Memorial

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Capt Samuel Fleming enlisted at Fort George G Meade, Maryland on 8 December 1941.

Statement from 1st Lt Charles Sterba Jr, Navigator on Varsity Mission:
"I was flying as Navigator on plane No. 42-92881, on Varsity Mission. Captain Samuel Fleming was Pilot, 2nd Lt Regan - Co-Pilot, T/Sgt Luick - Crew Chief and S/Sgt Railly - Radio Operator. At approximately 4 miles from the LZ, at about 1042 hours, we were struck by a burst of flak and small arms fire. The burst of flak was up forward in the cockpit and Lt Regan was struck in the face with fragments. The plane burst into flames and I ran to the rear and put on my chute. T/Sgt Luick and S/Sgt Reilly were in the rear and Capt Fleming gave the order to "Bail out". There was much confusion and I am sure that S/Sgt Reilly and myself were the only two to jump. On reaching the ground S/Sgt Reilly and I were taken prisoner by the Germans and were hold until the para-troopers arrived. Upon arrival of the para-troopers, we were taken to an aid station for treatment. S/Sgt Reilly suffered a sprained ankle and I had shrapnel in my face and hands were burned. I lost all contacts with S/Sgt Reilly at the aid station. I was then sent to the 241st General Hospital for further treatment and returned to the 86th Troop Carrier Squadron 9 April 1945. After jumping, I had no knowledge as to what had happened to the plane"