My Cooter's History Blog has become about 80% World War II anyway, so I figured to start a blog specific to it, especially since we're commemorating its 70th anniversary and we are quickly losing this "Greatest Generation." The quote is taken from Pearl Harbor survivor Frank Curre, who was on the USS Tennessee that day. He died Dec. 7, 2011, seventy years to the day. His photo is below at right.
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
Fourth Mission of the Day-- Part 2: Donald J.M. Bleakeslee
Among the many RAF units flying that day were three "Eagle" squadrons made up of American airmen flying MK VB Spitfires. One of the three was the 133 Eagle Squadron, led by Flight Lieutenant Donald J.M. Blakeslee from Fairport Harbor, Ohio. He alone is credited with shooting down one FW190 and one DO-217, as well as two FW190 probables in a gallant attempt to protect the Allied troops below.
Blakeslee also has the distinction of being the only "Eagle" commanding officer to complete all four missions that day.
--GreGen
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