29 December 2023

Visit of Meghan Meinert-Müll

great-granddaughter of S/Sgt. Donald E. Kirby

Le Cardonnois (Somme) 

                                                                                                                                Copyright © 2024 - Association des Sauveteurs d'Aviateurs Alliés- All rights reserved -
                                                                                                                    En français 

     At the end of the year, while enjoying a stay in Europe and France, we had the honor of welcoming Meghan, accompanied by her husband and family members, from Michigan and Ohio.

     Her great-grandfather, S/Sgt. Donald E. Kirby, was a radio-operator aboard Boeing B-17 #42-31325, 452^nd Bomb Group, which crashed near the village of Le Cardonnois (Somme) on February 8, 1944. S/Sgt. Kirby was captured by the Germans shortly after parachuting from the aircraft. He was held for 14 months in Germany, often in appalling conditions, first at Stalag Luft III in Upper Silesia, then at Stalag Luft VI in East Prussia. During his captivity, he valiantly saved the lives of two of his comrades. For his service and heroism, he was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart.

S/Sgt. Donald E. Kirby

     This visit provided an opportunity to pay tribute once again to the entire bomber crew, and especially to S/Sgt. Donald Kirby. With tears in her eyes, Meghan was able to see, for the very first time, her great-grandfather's name engraved on the headstone. It was with great emotion that a wreath was laid.

     A moment of silence was observed, followed by the playing of the American and French national anthems.

     The day concluded with a friendly drink with Mr. Guyon, honorary mayor of Le Cardonnois, and his wife.