RE: Action This Day

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warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (4/22/2021 1:08:40 AM)
401 Sqn RCAF(Digby – Hurricane I) 22.4.41 The Squadron took over readiness today. Today’s exercises were test, aerobatics, cine camera gun, local reconnaissance and dusk landing flights. “B” Flight did the dusk patrol. During the day there were six scrambles, five without incident. “Blue Section” spotted and E/A about a mile’s distance near “The Wash”. The bandit jettisoned his bombs on the shore, flying out to sea in a south-easterly direction hotly pursued by our two aircraft a few miles off the East Anglian coast. Two Spitfires from Coltishall prevented our aircraft from intercepting the enemy, diving out of the sun and forcing our blue section to break. Base Changes 112 Sqn(Gladiator I) moved to Heraklion 113 Sqn(Non-Op) evacuated to Egypt 208 Sqn(Hurricane I) moved to Argos 211 Sqn(Blenheim I) moved to Heraklion First and Last Operational Missions 1 Sqn(Croydon) flew its first OM in the Hurricane IIB 615 Sqn(Valley) started flying the Hurricane I again.

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (4/23/2021 1:23:18 AM)
105 Sqn (Swanton Morley – Blenheim IV) 23.4.41 TARGET:- Convoy off HAARLEM Five crews were detailed for this task One aircraft – SQUADRON LEADER HENNET – iced up and returned with bombs. Another aircraft – FLIGHT LIEUTENANT BOOTH – returned after jettisoning bombs owing to air speed indicator becoming unserviceable. One aircraft – SGT. JACKSON – abandoned task due to lack of cloud cover. Two aircraft – FLIGHT LIEUTENANT GOODE and SGT. TOLMAN – attacked 2 X 1000 and 1 X 8000 ton MERCHANT VESSELS. Three hits were observed on No. 1 hatch of the 8000 Ton VESSEL. TARGET:- Shipping Sweep on Beat 10. Six crews were detailed for this task. One aircraft – SQUADRON LEADER DUNLEVIE – abandoned the task and returned with bombs owing to insufficient cloud cover. Three aircraft – PILOT OFFICER NEEDHAM, SGT. BRUCE, and SGT. SCOTT – attacked merchant vessels of 10000, 5000, and 2000 tons respectively. One burst was observed on the stern of the 2000 ton vessel. One aircraft – SGT. PIERS – attacked a 300/500 tons Coast Vessel, but results were unobserved. One aircraft – SGT. LISTER failed to return and was observed by SGT. BRUCE to catch fire and crash. ADDENDUM – Blenheim IV V6318, crew Sgt. A.H. Lister, Sgt. W.T. Heaney and Sgt. K.W. Porter was shot down by the Minesweeper 4104. Sgt. Lister is buried at Vissingen Holland and Sgt. Porter at Wenduine Communal Cemetery Belgium. Sgt. Heaney has no known grave. First and Last Operational Missions 23 Sqn(Ford) flew its last OM in the Blenheim IF

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (4/24/2021 1:59:37 AM)
616 Sqn (Tangmere – Spitfire IIA) 24.4.41 Local formation and cloud flying practice carried out. There were also two offensive patrols made by two pairs of aircraft. In the first Pilot Officer Dundas and Sergeant Mabbett (Red Section) took off at 1425 and flew over the French Coast, crossing it between Dieppe and Le Tresport and then turned North East to Abbeville. No enemy aircraft were seen. Landed at 1546. In the second, Flight Lieutenant Macfie and Sergeant McDevitte (Blue Section) took off at 1435 and proceeded to the Cherbourg area, Blue1 dived on the Maupetus aerodrome and machine-gunned at least seven Me. 109 on the ground and two which were taking off. He returned at 1541. Blue 2 was not seen again by Blue 1 after they had reached the French Coast. He was probably shot down by A.A. or another fighter, but every hope is entertained that he is still alive. ADDENDUM – Sgt. T.F. McDevette was shot down and killed while strafing the airfield. Base Changes 203 Sqn (Blenheim IV) moved to Heraklion 208 Sqn (Hurricane I) moved to Maleme First and Last Operational Missions 69 Sqn (Luqa) flew its first OM in the Hurricane I 72 Sqn (Acklington) flew its first OM’s in the Spitfire IIA and Spitfire IIB

