Mfair621

If memory serves me correctly, hit “Z”.

Two more have fallen! Good luck with your new pilots gents, it will get even more dangerous in the coming weeks. Seb, keep your mind on the job Amigo. The last thing you need is the picture of that beautiful face when a Fokker flies up your tail! Raine, it’s going to get busy for your pilot and mine since the new offensive kicked off. Stay safe. How in the world are you folks seeing all these Boche planes. Gallagher has only seen two at a distance! I’m sure it will heat up soon.

Sgt. Elijah Gallagher. 8RFC, Marieux. Sept. 10, 1915 It had been a rough week for the squadron. Gallagher and Colbey had visited Doullens on the afternoon of the 6th. The two pilots were looking for pure pleasure and they found it in a part of town that had seen better days. Upon entering the building, neither of them were not expecting much. Everyone knew the prettiest women worked where the officers were. This was definitely not what one would call high class. “Good thing this place is all smoked upl” Gallagher said. “Kind of hard to see clear.” Colbey chimed in, “After a few pints, you be seein’ clear enough lad!” Colbey stopped in his tracks and exclaimed “Bless me! I see mine right in front of me!” Gallagher looked ahead at two women sitting at a table. The one on the left looked like she might be 4’-2” and maybe just as tall! The one on the right was not the prettiest gal Gallagher had layed eyes on but she was built like a brick outhouse! “Couldn’t have picked a better one my friend! Go in for a landing!” Gallagher said to his friend. Colbey strutted forward and pulled up a chair next to the big one and draped an arm around her. Gallagher was stunned! “I guess he likes the healthy ones!” He thought. “Bet she could pull a plow with the best of’em!” Gallagher walked over to the other lady and asked, “Mind if I have a seat Mam?” Colbey burst out in laughter. “She no understood a word ye say lad, sit ya butt down!” They walked back to Marieux as happy as two young men could be. On the 8th, Gallagher would join Lieutenant Miller with Douglas as flight leader for a special recon mission. The took off before first light and Gallagher got separated right out of the gate! “This is goin’ south quick!” he thought. He flew to the climb out point and low and behold found Douglas. To say he was relieved would be a major understatement! They reached the lines west of Bapaume and started the mission. Goon was leaning over the side making notes when a search light hit them both in the eyes. Gallagher was temporarily blinded! He felt the panic in his throat. He could taste it! “Get it together boy!” He told himself. His sight returned and he calmed a bit but he had lost Douglas again! “And where is Miller?” he asked himself. Then the Archie found them. It most likely was not any worse than usual but in the dark, the flash was bright and menacing. Gallagher could feel the fear in his chest but made himself remain calm as he and Goon continued alone. Finally Goon signaled for him to return and Gallagher pointed the machine home as fast as he could. As they crossed back over the lines, he relaxed a bit but was wondering what happened to everyone. He then saw Douglas to the south and joined up. Upon landing he learned Miller and Roberts had both been killed when their machine crashed after takeoff. He never saw a thing. The next day, Colbey had left with the afternoon patrol and never returned. A Direct hit by Archie! As Gallagher sat on his cot that night, looking at the empty bunk across from him, he thought over the last 3 months. “I’m going to miss you my friend” he thought.

