 VP-101 Mishap
1940's
MISHAPs: 24 FEB 42 A/C: PBY  Location: Makassar Straits a.k.a. "Cold Turkey Lane" Strike: Yes BUNO: 101-P-42 Cause: ATTACKED BY ENEMY FIGHTERS Contributed by Louis B. "Lou" Dorny npo15@msn.com See VP-101 Memorial [06OCT98]
 In Memorial for lost friends "...The Loss of 101-P-42..." [06OCT98]
MISHAPs: 25 FEB 42 A/C: PBY Location: Bali Strike: Yes BUNO: 28-5MNE Y#73 Cause: Shot down 25 February 1942 over Bali, by Japanese fighters. The PBY was possibly at a low altitude in the vicinity of Den Passar Field when intercepted and went down in flames. Nothing is known about any survivors or their fates. Lost: Pilot LTjg William S. Robinson, USNR, RM1c (NAP) Ted Moreland, AMM1c Alder J. Holder, AMM2c Dodd W. Watkins, RM1c Paul H. Landers, AM2c Willard O. Perry, RM2c Truman W. Miller, Wayne S. Wilson; RM2c (USN) and Vernon Failer (USN). WebSite: Pacific Wrecks http://www.pacificwrecks.com/aircraft/pby/28-5MNE-73.html [17APR2006]
 "...I recently received some information on my uncle, Wayne Scott Wilson. He was serving with VP-101 during WWII. The plane was shot down on February 25th, 1942. The crew was listed as missing until after the war. I would like to find out if anyone remembers my Uncle. There has been very little information about him and the relatives who knew him personally are all gone..." Contributed by Sanford Jetton sanfordjetton@yahoo.com [02JUN2011]
"...My name is Kenneth Holder and I am trying to find out any information I can about my Great-Uncle AMM1c Alder J. Holder. He was reported missing in action presumed dead while flying as a crew member aboard PBY-5 Catalina Dutch Number 28-5MNE Y#73 Number 44. His PBY was part of USN CPW-10 VP-101. I have a brief scetch of what happened to him and his crew from http://www.pacificwrecks.com, but I would love to know more about him. Anything would be greatly appreciated on this, Thanks...Kenneth George Holder kholder@feccommunications.net..." [17APR2006]
MISHAPs: 18 APR 42 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Geraldton, West Australia Strike: Yes BUNO: 2409 Cause: As pilot approached for landing, plane was laoded to about 30,000lbs. Pilot decided to make a full stall landing which appeared to be good to observers. Pilots in plane stated that it was a fairly hard landing. Several hull rivets were sheared off and plane began to taking water. Pilot headed for nearest beach. Plane struck rocks 200-ft off shore putting another hole in mechanics compartment. After lightening the load as much as possible in a short time an attempt was made to pull plane off with the engines. This was abandoned when it was obvious the plane could not be moved. Several days were taken to retrieve the engines and wings and in that time the hull suffered extreame damage from pounding on the reef in the surf. Damage:"Recommend Striking" Salvage all available gear. No inj to crew: Pilot Lt(jg). William E. Hardy, Ens. Robert Nelson, Amm1c. William B. Kurlak (NAP), Acmm: Scolfield, Amm2c. Marvin C. Brown (2nd.Mech), Rm1c. James P. Conway, and Rm3c. Geroge A. Dickson, Jr. . Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [21JUN2001]
MISHAPs: 19 APR 42 A/C: PBY-5 Location: At sea off Australia Strike: No BUNO: 2418 Cause: Plane was proceeding on patrol at about 250-ft altitude in automatic lean mixture setting when starboard engine sputtered and cut out. Mixture was changed to auto rich, but engine did not retake. Due to heavy loading, a forced landing was made in open and choppy seas. Board believed engine failure due to a shot of water in the fuel system and because of the low altitude of plane, corrective measures were not taken in time to prevent the forced landing. Repairable damage: Keel broken, stringers sprung, chine damaged, plating damaged, rivets popped and loosened between station's #6 & #7. Crew Ok. Pilot Ens Charles R. Dillon, AV-N USNR, Ens Harold M. Averback, AV-N USNR, CAP Deland C. Westfall, AMM2c David O'Hearn, Jr., AMM3c Louis P. Fox, ARM1c Leroy Gassett, and ARM2c Matthew E. Fay. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [27NOV2002]
