The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2014 annual report for this blog.
Here’s an excerpt:
The Louvre Museum has 8.5 million visitors per year. This blog was viewed about 110,000 times in 2014. If it were an exhibit at the Louvre Museum, it would take about 5 days for that many people to see it.
Sgt Francis McIntyre, Wireless Operator with Benjamin Bateson’s crew, all who were lost on the 25th of June 1944 during an attack on Rimeux. © Archie McIntyre
Many thanks to Archie for contacting me about his Father, Francis McIntyre, Wireless Operator with the Bateson crew, who were all killed on the 25th of June 1944 during an attack on Rimeux.
The story that Archie bought to me was deeply disturbing regarding the possible fate of the crew – I would like to thank Kevin and Errol for responding to my request for information on the crew and the information, particularly that Errol was able to provide to perhaps put Archie and his family’s worries to rest regarding the events of the 25th of June.
In Archie’s own words, his Fathers story is a tragic one:
“He was the old man on the plane being 25 when he died. His one year old daughter died in 1942 and his 20 year old wife also died in 1942, yet he still few on for another 18 months. Surely they could have spared him this as he was all I had left. He was by all accounts very depressed at this time.”
A group of airmen during their training undertaking life raft drill (location and date unknown) Francis is sat on the left of the dinghy. © Archie McIntyre
The Bateson crew first met at No. 11 Operational Training Unit on the 16th November 1943, moving to 1651 Heavy Conversion Unit on the 18th March 1944. The crew began their final stage of training at Feltwell at No.3 Lancaster Finishing School on the 19th of May. 8 days later the Bateson crew arrived at their first Operational unit – 75(NZ) Squadron RAF.
29 days later the Bateson crew would be dead.
As was normal at this time, Ben Bateson flew a single Op with Richie Millar and his crew to Trappes on the 31st of May. On the 2nd of June the Bateson crew flew their first Op to Wissant.
The Bateson crew, stood in front of the rear tail plane of what we must deduce to be ND756. From left to right: Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan ( Air Bomber), Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre (Wireless Operator), F/S Bruce Milne (Rear Gunner), F/S Benjamin William Bateson (Pilot), Sgt. Colin Harry Slater, (Flight Engineer), Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin (Navigator) & Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett (Mid Upper Gunner). © Archie McIntyre
The picture above of the Bateson crew and ND756 is perhaps a little strange and worth exploring. Firstly, there appears to be at least 3 bomb silhouettes that have been painted over – suggesting perhaps that this aircraft had been based elsewhere before arriving at Mepal – in fact, according to ‘Lancaster – the Definitive History’ by Harry Holmes, ND756 came straight to 75(NZ) Squadron on the 13th March 1944. Next, based on Ops in the database, The Bateson crew made their only flight in ND756 on the 10th of June to Dreux – according to records this would have been the aircraft’s 19th Op – and thus, if one assumes the photograph was taken pre-Op, it should show 18, however, even factoring in the apparently rather inaccurate tally of only 9 (rather than I assume the more normal 10) in the second row, the tally sits at 22 – suggesting this is the 23rd Op – which would place it on the 21st of June, or simply a ‘random’ photo opportunity with the aircraft sometime between the 17th and 21st of June.
02/06/1944 – Attack Against Wissant
Fifteen aircraft were detailed to attack a target at Wissant, N. France. Owing to thick cloud over the target, twelve aircraft were unable to identify the markers and brought their bombs back. No opposition was encountered.
Lancaster Mk.III ND752 AA-O (20)
F/S Benjamin William Bateson, RNZAF NZ424788 – Pilot.
Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin, RAFVR 1600846 – Navigator.
Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan, RAFVR 1394772 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre, RAFVR 1562888 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Colin Harry Slater, RAFVR 1815706 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett, RAFVR 1236363 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Bruce Milne, RNZAF NZ428017 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 01:20 – Landed 03:55
Flight Time 02:35
03/06/1944 – Attack Against Calais
Ten aircraft were detailed to attack Calais, and all crews were successful in contributing to a good concentrated raid in clear weather. Defences were slight to moderate and no enemy fighters were seen.
