Kassel Mission Day 2025: 81 Years After the Kassel Mission, a New WWII Memorial Honors the Miner Crew

It’s hard to believe that a full year has passed since 52 of our members traveled to Friedlos, Germany to attend the 80th Anniversary of the Airmen’s Memorial commemorating the Kassel Mission!

Today, on the 81st anniversary of the Kassel Mission, I am pleased and honored to share another milestone with you all!

One year ago, during our gathering in Germany, we were joined by three remarkable WWII reenactors — Joe Hall, Marco Monteiro, and Andreas Heid — whose presence enriched our three days together. Dressed in full WWII aircrew uniforms, they shared their collections of relics and their deep knowledge of the era, bringing history to life for all of us.

Among those special moments, one stands out. Andreas Heid had a heartfelt conversation with Jim Miner, son of 1st Lt. Reg Miner, pilot of one of the planes lost on the Kassel Mission. From where Andreas lives, he can see the meadow where Lt. Miner’s plane crashed. He spoke with Jim about what it means to live near that place and to carry the memory of what happened there.

That day, Andreas made a commitment: he would create a memorial at the crash site to honor Lt. Miner and his crew.

Today, we are proud to report that Andreas has made that vision a reality. Almost single-handedly, he raised funds, gathered volunteers and local labor to create this memorial. And today, September 27th, 2025, the unveiling of this memorial will take place at the very spot where the Miner plane crashed, honoring the men of the Miner crew. The ceremony in Grebenau, Germany, will be attended by KMHS members, appropriately, Jim Miner with Patty Thompson, as well as Kiera Miner and Daniel Mickle (Kiera’s son), together with local residents and a USAF Color Guard. Three generations of the Miner family in attendance!

On behalf of all of us at KMHS, we extend our deepest gratitude to Andreas and the many local supporters who helped him turn this vision into something tangible and lasting.

The Kassel Mission, the founders of KMMA, and now the KMHS, have created something truly unique in the annals of WWII remembrance. Honoring those who served and sacrificed in the Kassel Mission and the 445th Bomb Group remains our highest calling. It is truly remarkable how many locals in the German community, like Andreas, are willing and passionate about assisting us in our mission of honoring and remembrance! 

KMHS continues to stay committed to partnering with German landowners, local governments, and community members to bring additional memorials to other Kassel Mission crash sites. Your membership makes this possible — thank you for supporting our work.

Wishing you all a meaningful Kassel Mission Day, September 27.