We
were badly shot up during our third mission and crash
landed on Iwo Jima. The plane (Strato Wolf I) was a total
loss. 13 people were on board. 11 crew members, Flight
Surgeon and a Group observer. I believe I was the only
one who shed blood - from a bump on the head. 7
Purple Hearts were awarded - all to officers. The
AC received the Distinguished
Flying Cross for attempting to assist our wing ship
which was shot down and ditched in Tokyo Bay. Our ship
was damaged, 1 engine out and another pulling only half
power. Very low on fuel because we lost most when the
right wing tank was hit. We managed to ward off enemy
fighters who were attempting to strafe the downed plane
and radio their position. Our efforts had to be abandoned
when we had just enough fuel left to reach Iwo. - Ben Hill, Right Gunner, P-22
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