![[Graphic] Snapshots from the 464th Bombardment Group.](images/flagd.jpg)
The Last Sortie
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![[Photo] Lt. Williard S. Layne, Jr.](images/Layne.jpg)
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Williard S. Layne, Jr., 778th
28 June 2003
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Born September 1, 1922 in St. Louis, Missouri. He joined the Air Corps
on February 27th 1942. Randolph Field, Texas was where he trained as Glider Pilot and was
commissioned as a bombardier. Williard then went to Pocatello, Idaho, North Africa, and on
to Italy where he Served in the European Theater.
Awarded a Unit Citation for bombing the Florisdorf Oil Refinery
and Marshalling Yards at Vienna Austria. Awarded the EAME Air Medal for the European
Theater.
While wearing an inexpensive ring that he had just bought on his third
finger - a piece of flack pierced the plane while he brushed back his hair. The flack hit the ring
causing him to lose his middle finger on his left hand, but saved his life.
He was Awarded the Purple Heart. After which, he became Information
Officer at Mather Air Force Base in Sacramento.
Since his Honorable Discharge May 1, 1948, he has been Vice President
of West Coast Life Insurance Agency. Williard Founded the Interact Club For Granada Hills
High and Chatsworth High School in California. He was the Past President of the Rotary Club.
Williard was always a devoted father. He always put service above self.
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