MERLE CALDWELL
339th Fighter Group 07/07/1944
B. 7 July 1944
C. 504th Fighter Squadron.
D. 0945
E. Vicinity of Eisleben, Germany.
F. CAVU.
G. 150 plus e/s in groups of 15 and 20.
H. 2 ME 109's destroyed.
I. 1st, Lt., MERLE
F. CALDWELL, O-802908, 504th Sq. Sq. While leading the 4th Flight in the 504th Squadron on an escort mission in the vicinity of Eisleben, Germany, I saw 50 plus ME 410's swinging into position to attack the bombers we were escorting. I led my flight of F-51's (the other two a/c in my flight having become separated) into attacking position and started down end of formation of ME 410's. At this time I saw Squadron leader Major Routh who was leading our 7 F-51's turn away from attacking the ME 410's. At the same time I saw a group of 20 plus ME 109's and ME 109's. I followed Major Routh into attacking position on the ME 109's that were turning a near us. I rigged my right of ME 109's end followed then to the deck. On the way down I shot at a ME 109 in a turn and after shooting at him saw the pilot ball out. Looking around at the time I saw another ME 109 coming toward me so I turned into him and shot at him until the a/s exploded. I took a picture of the German a/c in his parachute.
Official US Army Air Forces Combat Report by MERLE CALDWELL of the 339th Fighter Group. This material is a transcription of official reports-testimonials of MERLE CALDWELL's combat experience.
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