1/72 - Bell P-400 Airacobra - 80th/8th FG, Milne Bay, New Guinea
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The 80th Fighter Squadron was one of the first American fighter squadrons to arrive in New Guinea during World War II. They were initially equipped with P-400 Airacobras, which were not well-suited for the high-altitude fighting in the Pacific. However, the squadron quickly adapted to the conditions and began to play a significant role in the Allied campaign.
The 80th Squadron flew a variety of missions over New Guinea, including air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance. They were particularly effective in ground attack missions, where their P-400s could be used to devastating effect against Japanese ground forces. The squadron also played a key role in the Allied bombing campaign against Japanese airfields and other strategic targets in New Guinea.
One of the most notable pilots of the 80th Squadron was 2nd Lt. Gerald T. Rogers. On August 26, 1942, Rogers was flying a P-400 over Buna when he was attacked by Japanese fighters. Rogers was able to shoot down one of the Japanese fighters, but his own aircraft was damaged. Rogers was forced to ditch his plane in the sea, but he was able to survive and was later rescued by friendly forces.
The 80th Squadron continued to operate in New Guinea until February 1943, when they were transferred to the Philippines. The squadron continued to fight in the Pacific until the end of the war, and they were credited with shooting down over 100 Japanese aircraft.
The 80th Fighter Squadron was a highly-decorated unit, and they were awarded a Distinguished Unit Citation for their actions in New Guinea. The squadron's motto was "Ruff Stuff", and they lived up to their name by fighting bravely and effectively in some of the most difficult conditions of the war.