The following letter was received by the family of James D. Reynolds, former residents of Olney, written by the Commanding Officer of the  ~ 488th Bombardment Squadron ~  (M)  340th Bombardment Group  (M):

Jimmy Reynolds was the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Reynolds

Dear Mrs. Reynolds:

The War Department has undoubtedly informed you that your son, Sgt. James D. Reynolds, has been missing in action since August 8.

On August 8 your son was a member of a crew which bombed one of the most heavily defended targets in France.  While over the target, anti-aircraft fire set the aircraft in which your son was a gunner, on fire and soon thereafter it was observed to crash.  Three parachutes were observed to come from the plane and two of those who parachuted evaded the enemy and returned for duty.  The men report that two of the crew members went down with the ship but they could not linger in the area to determine exactly who they were.

Sgt. Reynolds was only with this Squadron a little over four months and had attained the admiration and friendship of all who knew, and worked with him.  He always performed his duties in a thorough, dependable and fearless manner.

Your son's personal effects have been sent to the Effect Quartermaster at Kansas City, Mo., and will be forwarded to you in the near future.  If there is any question about your son's personal affairs, that you have, please feel free to write me at any time.

In closing allow me to speak for the entire Squadron when I say that our sympathy is heartfelt and I sincerely hope that in the near future you will receive more cheerful news from the War Department.

Published in  The Olney Advocate ~  October 5, 1944

The remains of Sgt. James D. Reynolds, son of Mr. and Mrs. Will Reynolds, Olney, who was killed Aug. 8, 1944 on a bombing mission over German-occupied France, are enroute to the U. S., according to word received here.

The body will be returned to Olney for final rites by the Chicago distribution center of the graves registration service.

Reynolds, born Jan. 13, 1923, was 21 years of age when he met his death aboard an American bombing plane, acting as tail gunner. He had completed 20 missions.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by a brother, Bernard, of Indianapolis, IN.

May 27, 1948 The remains of Sgt James D. Reynolds arrived here today, accompanied by a military escort.

Funeral services will be tomorrow and burial will be in Haven Hill cemetery. Graveside military rites will be conducted by Richland post No. 30, American Legion

Olney Advocate (IL) – Thursday, May 6, 1948