JOHN THORNELL
353rd Fighter Group 12/11/1943
B. 11 December 1943
C. 328th Fighter Squadron
D. Appx 1240
E. Area of Drachten
F. 5/10 at 5,000 ft with large gaps in clouds
G. ME 110
H. None
I. I was flying Turndown Red 4 position; the flight started down after an ME 110, and I lost my element leader in the sun during the roll. Red Flight Leader, Lt Cornick , attacked and fired upon the enemy A/c and I saw hits on the ME 110. Lt Cornick and Red 2 then pulled up leaving the enemy A/c burning. I saw his left engine and wing roots on fire. I closed in and gave him a short burst but observed no hits. Then I pulled through for more lead and finished my firing still observing no hits, as he was out of range. Then I pulled up and saw one chute open. Not regaining my flight I tacked on the Handspun White Flight who were coming down to finish off the enemy a/c. At this point I saw another chute open and the A/c hit the water (Zuider Zee). I do not make any claim.
Official US Army Air Forces Combat Report by JOHN THORNELL of the 353rd Fighter Group. This material is a transcription of official reports-testimonials of JOHN THORNELL's combat experience.
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