"Capt. Lowell B. Smith, 1554 Scenic Ave., Berkley Calif., a 9th AF pilot who spends most of his time co-operating with ground troops, was a recent recipient of timely co-operation originating with a ground unit. Returning to his base after running out of ammunition, Capt Smith was attacked by a Me109 when an anti aircraft unit spotted the Luftwaffe plane and downed it with a few quick bursts. L-R: Cpl Miles E hoyle Jr [Fallston NC], Cpl Hubert C Wright [Linton IN], PFC Alexander Alex [South St. Paul MN], PFC Edward J Merbar [Cleveland OH], members of gun crew and Capt Smith. FRANCE." - New years day 1945, Luftwaffes last throw of the dice - Op Bodenplatte. Capt LB Smith was taking off 15 mins early for a close support mission, just as Fw190's and Me109's streaked in to strafe Asch A/D. Smith's section salvoed their bombs and got stuck in. Capt Smith downed 2 x Fw190's and forced a bouncing Fw190 to overshoot him. It subsequently crashed.