Lancaster Mk.III ND752 AA-O (21)
F/S Benjamin William Bateson, RNZAF NZ424788 – Pilot.
Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin, RAFVR 1600846 – Navigator.
Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan, RAFVR 1394772 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre, RAFVR 1562888 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Colin Harry Slater, RAFVR 1815706 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett, RAFVR 1236363 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Bruce Milne, RNZAF NZ428017 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 00:35 – Landed 02:35
Flight Time 02:00
05/06/1944 – Attack Against Ouistreham
The target for No.3 Group was the coastal battery at Ouistreham in N. France. This target, and others in the same area were attacked by strong forces of Bomber Command aircraft immediately prior to the Anglo-American Invasion of the Continent. Twenty six aircraft from this Squadron participated and all were successful in bombing their target with the aid of markers. Opposition was very slight.
Lancaster Mk.I ME702 AA-Q (7)
F/S Benjamin William Bateson, RNZAF NZ424788 – Pilot.
Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin, RAFVR 1600846 – Navigator.
Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan, RAFVR 1394772 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre, RAFVR 1562888 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Colin Harry Slater, RAFVR 1815706 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett, RAFVR 1236363 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Bruce Milne, RNZAF NZ428017 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 03:45 – Landed 06:50
Flight Time 03:05
06/06/1944 – Attack Against Lisieux
Twenty four aircraft took off, as detailed, to attack a target at Lisieux, in support of the invading forces which were establishing a bridge head in Normandy. All aircraft successfully bombed the target and an accurate attack was reported. Only slight opposition was encountered.
Lancaster Mk.III HK557 AA-P ‘Peter’ (3)
F/S Benjamin William Bateson, RNZAF NZ424788 – Pilot.
Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin, RAFVR 1600846 – Navigator.
Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan, RAFVR 1394772 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre, RAFVR 1562888 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Colin Harry Slater, RAFVR 1815706 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett, RAFVR 1236363 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Bruce Milne, RNZAF NZ428017 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 23:50 – Landed 03:38
Flight Time 03:48
08/06/1944 – Attack Against Fougeres
Twenty aircraft took off as detailed to attack Fougeres in N. France. Nineteen aircraft bombed successfully, one bringing its bombs back owing to the Bomb sight being unserviceable when over the target area. Two aircraft had inconclusive combats with enemy aircraft, but the remainder carried out their mission without incident, there being no opposition in the target area.
Lancaster Mk.III ND753 AA-G (10)
F/S Benjamin William Bateson, RNZAF NZ424788 – Pilot.
Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin, RAFVR 1600846 – Navigator.
Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan, RAFVR 1394772 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre, RAFVR 1562888 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Colin Harry Slater, RAFVR 1815706 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett, RAFVR 1236363 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Bruce Milne, RNZAF NZ428017 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 21:50 – Landed 02:30
Flight Time 04:40
10/06/1944 – Attack Against Dreux
Of the twenty four aircraft detailed to bomb Dreux, twenty two successfully attacked in good weather, the marshalling yards being visually identified until they were obscured by smoke. One aircraft had an inconclusive combat with a JU.88. The aircrafts captained by NZ422098 P/O. L. Bonisch and NZ422267 F/S. Donaghy, T. failed to return.
Lancaster Mk.III ND756 AA-M (19)
F/S Benjamin William Bateson, RNZAF NZ424788 – Pilot.
Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin, RAFVR 1600846 – Navigator.
Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan, RAFVR 1394772 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre, RAFVR 1562888 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Colin Harry Slater, RAFVR 1815706 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett, RAFVR 1236363 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Bruce Milne, RNZAF NZ428017 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 23:00 – Landed 03:20
Flight Time 04:20
21/06/1944 – Attack Against Domleger
Twenty three aircraft were detailed to attack the constructional works at Domleger during daylight. Two aircraft failed to take off and the remainder were unable [to] locate the target, the markers not being visible owing to 10/10th cloud. they were instructed by the master bomber to abandon their mission, and apart from some aircraft which jettisoned their load, bombs were brought back. Opposition was very slight.