MISHAPs: 19 APR 42 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Perth, West Australia Strike: No BUNO: 2455 Cause: Forced landing, fuel exhaustion on Rottenest Island. Plane hit power line and several small trees before coming to a stop in about 4 to 18 inches of swamp water. Repairable damage. Outer panel port wing damaged, tore both wing tip floats. Crew Ok. Pilot Ens William C. Roper, AV-N USNR, Ens R. L. Eittnger, USNR, CAP R. E. Walker, AMM2c C. L. Conley, AMM1c W. M. Mahoney, ARM1c J. Rizza, ARM2c I. S. Berdahl, and AMM3c H. M. Davis, Jr. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [27NOV2002]
MISHAPs: 26 APR 42 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Australia Strike: Yes BUNO: 2264 Cause: Upon returning from patrol and making a safe landing, plane was taken in tow by a whale boat and taken to buoy. Heavy seas were running and boat's propeller became fouled with mooring pendant attached to buoy. Boat was stopped and an attempt was made to clear the propeller. Boat drifted down onto plane and struck port wing tip float. After making buoy, and inspection showed a large dent, but no visible opening to the float. Approximately forty-five minutes later, the plane was observed to take a sudden list to port and then roll over. Major overhaul required. Crew: OK Pilot Ens Thomas Lee. Birch A-V(N) USNR and Rm1c obert L. Tubbs. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [06SEP2001]
MISHAPs: 26 NOV 42 A/C: PBY-5A Location: Extended flight Western Australia Indies Strike: Yes BUNO: 2407 Plane made extremely rough take-off and because of loss of oil pressure and high oil temperature on port engine, it had returned to Exmouth. A normal full stall landing was made, but near the end of the landing run, plane hit large wave, causing it to bounce into the air and on the subsequent landing large quanties of water entered the plane through the bombing window position in the bow. Plane sank in three fathoms of water shortly thereafter. Damage; Plane completely submerged in salt water for nine days. Port wing tip float and port wing three feet from wing splice sheared off. Major overhaul recommended. Crew OK except for pilot. Pilot. Lt. Roy John Krough (only fatality), Lt(jg). Charles O. Peters, Lt(jg). Maurice K. Hill (PPC), AP1c. David T. Harvey, Amm1c. Rudolph F. Wimmer, Amm3c. Tommy A. Maestas, Acrm. Lindsey B. Wells, Rm2c. Matthew A. Fay, and Aom1c. Darrell D. Mitchel. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [08JUL2001]
"...I'm looking for any and all information for VP-101 Pilot LT Roy John Krough. Any more information about his 26 NOV 42 Mishap (comments, photo's, etc.) would be greatly appreciated...Monty W. Krough, Sr. montykrough@comcast.net..." [29FEB2004]
MISHAPs: 13 DEC 42 A/C: PBY-5A Location: Routine patrol. At sea off Australia Indies Strike: Yes BUNO: 02966 Cause: Plane was on routine patrol when port engine developed an oil leak. Pilot continued on patrol and about two hours later engine blew a cylinder. Pilot was unable to hold altitude with one engine and was forced to land in open sea. Plane sank one hundred three hours later after having been in tow by USS HERON for 67 hours. Crew OK; Pilot Lt(jg). T. R. Clark, CAP. C. Ballauf, Amm1c. J. R. Barnes, Rm3c. R. S. Depee, Rm1c. R. H. Paul, Rm2c.H. R. Commons, Flt/Lt.J. Money (RAAF), and Sgt.Comerford (RAAF). Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [08JUL2001]
MISHAPs: 28 DEC 42 A/C: PBY-5A Location: Routine patrol.
