Charles E. Deaner served in the 612th Bomb Squadron, 401st Bomb Group, Heavy, as a Staff Sergeant and Radio Countermeasures of B-17 #43-38733 ''I'll Be Seeing You'' during World War II.

On March 24, 1945, “I’ll Be Seeing You” participated in Operation Varsity, supporting Allied airborne forces during the crossing of the Rhine River into Germany. During the mission, the bomber encountered intense and highly accurate German anti-aircraft fire. Heavy flak severely damaged the aircraft, knocking out engines and inflicting critical structural damage while it was still over enemy territory. Despite the damage, the pilot managed to maintain control of the crippled bomber and turned back toward England. Struggling with reduced power and altitude, the crew worked to keep the aircraft airborne long enough to reach friendly soil. As they neared the English coast, it became evident that a standard landing would not be possible. The aircraft was forced to attempt an emergency landing near Halesworth, Suffolk, England. Although the pilot managed to bring the bomber down without it breaking apart completely, the combination of battle damage and impact proved catastrophic. Most of the crew were killed, with only a few surviving the crash. The aircraft was destroyed and later salvaged.

SSgt Deaner survived the crash, and currently, we don't have details about his post-war life, death, or burial loaction. Note that in his name was mispelled in the plaque.

Source of information: www.b17flyingfortress.de