Death In The Desert: The Lady Be Good, Continued...

By 

Scott Schwartz

Hatton’s crew had been in Africa since before March 12, 1943, and Hatton’s “combat experience” had consisted of flying as co-pilot in a different Liberator, on a mission that was aborted due to poor weather.  He also flew several familiarization flights over the sand-dunes that were south of the field, with his assigned crew.  After this, Hatton and the rest of his crew were deemed to be ready for combat.  All they had to do was wait for a mission.

Most writers and historians typically refer to those who manned combat aircraft as “the crew”, “the pilot”, etc.  Therefore, it is easy for us to forget that these aircrews were individuals, with thoughts, loved ones, dreams, and desires.  Accordingly, the crew of the Lady Be Good will be “introduced” to the reader, as follows:

My dear readers:  As usual, I'm taking a break from Friday through Sunday.  This article will be continued on Monday.

-Scott