Torpedo Squadron 21 (VT-21)
U.S. Navy (USN)

Background
On August 5, 1942 established as Escort Scouting Squadron 11 (VGS-11). On March 1, 1943 redesignated Composite Squadron 11 (VC-11) at Fiji. On May 15, 1943 VGS-11 / VC-11 and VGS-12 / VC-12 were combined to form Torpedo Bombing Squadron 21 (VT-21) in the U.S. Navy (USN).

First Tour of Duty
In early February 1943 the squadron begins their first tour of duty operating from Henderson Field on Guadalcanal and begins flying combat missions during February and March 1943 the Solomon Islands.

Second Tour of Duty
In late May 1943 the squadron begins their second tour of duty operating from Henderson Field on Guadalcanal. On June 25, 1943 placed under the command of Lt. Cdr Robert Lee Savage, Jr.

On June 16, 1943 the squadron flew a night mission to drop flares and illuminate targets. Not finding viable targets on New Georgia or Vella Lavella, the formation flew to southern Bougainville in search of Japanese shipping. Lost is TBF-1 Avenger 47448 pilot Lt(jg) Edward M. Peck ditched and the entire crew were later rescued.

On July 7, 1943 the squadron took off at night on a strike against southern Bougainville. Damaged TBF-1 Avenger 06063 pilot Lt(jg) Murray “Chile” C. McKinney returning ditched off Lunga Point with two missing.

On July 14, 1943 the squadron flew a mission. Damaged is TBF-1 Avenger 06240 pilot Lt. Alfred F. Jacobsen.

Third Tour of Duty
The squadron began their third tour of duty aboard USS Belleau Wood (CVL-24).

Commanding Officer (C.O.)
Lt. Cdr Robert Lee Savage, Jr. (June 25, 1943–August 5, 1943)

References
Torpedo Squadron 21 (VT-21) US Navy, Guadalcanal, WW-II Dedicated to Chile McKinney & Jack Durner
Facebook - Project Avenger #125