"...Marsh Weston Miller, Jr. who dies in the service of his country at Jolo, Sulu, Philippine Islands, Patrol Squadron 101, 28 December 1942 (Persumed)..." WebSite: EBay http://cgi.ebay.com/ WWII-NAVY-PURPLE-HEART-AIR-MEDAL-GREAT-PHOTOS-MORE_W0QQitemZ260048414567QQihZ016QQcategoryZ4724QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem [06NOV2006]
MISHAPs: 23 JAN 43 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Australia Strike: Yes BUNO: 04431 Cause: Force landed at sea due to fire. Plane made force landing in open sea due to fire in accessory section of port engine. Fire is believed to have been started due to an electrical short circuit. Plane drifted on the beach after landing and was several damaged by coral heads and rough seas. Salvage operations were abandoned after five days due to adverse sea conditions and dangerous coral on which plane was grounded. PBY change No.70 had been made-engine fire extinguisher had been removed. Damage: Bottom of hull and starboard wing critically damaged by surf and coral:DBR Engines require major overhaul. Crew and passengers OK. Pilot Lt. Charles R. Dillon AV-N USNR, Lt.Col. Young AIF, Lt.Col. Walker AIF, Cmdr. John P. Dix USN, Lt(jg). Oscar W. Berssenbrugge AV-N USNR, Lt(jg). Raymond L. Ettinger AV-N USNR, CAP. Myron W. Anderson USN, Amm1c. William J. Brown USN, Amm3c. William J. Pope USN, Acrm. Floyd A. Simon USN, Rm2c. Lawrence C. Katz, V-3 USNR, CAP. Joseph J. Ruzak USN, Amm1c. Jesse R. Barnes USN, Amm3c. Howard S. Depee USN, Rm1c. Robert H. Faul USN, Rm2c. Howard R. Commons USN, and Aom1c. Darrel D. Mitchell USN. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [10JUL2001]
MISHAPs: 02 FEB 43 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Australia Strike: Yes BUNO: 02961 Cause: The airplane was run up on beach while making a full load night take-off. The pilot did not properly acquaint himself with the obstruction lights in the area. During take-off he mistook a red light on the beach for the one normally used as the end of the take-off lane. Damage:Port wing crushed, port wing tip float assembly badly damaged. Major damage to nose wheel assembly and doors and to port side of hull forward of mechanics compartment. Damage:Major overhaul recommended. Crew OK. Pilot LT Lester C. Kee, LT(jg) Waldreck, CAP W. B. Kurlak, AMM2 W. B. Hubbard, AMM3 H. M. Davis, RM1 R. L. Carrier and RM2 W. W. Draper. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [12JUL2001]
"...While LT Kee survived this crash, he wasn't as lucky when his plane crashed in Florida in 1951. I was just able to purchase Mr. Kee's dogtag, medals and rank pin and I would very much like to send this to any of his family members. Is it possible to update this and write: " I have some Lt. Commander's Lester Clinton Kee's personal items and would like to return them to his family. Please contact me. I would really appreciate it if this can be done, as these items I'm sure would be cherished by his relatives..." Contributed by Andrew Martinek awmartinek@gmail.com [09OCT2010]
MISHAPs: 14 FEB 43 A/C: PB4Y-1  Location: Southern Bougainville Island Strike: Yes BUNO: 31948 and 31970 Cause: Unknown February 14,1943, off the coast of Southern Bougainville Island. nine PB4Y-1 aircraft fully armed, bombs and ammunition, bombed and sank a large enemy transport and a destroyer from 22,000 feet altitude. After the flack came 50 to 60 enemy fighters from Kahili airfield to intercept the bombers and their cover. The top cover consisted of 4 Army P-38's and the lower cover consisting of Navy F6F's and Marine Corps Corsairs (F4U). The Marine Corsair was in combat for the first time in this mission. Two PB4Y-1 Bombers -- 101-B-3 and 101-B-4 and entire crews were shot down. The entire top cover was destroyed and six of the lower cover aircraft were destroyed. It was reported by observers that the enemy lost 26 aircraft in this fight. This "skirmish" was named in most military history books as the "Saint Valentines Day Massacre". The losses for both sides were very heavy for the day. WebSite: History of VP-101 http://www.reocities.com/Pentagon/ [29JUN2011]
