Part of the 'Air Apache' campsite at Nadzab.

Ever wondered what the details on top of photos such as these mean ? 501 BS is "501st Bombardment Squadron" 345BG is "345th Bombardment Group" then there is the date and time - 1500 hours meaning 3 o'clock in the afternoon, then the location, Nadzab, followed by the three digit number 084.

This digit represents the last three digits of an aircraft, in this case a Mitchell, as Mitchells were the only type flying with the 345th at this time. From Aerothentic's records we can positively establish that this was B-25D-5-NA serial # 41-30084 named Hung Lo. On 13th August 1944 it ditched in the mouth of the Kale Tiga River in the Halmaheras, flown by 1/Lt George P Voitier. There is a long story behind what happened next, but in summary, three of Viotier's crew survived whilst the other three were captured and executed by the Japanese.

Aerothentic can determine the fate and identity of any 5th Air Force aircraft by knowing the type and last two digits (yes - not three) of its serial number.

Just ask us through our "Services" Section.

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