Ralph M Becker

Military

Assigned to 94TCS, 439TCG, 9AF USAAF. Failed to Return (FTR) from glider towing mission [Op Varsity, Rhine crossing], hit by flak on approach to DZ managed to release gliders, before losing altitude and crashing 2 miles SW of Wesel, Germany 24-Mar-45. Seen to jump from the doomed A/C but chute was not able to deploy fully. Killed in Action (KIA). MACR 13368.



Awards: PH

Connections

See how this entry relates to other items in the archive by exploring the connections below.

Units served with

People

  • Military/Civilian/Mascot: Military
  • Nationality: American
  • Unit: 439th Troop Carrier Group 94th Troop Carrier Squadron
  • Service Numbers: 13026958 / O-681651
  • Highest Rank: First Lieutenant
  • Role/Job: Pilot

Aircraft

  • Aircraft Type: C-47 Skytrain
  • Unit: 439th Troop Carrier Group 94th Troop Carrier Squadron

Places

Aerial photograph of Upottery airfield looking west, the main runway runs vertically, barrack sites are to the bottom right of the airfield, 15 March 1944. Photograph taken by No. 541 Squadron, sortie number RAF/CT/91/541. English Heritage (RAF Photography).
  • Site type: Airfield
  • Known as: Smeatharpe

Events

Event Location Date Description

Born

Illinois, USA 10 August 1922

Enlisted

Chicago, IL, USA 24 September 1942

Died

2 miles SW Wesel, Germany 24 March 1945 Failed to Return (FTR) from glider towing mission [Op Varsity, Rhine crossing], hit by flak on approach to DZ managed to release gliders, before losing altitude and crashing 2 miles SW of Wesel, Germany 24-Mar-45. KIA. MACR 13368.

Buried

Wesel, Germany 25 March 1945 Interred Wesel cemetery Germany

Based

Upottery 24 March 1945 Assigned to 94TCS, 439TCG, 9AF USAAF.

Buried

Re-Interred Netherlands American Cemetery
Cook County, IL, USA

Buried

Re-Interred Arlington National Cemetery