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Re: 23 Dec 42 with P-38 fight over Bay of Buscay
Chris,
thanks for providing that new and valuable information on the V./KG 40 patrols. It is very helpful in obtaining a better understanding of the day's events.
Adriano,
As far as is known, only the P-38 of Lt. Green and the A-20 were lost as a result of aerial combat. The other four P-38 losses appear to have been due to a combination of the pilots becoming lost, their aircraft running low on fuel or engine trouble.
Correcting something in my second post. The first lot of P-38s to leave St. Eval were led by the Group CO and comprised of eight Lightnings, sub-divided into two sections of four each.
One or more B-25 Mitchells may also have been operating as navigation leaders for the P-38s. The Group CO, Lt.Col. William E. Covington, later recalled that many of the pilots choose to fly with no ammunition or a reduced amount. The space saved being used instead to carry personal luggage, etc.
Regards,
Martin.
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