Lancaster Mk.I ME691 AA-R (26)
F/S Benjamin William Bateson, RNZAF NZ424788 – Pilot.
Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin, RAFVR 1600846 – Navigator.
Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan, RAFVR 1394772 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre, RAFVR 1562888 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Colin Harry Slater, RAFVR 1815706 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett, RAFVR 1236363 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Bruce Milne, RNZAF NZ428017 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 18:00 – Landed 20:50
Flight Time 02:50
23/06/1944 – Attack Against L’Hey
Twenty aircraft were detailed to attack the constructional works at L’Hey. All crews bombed on instructions from the Master bomber, and the glow of fires seen through clouds indicated a concentrated raid. Opposition was very slight, although one aircraft had an inconclusive combat with two enemy fighters.
Lancaster Mk.III ND920 AA-P (22)
F/S Benjamin William Bateson, RNZAF NZ424788 – Pilot.
Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin, RAFVR 1600846 – Navigator.
Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan, RAFVR 1394772 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre, RAFVR 1562888 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Colin Harry Slater, RAFVR 1815706 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett, RAFVR 1236363 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Bruce Milne, RNZAF NZ428017 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 23:15 – Landed 01:35
Flight Time 02:20
24/06/1944 – Attack Against Rimeux
Twenty five aircraft took off as detailed to attack the constructional works at Rimeux. Twenty four crews bombed successfully with the aid of markers, and an accurate raid was reported. There were numerous searchlights in action, but the A.A. opposition was not serious. The aircraft captained by NZ424788 F/S. Bateson, B. failed to return.
Lancaster Mk.III ND920 AA-P (23)
F/S Benjamin William Bateson, RNZAF NZ424788 – Pilot.
Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin, RAFVR 1600846 – Navigator.
Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan, RAFVR 1394772 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre, RAFVR 1562888 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Colin Harry Slater, RAFVR 1815706 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett, RAFVR 1236363 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Bruce Milne, RNZAF NZ428017 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 23:18 – Landed –
Flight Time MISSING
F/S Benjamin William Bateson – Pilot. Died age 22.
Sgt. Geoffrey Leonard Startin – Navigator. Died age 20.
Sgt. Maurice Frederick Morgan – Air Bomber. Died age 23.
Sgt. Francis Cassidy McIntyre – Wireless Operator. Died age 25.
Sgt. Colin Harry Slater – Flight Engineer. Died age 20.
Sgt. Ernest Lewis Connett – Mid Upper Gunner. Died age 21
F/S Bruce Milne – Rear Gunner. Died age 21.
All are buried in Collective Grave No.7, Fruges Communal Cemetery, France.
As I mentioned at the top of this post. Archie came to me with a shocking and potentially very serious story regarding the fate of the Bateson crew:
“My name is Archie McIntyre, I am 74 years old and living in Falkirk , Scotland. My Father was a wireless operator on a Lancaster which was shot down in Fruges, France, near Pas de Calais where he and the rest of the crew were buried. This was on 25th June 1944. In the early 1960’s his older sister went on holiday to France and visited the grave. While she was standing at the grave a French woman spoke to her and said she saw the plane come down and the local people buried all the crew of whom none had survived. That was the story for 70 years until the sister was on her death bed when she confided in another relative the real details. It appears that the plane came down on the German side, (this was shortly after D-Day) and the Gestapo ran up and shot all the crew. All the crew survived the landing although some were injured. The young New Zealand Pilot, I think 22 years old, must have done an amazing job getting it down.”
I must confess, on reading this, I was speechless and quite shocked – the implication was that clearly a war crime had been committed and suddenly I was acutely aware that my sphere of knowledge simply did not extend to this sort of thing. An email to Kevin bought, as always, sound and good council – the possibility of other relatives coming a cross a post of this nature was far too problematic to simply post to see what came back and, I must confess, Kevin suggested a very obvious (only in hindsight to me) route of inquiry and he contacted Errol Martyn.
‘Pleased’ is wholly not the right word to describe the material that Errol returned via Kevin – but I was pleased and relieved at what I read, even though the contents of the Missing Research Enquiry Unit (MREU) made very cold and uncomfortable reading.
