Herbert F. Hastings.

T/Sgt. Hastings served as crew chief with the 330th Bomb Squadron of the 93rd Bomb Group, 8th Air Force. He was responsible for two B-24 Liberators: Hot Freight and The Duchess.

On Hot Freight, his work was meticulous. The bomber flew 12 missions without a turnback, a record that reflected his skill and dedication. When Hot Freight was lost on March 18, 1943, Hastings moved on to The Duchess. There he continued his careful work, and the aircraft flew 22 more missions without a turnback. The consistency of his maintenance kept these planes in the air and brought crews home.