August 11, 2024, will mark the 80th anniversary of the tragic crash of a USAAF F-7A Photo Reconnaissance Liberator in Molungkimong village, Mokokchung, Nagaland. The crash, which occurred during World War II, resulted in the deaths of all 12 crew members, including Second Lieutenant Raymond Kurzawski.
In a reflective article, Susan Kurzawski Rader, a relative of Lt. Kurzawski, known affectionately as “Uncle Ray,” recounted the enduring legacy of the fallen servicemen. She noted that seventy-six years after the incident, extensive research led to the erection of a memorial at the crash site in 2020 by the people of Molungkimong.
The village observes the anniversary with an annual prayer service to honor the crew. Additionally, a museum in Molungkimong preserves the remains of the plane and commemorates the memory of the lost servicemen.
After graduating as a second lieutenant and navigator, she said Ray was ready to serve with distinction. However, he would not return home. His plane, flying a perilous supply route known as ‘The Hump’ from Jorhat to Kunming, crashed, resulting in the loss of all the crew members.
Susan expressed gratitude for the efforts to remember these heroes, stating, “We are grateful for the enduring efforts to honor these heroes, ensuring that their sacrifices are remembered for generations to come.
“In memory of Second Lieutenant Raymond Kurzawski and his fellow servicemen, we say thank you—for your bravery, your service, and your ultimate sacrifice.”