/6/84. “Nicholas did not complete tour; I do not know what happened to him. Harjo was returned to USA. Johnson was replaced on crew by Lt.Earl Williams and completed tour. Replacements on this crew were Don L.Pilgrim TG –WI, Arthur L. Olson,and A.M. (Alfred??) Hunt who completed their tours. Their positions not definate but believe Pilgrim a TG, Hunt-WG & Olson TTE.  The plane was named the "Goin Jessies". Sgt. Arthur L. "Bud" Olson flew with this crew and others from October 1943 to July 5, 1944. He completed 28 Missions. Olson flew as a WG and BTG on Helmick and Rake Crews and as a TG on Monrad Crew. 



2nd Lt. John T. Griffin with the 351st Sqdn. The plane was named the "Goin Jessies". My father Sgt. Arthur L. "Bud" Olson flew with this crew October 1943 to July 5, 1944. He completed 28 Missions. 



Partial list of Missions Flown by Lt John Griffin Crew (from Frank Murphy book Luck of the Draw" mpf 2003)



1.   15/09/43   PARIS                           A/C 42-30087  "SHACK RAT"

2.   16/09/43   BORDEAUX/MERIGNAC    A/C 42-30358  "PHARTZAC" 

3.   23/09/43   VANNES                       A/C 42-30796   "SUNNY II" 

4.   26/09/43   PARIS                          A/C  42-3474    "KING BEE"

5.   02/10/43   EMDEN                         A/C  42-30796 "SUNNY II"

6.   08/10/43   BREMEN                       A/C  42-30796  "SUNNY II"





Subj: RE: Lt Griffin Crew  

Date: 5/17/2003 11:12:58 PM Pacific Daylight Time 

From: Kolson@HILLSCA.ORG 

To: MPFaley@aol.com 

Sent from the Internet (Details) 

 

Michael:

 

I will speak with my Dad regarding your questions.  He did not talk about the war for many years and has opened up more during the last few.  He is celebrating his 90th birthday this August.  Dad was drafted from Minnesota where he grew up on a farm.  He was the only man out of about 30 from his area that was chosen to go Army Air Corps.  He attended gunnery school out of Nellis Air Force Base in Neveda I believe before he went overseas.  He states that he was one of two men from his specific class of gunnery mates that returned from Europe.  Do not know if this is correct.  He also said he was one of the older guys (29 years) on the plane.  I do know he took part in some of the first raids to hit Berlin.  He was also part of the group that participated in the "Shuttle" mission that bombed Germany on their way to Russia.  He said they then bombed Romainian oil fields and landed in Italy.  They then went from Italy back to England.  Dad said they awarded him three mission counts for this shuttle.  He also states that he was sent as a replacement crew and flew on some other planes but did most of his raids on the "Goin Jessies".  He confirmes the names and injuries of the crewmen listed.  Dad flew positions at Top Turret, Waist Gunner, and a couple of raids in the nose as a "toggler"?  He was at the airfield the day he left to watch the "Goin Jesses" land but it did not return!  He states that he spent another year after returning home assigned at Shunook Field teaching engineering mechanics (his plane stayed behind a few hours in Russia as they had to replace spark plugs in one of the engines).  Dad talks about Thorpes Abbott and how many of the bunks would be empty after raids and how they would get personal lockers together to send back to the states.  He says the weather was cold and foggy and how many missions were scrubbed or that our own aircraft would fly into one another as they were forming up to cross the channel.  He has also shared how cold it was at 35,000 feet having no windows on the side gun openings and the frostbite he would get.  He also talks about the P51 Mustangs with their extended fuel tanks and how vulnerable he felt when they would have to turn back to England.  I know you have heard many of the same stories.  I will talk with Dad and get this information in a better format to send to you.  Give me just a little time.  I will be joining the 100th foundation with my personal address.  It is easier for me to break mailing information down and present it to Dad since he has lost much of his reading sight.  I know that to this day his year with the 100th is probably one the most significant time periods in his life.  Do you know if any members of this crew are registered with the foundation?  I will talk to you soon and thank you for your timely response.  

