Wildcat Down - When a Pilot Escaped Japanese, Sharks and Natives

Summary

In January 1943, First Lieutenant Jefferson J. DeBlanc leads a daring mission to protect Dauntless dive bombers over Kolombangara island. Despite losing planes and facing Japanese fighters, DeBlanc's skillful maneuvers and bravery result in multiple enemy plane takedowns. After a harrowing escape and time spent with island natives, he is ultimately rescued and later awarded the Medal of Honor.

Takeaways

• 🛫 The script is set during World War II, with a focus on a mission led by First Lieutenant Jefferson J. DeBlanc.
• 🔫 DeBlanc is an experienced pilot with a history of shooting down enemy aircraft and surviving challenging situations.
• 🇯🇵 The mission involves protecting Dauntless dive bombers targeting the Japanese main supply route, with the anticipation of encountering Japanese fighters.
• 🚀 Mechanical issues lead to a reduction in the number of Wildcats available for the escort mission, increasing the risk.
• ⚔️ DeBlanc and his wingman Sgt. Jim Feliton engage in a dogfight with Japanese 'Pete' float planes, successfully disrupting their attack.
• 🔥 In a heroic display, DeBlanc single-handedly neutralizes the Japanese assault, allowing the Dauntless bombers to complete their mission.
• 🌅 As the American forces return, they are ambushed by a swarm of Japanese fighters, leading to intense aerial combat.
• 🐆 DeBlanc uses a defensive maneuver known as the 'Thach weave' to evade enemy fire and protect his wingman.
• 💔 Sgt. Feliton's plane is hit and goes down, leaving DeBlanc to face the enemy alone.
• 🔫 DeBlanc's resourcefulness and skill allow him to take down multiple enemy planes, despite being outnumbered and low on fuel.
• 🔥 DeBlanc's plane is critically damaged and set on fire, forcing him to eject for the second time in two days, parachuting into enemy-infested waters.
• 🏆 DeBlanc's bravery and skill are recognized posthumously with the Medal of Honor, the highest U.S. military decoration.

Q & A

Who is the main character in the video script?

The main character in the video script is Louisiana Cajun First Lieutenant Jefferson J. DeBlanc.

What is the date mentioned at the beginning of the script?

The date mentioned at the beginning of the script is the 31st of January 1943.

What was DeBlanc's mission in the script?

DeBlanc's mission was to lead eight Wildcats from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 to protect 12 Dauntless dive bombers targeting the Japanese main supply route.

What challenges did DeBlanc face during the escort flight?

During the escort flight, DeBlanc faced challenges such as fellow planes having engine and fuel-pressure gauge malfunctions, which reduced the number of fighters available.

How many enemy planes did DeBlanc shoot down during the battle?

DeBlanc shot down a total of five enemy planes during the battle.

What is the significance of the phrase 'Remember the Gumbo!' in the script?

The phrase 'Remember the Gumbo!' is likely a battle cry or a motivational phrase used by DeBlanc and his wingman Sgt. Jim Feliton during the dogfight.

What game is sponsored in the video script?

The game sponsored in the video script is Hearts of Iron IV, a World War II strategy game by Paradox.

What is the 'Thach weave' mentioned in the script?

The 'Thach weave' is a defensive scissor weave maneuver used by DeBlanc and his wingman to evade enemy fire during the dogfight.

How did DeBlanc survive after being shot down and parachuting into the sea?

DeBlanc survived by pretending to be dead to avoid Japanese fighters, swimming to shore despite being wounded, and eventually being rescued by natives and then by a navy patrol bomber.

What recognition did DeBlanc receive for his actions in the Solomon Islands?

DeBlanc was presented with the Medal of Honor by President Harry S. Truman for his skill and bravery in the Solomon Islands.

What is the significance of the 'gator roll' maneuver mentioned in the script?

The 'gator roll' is a maverick maneuver performed by DeBlanc to evade an enemy fighter, giving him the advantage to counterattack and take down the enemy plane.