On December 23, 1944, S/Sgt. Andre Mongeau, from Kanakee – Illinois, a US Airforce radio operator, was on a supply drop mission over Bastogne.
On the way back, the C47 formation headed north for Marcouray to drop supplies.
Unfortunately, due to the presence of a German general at La Roche en Ardenne, it was very well defended by a heavy anti-aircraft battery.
André’s C47 was hit and he was forced to jump from his burning plane at an incredible altitude of 350 feet, landing in an evergreen tree.
Hearing muffled voices and assuming the Nazis must be heading for the American lines, he headed for them.
He was soon stopped by two Yankees, who at first mistook him for a German, before he was taken to the headquarters of Lieutenant-Colonel Samuel Hogan, whose task force was completely surrounded by the enemy.
Mongeau worked with his new buddies, fought with them and repaired their radio communications equipment.
He will participate in the escape unharmed.
