Vraciu's parents had immigrated from Romania at the turn of the century, settling in East Chicago, Indiana. His father, Alexandru Sr., was born in Poiana Sibiului, and his mother, Maria (née Tincu) was from Sebeș. After his birth, the family returned to Romania for a brief residence, as his parents hoped that the experience would rub off on him and that he would be immersed in the culture. Vraciu graduated from DePauw University in 1941 and enlisted as a naval aviator in the United States Navy Reserve. While at university, Vraciu was a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_Vraciu

RIP fighter ace Alexander Vraciu. 29.01.2015

Raid of the B-17 of the USAAF’s 414th Bomb Squadron, 97th Bomb Group, June 11, 1943, during the final phase of the conquest of Pantelleria island (Operation Corkscrew). Victor Sierra

Bombs over Pantelleria

(303rd BG, 358th BS, "Hells Angels") was first aircraft to complete 25 combat missions in 8th AF, doing so May 14, 1943. Returned to USA after 48th mission Dec 13, 1943. Scrapped Aug 14, 1945. The "Memphis Belle" crew actually flew some of its 25 missions on other planes.