James Robert Cockriel was born on January 12, 1923, in Platte City, Platte County, Missouri. He was the son of Robert Earle Cockriel and Leota Naylor Cockriel. He was married to Imogene "Jean" Wilson Cockriel. He served in the 700th Bomber Squadron, 445th Bomber Group, Heavy, as a Sergeant and Tail Gunner of the B-24 #4129306 'K for King' during World War II.

On April 22, 1944, the aircraft was struck by anti-aircraft fire during a bombing mission over Hamm, Germany. It sustained damage from German anti-aircraft fire (flak) and possibly fighters, ultimately crashing near Spiere-Helkijn during its return flight. Several crew members were killed, and others were captured or evaded.

Sgt. Cockriel managed to evade capture and subsequently joined the Belgian resistance. In early September, they fought alongside British forces against remaining German troops. He, his fellow airman SSgt John F. Mahoney, and four Belgian resistance members were captured and executed by German soldiers. Only he and one Belgian survived the execution. Sgt Cockriel died on May 16, 2007, and is now buried in the Platte City Cemetery, Platte City, Platte County, Missouri, USA.

Source of information: www.tracesofwar.com, airforce.togetherweserved.com