Abstract: A single stroke punch apparatus includes positive removal by compressed air of workpiece slugs which adhere to the punch. A die plate has a series of bushing receiving features formed from two concentric diameters. The die plate has provision for introducing a flow of compressed air into each of the bushing receiving features. A support bushing is mounted in each of the bushing receiving features and has a surface for support of the workpiece which is elevated with respect to the die plate. A slug removal bushing is also mounted in the bushing receiving feature and is pressed into the wall of the support bushing opposite the workpiece supporting surface to form a seal. The wall of the bushing receiving feature, the support bushing, and the slug removal bushing define a passage for the compressed air such that the compressed air impinges upon the punch directly adjacent the end wall of the support bushing to positively remove the punch slug which is adhered to the punch.