Torpedo Squadron 6, VT-6
USS
Enterprise
At
the time of the midway battle, Torpedo Squadron 6 was a veteran. They had
already seen combat in three sea battles,
VT-6,
from the
Squadron
leader, Lindsey split his fourteen aircraft in to. He led one flight, Ely led
second formation.
Lt.
JG. Robert E. Laub was able to release his torpedo 800 yards from one of the
carriers. In his efforts to try to avoid attacking Zero’s Lamb turned away and
was unable to review his results. His rear gunner was occupied with the defense
of their bomber to also watch the results. They were able to get because they
were attacked by only one Zero which only made one pass before breaking away to
defend the fleet from more pressing attacks.
Machinist
Albert W. Winchell as he was approaching his target observed someone’s torpedo
detonated by defensive fire from the Japanese ships. He was able to drop his
torpedo in what he felt was too great a range from effectiveness. He mentioned
that he was coming in at a bad angle and did not have the time for a second try.
Again the Zero’s only made a light effort against him and his gunner ARM 3/c
Douglas M. Cossett was able to slip away.
Winchell
did receive damage to his TBD, which ruptured the fuel supply with both men
landing in the water. Winchell was able to bring the damaged TBD into the water
in what both men described as a beautiful landing giving them the opportunity to
get the raft out, all survival supplies, food and water rations, first aid
supplies and parachutes.
Both
men were left at sea for a period longer than their rations supplied. With much effort they were able to catch an albatross and eat it raw. Their culinary
review was not pleasing. Finally on June 21st they were spotted by a
PBY and rescued being the last American aviators found from the Midway Battle.
One
crew from VT-6 was less fortunate. They were picked up by the Japanese ship,
Makigumo who questioned both men. The Captain ordered both to be executed after
being interrogated; however no Japanese sailor would perform the duty. After
dark, both American aviators were taken to the deck and uncomfortably cast into
the sea weighed down by kerosene cans filled with water. The Japanese who had to
perform this unpleasant deed reported that both men were brave, did not
struggle, and met their faith with great honor and no sign of fear.
8-11-07