Pilot  Richard Chello
Ditched  November 4, 1942

Aircraft History
Assigned to the 39th Fighter Squadron on September 17, 1942.

Mission History
One of eleven P-38s that departed Milne Bay bound for Guadalcanal. Only ten arrived. This aircraft ditched off Milne Bay.

Discovery
Discovered by Bob Halstead in September 2004 off Milne Bay.

Bob Halstead adds:
"Located on a reef slope between 12 and 17 meters deep. Props are feathered and pilot made perfect water landing. No damage to aircraft. Beautiful site as wreck has heavy coral and colourful sponge growth. I have brass radio call tag and it reads 2-12649 very clear."

Reference
Thanks to Bob Halstead for discovery notes and Kieth Hopper for historical information.

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