Pilot  1st Lt Paul J Larson, O-442520 (survived)
Force Landed  July 21, 1943 at 1345 hours

Mission History
Took off from Port Moresby at 0930 to carry out a fighter sweep in the Bogadjim area. Interception took place during which the pilot was able to shoot down a fighter. However, incoming fire, broke off a section of the left engine cowling. The pilot feathered the engine and started for hone. The aircraft was then jumped by three Zeros, but they were successfully evaded. one in particular being an excellent pilot, and it took considerable effort for Lt Larson to shake off his adversary. On reaching the Papuan coast, the remaining good engine started to overheat, and a forced landing was made. Due to the rocky shoreline, the pilot landed the aircraft in the surf, close to shore. He stalled the aircraft, and on touching the water. the right hand propeller broke off, and the plane swung around to face the shore. Ditched 5 miles north-west of Yule Island, close to the shore or on the beach.

References
Frames 553 and 554 Nat.Archives microfilm M1065 16

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