USMC
VS-71
Justin Taylan 2006
Pilot Lt. (jg) C. H. Mester
Gunner ARM/2c E. L. Forwood (WIA)
Crashed October 17, 1942
Aircraft History
Built by Douglas at El Segundo. Constructors Number 1193.
Wartime History
Hit by anti-aircraft fire on a search mission over Rekata Bay, October 17, 1942. Crashed off Santa Isabel Island. Both crew were picked up by local scouting network and brought to Tataba and Coastwatcher Kuper, who radioed for their urgent pickup due to wounds on Forwood. Henderson was unable to comply, as the airfield had been bombarded by Japanese warships, and no planes were available. Kuper performed surgery on Forwood and removed a bullet from his leg. Later they were evacuated back to safety.
Wreckage
An engine and pieces of wreckage on the reef are likely from this aircraft.
References
Thanks to Henry Sakaida for Bureau Number.
SBD
Photos
