Austin F. Casselberry

Austin F. Casselberry, on military leave from Truck 24, has been reported as missing in action in the European theater of war.  According to information from the War Department recently received by his parents here, young Casselberry did not return from a mission on May 12.  He was a navigator of a Flying Fortress.

Mr. Casselberry, son of Mr. and Mrs. Austin F. Castleberry of 6822 Odessa avenue, Van Nuys, came into the department July 29, 1940.  At the time he took military leave he was a fireman attached to Truck 24.  He took military leave February 15, 1943.  After receiving his basic training in this country he was assigned to duty in England and participated in numerous raids over the continent.

Source: The Firemen's Grapevine, July 1944

Austin F. Casselberry

Fireman on military leave killed in action over Coblenz, Germany, May 13, 1944, while serving as a Captain in the United States Army Air Forces.  Born in Los Angeles, July 1, 1916.  Appointed fireman Los Angeles Fire Department July 29, 1940 and went on military leave February 15, 1943 from Truck 24B.  First reported missing in action June, 1944, death just confirmed by only survivor of planes crew recently released from a German prisoner of war camp.

Source: The Firemen's Grapevine