The Royal Air Force Missing Research and Enquiry Service (MRES) was set up in 1944 to trace the 42,000 personnel who were listed as ‘missing, believed killed’. The demand was so great that the department was expanded in 1945.
These men had no special training, and did not have the benefits that modern technology offers; only a strong desire to bring home those who had not returned. Despite the obstacles caused by the lack of tools, the MRES was able to account for over two thirds of the missing personnel by a thorough combing of the globe. Those found were identified and reinterred in Commonwealth War Graves Commission plots.
Without the commitment shown by the dedicated teams of the MRES, many families would go on not knowing what had happened to their loved one or of the location of their Final resting place. The MRES allowed families the dignity to finally grieve. The unit was disbanded in 1952. (Royal Airforce Museum)
A letter from the New Zealand Air Department to the Father of Ben Bateson. “According to local eye witnesses of the crash, the plane exploded on impact and buried itself in a deep crater, all the members of the crew being instantly killed, such remains as were recovered were buried by French civilians in Grave No.7 in the Fruges Communal Cemetery. Supplied by Errol Martyn
Supplied by Errol Martyn
Hopefully this information has bought some closure to Archie and his family – certainly the reportage of the events of the 25th are precise and clinical, but as I said in the email to Archie that contained these documents, at least the boys felt no pain.
I know Archie is keen to try to reconnect with relatives of the crew – so hopefully one, or someone that knows one, might see this post and help Archie reach further closure regarding the loss of his Father
One assumes a group of Fieldair pilots taken some time in 1955. Stood second from left, Allan Johnson Mayfield, Bob’s Pilot from his first tour with 75(NZ) Squadron, July to November 1943. Picture courtesy John Chiplin
Many thanks to John for passing on this group photograph of what I assume to be Fieldair pilots from 1955. Second from left in the photograph is Allan Johnson Mayfield – my Father’s first tour Pilot in 1943. After completing his second tour with 128 LNSF Squadron, Allan returned to New Zealand and joined Fieldair, a top dressing company. John joined some time later and got to know Allan.
An earlier post I made about Fieldair contained a story about how the company got a goose as it’s company logo and at the time I wondered if the pilot in question might have been Allan – whilst not able to confirm this John recalls another incident:
” The only “incident” I am aware of is as follows. He recalled working off Lawson Field’s Makiri strip which was curved with a bank on the blind side. Allan Mayfield was working on the same job, both men flying Tiger Moths. The day was going well with the Tiger on the ground having the right of way. They had a good routine going. After a refuel, Allan took off, Bob was waiting to be loaded, there was a hiccup with the loader which delayed Bob’s take-off. Mayfield must have thought that Bob had already taken off as he couldn’t see around the curve and landed, not knowing that Bob was under full power, thundering around the curve, only to see Mayflower heading straight for him. Bob couldn’t stop, Mayfield couldn’t go anywhere, all 4 port wings were destroyed in the impact. Bob ended up upside down, Mayfield managed to stop after looping, both were surprised to be ok after the dust settled.”
© Kerry Foster
Thanks again to Kerry (belatedly) for the contribution of a number of documents of Ivan Hislop, Navigator with Jim Westbrooke’s crew, March to July 1945. As well as Ivan’s logbook, which can be seen here. Kerry commented when me met in the summer, that what impressed him about these documents was Ivan’s apparent determination to fly.
He initially trained as a pilot commencing training with No 2 E.F.T.S. in Ashburton New Zealand on the 8th March 1943, soloing 22nd March 1943. However it appears the training was terminated due to lack of aptitude on 11th April 1943.
Extract from Ivan Hislop’s logbook showing the rather sad appraisal of his flying skills – ‘Flying terminated – lack of aptitude’ © Kerry Foster
By the 14th of February 1944 Ivan was receiving navigational training in Canada under the E.A.TS. 2 A.O.S. During further training in the UK he was crewed up with F/Lt James Westbrooke while at 11 O.T.U. Oakley before flying their first & only bombing Op with 75(NZ) Squadron on the 9th April 1945 to Kiel. The Westbrooke crew finished their posting in 75(NZ) Squadron with Manna food drops, Prisoner Repatriation, Post Mortems and Baedecker.
