Koele, Raymond A. 1920-1943

KOELE, GORZEMAN, WAGNER

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke--Volunteer
Date: 6/13/2021 at 20:33:34

Source: Sioux County Index (4-22-1943)

Born: August 21, 1920
Died: April 8, 1943

Second Lieutenant P-40 Fighter Pilot Killed in Action--64th AAF Fighter Squad--WWII

Lieutenant Raymond A. Koele Killed On The Eastern Front

22-Year-Old Hull Boy Died In Action April 8--Was Member Of Uncle Sam's Air Corps; Parents Received Bad News Sunday Morning

Mr. and Mrs. Henry E. Koele received an official telegram, Sunday, informing them that their son, Lieutenant Raymond A. Koele, had been killed in action on the Eastern Front on April 8th, 1943.

Raymond A. Koele was a member of the Army Air Force, and had left this country for the African Front early this year. He was commissioned as a fighter pilot and in training flew P-40 planes exclusively. These planes are primarily used for bomber escort and strafing operations.

Raymond was very well known to every one in Hull, being a friend of all, having had a way of meeting and greeting all with whom he came in contact. His loss is deeply felt by all in the community, and the shock of the news of this casualty is not lessened by the realization that more such messages may be expected in the future.

Raymond attended Hull Public Grade and High School and graduated in 1938. He then entered Sheldon Junior College, at which place he took up Civilian Pilot Training. After graduation from Junior College he attended Iowa State College at Ames. Late in March, 1942, he enrolled in the Army Air Corps at Kelly Field, Texas. Later he was appointed a Cadet Corporal in the Waco Army Basic Flying School at Waco, Texas. After completing his training course he was transferred to Foster Field, Texas, where he received his commission as Lieutenant and his "Wings" on November 10th, 1942.

While home on leave in November he was married, on November 17th, 1942, to Miss Elizabeth Gorzeman, who besides his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry E. and Elizabeth (Wagner) Koele, one brother Earl, and a sister, Ruth, mourn his death. Raymond was 22 years old on August 21st last.

The whole community, although unable to put into words their exact feelings, extend sympathy to the bereaved relatives.