SOC Seagull lost July 1942 USS WICHITA

[dp_burke]

I've forked out the 11USD for a months Fold3 sub (some of you might want to consider this also)

I've reveiwed the Wichita, Washington and Tuscaloosa war diaries and neither of them mention any fatal aircraft loss. The Tuscaloosa happens to DI when other ships in the flotilla launced and recovered planes.

The Washington did losse aircra 6-O-3 on June 12th when it lost a float on landing but the crew were taken on board Wichita. I'm trying to see if there is a diary for ComTaskFor 99, can't see it as of yet.

Wishita and Wasington were ceretainly launcing aircraft throughout July 4th.

More anon.

[dp_burke]

The final thing I can add having found the ComTAskFor 99 diary, which becomes Cruiser Covering Force from July 1st is a note on the July 3rd entry.

It mentions that a BV138 type 'snooper' was observed by USS Wainwright to be trying to catch up on a plane from the Wichita but the Wainwright fired on it. No mention of American plane or German plane being shot down so i take it that neither were.

There is udner this the following note:

NOTE: HMS London is reported to have had a plane damaged by a 'Snooper' and NORFOLK to have lost a plane on this trip possibly from 'Snooper' stalking.

So, possibly this was beleived by those on board Wichita at the time but not confirmed. I think its all I can add from my lunch break at least. Back to work.

[dp_burke]

The April loss is recorded in the war diary for Wichita as:

April 16:
1055 hrs Plane 7-CS-1, Ensign F M DILLON, USNR, Pilot; and MOSS, R W, CRM, USN, crashed on port bow. Personel recovered. Plane sank.

Tuscaloosa lost a plane in similar circumstances on May 5, crew recovered. Recorded in the Wichita Diary

[Brian]

Hi Dennis

Super stuff!

I've taken your advice and have subscribed to Fold3, but can't find the relevant war diaries!! For Wichita I can only find diaries for postwar!!

Please direct me!

Cheers
Brian

[dp_burke]

Top of the first screen,
Records, click on to get a drop down menu
select "Browse Records"

In new window, select World War II in left hand column

then scroll down new column to

WWII War Diaries

Then click on the letter U (for USS.....) in the thrid new column

Then scroll to USS Wichita and away you go, you can check the diary for every US ship that was on that operation. They ought to be listed under USS Xyzzzzz

Click on letter C for ComTaskFor 99 or CruCovforce for the actual operation.

Keep browsing is the main theing and learn to use it. Their is a myriad of information in there!!!