AR HCR1010

Lt. Col. Harold Chaffin was born November 28, 1913, in Sebastian County, Arkansas and served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II.

Chaffin flew a B-17 Flying Fortress as one of twelve pilots flying into Oahu during the Pearl Harbor attack and received the Distinguished Flying Cross from General Douglas MacArthur for landing at Haleiwa Airfield.

On March 26, 1943, Chaffin was co-pilot of B-17 Flying Fortress #41-24384 "Pluto" on a reconnaissance mission when the aircraft disappeared with 12 men aboard; the last radio communication was received 20 minutes after takeoff.

All persons on board were officially declared dead on November 19, 1945, and posthumously awarded the Purple Heart after being declared Killed in Action.

The House of Representatives and Senate recognize Lt. Col. Chaffin for his dedication and sacrifices, with a copy of the resolution to be provided to his family.