[SAMWolf]

Robert Hanson, last Memphis Belle crew member, dies

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. Robert Hanson -- the last surviving crew member of the famed Memphis Belle B-17 bomber of World War Two -- has died of congestive heart failure. He was 85.

Hanson and his wife, Irene, had moved from Arizona to Albuquerque recently to be close to their daughter. His family says he died Saturday in Albuquerque.

Hanson was the radio operator on the Memphis Belle -- which flew 25 combat missions over Germany and France while escaping some close calls.

Hanson told his family stories about a chase involving several German planes, the bomber's tail being shot off and a nose dive that left the crew wondering if they should use their parachutes.

Hanson joined the military in 1941 and was assigned to the Memphis Belle. A memorial service is planned for Wednesday in Albuquerque.

Thanks to FReeper for the heads up on this news

[SAMWolf]

Oops! Forgot to put your name in the "Thanks line" and then ping you. Thanks for passing on this news.

[Professional Engineer]

Hanson was the radio operator on the Memphis Belle

Cool beans about the radio op part. Bummer about the RIP part.

Godspeed.

[alfa6]

Robert Hanson, last Memphis Belle crew member, dies

Deepest Regards

alfa6

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