Aircraft History
Constructors Number 222-5316. Shipped overseas to Australia. Assembled by CAC at Melbourne on September 2, 1942. Assigned to the 6th Photographic Reconnaissance Group, 8th Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron.

On September 4, Thomas and 1st Lt. Fred Hargesheimer ferried F4 41-2156 and F4 41-2098 (this aircraft) from Melbourne to Stock Route Airfield near Townsville.

Wartime History
Took off at 6:00am from 14 Mile Drome (Schwimmer) a reconnaissance mission against north-east New Guinea and the Buna area.

8th Photo Squadron Diary Harlan H. Olsen, Monday - September 14, 1942
"Tragedy is certainly dogging our boys. Lt. Peterson departed at 0600 in 2098 for dawn patrol of northeast New Guinea, and nothing more was heard from him. After checking the airdromes, Major Polifka took off in search of him, but a general overcast at 5,000 feet made observation impossible. Pete is a swell person, one of the regular guys, and he will be sorely missed. These first missions are exceedingly difficult. The weather is always bad, and with no experience over the terrain, navigation is mostly by guess and by God. Best of luck Pete, we shall pray that you walk out.”

This aircraft was officially condemned October 31, 1944. SOC Jan 9, 1945

Memorials
Peterson was officially declared dead on December 5, 1945. Memorialized on the tablets of the missing at Manila American Cemetery.

Reference
The Eight Ballers: Eyes of the Fifth Air Force pages 15, 160
The School that Fell from the Sky, page 45 (8th PRS diary entry September 14, 1942)
Thanks to Edward Rogers for additional information

Contribute Information
Do you have photos or additional information to add?

Last Updated
October 2, 2009

P-38

MIA