"...My Uncle, Harris Orville "Pappy" North, was MIA on February 14, 1943 in a skirmish off of Kilhili while flying in a VP-101 aircraft but serving with VP-51. If anyone knew him or knows what happened please email me..." Contributed by Jeannette Banks nettesmail@windstream.net [29JUN2011]
MISHAPs: 03 MAR 43 A/C: PB4Y-1 Location: Bouganville Straits Strike: Yes BUNO: 31950 Cause: Unknown (NOTE: Identified as both VP-51 later designated VPB-101)
"...I am a retired Army sergeant first class and the grandnephew of AOM2 Anthony Cortese, reported as missing on March 5, 1943. His death card lists him as presumed dead on December 10, 1945, and having been assigned to VP-102. I believe this is incorrect, and that he may have been onboard a PB4Y-1 with bureau number 31946 or 31947, both of which were lost on March 3, 1945 along with 31950 belonging to VP-101. Pacific Wrecks lists all three, but no crew names for 31946 or 31947. If anyone can point me to the crew rosters, I'd really like to help close the loop on this important part of my family's history. My grandmother died never knowing what happened to her brother, and she was a Navy hospital corpsman when he went missing..." Contributed by Keith Ciancio keith.ciancio@centurylink.net [16APR2015]
"...My Uncle, Ensign William R. Gallagher, Jr, was lost March 3, 1943 while serving with VP-51 (later designated VPB-101). I would like to hear from anyone interested in sharing information about this mishap...Robert Abbott bob.abbott@xerox.com..." [14JAN2011]
"...PB4Y-1 Liberator Bureau Number 31950 - VP-51 and VB-101 - Pilot Lt(jg) Wallace T. Jones, III, O-099740 (USNR) (MIA/KIA) NY, Crew Lt. Frank M. Fisler, (USNR) NC, Crew Ensign William R. Gallagher, Jr., (USN) PA, Crew Ensign Robert P. Combs, (USNR) MO, Crew AMM2c Lawrence W. Alvord, (USN) CA, Crew ARM3c Lee Baldwin, (USNR) IA , Crew AMM2c James J. Curry, (USNR) NJ, Crew AMM1c Raymond L. Flower, Jr., (USN) WV, Crew AMM2c Paul J. Patterson, (USN) WV, Crew ARM1c Talmadge H. Power, (USN) GA, Crew ACMM Benjamin Rogozinski, (USN) OH and Crew AOM2c Walter S. Slachter, (USN) VA. MIA March 3, 1943 - Aircraft History - This bomber was US Army Air Force B-24D Liberator 41-24053, to the US Navy and assigned to VP-51 (VB-101). Mission History - Nine PB4Y-1 Liberators of VB-101 took off from NAB Henderson/Carney Field, Guadalcanal at 1:30am to bomb Kahilli Airfield, Ballale Airfield and Vila Airfield. They proceeded through searchlights and anti-aircraft fire to drop 500 lbs bombs from medium altitude. This bomber is missing from the mission. This bomber was hit by anti-aircraft fire, and failed to return. On the return flight, one of the other PB4Y's spotted a large fire, with pieces falling off around 1,200' between Cape Esperance and the Russel Island that may have been one of the missing bombers. It is unclear if this was this bomber, or PB4Y-1 31947 also lost on the mission...." WebSite: PacificWrecks http://www.pacificwrecks.com/ [08OCT2009]
"...My Uncle, James J. Curry, Aviation Machinist's Mate, Second Class, was MIA in the Pacific on March 3, 1943. Below you will find many documents (i.e., Citiation, Purple Heart, etc)...Bill Petrolino billpet1@aol.com..." [04NOV2004]
"...James J. Curry, Aviation Machinist's Mate, Second Class - Circa 1942...""...Monument, Purple Heart, and Distinguished Flying Cross documentation...""...Flight Log Book - VP-51 28FEB1942 to 00MAR1942..."
