RAAF
75
Squadron
Former Assignments
82 Squadron
2 OTU
1 ES
Daniel Leahy 2001
Former Pilot Bruce "Buster" Brown, 402342
Pilot History
Former pilot Bruce "Buster" Brown passed away in August 2005.
Aircraft History
USAAF Serial Number 41-36084. This aircraft was originally intended for
use by the RAF. Delivered to RAAF in June 1942.
Wartime History
Assigned from 2 AD to 75 Squadron, coded 'S' with nose art "Polly" on both sides of nose under exhaust stack pilot. Flown in defense of Milne
Bay. On August 11, 1942 this P-40 was one of twenty-two from 75 Squadron and 76 Squadron that engaged 12 A6M2 Zeros. Piloted by Brown, he was credited with one damaged Zero on that day.
On January 17, 1943 it returned to 75 Squadron after servicing with 10 RSU. On March 10, 1943 it returned to 75 Squadron after an engine change at 12 RSU and towards the end of that month went for repairs at 10 RSU;
On June 2, 1943 at 1430hrs 12 aircraft were scrambled and during take-off F/O Paul Ernest Whitehead, 408942 noticed the starboard tire began to deflate then shred, so he accelerated and became airborne then the starboard leg collapsed. After repairs, it was returned to 75 Squadron on August 2, 1943.
On September 11, 1943 it was received by 82 Squadron. On October 17, 1943 crash landed at Bankstown Airfield (pilot unknown) and was sent to 2 AD. Afterwards, allocated to 82 Squadron then 2 OTU then 1 ES.
Display
Restored, it is today displayed at Australian War Memorial.
References
ADF Serials for aircraft history
P-40
