On 30 Aug 1943, 1stLt Kenneth Walsh developed engine problems during a vital escort mission and was forced to return to base. After securing another Corsair, Walsh set off on his own, hoping to catch back up with his squadron. On the way, he spied a large force of 50 Japanese Zeros. Without hesitation, Walsh attacked, waging a lone battle against the enemy and destroying 4 Japanese Zeros before his Corsair was so riddled with shellfire, his only option was to make a dead-stick landing off Vella Lavella island, where he was later rescued. It was his third water landing in 6 months. While serving in the Solomons, Walsh shot down 21 enemy aircraft.