Kappeler

Frank Albert Kappeler, 0-419579, Lieutenant Colonel

Navigator Crew 11 

Born January 2, 1914, San Francisco, California
Died June 23, 2010, Santa Rosa, California

Graduated high school in 1932 and Polytechnic College of Engineering, Oakland, California.  Transferred to Aviation Cadet training in December 1939 and was commissioned a second lieutenant in June 1941 at McChord Field, Washington with rating as navigator. Later received training as bombardier.  Remained in China-Burma-India Theater after Tokyo Raid until August 1942. Served in European Theater of Operations from November 1943 until June 1945. Stateside assignments after the war included bases in Texas, Ohio and California before returning overseas to Japan where he served from May 1951 until February 1952. Deputy Commander, Minuteman Site Activation Task Force, Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota.  Decorations include Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with 2 Silver Oak Leaf Clusters, Bronze Star Medal, and Chinese Army, Navy, and Air Corps Medal, Class A, 1st Grade.