On December 20, 1941, a bunch of volunteer American mercenary pilots faced a squad of Japanese bombers to protect China. Here's a photographical look back at that amazing group.
The American Volunteer Group’s 3d Pursuit Squadron, “Hell’s Angels.” The AVG had three squadrons, this one named after a movie about WWI flying. Note that many of their hats are Chinese. [Courtesy: National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.]
Key Takeaways:
The American Volunteer Group (AVG), known as the "Flying Tigers," were volunteer American pilots who successfully defended China against Japanese expansion starting in December 1941, achieving significant victories like downing nine out of ten Japanese bombers in their first engagement.
They effectively utilized the Curtiss P-40 aircraft, leveraging its superior diving speed and heavy armament for "hit-and-run" tactics from altitude, even though it was not ideal for close-turning dogfights.
Operating under challenging conditions with scarce spare parts and limited technicians, the AVG was led by Captain (later Major General) Claire Chennault, who collaborated directly with Chinese national leaders.
On December 20, 1941, a bunch of volunteer American mercenary pilots faced a squad of Japanese bombers to protect China.
The American Volunteer Group (AVG)—better known as the “Flying Tigers”—would go on to down nine out of 10 Japanese bombers in the first of many air battles in a seven-month campaign that helped keep Japan from expanding into China.
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