Crew 8, led by Airplane Commander Leo Lewis, was chosen as the lead and pathfinder crew due to Lewis's extensive B-17 combat experience and the crew's impressive background. Their first mission to Koriyama was a success, with outstanding bombing results earning them numerous accolades, including Distinguished Flying Crosses for Lewis, Captain Becht, Lt. Edwards, and Lt. Wingo. On May 10, 1945, Crew 8 led the 39th Bomb Group in a highly successful raid on Otake, achieving 96% accuracy within the target area and receiving a Unit Citation. They frequently flew as pathfinders, enduring intense flak and searchlights. A notable moment occurred during a Tokyo raid when Lt. Edwards's warning averted disaster. Crew 8 also served as instructors in the Lead Crew School, enduring heavy flak during a raid on Truk but returning safely. Their lighter moments included humorous incidents like a misjudged bomb run causing Colonel Mundy to be thrown across the cabin and a severe flak hit that damaged the right wing on a Yokohama mission. Despite these challenges, Crew 8's skill and bravery earned them respect and recognition.
Standing (Left to Right)
1st Lt Robert Drake, Pilot
1st Lt Asa Edwards, Bombardier
1st Lt Douglas Wingo, Navigator
Capt Joseph Becht, Radar Observer
T/Sgt Edwin K. Herman, Flight Engineer
Major Leo Lewis, Airplane Commander
Standing (Left to Right)
T/Sgt Norbert Anderson, Left Gunner
Sgt Charles Gensler, Radio Operator
S/Sgt Carmine Camperlino, CFC Gunner
Sgt Andrew Langan, Right Gunner
Sgt Robert Breakiron, Tail Gunner
Unidentified Man, Armament
Back Row (Left to Right)
Charles Gensler, RO
Carmine Camperlino, CFC
Middle Row (Left to Right)
Andrew Langan, RG
Robert Breakiron, TG
Norbert Anderson, LG
Front Row (Left to Right)
Edwin Herman, FE
Robert E. Drake, Pilot
