The Lean and Lanky Major

Introducing Squadron Commanding Officers by Jess Remez

"March 27, 1941, I was greeted by the President with a card," says Major Ralph G. Davitt, Commanding Officer of Squadron "F", in describing his entrance into military life.

New York City born and bred, Major Davitt attended Regis High School, where he had an avid interest in sports, and especially excelled in track. He later attended the Packard Business School and then held a job with a steamship company, prior to his induction into the Army.

As a raw recruit he was sent to Pine Camp in New York, issued a World War I uniform, and, in time became an X-ray Technician.

Major Davitt then took the Air Corps Examination and was admitted to the Cadets. This led to the usual Cadet life including a 10-week stop over at Shaw Field, which, he states was a little different and not so appealing at that time.

Upon graduation, which was in November 1942, he was assigned to the 2nd Air Force, where he was designated the task of flying the B-17's. His group was sent overseas and immediately put into action.

Stationed in Africa, he flew fifty missions, and has seen combat over Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, Greece, France, Albania, Austria and Italy. During this time he considers himself fortunate for his entire crew remained intact.

He then moved to Headquarters 15th Air Force, which was located in Bari, Italy, and served in the capacity of Asst A-3. He remained in this position for two years and was finally sent back to the States, making a total of 26 months overseas.

Once back in home territory he immediately set forth to join the rank of the "married men," and later received his orders appointing him the Squadron Commander of Squadron "F."

Six feet tall, the lean and lanky Major discloses the fact that he has a great interest for sailing, and also dabbles in photography. His plans for the immediate future are "To see to it that Squadron 'F' retains its high standing which it now has."