 

Kim Olson



Partial Mission List of S/Sgt Arthur L. Olson

Date Crew Nbr Mission Nbr Last Name Initial Rank Position Aircraft Nbr Target

3/9/1944 27 127 OLSON A.L. S/SGT TG 66 ORANIENBURG                        (WITH LT MONRAD CREW)

5/30/1944 21 126 OLSON A.L. S/SGT LWG 31256 TROYES                       (WITH LT GLENN RAKE CREW)

6/6/1944 68 -132 OLSON A.L. S/SGT LWG 107233 FALAISE/OUISTREHAM  (WITH LT HELMICK CREW)

6/7/1944 68 -135 OLSON A.L. S/SGT LWG 107233 NANTES (BRIDGES)      (WITH LT HELMICK CREW)

6/21/1944 65 149 OLSON A.L. S/SGT BTG 107233 RUHLAND                    (WITH LT HELMICK CREW)

6/26/1944 65 149 OLSON A.L. S/SGT BTG 107233 DROHOBYCZ                (WITH LT HELMICK CREW)

7/3/1944 65 151 OLSON A.L. S/SGT BTG 107233 ARAD (RUMANIA)           (WITH LT HELMICK CREW)

7/5/1944 65 153 OLSON A.L. S/SGT BTG 107233 BEZIER (FROM ITLAY)     (WITH LT HELMICK CREW)

7/13/1944 65 159 OLSON A.L. S/SGT LWG 37812 MUNICH (JET ENGINES)  (WITH LT HELMICK CREW)



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Return to the 100th in Palm Springs



My brother Ron and I took our Father (Arthur L. Olson) to attend his first 100th Bomb Group reunion in Palm Springs this January 2007.  After three days of watching him visit and meet new/old friends I was approached and encouraged by Jan Riddling to write about what his (and our) experiences were regarding the event.  I agreed to do so and will attempt to share with you what we considered highlights of the weekend.

 

Growing up as kids Dad never talked about the war.  I know that it affected him deeply and that recalling parts of it brought back troubling memories.  It was only later in life that he began to open up to share his experiences. This prompted me to complete a historical family document regarding his Air Corps training and assignment with the 100th Bomb Group.  It was while researching the 100th web site that I saw the Palm Springs reunion announcement and decided I would attend.  After telling my brother about the event, he stated that he would also like to come and bring along our father.  With great enthusiasm I made our reservations and anticipated the arrival of the weekend.  Two weeks before the event Dad indicated that he was having second thoughts and was not sure he would come.  Dad was 29 years old when drafted in 1942 making him 30 by the time he was assigned to the bombers.  This meant he was the “old man” of his crew.  At a present day 93 years he does not move fast and feared he may not be able to keep up with the group.  My brother and I assured him that between the two of us he would never be alone.  After hearing this he had a change of heart and decided to come.



Our adventure began almost like magic.  Dad called me the day of our departure early Friday morning at 0’dark 30 to tell me they were leaving from Sedona, Arizona.  I was just about out the door from San Jose, California.  We both started our commute drive 900 miles apart and phoned mid trip on the road to talk about the first arrival getting the rooms set.  After seven hours I pulled into the hotel parking lot only to find my brother sitting in his car with Dad.  I was a bit puzzled as he looked at me with a big grin.  It so happened that they had arrived only 15 seconds earlier and he had just turned off his vehicle.  At that point I knew there was something special going on! 



We checked into our rooms and suggested that Dad rest for a while.  He said he was not tired and immediately wanted to go out to the pool area.  Arriving at the pool we found five or six men with their wives sitting and visiting.  Much to my surprise Dad open the gate, walked in confidently with his cane and boldly announced “anybody here from the Eighth Air Force”?  He received a welcome response of “you bet” and was told to grab a seat and join in.  So much for my apprehension on how this trip was going to pan out for him!



