Operation: Droop Snoot

Date: 10th April 1944 (Monday)

Unit: No. 343rd Fighter Squadron 55th Fighter group

Type: P38J Lightning

Serial: 42-67866

Code: CY-B

Base: Nuthampstead

Location: near Coullommiers Airfield France

Pilot: 1st Lt Anthony L. Piscitelli O-753724 USAAF Age 26. Killed

REASON FOR LOSS:

"On April 10th 1944, from 20,000 feet altitude, north east of the field, Col. Jenkins, Lt. Piscitelli and myself went into a steep spiral down to the deck. We approached the field from the north east, Col. Jenkins preceding us into the target, Lt. Piscitelli and myself flying almost line abreast. At the edge of the field I noticed intense anti-aircraft fire originating at the base of some hangars to our left.

We were flying at zero altitude. Lt. Piscitelli caught fire in his right engine. Half way across the field he was still on fire and still flying at zero altitude. I strafed and observed no aircraft in the hangars, or on the ground. I lost contact with Lt. Piscitelli though I observed black smoke behind me and to the left."

Burial details:

1st Lt Anthony L. Piscitelli. Epinal American Military Cemetery. Plot A, Row 35, Grave 29. Next of kin details not available - are you able to assist?

Researched by Michel Beckers for Aircrew Remembered November 2015. Lt. Piscitelli photo courtesy John Stewart, grave photo courtesy Andy Anderson - other Michel Beckers collection.

Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them. Franklin Delano Roosevelt