Wildcat unit, victories 1 Feb 1943
 

During first evacuation run of KE operation, on 1 Feb 1943 Japanese destroyers were attacked in the evening by CAF and 13 AF planes. I know that there were 17 SBDs from VMSB-234, 7 TBFs from VMSB-131, 4 P-39s from 67 FS, 4 P-40s from 44 FS and 17 Wildcats. I'm interested in last ones. Which unit(s) were they from and how many victories were claimed? VMF-112 was in action earlier that day, over DeHaven and claimed 21 victories, but over Tokyo Express?

Regards,
Chris

Re: Wildcat unit, victories 1 Feb 1943
 

VMO-251 had claims that day, but I cannot document the time. I show one victory for the 67th FS (not credited by the USAFHRA today) between 1635 and 1920. There are no claims for the USN. The USMC claimed 22/1/0 for the day; VMSB-131 claimed two Zeros (time unknown), VMF-251 claimed 5/1/0 (time unknown--1 bomber, 1 Betty, 3/1/0 Zeros), and VMF-112 claimed 15 at 1300 (a mix of Zeros and dive bombers).

Enjoy!

Frank.