As well as Ivan’s logbooks, Kerry also has sent through additional documentation:
A close-up of Ivan’s Identity card, showing his RNZAF mug shot. © Kerry Foster
Ivan’s full Identity card. © Kerry Foster
Paybook. © Kerry Foster
Ivan’s final transfer to reserve instructions. © Kerry Foster
Courtesy Kerry Foster
Kerry has kindly passed these items to me and given the nature of them I felt it was fitting to post them today. The top image is the outside cover of an RAF Christmas card from Feltwell, 1941. Below is the inside of the card. Kerry says not much is known of ‘Ted’ other than he was apparently Ground crew with 75(NZ) Squadron RAF for the duration of the war.
Courtesy Kerry Foster
The second item is a NAAFI purchased 75(NZ) Squadron RAF calender for 1943.
Courtesy Kerry Foster
So, from 75nzsquadron.com to all of you:
The Sinclair crew, stood in front of HK600 JN-K “Kiwi”. Back row left to right: Bill Glover (Rear Gunner), Alan McRobert (Mid Upper Gunner), Bill Sinclair (Pilot) & George Painting (Flight Engineer). Front row left to right: Sandy Sommerville (Navigator), Ian Rowe (Air Bomber) & Ian Foster (Wireless Operator). © Sinclair Family
Many thanks to the family of Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair for getting in touch with me and also sending these remarkable pictures of Bill’s crew that clearly show another ‘named’ aircraft of 75(NZ) Squadron RAF.
A close up of the nose of HK600, with contrast modified to show what is clearly a flying kiwi – the illustration to the right gives us a better idea of what the nose art looked like. © Sinclair Family
Bill and boys flew in “Kiwi” 6 times whilst they were at Mepal – which tends me to think that perhaps HK600 had the nose art before this – the photograph also throws up another interesting point. Obviously its impossible to say (at this point) when the group photograph in front of “Kiwi” was taken – the Sinclair crew first flew in her on the 13th of April to Kiel, their last flight in her being on the 28th of May, to view ‘the effects of the Bombing Offensive’. The ‘pure database record for HK600 shows 55 and 68 Ops respectively for these 2 raids (we must of course remember that in a pre-Op photo, the tally will not reflect that raid……). Based on the photograph, we could at this point conjecturise that “Kiwi’ had already 5, or as many as 18 ‘non-counting’ Ops at some point in its career…..
To this end, it’s clear that the secondary clarification of an individual aircraft’s history is simply not the case of counting how many times it appears in the ORB’s and its obvious that a fair bit of time is going to have to be spent reconciling ‘total’ Op tally’s versus ‘actual’ Op counts. Already, the database shows that HK562 and PB418 are listed over 100 times, though as I have said, until the raid details and aborts have been factored in, we should keep or streamers in their wrapping
Having said this – I do have a story and an extract from a logbook that contains a clear note regarding PB418 ‘Charlie’ hitting 100 Ops, in addition to an already published picture showing 100 Ops……..
7.3.45. F/O L.G. Sinclair and crew arrived on posting from No. 73 Base.
09/03/1945 – Attack Against Datteln
Twenty one aircraft attacked Datteln as detailed. A good concentration of aircraft and bombing reported. Cloud ten tenths. No opposition was encountered. A mushroom of smoke was seen penetrating cloud.
Lancaster Mk.I PB820 JN-V (33)
F/L Douglas St.Clair Clement, RNZAF NZ421679 – Pilot.
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – 2nd Pilot.
Position of 2nd Pilot recorded in Logbook but not recorded in ORB
Take Off 10:44 – Landed 16:08
Flight Time 05:24
10/03/1945 – Attack Against Gelsenkirchen Buer
Twenty one aircraft attacked Gelsenkirchen as detailed. Aircraft bombed in light formation and all bombs were dropped together. Cloud was ten tenths. Slight H/F was encountered.