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (4/25/2021 1:53:49 AM)
105 Sqn (Swanton Morley – Blenheim IV) 25.4.41 0505 TASK:- Shipping sweep (Beat 10) Six crews were detailed for this task. Five aircraft successfully attacked shipping, but results were unobserved. One of these aircraft – SGT. WILLSHER – machine-gunned a military camp. One aircraft – PILOT OFFICER NEEDHAM – failed to return from this operation. 0925 TARGET:- IJMUIDEN Four crews were detailed for this task and took off at 0925 hours. Three aircraft – SQUADRON LEADER BENNETT, SERGEANT BRUCE and SERGEANT TOLMAN – bombed the IRON and STEEL WORKS with 12x250 lb. Bombs and machine-gunned positions, plant and German soldiers. One aircraft – SERGEANT PIERS – attacked small barges and buildings on the quay, machine-gunned positions and was forced to crash land on return. ADDENDUM – Blenheim V6370, crew P/O R. Needham, P/O T. Keightley-Smith and Sgt. F.H. Bridgman, was shot down by fighters and came down in the North Sea, 5km W of Westkapelle (Zeeland) Holland. P/O Keightley-Smith is buried in Westduin General Cemetery. Other crew not recovered. Base Changes 80 Sqn (Non-Op) left for the MTO 312 Sqn (Hurricane I) moved to Jurby First and Last Operational Missions 304 Sqn (Syerston - Wellington IC) flew its first OM of the war 305 Sqn (Syerston – Wellington IC) flew its first OM of the war

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (4/26/2021 12:48:10 AM)
91 Sqn (Hawkinge – Spitfire IIA) 26.4.41 SGT. A. DARLING was shot down and killed by Me.109’s just west of base today. He was weaving behind his Flight Commander F/Lt. HOLLAND D.F.C. at about 12000 feet and F/Lt Holland heard him call out “Look out for your tail.” over the R/T. F/Lt Holland looked round & saw two Me.109’s diving upon him from astern. He took evasive action. When he pulled round the enemy aircraft had gone and Sgt. Darling’s machine was diving down with smoke coming from it. Sgt. Darlings’ body was found in the cockpit of his burnt our aircraft, which crashed at <unreadable> near Hawkinge. It had been struck by cannon shells. ADDENDUM – Sgt. A.S. Darling was shot down by a Me.109 from II/JG52 Base Changes 84 Sqn (Blenheim IV) moves to Aqir 307 Sqn (Defiant I) moved to Exeter First and Last Operational Missions 240 Sqn (Killadeas) flew its first OM in the Catalina I 601 Sqn (Northolt) flew its first OM in the Hurricane IIB

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (4/27/2021 2:03:20 AM)
401 Sqn RCAF (Digby – Hurricane I) 27.4.41 There was cloud flying today, local reconnaissance and test flights as well as a six aircraft wing formation practice. Each of this training flying being done by the pilots recently attached to the Squadron. Base Changes 29 Sqn (Beaufighter IF) moved to West Malling 33 Sqn (Hurricane I) moved to Maleme 66 Sqn (Spitfire IIA) moved to Perranporth 73 Sqn (Hurricane I) moved to Sidi Haneish 211 Sqn (Blenheim I) moved to Ramleh 600 Sqn (Blenheim IF/Beaufighter I) moved to Colerne First and Last Operational Missions 302 Sqn (Kenley) flew its last OM in the Hurricane IIA 600 Sqn (Colerne) flew its last OM in the Blenheim IF

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (4/28/2021 2:18:06 AM)
401 Sqn RCAF (Digby – Hurricane I) 28.4.41 Readiness state all day with three scrambles. These were without incident. “A” Flight did the dusk patrol. Practice flights of cloud flying, local reconnaissance and test flights were performed throughout the day. There was also air to air firing at Sutton Bridge. In the evening dusk landings were practiced until 2230 hours. First and Last Operational Missions 232 Sqn (Elgin) flew its last OM in the Hurricane I

