Name/Title
Joseph Kristufek Flying His Avenger Torpedo Plane Past Wake IslandDescription
Photograph of Joe Kristufek of Torpedo Squadron 5 flying his Avenger past Wake Island after a raid in October of 1943.Context
Kristufek was a plank owner on the USS Yorktown (CV-10) and flew missions off the Yorktown as an Avenger pilot in Torpedo Squadron Five (VT-5) during 1943-1944.
The TBF/TBM Avenger would serve as the Navy's primary torpedo bomber for the majority of the Second World War. As the Japanese Navy's surface fleet dwindled, the Avenger found itself also serving in bombing and other support roles. The Avenger would be the largest single engine aircraft of World War II. Greatly modified after the war, it remained in use until the 1960's.Collection
USS Yorktown CV-10, Joseph R. Kristufek CollectionAcquisition
Accession
2021.0011Source or Donor
Rick KristufekAcquisition Method
GiftUpdate Date
August 2, 2024