"...My uncle, Paul Patterson, was with VP-51 in PBY's and transitioned into VPB-101 in late 1942. He was listed MIA on March 5, 1943 while on a night time bombing mission to the Bouganville Straits from Guadacanal in a PB4Y-1. There were two planes lost that night and we (my mother and I) would enjoy hearing from any of his old squadron mates or acquaintances who may have any recollection of him or the missions of his group...VGLADWELL@prodigy.net..." [26MAY2000]
MISHAPs: 28 MAR 43 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Unknown Strike: Yes BUNO: 04461 Cause: Crew missing; Pilot LT(jg) Oscar William Berssenbrugge, ENS Charles Howard Bixby, ENS Edward MacDougald, AP1 J. S. Van Bolah, AMM2c F. G. Love, Jr., RM2 J. J. Murphy, and RM2 T. E. Tuttle. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [12JUL2001]
"...I was looking through some VP-101 records and have updated some of the crew names, etc. LOCATION: Off Australia - CAUSE: Unknown - CREW CORRECTIONS: AP1c Justin Shotwell Van Dolah, Jr., AMM2c Erclas Glenroy Love, Jr., ARM2c John Joseph Murphy, ARM2c Thomas Ernest Tuttle..." Contributed by Thomas Bass fortnut@gmail.com [17SEP2011]
MISHAPs: 17 AUG 43 A/C: PBY-5 Location: New Guinea Strike: Yes BUNO: 2446 Cause: Pilot was attempting to land and rescue injured Army pilot. He came in for a landing about three miles off shore to avoid heavy surf. There was a moderate sea running. Plane was full stalled at about 5-ft and dropped down on a crest of a swell. Plane bounced into air coming down in the following trough. Starboard engine came out of its mount and dropped into sea, leaving connecting lines on fire. Propeller cut several holes in radio compartment bulkhead. Pilot cut switch immediately. he then discovered bombing window knocked out. Crew extinguished fire and kept plane afloat for about two hours, but lost so much headway against seas that they were forced to abandon plane, which sank. It is believed the damage to the bombing window was due solely to the state of the sea and cannot be contributed to structural defects. However, it is believed the starboard engine mount gave away as a result of structural weakening arising from the difficult conditions under which the plane had been operating. Damage:Strike plane. Crew OK. Pilot Lt. T. W. Marshall USN, Amm1c. Jospeh A. Henner USN, Rm2c. John E. Farr USN, and Amm2c. Frederick W. Cook USN. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [24JUL2001]
MISHAPs: 14 SEP 43 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Bowen, Queensland, Australia Strike: No (Overhaul) BUNO: 2424 Cause: Damage to port and starboard wing tip floats occurred as a result of plane skidding across water submerging each float alternately. In the skid, the plane momentarily came off the water; as it came back on, the starboard side of the hull was rippled, the #3 frame in the navigator's compartment buckled, the faring below the rudder was torn and twenty-five rivets were knocked out. damage to aircraft was in no way due to material failure. "An attempt was made to correct the skid by advancing the port throttle but to no avail" Damage:Strike plane and overhaul both engines. Crew OK. Pilot Lt(jg). Thrope E. Thompson, Jr A-V(N) Usnr/Minor inj, Lt(jg). J. S. Hall,Jr. A-V(N) Usnr, Lt(jg). W. H. Simon,Jr. A-V(N) Usnr, Amm1c. D. H. Dennison, Amm2c. F. D. Ettle, Rm1c. H. B. Ludham, Rm2c. H. J. Parot, and Amm2c. M. E. Baily. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [24JUL2001]
MISHAPs: 26 OCT 43 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Return from rescue mission; New Guinea Strike: No (Overhaul) BUNO: 2447 Cause: Weather:Widespread tropical storms; wind velocity high, heavy rains, with visibility practically zero. This plane was returning to Port Morseby from a rescue mission. The pilot in the process of making an instrument let down after having crossed the Owen Stanley Mountain Range. At about 1645 an Australian Army Post about fifty miles northeast of Morseby heard the plane roar overhead, apparently in distress. A few seconds later it was heard to crash. Plane was totally demolished, wreckage