The Story of the Air Gunner Dubbed as “Crack Shot” Who Brought Down an Enemy Ace

In the early months of 1942, the skies over Burma were fraught with danger. The Royal Air Force’s No. 60 Squadron, operating Bristol Blenheim bombers, faced increasing pressure from advancing enemy forces. Among the crew was Flight Sergeant “Jock” McLuckie, serving as the aircraft’s air gunner. On May 22, during a mission targeting the airfield at Akyab, McLuckie and his crew found themselves in a perilous situation.

Flight Sergeant “Jock” McLuckie

After completing their bombing run, the Blenheim, piloted by Warrant Officer Martin Huggard with Sergeant Jack Howitt as navigator, was intercepted over the Bay of Bengal by fighters from the 64th Sentai. The first attacker, Sergeant Major Yoshito Yasuda, made a diving approach but was met with precise fire from McLuckie, forcing him to retreat due to sustained damage. Subsequent attacks by Captain Masuzo Otani and others were similarly repelled, showcasing McLuckie’s defensive prowess.

Katō’s death

The most formidable challenge came when Lieutenant Colonel Tateo Katō, a seasoned pilot and commander of the 64th Sentai, engaged the Blenheim. Katō executed a diving attack, but as he pulled up to avoid the sea, McLuckie seized the opportunity. He directed a sustained burst into the fighter’s underside, causing it to catch fire and crash into the sea, resulting in Katō’s death. This encounter marked a significant moment, as McLuckie had successfully defended his crew against multiple adversaries, including a high-ranking enemy pilot.

McLuckie’s actions on that day exemplify the critical role of air gunners in bomber crews during the war. His ability to remain composed under pressure and effectively utilize his position contributed to the survival of his aircraft and crew. The incident underscores the challenges faced by aircrews and the importance of each member’s role in ensuring mission success and crew safety.