US Army Air Force

In flight with the Messerschmitt 109

57th FG Association

An USAAF’s 57th Fighter Group’s pilot reading for the take off with a Luftwaffe’s Messerschmitt Bf 109G captured in flying conditions on a Sicilian Airfield (Pachino or Scordia) in the Summer 1943 after the conquest of Sicily (the 57th FG was in Sicily from 20 July 1943 until 18 September 1943). From the 57th FG’s site the personal of account of a pilot, Captain James Hadnot, 114 fighter combat missions, which had a most unique experiences his flying of three captured Bf 109’s taken on Sicily. “During the Sicilian campaign one German airport was captured so quickly the Germans didn’t have time to destroy three of the Me-109’s on the field. After these planes were painted a bright yellow and given Army markings for easy identification they were turned over to the 57th for trial”. As soon as he mastered the technique of flying them – and according to Jimmy they take special handling – he in turn instructed other pilots in their use. The planes were not modified in any way, the instrument markings were left in German and on occasions German gasoline was used in them for more accurate competitive performance. Using the captured German planes selected pilots flew them in combat and simulated “dogfights” with pilots in American planes so our men would be familiar with the abilities and weaknesses of the Bf 109’s. Victor Sierra