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (4/29/2021 2:10:26 AM)
72 Sqn (Acklington – Spitfire IIA) 29.4.41 Green Section (3 a/c) (P/O Bocock, Sgt. Collyer, Sgt. Perkins) was doing practice flying when Control reported a bogey five miles seaward of Blyth and the section intercepted and got within range about 4 miles N.E. of Blyth. Green 3 (Bocock) got in a four second burst 200 to 50 yards and Green 1 a very short burst as the e/a was going through a gap in the cloud, but neither could claim to have damaged it. Green 2 (Sgt. Collyer) was last seen following the e/a into cloud and was heard to say over the R/T that his engine had failed and he was going into the sea. The two other a/c could find no trace of him, but his body was recovered later in the day. ADDENDUM – The Ju 88 was from 1(F)120 Base Changes 141 Sqn (Defiant I) moved to Ayr 232 Sqn (Non-Op) moved to Montrose 317 Sqn (Hurricane I) moved to Ouston First and Last Operational Missions 71 Sqn (Martlesham Heath) flew its last OM in the Hurricane I 209 Sqn (Castle Archdale) flew its last OM in the Lerwick I 225 Sqn (Tilshead) flew its first OM in the Lysander IIIA 249 Sqn (Northolt) flew its last OM in the Hurricane IIA 600 Sqn (Colerne) flew its first OM in the Beaufighter IIF

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (4/30/2021 3:11:47 AM)
21 Sqn (Watton – Blenheim IV) 30.4.41 Six aircraft detailed to search for shipping between The Hague and Flushing. Sgt Fitzgerald and crew failed to start owing to engine trouble. Three aircraft came upon a convoy seven miles W. Of The Hague, consisting of 8,000 ton tanker, 8 flak ships and two E-boats. Sgt Dewing and crew was shot down, but made landing on sea near convoy. Other aircraft were attacked by two Me-110’s, but attacked the tanker and escorts. No results observed. One aircraft was hit on run-in. ADDENDUM – Sgt. M.S. Dewing, Sgt. W.H.R. Smale and Sgt. H. Nathan were killed in the crash of their aircraft and are buried in the General Cemetery at Hoek van Holland. Base Changes 3 Sqn RAAF (Non-Op) moved to Aboukir 46 Sqn (Non-Op) moved to Hal Far 203 Sqn (Blenheim IV) moved to Kabrit 211 Sqn (Blenheim I) moved to Lydda First and Last Operational Missions 15 Sqn (Wyton) flew its first OM in the Stirling I 43 Sqn (Drem) flew its last OM in the Hurricane I 46 Sqn (Sherburn-in-Elmet) flew its last OM in the Hurricane I 72 Sqn (Acklington) flew its last OM in the Spitfire IA 92 Sqn (Biggin Hill) flew its last OM in the Spitfire IA 209 Sqn (Castle Archdale) flew its first OM in the Catalina I 238 Sqn (Chilbolton) flew its last OM in the Hurricane I 401 Sqn RCAF (Digby) flew its last OM in the Hurricane I

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/1/2021 2:20:27 AM)
105 Sqn (Swanton Morley – Blenheim IV) 1.5.41 0950 Orders from Group :- 3 aircraft to attack largest ship possible between HOOK OF HOLLAND and ROTTERDAM. 3 aircraft to attack largest ship possible between SEA and ANTWERP. 1250 Orders from Group :- 6 aircraft to sweep on beat 15. 1215 FLIGHT LIEUTENANT GOODE, PILOT OFFICER HOGAN, SGT. ROWLING did not discover any shipping in the ROTTERDAM waterway, so bombed oil storage tanks at ROTTERDAM. With a good run up at low altitude, hits were certain but were unobserved due to evasive action owing to flank and E/A. These latter, 5 Me.109’s pressed home an attack in absence of cloud cover, but by exceptional flying this was repulsed for 20 minutes, and the badly damaged aircraft, one airscrew dropped off was brought back to ENGLAND. On crossing the coast, the remaining airscrew was lost, but aircraft was successfully force landed in a field. All crew were wounded in the action, and recognition has since been accorded by the award of the D.F.C. to FLIGHT LIEUTENANT GOODE and to PILOT OFFICER HOGAN and the D.F.M. to SGT. ROWLING at BUCKINGHAM PALACE on 18th. JULY by H.M. the KING. One crew SGT. WOOD, SGT. TURTON, SGT. WILCOCK secured a near miss on a 5000 ton tanker in the Waterway, returning safely evading light and heavy flak. Remaining crew FLYING OFFICER DORE, SGT. MARTIN, SGT. PALMER, abandoned task owing to lack of cloud cover. 1235 FLIGHT LIEUTENANT BOOTH, SGT. SCOTT, SGT. PALMER attacked 5/7000 ton M/V in FLUSHING HARBOUR, results also not being observed due to smoke from FLAK bursts in turret. This flak so damaging aircraft that a force landing was necessary at base. Remaining aircraft abandoned owing to lack of cloud cover. 1500 Five aircraft completed shipping beat without encountering the enemy and returned safely. One aircraft turned back with instrument trouble. Base Changes 1 Sqn (Hurricane IIA/B) moved to Redhill 14 Sqn (Blenheim IV) moved to LG. 21 74 Sqn (Spitfire IIA) move to Redhill 80 Sqn (Hurricane I) moved to Aqir 94 Sqn (Gladiator II) moved to Ismailia 208 Sqn (Non-Op) moved to Gaza 601 Sqn (Hurricane IIA/B) moved to Manston First and Last Operational Missions 111 Sqn (Dyce) flew its first OM in the Spitfire IA

