Tbf (1) Mp4 (8K)

: Pilots affectionately called the plane the "Turkey" because of its large, rugged, and somewhat homely appearance compared to sleeker fighters.

: On November 5, 1944, during the Battle of Manila Bay, Deen’s aircraft (a TBF Avenger) was hit by heavy anti-aircraft fire.

: Deen was killed instantly in his gunner’s turret. The pilot, Lt. Robert Cosgrove, managed to fly the shattered plane back to the aircraft carrier USS Essex . Tbf (1) mp4

: This remains the only time in U.S. Navy history that a serviceman was buried at sea inside his own aircraft. Technical Context of the TBF-1 If you are looking for the "story" of the aircraft itself:

: The Grumman TBF-1 Avenger was designed to replace the outdated Douglas TBD Devastator. It first saw combat at the Battle of Midway in 1942. : Pilots affectionately called the plane the "Turkey"

: Because the plane was so badly damaged and it was impossible to remove Deen’s remains without further dishonoring him, the Navy took a unique and unprecedented step. After a ceremony on the deck of the carrier, the entire TBF Avenger—with Deen still at his post—was pushed into the sea.

One of the most famous and tragic stories involving a TBF Avenger is that of , a 23-year-old gunner aboard a TBF Avenger. The pilot, Lt

: It was officially named the "Avenger" just weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor, signifying its role in the U.S. Navy's retaliation.