The Taiwan History Podcast: Formosa Files
S4 [ENCORE] - World War II Aviation Stories: An American “ghost pilot,” and the Japanese fighter pilot who became a god in Tainan 台南
Feb 6, 2025
Dive into thrilling tales of WWII aviation, featuring a U.S. pilot who ingeniously crafted a plane with bamboo skis for an epic raid following Pearl Harbor. Discover the haunting saga of Corn Cheryl, a ghost pilot who met a tragic fate. Explore the fascinating transformation of a Japanese fighter pilot into a deity, revered in Tainan for his bravery. This blend of history and legend showcases the complexities of war, resilience, and cultural reverence, making for a captivating listen.
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The Ghost Plane of Fujian
- In 1942, a ghost plane, a damaged P-40 with a dead pilot, crashed in Fujian.
- The plane had bamboo skis, was riddled with bullets, and carried a diary revealing the pilot's identity as Corn Sherrill.
A Fictitious Pilot?
- The pilot's name used in the story is fictitious, likely for military security reasons.
- The story's author, Robert Lee Scott Jr., was known for embellishing tales, raising questions about its veracity.
Sherrill's Attack on Formosa
- Corn Sherrill, stationed in the Philippines, used parts from two wrecked P-40s to build a functional plane.
- With bamboo skis for takeoff, he attacked a Japanese airfield on Formosa before being shot down.
