Peter Michael Volpini was born on July 23, 1925, in Baltimore, Baltimore City, Maryland. He was the son of Sabatino Volpini and Louisa Colati Volpini. He enlisted in the service on October 25, 1943. Peter served in the 427th Bomber Squadron, 303rd Bomb Group, Heavy, as a Sergeant and a Radio Operator of the B-17 42-31060 'Pogue Ma Hone' during World War II.

On February 9, 1945, during Mission 313, two B-17 bombers from the 427th Bomb Squadron collided in mid-air over Lutzkendorf, Germany. B-17G #42-31060 "Pogue Ma Hone," piloted by 1Lt Alfred K. Nemer, was hit by flak, causing its right wing to strike the tail of B-17G #43-39149, piloted by 2Lt Robert J. Barrat. Barrat's plane broke apart, while Nemer’s B-17 descended 10,000 feet but remained somewhat under control despite two damaged engines. Unable to return to England, the crew aimed for Russian lines. After facing ice buildup, the crew bailed out over Jaraczewo, Poland. Three crew members were rescued by Russian troops, one was captured by the Germans, and the rest, including Sgt Volpini, were killed in action.

Sgt Volpini is now buried in the Parkwood Cemetery and Mausoleum, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Maryland, USA.

Source of information: http://www.303rdbg.com/