In addition to the thread about the Vichy French AF in North Africa it looks like there are some possible scenarios in the Pacific too. Looks like there might be some good engagements that could be played. I was looking around to see what I could find and found this,
"Vichy French Indochina vs the AVG, the Chinese Air Force & the 14th USAAF 1942-45
The AVG made raids over Indochina, escorting Chinese (Russian made) Bombers (SB-3s) to attack Japanese air fields at Hanoi in January 1942. Further AVG raids were made in May 1942 before the AVG ceased operations in June 1942 but no aerial victories were claimed by the AVG Japanese A.A shot down some AVG pilots however.
The Vichy Air Forces acted generally in support of the Japanese military authorities. French Indochina was bombed and otherwise attacked by the A.V.G. and later by the air forces of both the American and Chinese Governments. The Japanese Army allowed the French Administration to remain in place, but the country was, especially in the north, a puppet client of Japan.
When Japanese planes sunk the HMS Repulse and Prince of Wales, Vichy Air Force mechanics serviced the Japanese planes that were flying on this raid.
For a good portion of the war allied (Dutch, British American and Chinese) soldiers and airmen who arrived in French Indochina by mischance were handed over by French authorities to the Japanese forces, whereupon most were executed. This handover policy did change later in the war.
On 14th December 1942, Bruce Holloway (76 FS, 23FG) promoted to Lieutenant Colonel the same day, wrote "Went to Hanoi with six bombers, 14 P40s and four P-43s" ….. I saw an old French biplane going towards Hanoi at low altitude. The Chinese intelligence stated the other day that the Japanese are not allowing the French to fly anymore, so I didn't hesitate about shooting this airplane down. Turned around and dived on the old crate – one short burst tore it up and set off the gasoline. It made a good blaze. One man bailed out and I watched him land in the river" Holloway shot down another French biplane a week later."
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And,
Indochina vs. Thailand (Jan 41)
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Madagascar (May-Nov 1942)
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Robert
's commission from one of our own.
