Description
Title: This Smuttee Squadron – The History of 78 Squadron RAAF during and post WW2
Author: Clarke, Gordon
Condition: Near Mint Plus – Signed by the author on the half title page.
Edition: 1st Edition
Publication Date: 2012
ISBN: 9780987279606
Cover: Soft Cover without Dust Jacket – 510 pages
Comments: This Smuttee squadron was 78 Fighter Squadron – Smuttee was the code name used by the squadron after it joined the Pacific war in 1943. After the war, 78 Squadron was reduced to cadre status and then rebuilt into an operational training unit that provided many pilots with invaluable experience. This is the complete story of 78 Squadron.
Limited Edition of 300 copies.
78 Squadron was formed at Camden on 20 July 1943, equipped with Kittyhawks, and came under the command of Squadron Leader G.F. Walker on 14 August 1943. In October the advanced echelon travelled, via Woodlark Island, to Kiriwina Island. The squadron was under command of 73 Wing and participated in operations with 76 Squadron, dive bombing targets at Gasmata, New Britain, as well as escorting B-24 Liberators attacking Gasmata and Ring Ring Plantation.
Other missions from Kiriwina in December included top cover for Vultee Vengeance dive bombers and for Boston bombers striking at Cape Hoskins, where the airstrip was strafed by the Kittyhawks, leaving two Vals destroyed on the ground.
Includes Roll of honor, pilot list, ground crew list, aerial victories, battle honours, flight commanders, 78 fighter wing commanders, men and aircraft disposition, promotions & aircraft operated by 78 Squadron.
