Uniform of Captain (Then Commander) Norman R Berree an Ace with 9 Kills

Norman Rahn Berree’s story begins in the small town of Fleetwood, nestled in Berks County, Pennsylvania, where he was born on May 10, 1922. The son of Norman G. and Gertrude M. (Rahn) Berree, Norman grew up in a modest household that instilled in him the values of hard work and determination. He attended Upper Darby High School, a bright young man with aspirations that stretched beyond the confines of his Pennsylvania hometown. When World War II erupted, those aspirations transformed into a patriotic resolve to serve his country. In June 1942, he enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve, stepping onto the path that would define the rest of his life.

Norman’s journey in the Navy began in earnest when he was appointed Aviation Cadet, USNR, in September 1942. His flight training at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida, was grueling but transformative. There, Norman earned his wings, officially becoming a Naval Aviator. In June 1943, he was commissioned as an Ensign, and his dedication and skill set him on a trajectory of steady advancement. By 1946, he had risen to the rank of Captain, transferring from the Naval Reserve to the Regular Navy later that year.

After receiving his “Wings of Gold,” Norman underwent fighter operational training at the Naval Air Station in Miami, Florida. By August 1943, he had joined Fighting Squadron Fifteen as Assistant Flight Officer, operating aboard the USS Hornet and USS Essex. It was in the skies above the Pacific that Norman’s heroism shone brightest. Engaging in fierce aerial combat, he was credited with destroying nine Japanese aircraft. His most notable achievement came during the Marianas “Turkey Shoot” on June 19, 1944, where he downed three enemy planes in a single flight. For his exceptional valor, Norman received numerous accolades, including the Air Medal with Gold Stars representing eight additional awards and the Distinguished Flying Cross with three Gold Stars.

The citations that accompanied these awards spoke volumes of his courage and skill. One Air Medal citation detailed how Norman encountered four Japanese fighters during operations over the Marianas on June 23, 1944. With unwavering determination, he blasted one aircraft out of the sky and aided his team in destroying two others. Similarly, his Distinguished Flying Cross citation highlighted his extraordinary achievement during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, where he played a pivotal role in the destruction of enemy aircraft, contributing to the defense of his fleet. Time and again, Norman’s daring actions in the face of intense enemy fire showcased his unwavering commitment to his mission.

F6F Hellcats taxi forward onboard USS Essex and rev up for take off.

His combat career continued with numerous high-risk missions, including a strike against Japanese forces over Nansei Shoto on October 10, 1944, where he destroyed two enemy fighters amidst heavy antiaircraft fire. Another mission in November 1944 saw him execute a masthead-level bombing attack on a Japanese cargo ship, scoring a direct hit that ultimately sank the vessel. Over the course of his service in World War II, Norman completed an astounding forty-five combat missions, earning additional commendations and the gratitude of his comrades and country.

Fighting Squadron 15 (VF-15), also known as the "Satan's Playmates," was one of the most distinguished Navy fighter squadrons during World War II. Operating off the carriers USS Essex and USS Hornet, VF-15 participated in some of the most pivotal battles of the Pacific Theater in 1944 and earned its place in naval aviation history. The squadron's combat history is marked by exceptional success in air-to-air combat and significant contributions to the Allied victory in the Pacific.

Formation and Deployment

VF-15 was established in September 1943 under the command of Commander David McCampbell, who would later become the U.S. Navy's top ace of the war. The squadron was equipped with the Grumman F6F Hellcat, a rugged and reliable carrier-based fighter designed to dominate Japan's Mitsubishi A6M Zero. VF-15 underwent rigorous training before embarking on its first combat deployment in 1944 aboard the USS Essex (CV-9).

Major Combat Operations

The Marianas Turkey Shoot (June 19-20, 1944)

One of VF-15's defining moments came during the Battle of the Philippine Sea, often referred to as the "Marianas Turkey Shoot." During this massive aerial engagement, the U.S. Navy decisively defeated the Japanese carrier air forces. VF-15 pilots were instrumental in shooting down waves of Japanese aircraft attempting to attack the American fleet.

• Norman Rahn Berree, a VF-15 pilot, personally shot down three Japanese planes during one flight in this battle.
• Under the leadership of Commander McCampbell, the squadron contributed significantly to the overall destruction of over 300 Japanese aircraft during the battle.

The Battle of Leyte Gulf (October 1944)

VF-15 was actively involved in Operation King II, the invasion of Leyte in the Philippines. The squadron played a critical role in providing air cover for American naval forces and attacking Japanese airfields, shipping, and ground installations.