Some real good stories in the making gents. Excellent reads! Seb, I wouldn’t know a man alive that would not fall for such a beautiful member of the female species. Absolutely stunning Amigo. Sgt. Elijah Gallagher. 8 RFC, Marieux. Sept. 1915 8 Squadron had transferred to their new home just outside Doullens the previous month. They had lost one more crew during the month. Gallagher and Colbey had set up home in a decent tent with a wood floor. A small stand between the cots with a lamp and a coat hanger they had fashioned out of scrap wood. “Home sweet home!” Gallagher had proclaimed. It didn’t take long to realize they had an unwanted guest. A rat! “Big as a hedge hog he is!” was Colbey’s description. One evening when Colbey came in from a flight, Gallagher was outside whittling on a piece of wood. “What you makin’ for the house now?” he had asked. Gallagher held up the wood he was whittling on. It looked like a “Y”. “This here, my friend, is a sling shot and I’m going to get that dammed rat!” Colbey laughed! “What ya gon do, pin he to the ground?! Gallagher laughed back at his friend, “Just you wait and see!” Two nights latter as they lay on their cots, Gallagher heard their visitor scurry over the wood floor. Gallagher put his finger to his lips for Colbey not to move. He eased up in the bed and took a rock from the 4 he had placed on the nightstand and put it in his slingshot. He was ready. When he saw the rat poke his head out from under one of the flight coats on the hanger he pulled back, aimed and let fly. SMACK! “Victory!” Exclaimed Colbey. “Victory my arse” replied Gallagher, “I killed the b@#tard dead as a door nail!” On Gallagher’s first flight from their new home he spotted his first Boche machine. It was only two specks in the distance while crossing the lines but it had to be the enemy or the Army was shooting at a friendly machine. “I was beginning to think there were no enemy machines in this war!” He thought. Flights were mostly Arty spotting. Archie was pretty lively here but Gallagher was used to it. The past week, he had been flying with a new leader who had transferred in. Lt. Sholto Douglas. The man was military to the bone. He had addressed Gallagher before their first flight. “Capt. Goon informs me you are a good pilot”. he had stated in a matter of fact way. “Thank you Sir” Gallagher had replied. “So how does a Yank pilot find himself flying here?” he asked in the same matter of fact way. Gallagher straightened his back and replied in the same matter of fact tone “A bit of a misunderstanding with a superior officer, I’m afraid.” Lt. Douglas laughed out loud, “Well then Sergeant, it seems we have a bit in common.” With that, the three machines left for the morning mission. Note: Lord Sholto Douglas transfered from the Artillery to the RFC after a disagreement with a superior officer.

The campaign is really getting into gear. Some great stories! AK, welcome to the front. Trustworthy, step back in when life allows. Seb, a fine story and great videos Amigo. Sgt. Elijah Gallagher. 8RFC, Flanders. July, 1915 Elijah’s second month at the front was much different than the first. June was filled with reconnaissance missions. Flying up and down the lines bothered only by the puffs of Archie which you grew accustomed to. Yes, you could see a barrage going on down below but somehow Gallagher felt removed from it all. He felt like he was more of a spectator in a big show than part of the program itself. Then the end of June and July rolled around and the duties changed from recon to bombing. Now Gallagher knew he was part of the killing. To put an exclamation point on his feelings, Denton, his newest observer which he liked very much, had been killed flying with Sgt. Halifax. The report said they went down in flames near Lens. Why or what happened only known to god. Another crew was missing and assumed dead. Gallagher was now well aware of the fact he was part of the killing and people he knew and liked were being killed. He wasn’t a spectator any more. He was in the show. Gallagher and his tent mate, Sgt. Colby had grown close. Even though they were from different corners of the world they had much in common. Both came from farming families and neither one wanted any part of that life. One night after a few drinks, one too many actually, Gallagher opened up. He and his father were constantly at loggerheads. Once his father had had enough of his only sons rebellious streak, he shipped him off the the Citadel in South Carolina. Gallagher, for once in his life, thrived in the military atmosphere. “There was a purpose to it” he said. He graduated, commissioned as a second Lieutenant and was given a choice of postings. He knew the 1st Aero Squadron was being formed and that seemed to him the adventure of a lifetime. Tensions with Mexico were getting hot, the 1st Aero was to train for the anticipated war with Mexico. “The only problem was, nobody knew how to fly the damm things! Not even our so-called instructors!” Gallagher had told Colby. “We had some preliminary Ground instructions and when you could taxi up and down the field, you took her up and hope for the best!” Ltn. Foulous got written instructions from Orville Wright himself by mail for gods sake!” Gallagher shook his head. “Lot of boys killed and and maimed trying to learn to fly in those days” he said with a distant look. The whiskey had now loosened Gallagher’s tongue. When Colby asked him how the hell he came to be a part of this show, Gallagher let it out. “There was this young kid, hell, we were all young.” After a brief pause he continued. “He wasn’t ready, I knew he would crack up! The instructor, a Captain, insisted that he would take here up the next day. The boy wasn’t ready and he knew it. The instructor knew it! That night I went to try and talk some sense into him and he wouldn’t have it. Said he was going up come hell or high water! I snapped! Cold cocked the sob right there! Knocked him out cold as a wedge!” Colby was stunned. “You struck a superior officer!” “Left him bleeding on the floor!” Gallagher said as he continued. “I lit out that night. I knew my only hope was to make it to Canada which I did. Saw some fellows in uniform wanting folks to sign up for this show. When I told them I was a pilot, I was in! Colby shook his head, “well of that don’t take the lot!” He said. As Gallagher awoke the next morning he realized his secret was out. Colby groaned as he sat up in his cot. “Me thinks we had a bit too much last night” he said while rubbing his head. Gallagher looked at him “ Colby, about last night.” Colby waved his hand in the air. “No worries friend, your tale is safe with me.”