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/2/2021 1:54:42 AM)
44 Sqn (Waddington – Hampden I) 2.5.41 Two Hampden aircraft (P.O. Tripp and Sgt Dart) took off at 21.55 and 22.05 hours respectively to carry out bombing operations over HAMBURG. Employed on similar operations were the following numbers of aircraft from other Groups or Units – No. 207 Squadron 2. Scampton 11. Lindholme 6. No. 1 Group 16. No. 3 Group 33. No. 4 Group 22. Sgt. Dart reached his objective and dropped four 500lb bombs which burst along the North bank of the river. Several small fires resulted. The second aircraft Hampden AD.864 was not heard of after crossing the coast, and it failed to return to its “Base”. It must therefore be presumed lost, together with the following personnel:- 91069. P.O. H.U.A. Trip. – Captain P.O. J.E.P. Jeff. – Navigator 552078. T/Sgt. R.J. Leaper. – W.O./A.G. 636523. T/Sgt. E. Eger. – Rear Gunner ADDENDUM – P/O Jeff has no known grave, but the rest of the crew are buried in the Hamburg Cemetery, Ohlsdorf. Base Changes 55 Sqn (Blenheim IV) moved to LG.95 First and Last Operational Missions 6 Sqn (Marawa) flew its first OM in the Hurricane I 43 Sqn (Drem) flew its first OM’s in the Hurricane IIA & IIB 68 Sqn (High Ercall) flew its first OM in the Blenheim IF 257 Sqn (Coltishall) flew its first OM in the Hurricane IIC

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/3/2021 1:10:30 AM)
401 Sqn RCAF (Digby – Hurricane I) 3.5.41 A twelve aircraft formation practice was held in the morning and proved to be very successful. Several test flights were carried out. Air Commodore Stevenson gave the pilots a lecture on night interceptions; the squadron taking over night operational duties as of this date. The program was arranged in conjunction with No. 402 Squadron, R.C.A.F., either squadron sending a flight of six aircraft to W.C.1 on alternative nights to carry out the new duties. Ten Mark II Hurricanes arrived today and six will be used tonight on the night operational orders. Base Changes 3 Sqn (Hurricane IIA/B/C) moved to Debden 82 Sqn (Blenheim IV) moved to Bodney 85 Sqn (Havoc I) moved to Hunsdon 3 Sqn RAAF (Non-Op) moved to Aqir First and Last Operational Missions 401 Sqn RCAF (Digby) flew its first OM in the Hurricane IIA

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/4/2021 4:03:29 AM)
601 Sqn (Manston – Hurricane II) 4.5.41 Sgt. Scott and Sgt. Fearn escorting a Lysander off Deal were attacked by 3 Me.109’s. A general dogfight ensued after which Sgt. Scott was compelled to break away having fired all ammunition. Sgt. Fearn gave centre Me. Bursts and saw bullets strike tail and fuselage. He then ran into cross fire from another e/a, sustained wounds to face and leg, but managed to reach Manston where he crash landed with u/c up. In a sweep over France, F/Lt. Mayers was attacked and forced to bale out over the sea. Was rescued uninured, and his aircraft crashed at Eastry. ADDENDUN – Sgt. Fearn was shot down by Oberst Wener Mölders JG/51. F/Lt. H.C. Mayers DFC was attacked by an Me.109 II/JG53 First and Last Operational Missions 94 Sqn (Ismailia) flew its first OM in the Hurricane I 101 Sqn (West Raynham) flew its last OM in the Blenheim IV 241 Sqn (Bury St. Edmonds) flew its last OM’s in the Lysander I & II