During the Battle of Leyte Gulf, VF-15 pilots conducted numerous strike missions against Japanese forces, targeting carriers, battleships, and transports. They also engaged enemy aircraft in dogfights, continuing to dominate the skies.

Air Raids on Formosa (October 1944)

In October 1944, VF-15 participated in the extensive carrier strikes on Formosa (Taiwan) as part of the broader campaign to isolate Japanese forces in the Philippines. These raids targeted Japanese airbases, shipping, and other military installations, resulting in heavy damage to Japanese resources and infrastructure.

The Attack on Ormoc Bay (November 11, 1944)

VF-15 took part in the attack on Japanese convoys in Ormoc Bay, Leyte, providing close air support for American ground forces and striking Japanese supply lines. VF-15 pilots, including Norman Berree, executed daring bombing runs through intense anti-aircraft fire, sinking Japanese ships and crippling their logistical support.

Aircraft and Tactics

VF-15 primarily flew the Grumman F6F Hellcat, which became the backbone of the U.S. Navy's carrier fighter force. The Hellcat's superior firepower, durability, and performance at high altitudes gave it a decisive edge over Japanese aircraft, particularly the A6M Zero. VF-15 pilots used their aircraft's advantages to dominate dogfights, protect U.S. carriers, and conduct bombing missions against enemy ships and land-based targets.

Accolades and Achievements

• VF-15 pilots were credited with destroying 310 enemy aircraft in aerial combat, making it one of the highest-scoring Navy fighter squadrons of the war.
• Commander David McCampbell alone accounted for 34 enemy kills, becoming the Navy's leading ace.
• The squadron received numerous individual and unit awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation for its extraordinary combat performance.

Legacy

VF-15's contributions to the Pacific War were instrumental in securing American air superiority in key battles, weakening Japan's ability to project power in the region. Its skilled pilots, advanced tactics, and heroic actions helped pave the way for the ultimate Allied victory in the Pacific.

The squadron's nickname, "Satan's Playmates," and its formidable combat record remain an enduring part of U.S. naval aviation history.

After the war, Norman transitioned into roles that showcased his leadership and expertise. In January 1945, he joined Fighting Squadron 100, training replacement pilots in combat flight. Following the war, he served as a Flight Test Project Officer in Philadelphia, and by 1948, he was supervising operational fleet evaluations of new aircraft and equipment. His post-war career saw him in pivotal roles, from serving as Bureau of Aeronautics Resident Representative in Texas to commanding Fighter Squadron Thirteen, which he deployed to the Mediterranean aboard the USS Essex.

Norman’s contributions extended beyond combat and into the realms of aviation safety and operations. In the 1950s and 1960s, he served in key positions, including Aviation Safety Officer for the Naval Air Force, Atlantic Fleet, and Operations Officer aboard the USS Antietam and USS Lexington. His expertise shaped naval aviation practices during a time of significant technological advancements. In 1967, he joined the staff of the Chief of Naval Air Training in Pensacola, Florida, ensuring that the next generation of naval aviators benefited from his wealth of experience.

Throughout his illustrious career, Norman’s service was recognized with numerous awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation with two stars, the American Campaign Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with four stars, and the Philippine Liberation Medal, among others. Each medal told a story of bravery, dedication, and sacrifice.

Norman Rahn Berree’s life was a testament to the ideals of service and perseverance. From the quiet streets of Fleetwood, Pennsylvania, to the skies above the Pacific and beyond, he carved a legacy that would inspire generations of naval aviators. His journey was not just a tale of war and valor but also one of resilience, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Norman Rahn Berree’s legacy lives on not just in the pages of history, but also through the artifacts and memorabilia that tell his story at "Ghosts of the Battlefield", a museum dedicated to preserving the memories of those who served in some of history's most pivotal conflicts. Visitors can see Norman’s uniform, adorned with his many decorations, including his Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medals, and campaign ribbons, each a testament to his bravery and extraordinary achievements during World War II.

Alongside his uniform, the exhibit features photographs, mission logs, and personal items that provide a glimpse into the life of a Naval Aviator who played a key role in the Pacific Theater. Artifacts from VF-15, such as flight gear, squadron patches, and detailed accounts of their missions, help to bring the squadron's incredible combat history to life.

The "Ghosts of the Battlefield" exhibition not only honors Norman Berree but also pays tribute to countless others who served with distinction, ensuring that their sacrifices and heroism will not be forgotten. It is a powerful and moving tribute that connects visitors to the stories of courage, camaraderie, and commitment that defined the "Greatest Generation."