August 1918, the Western Front.
One of our field batteries reported the appearance of hostile aircraft and a squadron of SPAD XIII's was alerted to intercept. By the time they reached altitude, the enemy was identified as one of the formidable Gotha GIV bombers and it was out to cause trouble for our brave artillerymen.
From the letter, JJ painted on the upper wing, it was clear the monster was piloted by one of the infamous "She Devils" (you rookie pilots need to look them up and beware), so our flight was led personally by Col. Schwab as this was a serious situation!
A Lone American machine appeared and took on the Hun but was soon damaged by on of it's guns that seemed to be able to shoot everywhere at once!
The low cloudbase caused difficulties foe friend and foe alike, and several times a pilot drew a bead on his opponent, only to see it slip away in the gray murk. And the boche was not alone! Out of the mist appeared one of their latest high performance Siemens-Shuckert scouts. Fearlessly, our brave colonel led his wingmen in perfect formation and managed to herd the enemy bomber away from our our guns.
The Poilus watching below cheered as colonel Schwab deftly avoided the escort and closed in
He pressed home the attack, despite damage. Suddenly the bomber's rear gun stopped firing!
French bullets ripped into the Gotha's fuselage and then, a bright flash!
The arrogant Hun was sent spiraling down in flames. Vive La France!
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