“Captain Alfred we haven’t forgotten” reads the inscription on this memorial. This isn’t just any monument. It’s the Pomník zahynulého amerického pilota a war memorial dedicated to Captain Carl Raymond Alfred.
On April 16 1945 Captain Alfred’s P-51D Mustang was hit by flak near Ohrobec. He was probably wounded. His plane was damaged. Another pilot reported coolant leaking from the engine. After a short flight south near Ohrobec the plane crashed. The crash site is now covered with houses. Captain Alfred perished in the crash. He wasn’t an ace pilot but he had eight confirmed enemy aircraft destroyed. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross the Air Medal with nine oak leaf clusters and the Purple Heart.
Captain Alfred was born December 31 1917 in Monroe Township Iowa. His home was a small rural community. He is buried at the Lorraine American Cemetery in Saint Avold France. He left behind a wife Emma and two brothers.
The memorial itself is quite moving. A bronze model of his P-51D Mustang sits atop a curved steel post symbolizing the flak trajectory. Concrete slabs represent a gravesite. A plaque with a stylized photo and text requires visitors to bow their heads in respect.
The memorial’s creation was a community effort. It took years of planning and fundraising. Local residents along with the American Embassy worked to make this memorial a reality. They even arranged for a flyover by a vintage P-51 Mustang. This was truly a remarkable display of respect. The memorial serves as a poignant reminder of sacrifice. It reminds us of the cost of freedom. It is a testament to the enduring friendship between the Czech Republic and the United States.