Captain A.K. Hunter of 60 sqn recon posted in Cyrencia 1942.
8th March, flying a Martin Maryland recon light bomber.
We were cruising at 21,000ft and were turning for home after successfully photographing our target when at 11.00 hours we were attacked from astern by a Me 110.
An incendery shell entered the port side of the aircraft at the bottom gunner/wireless operator's possition. It struck the tough, metal release button of gunner De Villiers' parachute harness, penetrated the webbing and clothing beneath, broke the chain of his identity disks and came to rest on his bare chest.....
The startled gunner, although burning from shell splinters in his hands and face, continued to operate the lower gun - and his WT - untill he was satisfied the fighter had broken off.
After landing safely, De Villiers was pronounced unhurt save for the splinters and a superficial wound to his chest.......Truly, that bullet didnt have his name on it. A.K. Hunter, Hillrest, Natal, Rep. of S.Africa, 1984
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