Statement by 1st Lt Raymond James Doyle, Regarding 2nd Lt Charles B Easley, Missing In Action (MIA) 18 July 1944

"On 18 July 1944, I flew a visual reconnaissence mission with 2nd Lt Charles B. Easley, south and east of Avaranches, France. At approximately 1415 hours, I saw four (4) aircraft drop below the overcast headed in our direction. I reported the bogies as being at nine o'clock and Lt Easley acknowledged receipt of my message. A few seconds later some eight (8) other sections followed the original four which were now recognized as 109's. I called a break to the left which we both executed and then I headed for the deck giving similar instructions to Lt Easley. While on the deck he called and asked if I was still with him. After informing him that that I was and to continue on home, a section of two (2) aircraft dove at me from three o'clock. Whe the lead ship started firing I broke right into them and after they had passed, turned north and headed for home. A few second later I saw tracers off my left wing and broke in that direction, The enemy aircraft broke off the attack and while in this turn, looking south, I saw a cloud of smoke and dust which I assume to be an aircraft; probably Lt Easley. Last contact was made by radio prior to the second break."

Raymond J. Doyle

1st Lt, Air Corps