Searching for Lt. Wilson - World War II Air Force Archaeology

Explore the gripping story of Lt. George "Frankie" Wilson, a young pilot shot down during World War II, in this 34-minute lecture from the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Delve into the dangerous missions of the 8th Air Force over the Western Front, where casualties exceeded those of the US Marine Corps. Learn about the battle for air supremacy in Europe and the staggering loss of 135,000 men despite three million combat missions flown. Discover the efforts of archaeologists from DMNS and CSU in the summers of 2021 and 2022 to locate Lt. Wilson, who went missing in action on July 8, 1944, during his third combat mission. Gain insights into Lt. Wilson's role in the 8th Army, his final days, and the ongoing collaboration between his family, the US military, and archaeologists to bring him home.