Bomber pilot"s daring Pacific raids in 1945 remembered

In late July 1945, Arthur Page, a 21-year-old airman with 849 Squadron, participated in a mission targeting the Japanese naval base at Kure on the Inland Sea. This operation was part of a broader effort by the British Pacific Fleet to weaken Japanese military capabilities during World War II. Page flew an American-made Grumman Avenger, a robust single-engine aircraft weighing ten tonnes, which faced significant challenges during the mission. During the attack, Page's bomber was struck by enemy fire, severely impairing its control systems. Despite the damage, he was surprised that the aircraft remained airborne, showcasing the resilience of the Grumman Avenger. His experience highlights the perilous nature of air raids in the Pacific theater, where pilots faced both mechanical failures and enemy resistance. In a later interview with the Imperial War Museum, Page recounted the harrowing moments of being shot down after completing the attack on Kure. He described the difficulties he encountered, including the inability to operate the landing gear, which underscored the life-threatening situations faced by pilots during these missions. Page's story is a testament to the bravery and skill of those who served in the Fleet Air Arm, as well as the sacrifices made during the war. After his military service, he transitioned to a civilian life as a family doctor in the New Forest, reflecting a significant shift from combat to care.