On this day 80 years ago, the AVG had their first taste of combat

The First American Volunteer Group (AVG) of the Republic of China Air Force, or the Flying Tigers, flew its first combat mission on this day 80 years ago.

Ten Kawasaki Ki-48 bombers of the 21st Hikōtai were on their way to bomb Kunming when four P-40s from the AVG intercepted the group.

Without fighter escorts, the Japanese lost four bombers that day. The crew jettisoned their bombs while making their escape.

One of those who flew that day was ace Edward F. Rector who went on to score 10.5 kills with the AVG.

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