Lancaster Mk.I HK593 JN-X (24)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
P/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. George Painting, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 12:36 – Landed 17:21
Flight Time 04:45
11/03/1945 – Attack Against Essen
Twenty one aircraft were again detailed for operations, tis time against Essen. Very slight H/F was the only opposition. Cloud was 10/10ths. A gradual blackening of the cloud tops was all that could be seen
Lancaster Mk.I HK593 JN-X (25)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
F/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. George Painting, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:52 – Landed 17:19
Flight Time 05:27
14/03/1945 – Attack Against Heinrich Hutte
Twenty aircraft were detailed to attack the above target. Crews found the target covered with 10/10ths cloud. Formation was good though the target and bombs fell away together. Very accurate moderate H/F was met on the run in and over the target. F/Lt. E. Parsons in AA”E” failed to return. His aircraft was seen to be hit causing it to spiral into cloud. F/S McLernon landed at Woodbridge but returned to base the following day.
Lancaster Mk.I PB820 JN-V (36)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
F/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. George Painting, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 13:45 – Landed 18:43
Flight Time 04:58
18/03/1945 – Attack Against Bruchstrasse
Seventeen aircraft were detailed to attack the coking areas and Bensol plant at Bruchstrasse. Cloud was 10/10ths over the target with tops at 6/7,000 ft. Crew report formation was good through the target and bombs fell away together. No results were seen. Slight H.F was encountered.
Lancaster Mk.I HK601 JN-D (80)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
F/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. George Painting, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:58 – Landed 17:07
Flight Time 05:09
21/03/1945 – Attack Against Munster Viaduct
Twenty one aircraft were detailed to attack the Muster Viaduct. There was hardly any cloud over the target. It is thought that the concentration was good although the formation was broken up just prior to bombing. Three aircraft failed to return from this operation – AA”T”, NZ42451 F/L J. Plummer, AA”R” NZ429139 P/O A. Brown and JN”P” 190947 P/O D.S. Barr. All three aircraft were seen to hit in the target area. Considerable H/F was encountered.
Lancaster Mk.I NG322 JN-F (38)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
F/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. George Painting, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 10:02 – Landed 15:25
Flight Time 05:23
13/04/1945 – Attack on Kiel
21 aircraft were detailed to attack Kiel. The target was covered by 10/10 cloud with tops 4/5000. Bombing was concentrated and fires were seen on leaving the target. Flak was slight. M/B was clearly heard. (AA’K’ F/O. Morgan W.) returned early, bombs were jettisoned. This was also a leaflet raid.
Lancaster Mk.I HK600 JN-K “Kiwi” (55)
Appears to have carried a flying Kiwi bird as noseart and was certainly know to the Sinclair crew as “Kiwi”
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O William George Reay, RNZAF NZ4211843 – 2nd Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
F/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. George Painting, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 20:31 – Landed 02:14
Flight Time 05:43
18/04/1945 – Attack on Heligoland
25 aircraft were detailed to attack the target HELIGOLAND. Weather was good with good visibility. Crews were able to identify northern top of Island and also western edge. The rest of the Island was obliterated by smoke. Bomb bursts on fires. The crews bombed as ordered by the Master Bomber and bombing was thought to be well concentrated, but there was some overshooting as well as undershooting.
Lancaster Mk.I HK600 JN-K “Kiwi” (57)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
F/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. B. Fletcher, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 10:34 – Landed 15:27
Flight Time 04:53
20/04/1945 – Attack on Regensburg
20 aircraft were detailed to bomb REGENSBURG. Perfect visibility and the river, dock and target areas could be made out. Bombing appears to have been fairly well concentrated round the target starting with a slight undershoot but some bombs also spread to the M/yards beyond. The crew on starboard side of formation claimed direct hits on railway bridge. Flak slight but accurate.
