This small memorial is in the open countryside in Genech, between Lille and Orchies, in the département of "Nord" in northern France.

Holdren's B-17 was shot down at 01:00 PM (continental time) by Leutnant Friedrich LANGE, of 6. Staffel of JG 26. His Staffel was based in Cambrai-Epinoy, still in use today by France's Armée de l'Air This was LANGE's fourth victory.

Two men survived from the crew, S/Sgt. Charles K. Anderson and S/Sgt. Charles W. Galloway.

This photo was taken in 1996 by Jocelyn (Joss) Leclercq, who is an associate member of the 303rd Bomb Group. He has no date for the building of the memorial; however, it's quite old, looking to be, perhaps, from the late 40s. The text on the memorial is very short, stating only that eight airmen were killed.

If you are looking for information about family members or fellow veterans involved air warfare in northern France during World War II, M Leclercq has kindly volunteered to be a point of contact. You may reach him at:

Jocelyn "Joss" LECLERCQ 51 route de Fromelles 59249 AUBERS FRANCE

or by e-mail at: jossleclercq@aol.com

Last updated 12-1-01 1953 est (0053 z)