scattered over an area of 550yds. Engines were found 200yds apart, CO2 bottle for engines had been discharged. Every evidence of starboard engine condition pointed to a fire in this portion of the plane while in the air. The main lead to the left magneto was burned and completely fused as a result of a high temperature. Starboard firewall, oil tanks, fuel tank and after portion of engine were charged. Fabric on trailing edge of starboard wing and starboard elevator were burned. Probable cause of fire was a short circuit in ignition harness. The plane was afire in the air as evidenced by the entire path the plane made on the ground. With starboard engine afire and instrument conditions prevailing, no choice was possible for pilot but to attempt an emergency landing. the path the plane cut through heavy timber and dense undergrowth, causing complete destruction of the plane and scattering wreckage through out the area. Damage:Completely demolished. Crew KILLED: Pilot: Lt. Edgar Brown Graff A-V(N) Usnr, Cap. Elbert Lee Raffety (Nap) Usn, Amm2c. Roger L. Bomstad Usnr, Amm2c. Philip E. Plotts Usn, Rm2c. Rudy N. Acosta Usn, and Rm2c. Charles R. Holden Usn. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [30JUL2001]
MISHAPs: 20 JAN 44 A/C: PB4Y-1 Location: Camp Kearney, Cal Strike: No BUNO: 32163 Cause: Navigation and gunnery training; After take-off gear was retracted and aircraft entered a slow left turn to conform with traffic pattern. While in turn, the #1 engine was heard sputtering and subsequently was seen to feather. Aircraft continued into the turn in a circling attitude and wing flaps remained in take-off twenty degree position. One mile off end of the runway at an altitude of two-hundred and fifty feet, the plane stalled and spun to the left, making one full turn before striking ground in a flat attitude. "Strike" Crew & passengers killed: Pilot Philip Arthur Nelson A-V(N) USNR, Ens William Otis McKeithen A-V(S) USNR, Ens Richard Conrad Fette A-V(N) USNR, Ens Ralph Charles Runels A-V(N) USNR, Amm2c Harlan Wilton Barnes USNR, Sea1c Jack Herbert Ring USNR, Aom3c Thomas Frederick Bastinsen USNR, Rm3c Jerome Wyman Knight,Jr. USN, Amm2c Harry William Walker USNR, Rm2c Samuel Edward Pugh USNR, Amm2c Donald Quincy Williams USN, Sea1c Alex Junior Brown USNR, and Amm3c Henry Marion Roush USNR. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [29AUG2001]
MISHAPs: 07 MAR 44 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Unknown Strike: No BUNO: 08134 Cause: Damage to plane occurred during process of taxiing from ramp to buoy, a distance of approximately 500yds downwind. The pilot in charge of the plane, and crew of two qualified men, one in the tower, and one in the bow, left the ramp in a downwind position maintaining a course with 1000 to 1400 RPMs. Approximately 100yds from the ramp the crewman in the tower first noticed water making way forward in the mechanic's compartment and left the tower to notify the pilot, who in turn gave orders to close all water tight doors. Having no verification of this source of water being shipped, the pilot decided to attempt beaching on the nearest point of land and proceeded to weather cock. Meanwhile the crewman from the tower went aft in an attempt to close #3 water tight door. Subsequent attempt to close #2 water tight door was likewise prevented. Shortly thereafter the pilot gave orders to abandon plane which was obviously beyond saving. All hands reached the beach without mishap. The Trouble Board stresses several pertinent factors in this accident. Initially, it is noted that only two men were on board and neither of these was in the waist to report readiness of subject aircraft. An inspection of the aircraft later showed tunnel hatch was not secure and was the direct result of the accident. "Complete Submersion" (Major overhaul) Crew OK. Pilot Ens W. L. Greager USN, Rm2c T. Walsh USN, and Aom2c P. E. Schilling USN. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [05AUG2001]
