Yes the flew low, really low the entire way to avoid German radar and fighters..The Gentleman told me least for his squadron fighters were not that bad till the outbound leg, Flak was bad in and out he said. he told me the squadron leader when down before the IP, then the 2nd in command moved up and then he got hit and fell out, a Sr member of the squadron moved up, made it over the oil refineries, dropped his load and took a direct hit in the bomb bay, blew up and then it was every man for himself. Said everyone on his plane was wounded some how. Got back on 3 engines and 100 gal of gas.
You have probably already read but if not, “Ploesti- The Great Ground Air Battle of 1 August, 1943” by James Dugan and Carroll Stewart is an excellent narrative of the raid.
Also “Black Sunday”...excellent.
The story of 1st Lt George Winger is an example of the gallantry displayed at Ploesti. George was an aircraft commander who had already completed his 25 missions and completed his combat tour. Volunteered to stay and fly the Ploesti mission before returning home.
According to his wingman, George was hit over the target and on fire in the bomb bay. He knew he was doomed. George looked over to his wingman, raised his right hand to salute, pulled the nose up to allow those that could, to jump..and died when his B-24 stalled and crashed.
We sometimes think of those who have gone before thru the ages, that we would like to meet if given the chance...I would be honored to meet George Winger.
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