Lancaster Mk.I HK600 JN-K “Kiwi” (58)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
F/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. B. Fletcher, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 09:51 – Landed 17:17
Flight Time 07:26
24/04/1945 – Attack on Bad Oldesloe
21 aircraft were detailed to attack BAD OLDESLOE. JN/N (F/L Preyer) failed to take off owing to engine trouble and AA/Y (F/S Reay) made an early return owing to fire in starboard outer engine. No opposition was encountered but slight flak seen over Dutch Coast. Some of the bombs fell to the port of the A/P. Main attack considered very good.
Lancaster Mk.I HK600 JN-K “Kiwi” (60)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
P/O William Caverhill Turnbull, RNZAF NZ4210995 – 2nd Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
F/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
W/O W. Peplow, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 07:21 – Landed 13:13
Flight Time 05:52
01/05/1945 – Supply Dropping at Delft
21 Aircraft were detailed for Supply Dropping at Delft. The population were very excited. There was a great deal of flag waving and thanks messages were seen painted on roof tops.
Lancaster Mk.I NG322 JN-F (49)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
F/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. George Painting, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 14:02 – Landed 16:26
Flight Time 02:24
03/05/1945 – Supply Dropping at Delft and the Hague
10 Aircraft were detailed for Supply Dropping, five for Delft and five for the Hague. Crowds and flag waving were not so extensive as before and enthusiasm seems to be waining.
Lancaster Mk.I HK600 JN-K “Kiwi” (62)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/S Ian Dalrymple Rowe, RNZAF NZ4210043 – Air Bomber.
F/O Ian Anderson Foster, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
P/O Terence Joseph ‘Terry’ Murphy?, RAFVR 1622657, 186203 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. no mid upper gunner on this op, – .
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:32 – Landed 14:02
Flight Time 02:30
28/05/1945 – Viewing the Effects of the Bombing Offensive
3 Aircraft were detailed to view the effect of the B Bombing Offensive, F/O L. Sinclair (JN.K) taking Group Personnel.
Lancaster Mk.I HK600 JN-K “Kiwi” (68)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/O Alfred Hugh Woolcock, RNZAF NZ2121 – Air Bomber.
F/S W. Clough, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
F/S Duncan Walker, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan McRobert, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. William ‘Bill’ Glover , RAFVR – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 09:39 – Landed 13:58
Flight Time 04:19
19/06/1945 – Viewing the Effects of the Bombing Offensive
2 Aircraft were detailed for viewing the effects of the Bombing Offensive.
Lancaster Mk.I NN747 AA-D (57)
F/O Leslie Gordon ‘Bill’ Sinclair, RNZAF NZ428917 – Pilot.
F/O Alexander Annandale ‘Sandy’ Sommerville, RNZAF NZ425459 – Navigator.
F/O Lawrence Luxton, RNZAF NZ4211873 – Air Bomber.
W/O Edward Spooner, RAAF AUS.423091 – Wireless Operator.
F/S Duncan Walker, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Take Off 09:27 – Landed 14:08
Flight Time 04:41
A massive thank you to all the readers who have pushed us to this latest milestone regarding views. At 150,000 views, I decided to increase the figure to 25,000 views as postable milestones and I am pleased to say we have just reached it.
I have been quite frustrated over the last 5 weeks or so – an ongoing sinus problem finally blew up and resulted in a quite a serious secondary infection which in turn has left me struggling at the moment with a viral condition called labarynthitis which has left me suffering essentially with vertigo, even when I am sat down. Through all of this I struggled with the fact that despite having a lot of half finished posts, I simply was too ill to move anything forward.
Finally, I have managed to sit down properly and am going to try to keep the posts coming quite regularly over the Christmas period.
By pure chance, this post is also a milestone – the blog has now got 500 posts – an incredible figure, more so I think because the majority of these 500 posts have been through the generosity of relatives and interested parties – I hope this will continue and I am crossing my fingers that new people continue to discover the blog and in turn they are able to help us celebrate, commemorate and tell the stories of the boys in the Squadron.
I still maintain my original position – everything that is donated to the blog will be posted and made available to everyone, everything I receive, everything I discover, everything I am able to piece together I will share with all of you.
New visitors to the bog and more seasoned readers – please make sure you follow us – its just a click on the right hand side of the page and it guarantees you are notified of all new posts – so you don’t miss anything!