After this visiting we moved to the hospitality room with introductions to Mike Faley the group Historian, Ron and Carol Batley from the Thorpe Abbotts Museum in England, and Jan Riddling who is the group Administrator.  Jan required us to provide her welcome hugs before sitting Dad down for some signatures.  Dad was asked to sign lithographs, the Century Bombers book on the pages with the planes he flew on (Goin Jessies and Humpty Dumpty) and other documents.  He also spent time with Mike going over some of his assignment history so the group data base could be updated.  My brother and I were in awe of how everyone was so friendly and respectful towards Dad.  He was accepted immediately.



The following day we attended the scheduled program at the Palm Springs Air Museum.  The museum had set aside one whole hanger for the group and it was quite impressive.  On one side of the structure was a large display of 100th memorabilia.  I had brought along Dad’s uniform and ribbons and asked Mike Faley if they could be included in the display.  Without hesitation Mike said of course and moved some items to make room.  This meant a great deal to my father as he walked along the table and saw his items along side others he had served with.  He was very proud.  Although hard of hearing and failing eyesight, Dad enjoyed the program of guest speakers (Mike, Bob Wolff, etc.).  I watched him closely during these talks on the 100th missions and losses as I knew this is an issue with him.  He appeared fine and with the conclusion of speakers he moved with the other vets to group up for pictures.  Dad does not walk fast but he confessed later to my brother that it was alright because by arriving last he ended up being one the individuals in the front row.  Dad has not lost his great attitude or sense of humor.  



With the conclusion of the P-51 Mustang flying program it was time to get Dad back for a rest.  While entering the museum we had seen a Distinguish Flying Cross Memorial off to the right.  It is a very impressive piece of sculptured bronze and marble art work.  Dad had received this medal for his service while flying with the 100th.  Wanting a picture of this special piece I positioned Dad to stand next to the memorial. As I readied for my shot I had to pause as a women came up to him, talked for a few minutes, and then kissed Dad on the check.  A young girl of about twenty was standing next to me also waiting.  I asked her if she was with the women and she stated it was her Grandmother.  She told me her Grandfather had flown with the 100th but had passed away a few years earlier and that she was attending the event with her Grandmother.  This all hit me as another very special moment to see how this perfect stranger treated my Father with respect and gratitude.



After a rest it was time for Saturday night dinner a Billy Reed’s.  Arriving at the restaurant we found it packed with the 100th Bomb Group.  We navigated our way to some seats at a nice table in the corner.  Here we were joined by two other vets and their families.  We visited and heard interesting conversation as they had all been with the group at different times (one had been a POW).  They each shared a special story or thought about their assignment with the 100th.  Dad talked a bit about his time and experiences at Thorpes Abbott during his 28 missions with the 351St Squadron from September 1943 to July 1944.  It was an enjoyable evening and upon returning to our rooms Dad stated he had a great time.



Sunday morning was check out day.  We found the lobby filled with vets and families enjoying coffee and breakfast.  I had stopped in earlier that morning and visited with Carol Batley from England. She was a pleasure to speak with and was very patient in answering all my questions regarding the air base, museum, and what it was like around the local towns.  I shared this information with Dad as we packed up and he insisted that he also get a chance to speak with her.  He ended up sitting with Carol for about twenty minutes talking about England and Thorpe Abbotts.  With that we loaded up for our return drives home. 



It had been an incredible weekend for the three of us.  It is always emotional for me when I hug and kiss my Dad goodbye.   He hugged me back and thanked me for making this happen.  I also thanked my brother for bringing Dad.   It was clear that this would not have happened without his caring effort.  I think we both really treasured being able to witness our father’s reactions during the course of the three day events.  For him it was the first time in sixty-three years that he was able to talk and express him self to others who absolutely identified with what he said.   He was comfortable, happy, and at ease during the whole reunion.  I believe this was due to the fact that the 100th Bomb Group is made up of special people who experienced a very unique time in our country’s history.  My thanks to all of you!

