Down to 98
On April 7, 1943, 22 year old Marine Lieutenant James Swett took off as a rookie division leader of four F4F Wildcats in VMF-221 on his maiden combat mission over the Solomon Islands.
His small band was part of a group of Marine and Navy aviators who were intercepting a wave of 150 Japenese aircraft.
A few minutes after take-off Lt. Swett and his four aircraft command ran into 15 Japanese bombers. Swett ignored the odds and ordered an immediate attack from above. Personally leading the tight formation of Wildcats, Swett opened the engagement.
Less than 20 minutes later, Swett had scored seven confirmed kills!
He became the first and only USMC flying Ace in his first day of combat. Swett disengaged with a severly damaged engine and a shattered windshield that left lacerations across his face.
Oh yeah, and he was out of fuel. He skillfully brought his battered aircraft down in the sea off Tulagi where he was picked up without further injury.
That was a great day for America and for James Swett Sr.
Yesterday was his last.
Colonel James Swett Sr. passed away at the age of 88 in Redding, California.
To the entire Swett family I say “On behalf of a grateful nation”.
Category: Politics
Proudly wear the Honor, of United States Marine.
Hooah, troop.
Uuh Rah, say hello to my father, he’s waiting.
Semper Fidelis Col.
May God welcome him with open arms. Just on a side note not related to this,just heard on wizbang that the nfl is not letting the colorgaurd to stay and watch the game after they are done,whats with that?
God speed, Col. Swett.
Not to be picky, but the illustration is a F-4U Corsair, not a F4F Wildcat.
COB6 Wrote: Good eye Bob. I used that painting because it’s called “Semper Fi Skies” dedicated to all Marine aviators of WWII.
“If the Army and the Navy
Ever look on Heaven’s scenes;
They will find the streets are guarded
By United States Marines.”
RIP Col. Swett.
A true Hero amongst Heroes.
Another Marine joins the squadron flying cover over the Pearly Gates.
Semper Fi, Colonel.