On April 7, 1943, a formation of Japanese fighters and dive-bombers
was headed toward Tulagi Harbor. Scrambled from nearby Guadalcanal,
USMC 1st Lt. James E. Swett of VMF-221 led his four F4F Wildcat
division into the fray. Swett pursued and shot down three D3A2
Val enemy bombers before leveling out. Moments later, his Wildcat
was hit by friendly fire. In spite of his damage, Swett
dogged the fleeing Vals, scoring four more confirmed kills, and
one probable, becoming an ace in his first combat mission. For
this action, Lt. Swett was awarded the Medal of Honor.
Signed by James Swett. |