A-20G shot down at Kokas (Papua) July 1944

Crash sequence of a U.S. Army Air Force Douglas A-20G-25 Havoc (s/n 43-9432) during an attack on Kokas, Papua New Guinea, on 22 July 1944. Twelve A-20s from the 387th Bombardment Squadron, 312th Bombardment Group attacked the Japanese barge depot and seaplane station at Kokas. 43-9432 (tail code "V") was part of the last flight over the target. This section was led by Captain Jack W. Klein (taking the photos), followed by 2nd Lt. Melvin H. Kapson (the other aircraft visible) and 1st Lt. James L. Knarr. Approaching from the inland side, they dropped 115 kg bombs which can be seen exploding in the background. Knarr's aircraft was hit by antiaircraft fire and crashed into the bay, exploding when it the sea. He and his gunner, SSgt Charles G. Reichley, were killed.