US Army Air Force

“Doubtful Doris”

414th NFS

Doubtful Doris”, the Northrop P-61B-6 “Black Widow” Serial No. 42-39532, of the USAAF’s 414th Night Fighter Squadron. The first components of the 414th arrived in Algeria and later in Tunisia from a RAF OUT in England in the Summer 1943, but in November 1943 the Squadron is in Sardinia, Elmas airfield, Cagliari, where will based until 22 June 44 with a Detachment in Corsica, Ghisonaccia and Borgo, and another again in Sardinia, Alghero airfield. On 12 October 1944 the 414th moved to Tuscany, at Pisa, until 25 November 1944, and Pontedera, 25 November 1944-15 July 1945 with a Detachment in Belgium, at Florennes. Waiting the P-61 the 414th NFS was equipped with British-built Bristol Beaufighter with them achieved 8 of the 13 victories claimed. The firs P-61 was received on 20 December 1944 and the first kill, a Ju 88, date on 4 February 1945. The five victories achieved with P-61 was two Ju 88, one Me 410 and two Ju 52. Victor Sierra