Douglas A-20G Havoc (RAAF)

Standard kit

RAAF Bostons operated exclusively with 22 Squadron. They saw front-line action between November, 1942 and November, 1944. The first Bostons used by the RAAF were DB-7Bs and A-20Cs.

Early use of Bostons in New Guinea revealed a fatal flaw. Three aircraft were destroyed when 20 lb fragmentation bombs exploded prematurely after being released from the bomb-bay. The discontinuation of these bombs on Boston missions was the simple solution to this tragic problem.

22 Squadron Bostons at Port Moresby sometimes operated alongside 30 Squadron RAAF Beaufighters. The role of the Boston was that of a conventional bomber on its first target run, with additional strafing runs over the target area taking advantage of its heavy forward-firing guns.

Operations were conducted under the typically harsh conditions of the South-Western Pacific Theatre. Crews fought malaria, heat, stifling humidity, tropical thunderstorms and unfriendly wildlife before even leaving the ground. RAAF Bostons encountered heavy anti-aircraft defences, and the long distances flown over water and jungle presented real dangers. As if all this was not bad enough, many downed aircrews were executed - some being beheaded.