 In September, he was promoted to first lieutenant.McGuire's career nearly came to an end on October 17, 1943, when he scrambled from Dubodura, New Guinea to intercept approaching Japanese bombers being escorted by Mitsubishi A6M Zero fighters over Oro Bay, New Guinea.During the ensuing dogfight, McGuire observed at least seven Zeros attacking a lone P-38 that was trailing smoke.