The "other" Torpedo 8

The detachment of USS Hornet's Torpedo 8 that was in the process of converting to the new Grumman TBF Avenger arrived in Pearl Harbor one day after the Hornet had sailed north for the upcoming Battle of Midway. When volunteers were asked for to fly what aircraft they had to Midway all of the 21 crews volunteered. Six crews were chosen and made the eight hour flight, arriving June 1, 1942 at Midway Island.
Shortly after dawn on June 4th a PBY Catalina spotted the Japanese fleet bound for Midway. The six Avengers left immediately and sighted the Japanese at 0710. They were intercepted by the Japanese CAP. The unescorted Avengers headed for the deck. Still miles out from the Japanese carriers two of the Avengers were shot down. Ensign Earnest, flying 8-T-1, had his elevator controls shot away but still managed to drop his torpedo at what he thought was a cruiser. Flying back to Midway using the fires set by the Japanese attack as his guide he crashed landed. Only two of the crew survived. Their gunner, J. D. Manning, had been killed in the attack. This Avenger was the only one of the six to return.