[horridohutch]

Gentlemen this is my first post. In my home for a few years, in a place of honor, I have a Purple Heart medal and document awarded to Lt William Nesen who was KIA that day. I have researched the man and know much about him and his final flight, now I am hoping to discover who shot him down. That is why I am posting to this forum, hoping to tap into the knowledge that I know is here. I have read some Luftwaffe claims lists, read JG26 War Diary and used other means to no avail. I am hoping to get some clues here from you.
Mission #315 of the 385th BG 550th SQ, the 17-20th mission of the crew flying B-17F 42-3388 "Sleepytime Gal". The A/C was hit by FLAK over Fredrichshafen and dropped out of formation. The crew voted to fly home to AAF station #155, Great Ashfield, instead of Switzerland as many had chosen to do that day. Somewhere at the French coast off of Pas De Calais, north of Boulogne they were attacked by 2 ME 109s and shot down. Last known sighting of aircraft was @1555 when the B-17 was seen to crash, 54 02'N 01 30'E. I have some more information regarding crew names and survivors, I hope this is enough to get started.
I am a huge fan of the Jagdewaffe and focus on the operations of the fighter pilots of the Luftwaffe. I collect Autographs, badges,helmets, books and anything I can get my hands on.. :-)! I also study The American and British side as well.
I have seen the Missing Aircrew Report and that is where most of my information was found, I also have been in contact with a nephew of one of the crew, a kind gentleman from a 385th history site sent me a photo of the nose art on the bomber although the relative disagrees that it was a photo of "Sleepytime Gal".
I know that it is possible that a pilot from either JG2 or JG26, being responsible for the area, was the rotte that intercepted the crippled bomber. Please give me some clues to continue my search, and I also hope to contribute some of my humble knowledge to this forum.

Thank you and warmest regards,
Hutch
Southern California