B-17 Flying Fortress B-17 42-30377 / Rodger the Lodger II

History of
B-17 42-30377 / Rodger the Lodger II

Delivered: Cheyenne 21/5/43; Gore 25/5/43; Gr Isle 4/6/43; Dow Fd 27/6/43; Assigned: 412BS/95BG [QW-R] Horham 12/7/43; MIA (18m) Marienburg 9/10/43 Pilot: Ralph Eherts, Co-Pilot: John Burdick, Navigator: John Nelson, Bombardier: Bob Wing, Engineer / Top Turret Gunner: Grant Allen, Radio Operator: Bill Piispanen, Ball Turret Gunner: Lew Rabinowitz, Waist Gunner: Walter Queen, Waist Gunner: Ralph Bates, Tail Gunner: Jim Anderson (10KIA, seven baled but two chutes on fire, the other perished in the water); Enemy aircraft KOd #2 then another KOd #3 exploded mid air, crashed North Sea, NW of Heligoland; MACR 850. ROGER THE LODGER II.

Last updated: 22. May 2020

B-17 42-30377 / Rodger the Lodger II Details

B-17F 42-30377 piloted by 1st Lt. Ralph W. Eherts was last seen on the return trip from the target at 1600 at 54°45’N – 06°29’E with Number 2 engine afire caused by enemy fighters. Five chutes were seen leaving the ship before aircraft exploded, broke up and fell into the water.

This aircraft blew up within minutes after this photo was taken.

B-17 42-30377 / Rodger the Lodger II Crew