On his 56th mission while escorting light attack bombers on the Dieppe Commando Raid he was shot down by a Fw190 with an incredible full-deflection shot ! Fortunately he was able to bailout of the burning plane and landed in the Dieppe Harbour where he was rescued by the returning commandos.

In the latter part of 1942 the 121 Eagle Squadron transferred into the USAAF as the 335th FS of the 4th FG, Eighth Air Force. The Group was equipped with P-47D Razor-Back. This was the first group to put the P-47 Thunderbolt into operation. Assigned to Rome Field as a test pilot upon return to the ZI. Elevated to Chief Test Pilot. Left the USAAF after the war with the rank of Major. In the construction business in Ontario, California. Co-owner/operator of a firm that built heavy-duty dumping trailers.