USAS Air Raid 10. July 1918 Coblenz
 

Hello,
an german newspaper from 17. July 1918 wrote about this Air Raid:
"Six French-American Airplanes, armed each with 3 Machine Guns and Bombs failed to return after an Air Raid over Coblenz. All planes where captured by local armed forces. One crew with an US 1Ltn. and an Ltn. where captured by an sixteen year old german College Student near Schwarz Aera of Coblenz.

I did not find anything about this Raid by USAS. French planes sounds like Breguet 14 o Salmson Two-Setters. Any information are welcome!
Thanks!
h.

Re: USAS Air Raid 10. July 1918 Coblenz
 

Hans,

You're correct. In an online book called Hostile Skies by James J. Hudson it says on p. 128: "In fact American day bombardment practically ceased to exist on 10 July 1918 when a formation of six Breguets was forced down behind German lines."

Story goes on how the six Breguets came into thick, cloudy weather and with no parachutes for the crews, they were forced to find a landing place. This happened to be near/at Koblenz and all 12 men were made prisoner within minutes.

The Breguets were of the 96th Aero Squadron and were led by Major Harry Brown.

Regards,

Leendert

Re: USAS Air Raid 10. July 1918 Coblenz
 

Leendert,

as always an top information!!! There are rumors, that a few parts from the Bre 14 are still in privat hands!
h.