Wildcat overboard!

This is the result of a Wildcat pilot's bad landing on the escort carrier USS Altamaha on May 17 1943. The deckcrew ducks to safety as the Wildcat veers over a gun position.

The wing strikes an anti-aircraft gun as the Wildcat sails off the deck.

With airspeed too low to maintain altitude with damaged wing, the Wildcat drops toward the water.

An instant after striking the water, the pilot is scrambling from the cockpit. He was rescued, but probably suffered a choice lecture on piloting technique from his Air Group Commander.
(Source: "Modern Aviation Library" Volume 17, editor: Joe Cristy)

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