Mitsubishi A6M5 Reisen "Shokaku"
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On 19. June 1944 started WO Yoshijoro Shirahama from Shokaku and flew as No. 2 to Lt. Fumio Yamagata, who was commander of the 3rd Daitai, as part of the escort for the first attack wave sent out by 601. Kókútai. En route to their target, the formation was attacked by a large force of US fighters and a wild meleé ensued from which Shirahama returned alone, claiming one victory. He had to land on the Zuikaku as the Shokaku was sinking.
During the evening of the next day he started from Zuikaku as part of 2nd Shotai (only 8 remaining Reisen) and was again heavy engaged with US carrier aircraft, three of which he claimed destroyed on this occasion. After that he ditched in the pitch darkness, where he was lucky to be picked up by a destroyer.
He had claimed 11 victories during the war.
