S3 Series

We lifted from 28 with 15 pilots heading to 53. We sent out 2 scouts to find the allied interceptors as we climbed a flew a route to mimic heavies. We neared 53 and out scouts called out that allies were forming to intercept from two different positions. We maintained our 30K+ altitude trying to make the fight come to us, instead of taking the fight to the 352nd. Another squadron joined us and upon seeing the allied interceptors, dove into the fray, drawing first blood and scattering the allies.. We took defensive positions above the fray looking for the rest of the allied to come in from the east. We were engaged higher up and lost 1 plane.

We RTB'd for gas and ammo and then took off for the 33 area to protect strike aircraft. We engaged just off 32 and kept the allies engaged while the strike went into 33. We lost 7 brave pilots during this battle, but we did help get 33 closed. We also sent 2 to engage allies that were attacking our CV.

We had 8 kills and we lost 8 pilots for the evening.

A BIG <S> for giving us the time to close 33. Your efforts and sacrifices were greatly appreciated.

Am always glad when the 23rd is on the same side as us, you boys tend to get more then you give, and tonight was no exception. Thank you for staying with plan and being able to shift on the fly,
Allies did not cooperate as much as I would have liked, maybe next time I send them advanced copy of orders so they can.
Thank you for all you did and continue to do.

<S> 23rd

Swede-