2Lt H.C. Lentz 94th FS P-38 Kills?

[JACK COOK]

Seeking info on Lt Harold C. Lentz 94th FS 1st FG. He's not listed on the AF aerial victory website but, I beleive that he has 3 confirmed ME-109s victories plus 2 probable and 3 damaged claims.

[Locobuster]

Jack.

In "An Escort of P-38s" by John Mullins, Lt. Harold C. Lentz 0-730542 is listed as 3 confirmed, 2 Probable and 2 Damaged.

Syd

[Andy Fletcher]

Hi Jack,

Following claims for 2/Lt Harold C. Lentz 94FS/1FG

17Apr43; Bf109 prob
17Apr43; Ju88 dam
17Apr43; Me210 dam
09Jun43; Bf109 prob
20Jun43; 3xBf109 dest

Source: Frank Olynyk, USAAF MTO Destruction Credits.

Regards

Andy Fletcher

[JACK COOK]

I guess Harold Lentz is one one those who fell through the cracks of AF Study 85. I loaned out Frank's Med list but did have copies of Lentz's DFC citation and combat report and witness statement for that June 20 mission.
I also have a Lockheed Star paper and copy of his logbook book stating he was shot down by a axis flown P-38! The story is in 'An Escort of P-38s'.

[Frank Olynyk]

Jack,
If you can get me copies of the DFC citation, the combat report and the witness reports, I will send them to Maxwell for their consideration. They ought to be enough to get him credit, especially if the DFC citation gives the GO # and unit awarding the DFC.

Enjoy!

Frank.

[JACK COOK]

Frank,
I'll scan them and email you this evening. This would be very cool has Harold was a real hero to me when I was a young boy (quite a while ago!). Many thanks....JACK


GO 149 27 July 1943

AWARD OF THE DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS

HAROLD C. LENTZ O-730542
2LT SALEM, OREGON

For extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the North Africian Theatre of Operations has a pilot of a P-38 type aircraft. While on a bomber escort mission to Castelvetreno Airdrome, Sicily on 20 June 1943, Lt Lentz's formation was attacked by 20 ME-109s. Observing 3 ME-109s closing to the rear of his squadron commander, Lt Lentz displayed outstanding skill and daring in destroying the 3 enemy aircraft. On many combat sorties, his gallantry and steadfast devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
E.P. Curtiss
Brigadier General. USA
Chief of Staff

His combat report claiming 3 kills was approved by Maj. George W. Sutcliffe CO 94th FS and Randolph A. Brown Capt. IO

It would be interesting to know what unit these MEs belonged to.

[Locobuster]

Jack.

I have a copy of a letter Lt. Lentz received from Eddie Rickenbacker concerning the use of the "Hat in the Ring" insignia, would you like a copy? I would also love to have copies of the documents you mentioned above as I'm considering what my next project might be and the 1st.FG is on the short list.

Victory By Valor
Syd

[JACK COOK]

I have the original framed in my den! I'll send you copies.

[Locobuster]

OK, it's official, it is a small world indeed! Thanks Jack, much appreciated!

[JACK COOK]

Thought you all enjoy a photo of Harold Lentz after his triple kill.