Pilot  1st Lt. John F. Crowley, O-794472 (KIA)
Crashed  January 23, 1944

Wartime History
The 7th FS 'Red Flight' was on a patrol over Wewak. Flight leader was Robert DeHaven, his wingman was Marion Hawke (who was killed a short time later in a ground accident). The element leader was Lt. John F. Crowley and his wingman was Jack Suggs. The Red flight was the high cover quartet for the mission.

When the Japanese came in to intercept the them Crowley dropped to a low altitude to fight the Japanese. Crowley went near the surface of the water and it is believed that Ki-43 Oscar piloted by Nongo of the 59th Sentai probably shot him down. Crowley was observed flying at 1,500' when it nosed over and crashed at Dallman Harbor (?) near Cape Moem, the pilot was not seen to bail out. Nongo was shot down by Dehaven that mission. Several pilots and crews saw Crowley's plane hit the water. Crowley was the only Fighter Squadron member lost on mission.

Discovery
Wreckage is upside down in Boram Bay, off Brandi, across from Cape Moem just to the east of Wewak. Discovered in 2004 by John Douglas, in 20 - 30 feet of water. It is  a P-40 upside down, and missing its tail. The identity has not been confirmed, but this 49th FG loss is the only P-40 known to be in that area.

John Douglas adds:
"The tail is missing.  The machine guns are gone, possibly salvaged during the war, as the Japanese had a large camp on the nearby beach. One possibility is a P-40 that was seen to roll over and crash into the sea, if so, probably an MIA case."

Justin Taylan adds:
"Attempted to dive this wreck with John Douglas in November (wet season) 2003, it was very murky water.  In early August 2004, the water is very clear."

References
Protect & Avenge

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