“But it was a kill! I saw it!” Point taken lederhosen. I stand corrected.

Congratulations on the kills gents! Confirmed or not, it is a feat at this time in the war. Now just where are all the Boche?! Gallagher has flown up and down from Lens to Bapaume and has yet to see black cross! That is ok though. It’s a long war and the less of them he sees, the longer he lives.

Seb, first blood! Good on ya’ mate! End of June Stats. Sgt. Elijah A Gallagher. 8 RFC, Bovichove, Flanders. 7 missions 10 hours

Ouch! A pilot goes down. Sorry for your loss Paroni. Saddle back up and join again. I think Carrick and myself were the leaders in dead pilots the last go round. Sgt. Elijah Gallagher June, 1915. 8 RFC The weather had been horrible for a week The Major had been called away and Capt. Goon, my observer, was acting commander in his absence. Capt. Denton would be my observer for the near future. Gallagher was taken aback when Denton had informed him he was “happy to be in the company of a fine pilot.” Denton then proceeded to tell him Capt. Goon assured him that he would “be in good hands.” Gallagher was thankful of the compliment and told Denton that he “Hoped he would live up to the Capt. Goons praise.” Once the weather had cleared Gallagher was assigned to fly with Ltn. Chambers to bomb Phaliempin aerodrome. With the added weight of bombs they would be flying without observers. Gallagher was glad to be back in the sky. It was a beautiful day, made more so by the previous week of bad weather. “Form up close near the target and release your bombs when I do” Chambers had told him. Gallagher knew the territory by now but this would be his first trip over the lines. As they crossed the lines, Archie came up to greet them. He was used to it now, or he thought he was. As they neared the target the sky all around turned into hell. Not only was it accurate but thick. With one hand on the stick and the other ready to release the bombs, he did his best to hold the BE straight. As soon as he saw Chambers release his bombs, Gallagher did the same. The BE immediately lifted higher without the extra weight and the turned for home. Glancing over the side Gallagher could see 2 holes on the field and a burning building. He didn’t know who hit what but it sure felt good to be actually doing some damage to the enemy! Safely back at home they were given a hardy congratulations by Goon when Chambers had reported the damage.

I can see some great stories getting started! Ripping yarns gents!