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/5/2021 1:45:43 AM)
16 Sqn (Tangmere – Spitfire IIA) 5.5.41 There were 6 patrols, 4 at dusk by single aircraft. In the first patrol F/O Marples and F/O Casson attacked a Ju.88. Unfortunately, F/O Casson’s aircraft was hit by a cannon and he was forced to bale out, uninjured, east of Littlehampton. First and Last Operational Missions 501 Sqn (Colerne) flew its last OM in the Hurricane I

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/6/2021 3:19:31 AM)
601 Sqn (Tangmere – Hurricane IIA) 6.5.41 Two of the Squadron’s Hurricanes met 6 Me.109s 5 miles off the French Coast. In the combat, Sgt. Briggs was shot down, and baled out in the sea, being picked up unhurt. P/O Mansk while assisting in Lysander escort met 3 109s in the Dover area, one of which he shot down. ADDENDUM – Sgt. Briggs was shot down by Oberst Werner Mölders JG51

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/7/2021 1:50:07 AM)
54 Sqn (Southend – Spitfire IIA) 7.5.41 At 10.40 hrs., 11 aircraft took off to act as High Rover to Blenheims which were to bomb Shipping between Calais and Dunkirk. The Squadron met the Blenhims escorted by 64 Squadron over Eastchurch. They flew South and crossed the French Coast near Gris-Nez, changing course from North East. Light A.A. was encountered near Calais and along the coast. The Squadron Leader saw 4 Me.109’s, but they were too far away to engage. Black Leader, F/Lt. Gribble chased one Me.109 into cloud, but thought it inadvisable to follow, so broke off pursuit. Black 2 Sgt. Hall followed into cloud for he was not seen again. This was 3 miles North East of Dunkirk. 10 aircraft landed at 12.00 hrs. ADDENDUM – Sgt. H.K. Hall was shot down and KIA. Base Changes 145 Sqn (Spitfire IIA) moved to Merston First and Last Operational Missions 225 Sqn (Tilshead) flew its last OM in the Lysander III 501 Sqn (Colerne) flew its first OM in the Spitfire IA

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/8/2021 1:00:32 AM)
401 Sqn RCAF (Digby – Hurricane IIA) 8.5.41 The Squadron was at readiness today but without operational orders except the dusk patrol. The usual practice flights were carried out in addition to a six aircraft demonstration flight over Sleaford. Seven aircraft are at readiness at base for night operations; one for use of Station Commanding Officer. Base Changes 64 Sqn (Spitfire IIA) moved to Martlesham Heath First and Last Operational Missions 16 Sqn (Weston Zoyland) flew its last OM in the Lysander III

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/9/2021 2:01:17 AM)
303 Sqn (Northolt – Spitfire IIA) 9.5.41 Various patrols, one over Maidstone was amended to orbiting over the Channel. Ten Me.109’s attacked, but broke off when flight concerned descended to 10,000 feet. 1515 SPHERE OPERATION: P/O Zumbach became detached, and was attacked while himself was diving to attack. After gaining the English coast he baled out successfully. Glycol fumes did what a bullet through his hair could not. On a Bacon patrol P/O Gladych fired at an unidentified enemy aircraft, but broke off because fighter approached him from behind – these transpired to be Hurricanes. ADDENDUM – P/O J.E.L. Zumbach was shot down by an Me.109 from III/JG53. Base Changes 3 Sqn RAAF (Non-Op) moved to Lydda 616 Sqn (Spitfire IIA) moved to WEsthampnett First and Last Operational Missions 104 Sqn (Driffield – Wellington II) flew its first OM of the war 202 Sqn (Gibraltar) flew its first OM in the Catalina I

