The Fighting Hawks at Pearl Harbor: Unwavering Valor and Sacrifice

On the fateful morning of December 7, 1941, as the sun rose over the calm waters of Pearl Harbor, the world was forever changed. The Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack on the United States naval base, plunging the nation into World War II.

The Fighting Hawks at Pearl Harbor: The Fighting Hawks Series Vol. 2

by Gloria D. Miklowitz

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3606 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	93 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Amidst the chaos and devastation, a group of brave American airmen known as the Fighting Hawks rose to the challenge. They were the pilots and crew of the 40th Pursuit Squadron, U.S. Army Air Corps, stationed at Wheeler Field on the island of Oahu.

The Fighting Hawks were outnumbered and outgunned, but they fought back with unwavering valor. They scrambled their outdated P-40 Warhawks and engaged the Japanese attackers in a desperate aerial battle.

Heroism Under Fire

One of the most remarkable feats of heroism that day was performed by Second Lieutenant George S. Welch. Welch's plane was shot down early in the attack, but he managed to parachute to safety. Undeterred, he found a bicycle and rode it back to Wheeler Field.

Welch then climbed into another P-40 and took to the air. He engaged a group of Japanese fighters and shot down two of them before being forced to land his plane again due to damage.

Another Fighting Hawk pilot, First Lieutenant Kenneth M. Taylor, also distinguished himself in the battle. Taylor shot down three Japanese aircraft, including a Zero fighter, before his own plane was hit. He managed to bail out and survived.

Unbroken Spirit

Despite the overwhelming odds, the Fighting Hawks refused to surrender. They continued to fight back, even after their airfield was bombed and their planes were destroyed.

Some of the pilots took to the ground and engaged the Japanese invaders with small arms fire. Others helped to rescue survivors from the stricken battleships. They fought with courage and determination until the very end.

The Fighting Hawks paid a heavy price for their valor. Fifteen of the squadron's pilots were killed in action, and many others were wounded.

Legacy of Sacrifice

The sacrifice of the Fighting Hawks at Pearl Harbor will never be forgotten. They were the first American heroes of World War II, and their bravery inspired the nation to fight for freedom and democracy.

In memory of their sacrifice, the 40th Fighter Squadron of the United States Air Force is known as the "Fighting Hawks" today. The squadron continues to uphold the legacy of valor and sacrifice that was forged at Pearl Harbor.

The Fighting Hawks of Pearl Harbor were an extraordinary group of men who fought with unwavering courage and determination. Their sacrifice will forever be etched in the annals of American history.

The Fighting Hawks at Pearl Harbor: The Fighting Hawks Series Vol. 2

by Gloria D. Miklowitz

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3606 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	93 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE