RAAF
32 Squadron

Justin Taylan 2003

Pilot  P/O Warren Frank Cowan, 407614 (KIA)
Crew  Sgt Russell Bradburn Polack, 411183 (KIA)
Crew  Sgt Lauri Edwin Sheard, 416369 (KIA)
Crew   P/O David Reid, 408206 (KIA)
Shot Down  July 22, 1942

Mission History
Took off from 7-Mile Drome near Port Moresby to shadow an enemy cruiser force north of Buna flying alone. The last communication was recieved at 1330, two hours after take off. No sighting or distress call was heard.

Alone over Buna, this aircraft was intercepted by A6M2 Zeros of the Tainan Kokutai surrounded this Hudson and systematically attacked it one at a time. To their disbelief, the bomber turned into their attacks, to dogfight with them. One of the attacking Zeros was piloted by Saburo Sakai, who finally shot it down, but never forgot the incident or the bravery of the pilot and wrote about the incident in his post war memoirs.

Japanese Pilot Recommends Cowan For a Medal
After the war, Saburo Sakai was so moved by the bravery and heroism of this pilot he wrote a letter to the Australian Government, recommending Cowan for a medal. The Australian Government did not honor the request.

Wreckage
The shattered wreckage of the Hudson lies in the jungle near Popondetta.

References
Samurai! by Saburo Sakai
"An Australian Story" (ABC television show)
Cowan casualty file via Australian Archives

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Hudson