#36 Grider Gal

#36 Grider Gal6thBG2023-08-27T20:57:18+00:00

Credits: Thanks to John Potenza, son of S/Sgt John A. Potenza (CFC Gunner, “Trigger Mortis II”, 39th Squadron), John McFee son of 1/Lt Malcolm McFee (Pilot, “Grider Gal”, 39th Squadron) and to Gary Matcek, son of Sgt Jody Matcek.

The Airplane

By the end of the war, “Grider Gal” had 43 combat missions and 3 aircraft victories to her credit – 2 Japanese and 1 American.

Photo provided by John Potenza, all rights reserved

“Grider Gal” in formation with other 39th squadron aircraft.

A picture of this plane appears in Steve Birdsall, “Superfortress – The B-29”, Squadron/Signal Publications, p. 32.

The Air Crews

This airplane was assigned to Crew #3901. Other crews that flew this airplane included Crew #3916 and Crew #3918.

Photo courtesy of John McFee son of 1/Lt Malcolm McFee.

“Grider Gal” and Crew 3916

The Ground Crew

The Crew Chief was M/Sgt Henry A. Rowen. Sgt Kenneth D. Meek was a member of the ground crew as an armorer.

Photo provided by Gary Matcek, all rights reserved

“Grider Gal” and members of the ground crew. Sgt Jody Matcek is second from right.

Last updated 09/16/2010

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Multi-state history curriculum guideline compliant.
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