Spitfire claim: 25th July 1943 30 Km NW Messina, Sicily.

[Andy F-P]

Hello, I am researching the loss of a Luftwaffe pilot Oberfeldwebel Fritz Meikstat who was shot down on the 25th July 1943 by a 'Spitfire'. Meikstat was shot down 30 kms north west of Messina, Sicily on this date. He was serving with 5./JG27 and was flying a Bf109 G-6/trop, Red 3 + -. I would be grateful if anyone could point me in the right direction to see if I could identify his victor. I do not know the time of the combat but Meikstat has been missing since this date, apparently in combat with a Spitfire. Can anyone provide me with details of allied claims in this area on this date or let me know where/if they are available? Thank you in advance, Andy

[Andrew Arthy]

Hi Andy,

There were no American claims in the Mediterranean theatre on 25 July 1943, so that rules out the Spitfire-equipped 31st and 52nd Fighter Groups.

Cheers,
Andrew A.

[Andy F-P]

Thanks for the reply and information Andrew.

That is the Americans ruled out then. Is there any information on RAF claims in the Med. theatre available? Where do I look?
I would be very grateful for any information.
Regards,
Andy

[Andy Fletcher]

Hi Andy,

Spitfires of 81 Sqn, 152 Sqn and 242 Sqn claimed Bf 109s over Sicily on 25Jul43.

Best Regards

Andy Fletcher

[Bruce Lander]

Hi, Try "Spitfires Over Sicily" by Brian Cull ( Grub Street 2000 ) it gives a detailed day by day account of the air battles over Malta/Sicily Jan - August 1943 Cheers Bruce Lander

[Andy F-P]

Thanks for your replies Gentlemen.
I have ordered a copy of 'Spitfires over Sicily'. Hopefully, that will help me with my research.
Regards,
Andy