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/11/2021 1:25:53 AM)
504 Sqn (Exeter – Hurricane I) 11.5.41 Normal day until evening, at 20.00 hours while ‘B’ Flight at supper, Squadron brought to readiness. ‘A’ Flight ordered to patrol base at 20,000 and then ‘B’ Flight to follow. (Actually 14 machines were put up). Reported approach of 50+ towards Beaton Bay. Squadron patrol in flight at 20,000. F/Lt. White (A Flight) are dived on by a number of 109’s and is shot down, forced landing, (with wheels up,) near Wellington with slight wounds to his ankle. E/A are to fast for us and after bombing Brixham, Torquay and another party at Weymouth get away. Understood 3 are shot down by other Spitfires. During night two heavy attacks by 6 E/A at midnight and 03.30 hours on station. About 170 bombs dropped. Eight of our a/c damaged, 3 beyond immediate our repair. Runways damaged but Squadron able to carry out operational requirements. AC.2. W. Armstrong of Maintenance flight killed by bomb when acting duty crew on flare path. Our third casualty here from bombing. ADDENDUM – F/Lt. B.E.G. White was shot down by a Me.109 from JG2 Base Changes 107 Sqn (Blenheim IV) moved to Great Massingham and transferred to Bomber Command 213 Sqn left for MTO First and Last Operational Missions 403 Sqn RCAF (Baginton – Tomahawk I) flew its first OM of the war

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/12/2021 2:18:42 AM)
221 Sqn (Limavady – Wellington VIII) 12.5.41 F/O. ROBINSON took off on a night Ant-Submarine patrol. After being airborne for twenty minutes this aircraft crashed in LOCH FOYLE. All the occupants were killed, namely:- F/O. ROBINSON, P/O. ROBERTS-BROWN, SGT. WYNN, SGT. BOHAM, SGT. NEWEY, SGT. WHITE, S.G. ADDENDUM – Aircraft crashed 2 miles SW of Magilligan Point, cause unknown. Base Changes 84 Sqn (Blenheim IV) moved to Habbaniya First and Last Operational Missions 16 Sqn (Weston Zoyland) flew its first OM in the Lysander IIIA 250 Sqn (Amriya – Tomahawk IIB) flew its first OM of the war 401 Sqn RCAF (Digby) flew its last OM in the Hurricane I

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/13/2021 3:16:05 AM)
234 Sqn (Warmwell – Spitfire IIA) 13.5.41 Nineteen patrols by forty-seven aircraft. The Squadron did a Channel Sweep, whilst this operation was taking place P/O. Goodall and Sgt. Stoodley, collided and crashed into the sea. Sgt. Stoodley was seen to bale out but no trace has been found of either of the pilots. ADDENDUM – Neither P/O. H.H. Goodall or Sgt. E.L. Stoodley was ever found. Base Changes 3 Sqn (Hurricane IIA/B/C) moved to Martlesham Heath 114 Sqn (Blenheim IV) moved to Leuchars

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/14/2021 3:11:41 AM)
401 Sqn RCAF (Digby – Hurricane IIA) 14.5.41 At readiness today, the Squadron had 14 operational orders. Two of these orders were to patrol a convoy. The dusk patrol was cancelled as the weather closed in about dusk. In addition to all these operational flights, cloud flying, tests and local reconnaissance were carried out. There were no incidents during the day but an air-raid warning was sounded on the station. Base Changes 64 Sqn (Spitfire IIA) moved to Hornchurch

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/15/2021 3:34:46 AM)
21 Sqn (Watton – Blenheim IV) 15.5.41 Eight aircraft of 21 Squadron were detailed to make a daylight attack on HELIGOLAND but before reaching the objective a convoy of five merchant vessels escorted by 3 Flak ships were intercepted. Aircraft E attacked a 1600 ton cargo vessel and a volume of brown and grey smoke was observed by another aircraft D.167. Aircraft W and U attacked a 4000 ton cargo ship a direct hit being observed – the ship being left enveloped in flames with a heavy list to starboard. The vessel was also machine gunned and the ships wireless carried away by U. D.168. Aircraft X and C secured hits on a 5000 ton cargo vessel which was left in flames. D.169 Aircraft B attacked a 3000 ton cargo vessel but the bombs were observed to overshoot. D.170 Aircraft H was observed by another aircraft to attack a 3000 ton cargo ship – the bombs overshooting. This aircraft was subsequently attacked by a Me 109 and over shot into the sea. The enemy aircraft was also destroyed. D.172 Aircraft M abandoned task owing to a technical failure ADDENDUM – The crew F/O J.F.T. Ogilvie, Sgt. R.P. Mayers and Sgt. W.V. Fillingham of Blenheim IV V6732 YH-H, were not recovered. Base Changes 255 Sqn (Defiant I) moved to Hibaldstow First and Last Operational Missions 202 Sqn (Gibraltar) flew its last OM in the Swordfish I 237 Sqn (Asmara) flew its last OM in the Lysander II

