JAMES HASTIN
361st Fighter Group 01/30/1944
B. 30 January 1944 , F.O. 227
C. 3 7 4t h Fighter Squadron
D. 1 130 - 1145
E. Rheine Area
F. Light overcast 1/10,000 ft and 29,000 ft.
G. M E 109 G
H. 1 - 1 M E 109 G Probable Destroyed (shared with LT LEDERER)
I. I was about 7,000 ft indicating about 500 m.p.h. I observed an ME109G at 2 o'clock 1500 ft below me. I fell off right in a shallow dive, dead astern of E/A, opening fire at 600 yds and breaking off at 100 yds. I observed strikes left root and cockpit. E/A broke down and left and I noticed a small explosion in vicinity of the cockpit. As I broke up and right I noticed LT LEDERER, Red 2, directly beneath me not more than 10 ft. LT LEDERER had been shooting at the same E/A, but I was unable to observe his fire. The last I saw of E/A he was headed straight down apparently out of control at 2,500 ft. I claim one ME109G, shared with LT LEDERER, as probable Destroyed. J . Approximately 282 rounds of ammunition expended.
Official US Army Air Forces Combat Report by JAMES HASTIN of the 361st Fighter Group. This material is a transcription of official reports-testimonials of JAMES HASTIN's combat experience.
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