James H. Flatley Jr. in the Cockpit of his F4F-4 Wildcat
Description
Photograph of Jimmy Flatley in the cockpit of his F4F-4 Wildcat. Six decals representing Flatley's confirmed kills can be seen on the plane's kill board.
Context
As a member of Fighting Squadron Ten (VF-10) Flatley would qualify as a fighter ace after achieving six confirmed victories.
James H. Flatley was an accomplished aviator and Navy ace who served during the Second World War. Having served aboard three different carriers, including the USS Yorktown (CV-10), Flatley was an early innovator in carrier aviation. Flatley continued to be an advocate for the importance of carrier aviation throughout his career. Flatley retired in 1958 with the rank of Vice Admiral.
