Robert Bonebrake

78th Fighter Group 11/27/1944


OFFICE OF THE INTELLIGENCE OFFICER

83rd FIGHTER SQUADRON

 

INTELLIGENCE COMBAT REPORT

REFERENCE B.D. F.O. NO. 496A

 

  1. Combat.

  2. 26 November 1944.

  3. 83rd Fighter Squadron, 78th Fighter Group.

  4. 1110 hours.

  5. South of Dummer Lake.

  6. 2/10 cloud at 5,000 feet; good visibility.

  7. ME 109.

  8. 1 ME 109 destroyed.

  9. I was leading Cargo White flight on a bomber escort mission when the enemy aircraft were reported by the group leader. We started pursuit, when the e/a turned away from the intended intercept heading on the bombers. While about 15 miles to the rear, I observed two e/a break from the main gaggle and cut back, presumably to join a fight observed at 25,000 feet. I dived from 31,000 feet from the rear, intercepted at 26,000, at which time the 109’s turned left. The leader completed a 360 degree turn and started down. The wing man chandelled, apparently intending to dispatch any aircraft joining the leader’s tail. I pulled inside and below the wing man and opened fire at 450 yards, speed of 400 M.P.H., firing continuously to 250 yards and observed concentrated strikes on cockpit, wing roots, and engine. Deflection used was approximately 30 degrees. On being hit, the e/a emitted smoke and coolant, rolled slowly on its back, entered a slow spin, and exploded on the ground. The pilot did not bail out. I used the K-14 sight for which I have nothing but the highest commendation.

 

27 Novemer 1944.

Robert R. Bonebrake,

Captain, Air Corps,

83rd Fighter Squadron.

 

Supporting Statement of Claim:

 

I was number two man to Captain Bonebrake when he attacked an ME 109 south of Dummer Lake. He scored concentrated hits on wing roots, cockpit and engine. The e/a half rolled and then slipped into an uncontrolled spin andf exploded on the ground.

27 November 1944.

Edward R. Kulik,

1st Lt., Air Corps,

83rd Fighter Squadron


Official US Army Air Forces Combat Report by Robert Bonebrake of the 78th Fighter Group. This material is a transcription of official reports-testimonials of Robert Bonebrake's combat experience.


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