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/16/2021 3:48:59 AM)
600 Sqn (Colerne – Beaufighter IF/IIF) 16.5.41 A day and night of ups and downs. We bagged one Hun, but should have had three. On the debit side SQUADRON LEADER PRITCHARD was shot down but baled out. FLIGHT LIEUTENANT BOYS with his operator FLYING OFFICER GLEGG destroyed a J.U.88 near HONINGTON. This is “B” Flight’s first success and it was the result of some very good work by the pilot and operator. About the same time PILOT OFFICER ROSS and SERGEANT DOVE were gaining steadily on another bandit when searchlights took a hand, illuminating the Beaufighter 5 times, blinding the pilot and enabling the Hun to take evasive action and escape. The tragic occurrence, however, was the experience of SQUADRON LEADER PRITCHARD and SERGEANT GLEDHILL. They were put onto a Hun south of Gloucester and followed him to 5 miles south of Coventry. Searchlights never illuminated the bandit, but frequently lit up our fighter. This, it is imagined, told the Hun he was being followed, for he took the most violent evasive action, doing twisting, turning and climbing. However, SERGEANT GLEDHILL kept him on the A.I. screen with very considerable skill and eventually a visual was obtained after a very long and stern chase. Just as the Beaufighter pilot was positioning himself to attack, searchlights in spite of SQUADRON LEADER PRITCHARD’s appeals for them to douse, illuminated the fighter when 100 yards from the enemy, a J.U.88, giving the Hun a perfect silhouette. The Hun opened fire, blowing the starboard side of the cockpit in, setting light to the petrol feed, causing flames to envelope the pilot. However, after certain difficulties, both SQUADRON LEADER and SERGEANT GLEDHILL baled out successfully, SQUADRON LEADER PRITCHARD suffering burns on the face and SERGEANT GLEDHILL having a bullet wound in the leg. Both were taken to Warwick Hospital and are progressing satisfactorily. Base Changes 30 Sqn (Blenheim I/IF) moved to Amnya 64 Sqn (Spitfire IIA) moved to Turnhouse 238 Sqn (Non-Op) left for the MTO 603 Sqn (Non-Op) moved to Hornchurch First and Last Operational Missions 15 Sqn (Wyton) flew its last OM in the Wellington IC 145 Sqn (Merton) flew its first OM in the Spitfire IIB 224 Sqn (Limavady) flew its first OM in the Hudson V

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/18/2021 2:29:55 AM)
54 Sqn (Southend – Spitfire IIA) 17.5.41 ‘A’ Flight patrolled Maidstone at 20,000’ and ‘B’ Flight patrolled Foulness at 15,000’. When ‘A’ Flight was on their patrol, they were warned of bandits near Dungeness going North. They saw 4 Me. 109’s in two pairs, at the same height flying North. The 109’s manoeuvred around the Spitfires and the Leader ordered the Flight to break up and dive. Sgt. Kan was last seen as the Flight broke up and presently he went into a straight dive, he was not seen again and the wreckage of his plane was found at Biddenden. The loss of Sgt. Kean is one that will be felt by the Squadron for although relatively a newcomer he made himself popular and well liked. ADDENDUM – Sgt. E.J. Kean was shot down by a Me. 109 of JG52. First and Last Operational Missions 13 Sqn (Hooton Park) flew its last OM’s in the Lysander I & II 88 Sqn (Sydenham) flew its last OM in the Battle I 257 Sqn (Coltishall) flew its first OM in the Hurricane IIB 611 Sqn (Hornchurch) started OM’s for a second time in the Spitfire IA 401 Sqn RCAF (Digby – Hurricane IIA) During could flying exercises today, one aircraft was scrambled. There was nothing to report after this operational flight was completed. Other exercises were camera-gun, tests and local flights and a shoot-up of Newmark in demonstration of war Weapons week. First and Last Operational Missions 308 Sqn (Baginton) flew its last OM in the Spitfire IA 500 Sqn (Carew Cherinton) flew its first OM in the Blenheim IV 611 Sqn (Hornchurch) flew its last OM in the Spitfire IIA

