Shillelagh launched 9 D3A Val dive bombers. We flew in a very loose gaggle all the way to our Rally point, then tightened up for the trip south. There was a small course adjustment made on the way to the target, but otherwise the strike force flew as planned. The Ki-67s were so much faster than the Vals though, that once we leveled, they really began to pull away. We had intened to send the divebombers in first, however as we turned for target, the Ki-67s were already taking attacks by enemy fighters. Our Escorts did an excellent job providing cover, and as the Vals approached the field, there were very few CAP fighters remaining. The Drop was as successfull as I could have hoped for, with the Birds of Prey diving in first, Shillelagh following them, and IIIJB coming in to clean up.
While the first two attack groups had little success, they had softened up the targets, allowing the overall attack to drop several hangers and bunkers. We withdrew to the west, running for our CVs. On the way, a TBM tried to engage us. He tried to make a pass, but was unable to dogfight two Vals, and ended up losing a wing before dropping into Iron Bottom Sound.
I made it back to the CV, where i promptly augered. All in all, it was the most survivable D3A attack I've ever been in.
We were given a second life, which we used to make a Ki-61 attack on P-31. I forgot to arm my cannons after droping my bombs, so I wound up with only an assist there, but what are you going to do? We engaged several P-40s in the P-31 ack, it was a good time.
To the Allied Squads, I didn't see much of you, but I had a hell of a time.
-Sik
