MANUEL MARTINEZ
78th Fighter Group 01/29/1944
I was leading Blue Flight, with Lt. Godard as #2, Lt. Cross #3, and Lt. Ramsey #4. I was trailing behind Bakehouse, coming in on the bombers at 6 o'clock, when he made an attack on four FW 190s. I attacked a 190 below the others and cut my throttle to prevent over-running. The 190 started a climb so I opened up with turbo and water. I wasn't closing so fired at about 500-600 yards astern. I saw hits around wing roots and cockpit—then smoke. The Jerry rolled over slowly and began to whip into a spin. I fired while he was on his back and saw more hits. I then went into a roll downwa rd, firing and getting more hit s. Hi s wheels then popped down. I gave him another burst and rolled past him. There was fire in the cockpit. He was still spinning out of control and smoke was pouring from the engine. My flight rejoined me after the attack. MANUEL S. MARTINEZ 1 st Lt. , Air Corps .
Official US Army Air Forces Combat Report by MANUEL MARTINEZ of the 78th Fighter Group. This material is a transcription of official reports-testimonials of MANUEL MARTINEZ's combat experience.
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