B-17F Flying Fortress serial number 42-5147, nicknamed “Old Ironsides,” was a notable aircraft of the 414th Bomb Squadron, 97th Bomb Group during World War II. Delivered on October 4, 1942, it was initially stationed at Biskra, Algeria, on December 22, 1942, and later operated from various bases including Chateau-du-Rhumel, Pont-du-Fahs, and Depienne.  
On May 9, 1943, “Old Ironsides” was involved in a mid-air collision with another B-17, serial number 41-24415, known as “Yankee Doodle II,” during a mission over Palermo, Sicily. The collision resulted in significant damage; “Yankee Doodle II” had its tail partially sheared off but managed to return to base, though it was later salvaged. “Old Ironsides” sustained damage but was repaired and returned to service.   
The aircraft’s final mission occurred on September 8, 1943, targeting Frascati, Italy. “Old Ironsides” was hit by anti-aircraft fire and crashed, leading to the deaths of six crew members and the capture of four others. The crew on this mission included:  
• Pilot: 1st Lt. Charles D. Gueriniere (KIA) 
• Co-Pilot: 2nd Lt. Floyd H. Lyon Jr. (KIA) 
• Navigator: 2nd Lt. Lawrence H. Owens (KIA) 
• Bombardier: 2nd Lt. Irving Linder (KIA) 
• Flight Engineer/Top Turret Gunner: SSgt. George J. Smith (POW) 
• Radio Operator: SSgt. John W. Mullins (POW) 
• Ball Turret Gunner: SSgt. Fred W. Yuvan (KIA) 
• Left Waist Gunner: Tech Sgt. Andrew H. Camarota Jr. (KIA) 
• Right Waist Gunner: SSgt. Harry J. Carroll (POW) 
• Tail Gunner: SSgt. Edward L. Gadouas (POW) 
by UrbanAchievers6371