A prominent figure in the history of the 323rd Bomb Group, initially operating out of Earls Colne (Station 358),  was Corporal (later Sergeant) Ronald Creakbaum, a tail gunner on the aircraft Mission Belle.

His service highlights the extreme risks of the position:

• Wounded in Action:
  He became the first surgical casualty at the American hospital at White Court in Braintree after sustaining a severe injury from flak.

• A "Shrapnel Medal"
  While hospitalized, he met his future wife, nurse Leona Hawkins. The nursing staff famously gave him a "medal" made of shrapnel, which he reportedly cherished more than his official Purple Heart.

• Rank Reform:  
  His injury contributed to a policy change where gunners were promoted to at least the rank of Sergeant, as Corporal was deemed too low for combat aircrew.

Three "Dices with Death"

Creakbaum is remembered for surviving three near-fatal incidents:

1. Training Accident: He bailed out of a burning aircraft in the U.S., becoming a member of the Caterpillar Club (for those who survived via parachute), though three of his crewmates perished.

2. Combat Injury: Surviving the aforementioned flak hit over France.

3. The Fate of Mission Belle: After Creakbaum was transferred to a different crew, Mission Belle was lost in action with no survivors.