RAAF
84 Squadron
Former Unit Assignments:
78 Squadron
Aircraft
History
USAAF Serial Number 42-104728. Assigned to the RAAF in August 1943.
Wartime History
The aircraft saw action in New Guinea with 78 Squadron, sustaining a bullet hole in the rear fuselage, that was patched. The aircraft continued with 78 Squadron until it was issued to 84 Squadron from 11 RSU following an engine change. When 84 Squadron converted to P-51's, this aircraft was transferred to 86 Squadron at the Bohle River Airstrip near Townsville.
On September 8, 1943 it was received by 78 Squadron from 2 AD and was coded HU-S. In April 1944, it ground looped by S/L Adam Howie Brydon while landing at Cape Gloucester Airstrip. On June 8, 1944 it was repaired and returned to 78 Squadron from 11 RSURP after 240 hour inspection.
On November 6, 1944 had an engine overhaul at 11 RSU and inspection. On March 11, 1945 transferred to 84 Squadron from 22 RSU. On April 1, 19445 it was received by 86 Squadron from 84 Squadron.
Mission History
On April 8, 1945 while being flown by F/Sgt Keith James Nelson (439665), it was written off following a gear up landing at the Bohle River Airstrip. On May 25, 1945 approval was given to convert to components at 6 CRD.
Wreckage
Later, it was transported to Rattlesnake Island and abandoned.
Recovery
Recovered by Keith Hopper from the island, and currently under restoration.
Keith Hopper adds:
"How the remains ended up on Rattlesnake Island, is a matter of conjecture. The most plausible explanation is that 6 CRD transported them to the island for use as gunnery targets when they converted P-40 A29-462 to components. I am hoping that viewing the 6 CRD unit diaries early in the new year while shed more light on the matter."
References
Thanks to Keith Hopper for additional information.
ADF Serials for aircraft history.
P-40
