Francis R Gerard

[KM1957]

Would anyone be able to confirm when Gerard was assigned to the 503rd Fighter Squadron, 339th Fighter Group? The late Frank Olynyk says it was April 4, 1944 but that was the date the group got to England. That may be a coincidence, but am curious if he joined in late 1943 while still in the U.S. or after the unit reached England. Thanks for any help once again!

Kent

[Buckeye30]

Kent I had the pleasure of meeting Frank and his wife Adriana (I believe she was Italian) at several re-unions in the past, first in Harrisburg 1999; we were talking about their P-51s but I remember he stated he was an original pilot from 1943 (they called it a "Cadre") along with Bryan and Johnson. This was either at Walterboro SC until Sept. or possibly Rice CA when they were still a Fighter-Bomber Group with P-39s and Scruggs was 503rd. c/o.
I made a note in the Newsletter that he got his wings 30 Aug. 43 from Craig Fld. Alabama (Selma) but can't confirm that but certainly with Group before April 44. I'm afraid nothing in writing though. Frank wasn't a talker unlike Starnes or Ananian and I didn't do his Mustang for "Little Friends". I seem to remember he liked his cigars.


Nick

[KM1957]

Nick,

Thanks once more for the help. Frank Olynyk did show the date and place you have for when he was awarded his wings and that's what made me think he joined the 339th while in the States.

Kent