Damaged Grumman TBM-3 Avenger of VT-82 in flight, circa in February 1945 (NH 89380)
Summary
A damaged U.S. Navy Grumman TBM-3 Avenger of Torpedo Squadron 82 (VT-82) "Devil's Diplomats" in flight after the plane above it in her formation was shot down by anti-aircraft fire near Chichi Jima and fell on this Avenger, breaking off the left wingtip and cracking the fuselage just ahead of the tail, circa 18 February - 4 March 1945. The damaged plane was flown by its pilot about 160 km back to its task group but had to crash land in the water. All crew members were rescued. VT-82 was assigned to Carrier Air Group 82 (CVG-82) aboard the aircraft carrier USS Bennington (CV-20). Note Bennington's geometric identification symbol on the Avenger.
Tags
Date
18/02/1945 - 04/03/1945
Source
Naval History and Heritage Command
Copyright info
Public Domain