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/19/2021 1:40:43 AM)
306 Sqn (Northolt – Hurricane IIA) 19.5.41 Patrol Maidstone Line at 15,000’. Squadron was suddenly attacked from above by six Me. F/L. Nowak had had aileron trouble and F/O. Slonski was moving up to lead the Squadron when the attack took place. P/O. J. Czapiewski posted as missing due to Enemy Action. P/O. K. Rutkowski and Sgt. Kroczynski baled out after engagement with enemy – P/O. Rutkowski landed uninjured, Sgt. Kroczynski admitted to Margate General Hospital seriously injured by Cannon bursts. ADDENDUM – All three pilots were shot down by Me. 109’s from JG52. P/O. J.K. Czapiewski was KIA. First and Last Operational Missions 13 Sqn (Hooton Park) flew its first OM in the Lysander III and then went off Ops. 24 Sqn SAAF (Maryland II) moved to Shandur

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/21/2021 1:12:08 AM)
CIRCUS 10 21 Sqn (Watton – Blenheim IV) 21.5.41 Eleven aircraft of 21 Squadron acting in conjunction with six aircraft from 110 Squadron were detailed to make a daylight attack on the Power Station and Oil Refinery at GOSNAY three miles from BETHUNEM. The aircraft escorted by fighters in boxes of six. Bombing individually from 12,000 ft. direct hits were observed on both targets causing clouds and streams of smoke from the Power Station and green explosions and volumes of smoke from the Refinery. Some eight tons of bombs were dropped. The escorting fighters were engaged in numerous combats with ME.109. One ME.109 was shot down by two of our bombers D.176 One 250 lb. bomb of aircraft U and aircraft N hung up. D.175. Aircraft P turned back over mid-channel owing to technical failure in undercarriage. D.179 All bombs of aircraft O hung up. D.178 Base Changes 112 Sqn (Gladiator I) moved to Heraklion 249 Sqn (Hurricane I) moved to Takali First and Last Operational Missions 249 Sqn (Takali) started OM’s for the second time in the Hurricane I

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/22/2021 2:04:09 AM)
252 Sqn (Aldergrove – Beaufighter IC) 22.5.41 Ferry Flight from Gibraltar Information received that four Beaufighters left GIBRALTAR at 1000 hours bound for England. One landed at WESTON ZOYLAND, one at PERRANPORTH, one in the sea off MOUNTS BAY, and one crashed in SOUTHERN IRELAND. These aircraft were flown to England with two pilots and one observer each. F/Lt. R.E. JAY, Sub.Lt. V.R. Crane with W.D. Brown as observer, landed at WESTON ZOYLAND in PN N. F/O. J. BLENNHERHASSETT, Sub.Lt. K. HOLME, and Sgt. Walker landed at PERRANPORTH, in very bad weather. F/O. S. MACDONALD, F/O. G. LEMAR, and Sgt. BOOTH, landed in the sea off MOUNTS BAY an were picked up by a small coastal vessel. They were later transferred to West Cornwall Hospital, TRURO. One aircraft is missing, but believed to have crashed in EIRE. The occupants are, F/O. J. HOLGATE, F/O. H. VERITY, and Sgt. BARNETT. No flying at ALDERGROVE on account of very bad weather. ADDENDUM – Aircraft force landed in Eire and crew interned. Base Changes 213 Sqn (Non-Op) moved to Abu Sueir 229 Sqn (Non-Op) moved to Idku 242 Sqn (Hurricane IIA/B) moved to North Weald First and Last Operational Missions 226 Sqn (Sydenham) flew its last OM in the Battle I 452 Sqn RAAF (Kirton-in-Lindsey) flew its first OM in the Spitfire IIA

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/23/2021 1:28:50 AM)
401 Sqn RCAF (Digby – Hurricane IIA) 23.5.41 The practise flights were local reconnaissance, cloud flying and camera gun. First and Last Operational Missions 224 Sqn (Limavady) flew its first OM in the Hudson III

warshipbuilder -> RE: Action This Day (5/24/2021 1:09:04 AM)
401 Sqn RCAF (Digby – Hurricane IIA) 24.5.41 During readiness state today there were four scrambles. No incidents happened. The dusk patrol was carried out. A four aircraft practise interception was held; formation and local test flying were also carried out. Base Changes 272 Sqn (Non-Op) left for the MTO First and Last Operational Missions 111 Sqn (Dyce) flew its first OM in the Spitfire IIA

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