On a related note, it's always tough for pilots before they realize that due to netlag, two friendlies after the same bandit can both be shooting from behind the other one's shoulder.
I'm pointing this out because in your second story, it's possible that the pilot who you came in to help may have seen your tracers come over his shoulder, even though on your FE, I assume he was behind you, and you never saw him.
<S>