(WMOK) Metropolis, IL – On July 18, 1944, the “Shoo-Shoo Baby II” crew, accompanied by an observer, participated in a bombing raid targeting German air defense installations in Memmingen, Germany.  However, their mission took a devastating turn when the aircraft was hit by enemy anti-aircraft fire.

The pilot promptly ordered the crew to bail out, and six members successfully parachuted to safety. Tragically, the remaining five crew members, including 28-year-old Leukering, were believed to have remained on board as the aircraft catastrophically exploded in an area south of Memmingen, located in southwestern Germany.

Nearly seventy years later in 2012, a German researcher contacted the US Department of Defense to advise of a potential crash site of a B-17 aircraft near Kimratshofen, Germany, which could be linked to Leukering’s plane.

The tip sparked an investigation in 2013.

Excavation of the crash site began in 2018, resulting in the discovery of possible human remains and material evidence, about 30 miles south of Memmingen.

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) was established in 2015 to recover, identify, and return remains of American service members missing from past conflicts, bringing closure to families and honoring their sacrifices.

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) announced on February 6 that the remains of Leukering, a WWII airman, had been identified and accounted for. The official accounting date was March 20, 2023.

A funeral service with full military honors will be held at Round Springs Cemetery, located at the intersection of Airport Road and Upper Salem Road, on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Those wishing to participate in the funeral procession are requested to meet at Aikins-Farmer-Loftus-McManus Funeral Home in Metropolis by 9:00 a.m.

The Flagman’s Mission Continues is seeking volunteers from Metropolis, Illinois, and surrounding communities to assist in creating a memorial flag display honoring a fallen hero.

Your help is needed to set up approximately 600 flags (3×5 flags on 10-foot poles) at the Metropolis Municipal Airport, located at 751 Airport Road.

Volunteers are asked to arrive at 4 pm Central Time on Wednesday, July 17th, 2024, for the setup and again at 4 pm Central Time on Friday, July 19th, 2024, for the takedown.

It is estimated the setup and takedown process will take approximately 2-3 hours with sufficient help.  If you can carry 5 pounds and walk, we encourage you to join in this meaningful endeavor. Your contribution will help create a powerful tribute to this fallen hero.

Transportation: We require approximately 8 clean, empty pickup trucks (no trailers) to transport flags.

Equipment: We will provide 600 flags, necessary equipment, and instructions for setup and takedown.

Personal Gear: Recommended: gloves, walking shoes, and personal beverages (stay hydrated!).

Volunteer Opportunities: Youth groups and children (ages 11 and up) are encouraged to participate.

Flexibility: No commitment or sign-up required; feel free to join us on either or both days. –

Takedown Assistance: As many volunteers will be needed to help take down the flags as will be needed to set them up. Questions? Contact  618-409-0323 (call or text).