Posted By Keith Smith on March 25, 2006 at 19:07:54:
In Reply to: Spasher and Buncher Beacons posted by F. L. Kemp on March 25, 2006 at 08:15:51:
: I am researching the 23 March 1944 mission in which 338th BS, 96th BG B-17 S/N 42-31624 was lost to flak over the Ruhr Valley. My uncle was a gunner on this aircraft. I have a copy of the 96th Group lead navigator's log for this mission. The log references the buncher and splasher beacons flown during group assembly. The only reference I have found that specifically addresses splasher and buncher beacons is Roger Freeman's Mighty Eighth War Manual, pg. 36, where he lists the beacons by number and location. Unfortunately, with the exception of splashers 5, 6, 7 and 16, the beacons are not numbered on the accompanying map. The AFHSO research center was unable to provide any information in this regard. Is anyone aware of a reference that contains a map or diagram that identifies these beacons?