B. Michael Gladych
56th Fighter Group 06/07/1944
HEADQUARTERS SIXTY FIRST FIGHTER SQUADRON
AAF STATION F-150, APO 637
U.S. ARMY
Encounter Report
VIII Fighter Command F.O. No. 375
Capt. B. M. Gladych P.A.F. Whippet Red One
a. Combat (air)
b. 7 June, 1944
c. 61st Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighter Group
d. 1240
e. 15 miles S/E from Houdan
f. 9/10 cloud at 3,000 ft.
g. Me-109
h. Me-109 destroyed
i. I led the Red flight and followed Col. Gabreski thru the break in the clouds. Col. Gabreski called in FW-190’s on the deck. I did not see them, but saw another group of about 10 Me-109’s flying south-east at about 1,000 ft. I picked the last element and fired at the leading a/c. It was a 90° deflection shot. I was not able to get a better position as the e/a were climbing toward the cloud, and I was afraid of losing them. I fired a short burst and let the e/a fly thru my fire. The Hun turned towards me but must have been hit as he dove emitting white smoke and finally hit the ground. The rest of the e/a disappeared in the cloud. After the engagement I rejoined Col. Gabreski and returned to base.
I claim one Me-109 destroyed.
j. 374 rds .50 cal A.P.& I.
B. M. GLADYCH,
Captain, P. A. F.
Official US Army Air Forces Combat Report by B. Michael Gladych of the 56th Fighter Group. This material is a transcription of official reports-testimonials of B. Michael Gladych's combat experience.
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