Post by Alisa Williams on Aug 4, 2006 10:18:19 GMT -5
My father, Lt. James R. Smith, was radar observer aboard the Jing-Bow Joy-Ride, a P-61 Black Widow stationed in the CBI theater. He and pilot Carl Absmeier were a high-scoring night fighter team for the 426th NFS, with two air-to-air victories and a number of very successful intruder missions. They participated in a hazardous mission to destroy the strategically significant Yellow River Bridge even after receiving orders to return Stateside. Sadly, my father passed away in 2003, but he left a detailed memoir of his service days that has now been posted in its entirety at www.nightfighter.info. Just wanted everyone to know that this resource is now available. The stories are full of humor and courage, and historians of all levels will enjoy the facts and observations he offers. It's not hard to see why these guys have been called the "greatest generation." Thanks, all!