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Operation Torch (8–16 November 1942) was the Anglo–American invasion of French North Africa during the Second World War. It was aimed at reducing pressure on Allied forces in Egypt, and enabling an invasion of Southern Europe. It also provided the ‘second front’ which the Soviet Union had been requesting since it was invaded by the Germans in 1941. The region was dominated by the Vichy French, officially in collaboration with Germany, but with mixed loyalties, and reports indicated that they might support the Allied initiative. The American General Dwight D. Eisenhower, commanding the operation, planned a three-pronged attack, aimed at Casablanca (Western), Oran (Center) and Algiers (Eastern), in advance of a rapid move on Tunis.
Operation Chastise was an attack on German dams carried out on 16–17 May 1943 by Royal Air Force No. 617 Squadron, later called the Dam Busters, using a purpose-built "bouncing bomb" developed by Barnes Wallis.
Neel Kearby was one of the leading Thunderbolt aces with 22 enemy aircraft destroyed. On October 11, 1943 he led his 4-aircraft formation against a Japanese raid of 12 bombers and 36 fighters. Kearby shot down six aircraft during the action, with no American loss, and received the Medal of Honor for his actions. Neel Kearby was one of the leading...
"Gabby" Gabreski was credited with 28 enemy aircraft destroyed during World War II and also became an ace during the Korean War by adding another 6.5 kills to his tally. "Gabby" Gabreski was credited with 28...
George Welch was one of the few American pilots who managed to get airborne during the Japanese attack on pearl Harbor, and shot down 2.5 aircraft that day. During the war, he flew nearly 350 combat missions and was credited with 16 enemy aircraft destroyed before illness forced him to retire. After the war, Welch became a test pilot. George Welch was one of the few...
With 7 victories, "Deke" Whittaker was the all-time top ace of the 57th Fighter Group. With 7 victories, "Deke" Whittaker...
David Lee "Tex" Hill (1915-2007) served during World War II, during which he was credited with 18.25 victories, and later in Korea. David Lee "Tex" Hill (1915-2007)...
Clive Robertson Caldwell DSO, DFC & Bar (28 July 1910 – 5 August 1994) was the leading Australian air ace of World War II. He is officially credited with shooting down 28.5 enemy aircraft in over 300 operational sorties. In addition to his official score, he has been ascribed six probables and 15 damaged. Clive Robertson Caldwell DSO, DFC...