Description

339th Flight Test Squadron WWII Patch

Fans and collectors! Enjoy this beautifully embroidered 339th Flight Test Squadron WWII Patch.  This beautiful patch is the perfect tribute to 339th Fighter Squadron.

• 4.5 inches
• Embroidered/ Hook and Loop
• US Veteran-Owned Business
• Reproduction

The 339th Fighter Squadron, also known as the “Sunsetters”, operated the P-38 Lightning during the Pacific War in the South Pacific. They were part of the U.S. Army Air Force (USAAF), 13th Air Force (13th AF), and the 347th Fighter Group (347th FG). Let’s delve into their fascinating history:

1. Establishment and Early Days:
   • On September 29, 1942, the 339th Fighter Squadron was established and activated on New Caledonia.
   • Two days later, on October 5, 1942, eight pilots from the 70th Fighter Squadron (70th FS) were detached to serve with the 339th FS on Guadalcanal.
   • Major John W. Mitchell became the Commanding Officer (C.O.) in November 1942.
   • The squadron was equipped with the P-38G Lightning, making it the first squadron in the South Pacific to operate this twin-engine fighter.
2. Unofficial Nicknames:
   • The 339th FS gained fame for their success in destroying Japanese aircraft.
   • Their unofficial nickname was the “Sunsetters” (also spelled “Sun Setters”).
   • Another moniker was the “Gremlins”, represented by a Gremlin creature holding a mace atop two eagles in flight.
3. Notable Missions:
   • On December 15, 1942, five P-38G Lightnings escorted SBD Dauntless dive bombers over Munda. During this mission, P-38G pilot Woods ditched, and 2nd Lt. Eugene D. Woods was declared Missing In Action (MIA).
   • On January 5, 1943, six P-38G Lightnings escorted B-17 Flying Fortresses on a bombing mission against a Japanese “cruiser” off Bougainville and Shortland Island. They claimed three Japanese aircraft shot down but lost two Lightnings: P-38G pilots Hilken and Dinn, both declared MIA.
   • On February 13, 1943, six P-38G Lightnings escorted B-24 Liberators in the Shortland to Buin area.