MISHAPs: 06 MAY 44 A/C: PBY-5 Location: 28mi. from Kaena Point, Oahu Strike: No BUNO: 32278 Cause: On the night of 5 May 1944, this plane was on a routine bombing training flight over Necker island. At 0035 the #4 engine cut out. The propeller was feathered and the pilot started to return to base. He tried and unsuccessfully to start #4 engine. Plane Capt. started fuel transfer of #4 engine fuel to the rest of the tanks. Ten minutes later #3 engine cut out, thereafter #2 engine cut. Pilot gave he order to prepare to ditch and made a full stall landing. The plane broke into aft of the bomb bay doors and sank. "Strike" Crew: Pilot Lt(jg) William H. Green A-V(N) UNSR/Seriously inj, Ens John Francis Baney A-V(N) USNR/Killed, Ens Robert Verner A-V(N) USNR/Killed, Rm1c DeWayne Raymond Gute USN/Seriously inj, Amm2c Raynold Brady Young USN/Killed, Aom3c Nicholas B. Poltz USNR/Seriously inj, Amm3c J. T. Detraz/Killed, Rm2c J. J. Roche/Seriously inj, Phom3c W. J. Meyerink/Minor inj, and Phom2c W. E. Betram/Minor inj. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [04SEP2001]
MISHAPs: 01 JUL 44 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Green Island Strike: Yes BUNO: 04426 Cause: Collision with an obstacle. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [11AUG2001]
MISHAPs: 10 AUG 44 A/C: PBY-5 Location: Naval Seaplane Base, Manus, Admiralty Islands Strike: Yes BUNO: 04501 Cause: Crash landing. Plane landed with excessive speed nose low, bow collapsed, wing tore off, plane sank. Crew: Pilot Ens Jesse Irwin McMillan A-V(N) USNR/Killed, Lt(jg) Samuel Lyle Graham, Jr USNR/Seriously inj, Ens Earl John berkeland USNR/Seriously inj, Amm3c Alfred Martin Shuster USNR/Seriously inj, Amm1c Hall Tate Breckett USN/Seriously inj, and Rm2c Nathaniel Samuel Adolphs USN/Seriously inj. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [12AUG2001]
MISHAPs: 19 OCT 44 A/C: PB4Y-1 Location: Unknown Strike: Yes BUNO: 32280 Cause: Unknown
  VPB-101 Crew "...LCDR Justin A. Miller's Crew - 18OCT44..." Contributed by John Lucas john.lucas@netzero.net [29AUG2003]
"...I am looking for information including first-hand accounts of a Commander J.A. Miller's crash landing of his PB4Y-1 and survival on an island. He and his crew were shot down on 19 October 1944 and spent 10 days on the island. He and his co-pilot managed to reach a larger island and were rescued by Filipino guerillas. What happened to the rest of the crew?..." Contributed by Alan C. Carey acarey@austin.rr.com [31DEC99]
MISHAPs: 20 OCT 44 A/C: PB4Y-1 Location: Strike: Yes BUNO: 32266 Cause: Unknown Crew killed. Pilot:Ens.A.O.Polston, Ens.R.W.Allen, Amm1c.J.W.Coole, Arm1c.F.G.Meisner, Arm1c.J.J.Reardon, Arm3c.J.W.Ellswort, Amm3c.F.A.Albanello, Aom2c.R.G.Ley, and Aom3c.L.E.Manning Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [03OCT2000]
MISHAPs: 23 OCT 44 A/C: PB4Y-1 Location: Unknown Strike: Yes BUNO: 32277 Cause: Shot down.
"...I would like to contact anyone with info regarding any of the crew or their missions. All were KIA Oct 23, 1944 on a PB4Y-1 from VPB-101 that took off from Morotai and was shot down. Another email on this page says their plane was named "Big Op". Unfortunately that guys email no longer works. BUNO of aircraft is 32277. I have MACR info. Would like personal info and pictures. CREW: AMM2C Frank Lincoln Furbush Born Oct 23, 1921 (Maine), LT Harold H. Lewis Jr. - Pilot (Washington), AMM3 Tony D. Gonzalez (single - Kansas), AOM2 Clifford E. McFarlane (Washington), ENS Raymond R. Taylor (Texas), AOM1 Wilbur L. Williamson (Missouri), AMM1 Charles C. Boudreau (Missouri), ARM3 Frederick V. Cole (New York) AOM3, James W. Davis (Arkansas), and ARM2 Junius B. Duncan (North Carolina). Thanks - Marianne...Marianne Strickland m_strickland_99@yahoo.com..." [E-Mail Updated 27FEB2004 | 25FEB2004]
"...I am looking for anybody who may have known my grandfather's brother. His name was Charles "Chuck" Boudreau, he was stationed in Guadacanal at Henderson Airfield during World War II with the VPB-101 bombing group until 1943. He was a gunner on a PBY-4 called "Big Op". He was shot down in October of 1944 after returning to the war. If anybody knew him please send e-mail to me, Raven424@aol.com Thank you very much. Nathan Huss Raven424@aol.com..." [00XXX97]
