June 9, 1942. LBJ observed an air raid against Japanese forces from a B26 Marauder in Lae, New Guinea. These raids were quite dangerous.

Johnson was originally going to observe from the plane known as the “Wabash Cannonball.” After leaving the plane briefly before take off, Johnson lost his seat to Colonel Stevens. Johnson instead boarded the “Heckling Hare.” The “Wabash Cannonball” was shot down and the entire crew was lost.  The “Heckling Hare” lost an engine before reaching their target and had to pull out of the mission.  The plane was pursued by the Japanese, but the pilot was able to out maneuver the enemy and Johnson returned to safety.  

To learn more about the B26 Marauder check out these articles from The National Museum of the Air Force and Lockheed Martin.

Source: nationalmuseum.af.mil

4 Notes/ Hide

  1. lbjlibrary posted this