      

Kim Olson (son)

January 2007





REPLY TO: kimsigvartolson@sbcglobal.net

SUBMITTER: Kim S. Olson

EMAIL: kimsigvartolson@sbcglobal.net

PURPOSE: Contact Splasher Six editor

INTEREST: I am the veteran's relative

  

MESSAGE: At the request of Jan Riddling I have just completed an article on the Palm Springs reunion for the newsletter.  She did not tell me where to send it.  Could you tell me how to proceed further?  I can email the article in microsoft word.  Thanks.  Also, I have a document for Jan.  How do I get in touch with her?  Thanks, Kim Olson son of Arthur L. Olson / 351st. 

-end-



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Arthur Leonard (Bud) Olson

   

Arthur Leonard Olson



Aug. 2, 1913 - July 12, 2009



Arthur (Bud) Leonard Olson, 95, passed away on July 12, 2009. He was at home with family, resting peacefully in recovery from recent surgeries.



Bud grew up in the rural Midwest where his parents, Sigvart and Sigrid Olson, emigrated from Norway at the turn of the century and homesteaded a forty-acre parcel outside of Alberta, Minnesota. As one of eight children, he worked the family farm and helped break virgin soil, walking behind a horse and drag plow.



In 1942, at age 29, he was drafted into the Army Air Corps. After basic and technical training he was sent to England and served with the Eighth Air Force. Bud was assigned to the 100th Bomb Group (later known as the "Bloody Hundredth" due to the large amount of casualties sustained) as a gunner and flight engineer flying in B-17 heavy bombers during daylight operations over occupied Europe. He completed his tour of duty with 28 missions and was reassigned stateside as an aircraft engine mechanic instructor at Chanute Field, Illinois, prior to his honorable discharge in October 1945.



In 1947 he met and married the former Doris Darlene Schinzel, also from Alberta. After a few years in the Morris, Minnesota area, the couple moved west and spent the next forty years living in Oregon and California. During this time, Bud worked in sales for Ford Motor tractors in Eugene, Oregon, followed by home construction and a small business in the San Fernando Valley in southern California. In 1969, they returned to Eugene to participate as joint partners in a family home center store. Bud retired in 1974, but continued to volunteer his talents to the local Lutheran church.



The couple returned to Elk River, Minnesota in 1988 to live closer to siblings, and the most recent relocation was made in 2001 to Sedona, Arizona for a warmer climate and to be near his son, Ron and family. During the next seven years Bud made numerous friends in his retirement community, and spent many wonderful hours accompanying his son on his construction job sites and events.



Bud lived a full and joyous life and was the last living member of his brothers and sisters. He held a deep love for his wife, his sons, and their families. One of his greatest joys was getting together to visit with his siblings, nieces and nephews, immediate family, and grandchildren. Throughout the many years of his life Bud was involved in the church, participated as a coach in Little League, enjoyed watching Major League baseball games, fishing on Minnesota lakes and the McKenzie River in Oregon, spending time in his home shop making numerous items out of wood to give as gifts, motor home traveling with friends, and most recently, morning coffee with his local buddies.



A kind and generous man, Bud is survived by Doris, his wife of sixty-two years, three sons and daughters- in-law; Dennis and Monika Olson, Ronald and Kim Olson, and Kim and Jane Olson. He was the proud grandfather of Christopher, Casey, Camille, Reid, Kyle, Erik, Kelly, Ryan, and Jenna. He was loved and will be deeply missed by us all.



A military graveside service will be held in Alberta, Minnesota at a family cemetery near Bud's childhood home. In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family requests that Bud be honored through contributions to either: 



Hospice Compassus, 70 Bell Rock Plaza, Sedona, Arizona 86351-9066



Frog Lake Cemetery Fund, c/o Victor Bruer, Treas., 185 Oregon Avenue, Morris, Minnesota 56267Please sign the guest book at www.registerguard.com/legacy