MISHAPs: 24 OCT 44 A/C: PB4Y-1 Location: Unknown Strike: Yes BUNO: Unknown Cause: Unknown
"...SHAY, LT(jg) Richard M... ...My father, Richard M. Shay, received the Navy Cross (crash landing at sea on October 26, 1944) while serving with VP-101. I would like to hear from his former Shipmates..." Contributed by John Shay john@shay.org [13NOV2011]
"...27 OCTOBER 1944 - MISSION: Cover strike on Sindangan Point, Mindanao - 1Lt Denzil L. Kathman, pilot of "Daylight 21", departed Morotai Island at 0700 to cover a strike on Sindangan Point, Northwest tip of Mindanao. He was late in getting off and could not reach his rendezvous point in time. Therefore, when he reached the Southern tip of Mindanao, he turned West and proceeded to search for a PB4Y, which had gone down 26 October 1944. Lt Kathman flew this course for 40 minutes when he sighted mirror flashes ahead. Upon approaching he spotted three rafts tied together containing ten men. Lt Kathman landed, taxied to the survivors, and took them aboard at 1030. Three men had been injured during the ditching procedure and were given medical aid by the Surgical Technician. After all were aboard, Lt Kathman lifted the heavily loaded ship from the sea and returned the Navy crew to their base at Morotai. The injured were taken to the 9th Portable Hospital. The story preceding the crash, as told by Lt Seiber, is the most interesting. Lt Seiber with a full bomb load had taken off from Morotai early in the morning of 26 October, and flown along the Southern coast of Mindanao through a dense overcast when he suddenly broke out into the sunlight and sighted a 5000 ton Jap oil tanker dead ahead. Lt Seiber put his plane into a sharp dive, dropped some bombs and set the tanker afire on his first run. Enemy anti-aircraft fire was heavy. Lt Seiber circled back into the clouds and came out on his second run, dropped the remainder of his bombs, obtaining a direct hit on the tanker which blew up. However, on the second run, his fuel transfer system was so damaged he was unable to transfer his fuel when the #4 engine was shot out and caught fire. The main tanks contained but 300 gallons which was insufficient for him to reach his base. As darkness was rapidly approaching, he elected to ditch his ship 75 miles off Mindanao. He sounded the alarm, the men took their stations and he successfully ditched the huge bomber. All crewmembers were removed from the ship, three being seriously injured in the crash. The ship remained afloat for 20 minutes giving them sufficient time to remove all emergency supplies. Lt Seiber dressed the injured and made them as comfortable as possible. All three rafts were securely lashed together before dark. When picked up the injured men were in fair condition. Rescued members of the PB4Y: (P) Lt A. R. Seiber, (CP) LtJG D. Neiman, (N) Ens R. M. Shay, AMM 2C Sluyter, AMM 1C B. Johnson, AMM 2C K. Knowles, AOM 1C S. Ward, AOM 1C E. Barnes, S1C H. Lightfoot, VPB 101, 7th Fleet..." http://www.pbyrescue.com/Rescues/Oct_44.htm [16JUN2003]
"...We ditched in October 24, 1944. Myself and 1st Radioman Johnston were injured, sent to Australia, Army Hospital, a long story. I think the Navy forgot all about me, finally got back to the states in 1945...James Sluyter sluyjjss@aol.com..." [17DEC2000]
MISHAPs: 15 JAN 45 A/C: PB4Y-1 Location: LOS NEGROS Strike: Yes BUNO: 38840 Cause: Unknown [01MAR2006]
"...My brother in law, Talmadge Cyrus Thurmond, was a Naval ACMM and was killed in 15JAN45. He served with VPB-101 on a plane PB4Y-1 BUNO: 38840. His plane went down in the Brunci Bay area of North Borneo. Some of the crew killed on that flight by the Japanese were William J. Fischer(AOM2c), Kenneth R. Platte (ARM2c), Melvin J. Roth (AMM3c). I understand the survivors were James R. Shepherd (AMM2c), Reuben L. Robbins (ACRM), Alvin M. Harms (SC1c) and Alphonso N. Lopez (S1c). I would appreciate any information concerning Talmadge from anyone and/or how to reach anyone of the survivors mentioned above...Roger Stanfill ss517@comcast.net..." [01MAR2006]
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