A good start to the new DID gents! I hope everyone stays safe. June 9th, 1915 Gallagher was getting the hang of his new job. His observer, Captain Goon, was not a bad sort. A very good observer with a keen eye, but prone to nausea when Archie got too close. This flight it was getting very close. They were east of Bethune and visibility was a bit iffy. Every pass that took them over the front, a fresh barrage of Archie would explode around them. A few pieces of shrapnel had pierced their wings in two places. Gallagher figured there was nothing he could do about it but keep the machine level and do his job. He was used to it now. The flight of three BE’s made their final round and headed home. Sgt. Bodley, flying on Gallagher’s left, gave him a wave. It seemed to Gallagher that there was more oil than usual on his windscreen and goggles. His fears became a reality when the engine sputtered. He switched off the engine and fuel. She was running hot! Goon looked back with eyes as big as saucers. Gallagher pointed down. Goon turned straight and grabbed the fuselage with both hands. They were north of Harebrouk at 6000’. Gallagher looked for a suitable field to set the BE down in. “There!” He said to himself. He put the machine in a side slip and lost altitude quickly. He circled once and leveled out, coming in low over the trees and sat the BE down hard in a field. They rolled to a stop. “You alright Captain?” Gallagher asked. Goon nodded in the affirmative and immediately threw up over the side. Gallagher helped him to the ground. “We’re in one piece Captain. Everything’s fine” Gallagher said as he sat him down next to the machine. He helped the Captain out of his coat. “That’s better” said Goon. Gallagher looked around to get his bearings. “Unless I’m wrong, there was a small town about a mile west. You stay put and keep an eye on things and I’ll see if I can get some help. Captain Goon nodded “yes” then replied. “I’m fine Sergeant, just got the wind up a bit.” “Sure thing Captain. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” As Gallagher started to leave, Captain Goon called out, “That was a fine bit of flying getting us down intact Sergeant.” Gallagher smiled back, “I do my best Sir. Be back in a jiff.” As Gallagher walked away he thought “I may just get that man’s respect yet!”

Sgt. Elijah Gallagher had only been at St. Omer a day before his orders came through. He was to report to 8 RFC at Bavichove. It was a short drive to the airfield. The driver let Sgt. Gallagher off and left. He stood with his kit taking in his new home, such as it was. A Ltn. approached and Gallagher stood at attention and saluted giving his name and rank. “You will find Major Craig in his office.” the Ltn. said while pointing to a building among the tents. Gallagher gave a salute, “thank you Sir.” He picked up his kit and headed to the office. Approaching the door, which was open, he saw the Major at his desk. Stopping in the doorway he knocked and saluted. “Sgt. Gallagher reporting Sir!” Major Craig returned the the salute. “At ease Sgt. Your papers?” Sgt. Gallagher stepped forward and handed the Major his file. Major Craig looked them over. “Ah! So you with the 1st Aero in the US!” “Yes Sir.” Gallagher replied. “What did you fly?” the Major asked. “Wrights and Jenny’s Sir” Gallagher replied. ”How many hours over here?” The Major asked without looking up. “Forty five in BE’s” Gallagher replied. The Major continued with his questions. “I will assume you are familiar with Camera operation?” Gallagher answered, “Yes Sir.” The Major put aside the file crossing his legs and folding his hands in his lap. “So tell me this Sgt. How did a commissioned officer in the US Army end up over here?” Gallagher hesitated for a moment. “This is where things are happening Sir. I just wanted to be a part of it.” Gallagher hoped his answer was sufficient and no more questions regarding his service were forthcoming. The Major called for his Corporal. “Show the Sgt. His tent will you, he will be with Sgt. Bodley.” The Major looked at Gallagher, “You will be up at 0700 with Captain Goon as your observer. Dismissed Sergeant.” Gallagher reached for his kit but the corporal grabbed it first. Gallagher saluted and followed the Corporal out the door. Sgt. Bodley was sleeping when Gallagher arrived and sat up from his cot. “It seems we are to share this tent.” Gallagher extended his hand. “Sgt. Elijah Gallagher.” Bodley rose from the cot and and returned the handshake. “Tobias Bodley, at yer service!” Gallagher liked the man immediately, even if he barely made out his words with his thick Scottish accent. The two spent the next few hours getting acquainted. Between a Scot and someone from southern US it was comical as the two had to repeat everything twice before it was understood! June 1st, 1915 Gallager was standing his BE when Capt. Goon approached with his charts and a rifle. “Going Squirrel hunting today Captain?” Gallagher asked with a smile and a salute. Captain Goon stopped in his tracks. “What?” He asked puzzled. Gallagher waved a hand, “Just a joke Sir.” The Captain looked at Gallagher, “let’s see what’s so dammed funny once you get in the air!” At that he showed Gallagher where they would recon. “Stay to the left of Ltn. Gould and a bit behind. Take a photograph when I signal. Any questions Sergeant?” “No Sir, I have it!” It was a beautiful day for flying. Gallagher got his first look at the front. It reminded him of a big brown snake from 7000’. The two BE’s circled the area around Lens, Gallagher pulling the cord to take a photograph when signaled. After an hour, they headed home. It all seemed like a stroll down Main Street to Gallagher. He made a perfect landing back at Bavichove. As the propeller stopped the camera crew grabbed the film and took off with it as Gallagher and Goon disembarked from the machine. “That was decent flying Sergeant! You might make it.” Gallagher smiled at the Captain, “Well let’s hope so Sir, cause if I don’t, you will be right in front of me….Sir.” Goon shook his head and walked off. “Well, his parents named him right, that’s for sure.” Gallagher thought.

