“A World War II History” by Sebastian L. Vogel

Collection

Identifier: SC 836

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

Typed reminiscence (26 leaves) by Vogel detailing his involvement in World War II. Vogel served in the 427th Bomb Squadron of the 303rd Heavy Bombardment Group, where he was a radio operator, aerial machine gunner and radio mechanic. After training in the United States, he was sent to England in 1942 and involved in aerial raids over occupied France. This reminiscence details a raid on January 23, 1943 at Lorient, France in which the aircraft he was in was hit and some of the crew parachuted to near Brest, France. They were rescued by local French, then moved to different locations to avoid German soldiers. They made their way to Carntec where they were able to sail back to England. The Germans detected their departure and attempted to fire on them, but the rainy weather and darkness prevented them to pursue the airmen. They arrived safely in England. The reminiscence also includes a photocopy of a 1943 telegram to Rose Vogel that Sebastian is no longer missing and has returned to duty, and his citation on being awarded the Purple Heart and Air Medal.

Dates

n.d.

Creator

Vogel, Sebastian L., 1889-1959. (Person)

Access

The collection is open under the rules and regulations of the Institute.

Copyrights

Copyrights to this collection is held by the Institute.

Biography

Sebastian Lester Vogel was born July 10, 1918 in Fargo, North Dakota to Sebastian O. and Rose G (Schluch) Vogel. He graduated from North Dakota Agricultural College in 1946. He served in the Army Air Corp during World War II on a B-17 as a radio operator. He was shot down over France, escaped with the help of the French underground, and awarded both the Purple Heart and an air medal. He would go on to marry Kathlee Chezick on June 11, 1943 in Fargo, North Dakota. He taught agricultural engineering at North Dakota State University for 25 years and then taught an independent study. He and Kathleen had seven children.

Extent

1 Items (1 item)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Overview

A recounting by Sebastion L. Vogel, of several events that happened to during World War II. It also includes a copy of a telegram from the military listening him as alive rather than missing in action and a letter on him receiving his medals.