Keith McGinnis

55th Fighter Group 04/10/1945


PILOT’S PERSONAL ENCOUNTER REPORT

A.  Combat.

B.  10 April 1945.

C.  38th Fighter Squadron, 55th Fighter Group.

D.  1450.

E.  Galworde.

F.  7/10ths at 20,000 feet, clear below.

G.  Me 262.

H.  One Me 262 destroyed.

I.  I was flying Program White Leader at 21,000 feet on the port side of the bombers in the vicinity of Galworde.  Shortly after the heavies turned right at the IP toward the target, I observed two jet contrails far out at 3 o’clock diving toward our box.  By the time we identified them as Me 262’s and had dropped our tanks, they were under the bombers.  As we started down after them the jets cut their power.  Continuing my dive – indicating 450 MPH – I closed on the first one from the left at about 30 degrees angle off at 16,000 feet.  Just as I was getting well in range and about to fire the jet cocked up on the right wing and the pilot bailed out.  The E/A immediately flicked over on its back and went straight in.  Program White 2 and 3 observed the whole action.  As a result of this combat I claim one Me 262 destroyed.

J.  Ammunition Expended – 0 Rounds.

KEITH R. MCGINNIS, O-666407,

1st Lieut., Air Corps.

 

S T A T E M E N T

I remained within visual distance of my flight leader and the Me 262 during the combat described above.  I saw him get on the jets tail, then watched as the E/A did a half roll and the pilot bailed out.  After this the jet went straight in.  I therefore confirm Lt. McGinnis’ claim of One Me 262 destroyed.

DARREL D. BACHMAN, O-834932,

2nd Lieut., Air Corps.


Official US Army Air Forces Combat Report by Keith McGinnis of the 55th Fighter Group. This material is a transcription of official reports-testimonials of Keith McGinnis's combat experience.

Combat Reports

Keith McGinnis's official WW2 combat report of 04/10/1945

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