And a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours Lou.

A lot to digest for us slower types but I’ll get the hang of it! A tip of the hat to Raine, Epower and Lou for making this happen. Hope to see everyone back in the skies soon.

Congratulations to all participants! And another Huzza to Rick for putting this on. It is always great fun. Baldric, good on you Sir! Harry, congratulations on surviving.

My bad gents. I forgot to update my pilot from the grave. Updated now.

Not me Amigo! I bought the farm last week.

Check in and 3 bit the big one! It’s deadly out there chaps!

Ok. Here it is a rainy Sunday afternoon so I think I’ll get a jump on the week. Jethro “Tull” Bodine Mission 8 Patrol enemy lines. MacScotch spied 3 two seaters headed over the lines and we gave chase. They turned and headed east and we caught them close to Douai. As Bodine was lining up on one, he felt a bang and heard someone going down. “Who hit who” he thought. As he tried to climb, his machine would not. He turned around and realized one of his flight had collided with him. He had half of his right elevator and a hole in his rudder you could poke yer head through! He headed west and luckily did not meet any hostile. Mission 9 Scramble in the most horrid weather. Puffs of Archie showed the enemy way up high so Jethro headed east climbing. He came out of the clouds at 12000’ and circled. Just when he turned home in disgust, 3 came out of the clouds above him. As he pulled up to take a shoot he was hit by a barrage of machine gun fire that holed his windscreen. One shot cracked his goggles and creased his noggin ever so slightly. He dove out went home. Mission 10 Escort RE’s to bomb army camp. After crossing the lines, 8 Albatros were coming to meet them. This is where everything went to hell. As Bodine picked a victim he was hit by a very well placed burst. He rolled out scanning the skies. “Controls still good he thought”. He is hit with another burst and dives west. As the lines approach, his adversaries seem to give up and he breathes a sigh of relief. He starts to climb with sloppy controls when he realizes he has been hit in the tank and his engine is kaput! “Got to find a place to land!” As he searches for a piece of unobstructed ground, tracers again surround him! He tries to maneuver but with his slow speed and shot up craft, it rolls onto its side and crashes in NML. So ends the career of a promising pilot. Well gents, it just goes to show you. No matter how well you are today, tomorrow is a different day. I’m not sure what Jasta it was. Low light and flying defence, I never got a good look at one. This had been a blast Rick. Many Thanks! I’ll keep checking by to see how everyone is doing.

Wow! We have some fine activity for the end of the week. It sure was close for a few of you. Drinks on the house. Week 2 is coming.

Good on ya Trooper! Very nice screenshots. Lots of pilots yet to be heard from. Being it on gentlemen.

Catch, another fine video Sir. Question, do you have claims set to easy?