75nzsquadron.com continues to be the largest online resource relating to 75(NZ) Squadron RAF and it’s down to all of you – so thank you all very much for an early Christmas present!
Sgt. Donald A. Day, Navigator with the Leadley crew – 12th October 1944 to 18th February 1945. © Peter Day
Many thanks to Peter for passing on a wonderful set of photographs of his Father, Donald Day and the Leadley crew. In talking to Peter, I realised I was listening again to the recollections of the admiration that the crew held for their Skipper. Peter said he viewed Donald ‘Like a God‘ and I have heard this exact phrase used by others. No doubt each airman viewed their crew mates with respect and belief in their ability to do their job, but i think that ultimately, they all put their lives and trust in the hands of their ‘Skip’ – and they believed, come hell or high water that he would get them ‘back for breakfast’ after every Op.
Don during his early training: middle row far left, whilst at No. 41 Air School, Colindale, East London, South Africa. © Peter Day
The Leadley crew on base, 75(NZ) Squadron RAF, Mepal, Cambridgeshire. Don is stood in the middle of the front row – I think, Bob Gill is stood behind Don, in the middle of the group. If this is Bob Gill, then based on the visibility of brevets as basic shapes within the photograph, I think that to the left of Bob, id Don Leadley, the Skipper. © Peter Day
The Leadley crew arrived at Mepal on the 12th of October 1944 from No.31 Base. Donald, the Skipper flew with Alan Baxter’s crew on the night of the 19th of October to Stuttgart. The Leadley crew flew their first Operational flight on the 21st of October to Flushing. The boys went on to complete their tour, their final Op with 75(NZ) Squadron RAF being to Munchen Gladbach on the 1st of February 1945 – ironically, the Op that marked my own Father’s return to the Squadron……..
The Leadley crew in front of an unknown Lancaster at Mepal. Don is knelt to the right in the front row, next to Bob Gill, the crew’s Air Bomber. © Peter Day
21/10/1944 – Attack Against Flushing
Twenty five aircraft took off to attack Flushing. All crews were able to identify the target visually and bombing was reported as being very accurate. A.A. opposition was moderate. One aircraft (Captain 176437 F/O J. Johnson) failed to return, but was seen to be shot down over the target by heavy A A fire.
Lancaster Mk.III PB520 AA-G (14)
Listed as a MK.III PB524 10 times (AC) (AIR14/3463 Damage Reports)
F/S Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S Percy Leonard Smith, RNZAF NZ39886 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:05 – Landed 13:53
Flight Time 02:48
25/10/1944 – Attack Against Essen
Twenty six aircraft took off as detailed to attack Essen. Twenty three of these attacked the target and bombing was good, built up areas and factories being identified visually. One aircraft brought its bombs back owing to the failure of the bombing equipment when over the target and two other aircraft returned early owing to technical failures.
Lancaster Mk.III PB520 AA-G (15)
F/S Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S Percy Leonard Smith, RNZAF NZ39886 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 13:02 – Landed 17:20
Flight Time 04:18
26/10/1944 – Attack Against Leverkusen
Ten aircraft were detailed to attack Leverkusen. They all bombed the target in formation and a successful raid was reported. A.A. opposition was very slight.
Lancaster Mk.III PB520 AA-G (16)
F/S Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S Percy Leonard Smith, RNZAF NZ39886 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 13:04 – Landed 17:20
Flight Time 04:16
29/10/1944 – Attack Against West Kapelle
Fourteen aircraft took off to attack a target at West Kappelle. They all bombed as instructed by the Master Bomber and bombing was reported as concentrated, although it was thought to be slightly away from the correct aiming point. No opposition was encountered.
Lancaster Mk.III PB520 AA-G (18)
F/S Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S Percy Leonard Smith, RNZAF NZ39886 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 10:10 – Landed 12:37
Flight Time 02:27
30/10/1944 – Attack Against Wessling
Six aircraft took off to attack a target at Wesselling. Bombing was reported as being rather scattered. A.A. opposition was moderate to intense, but only one aircraft suffered damage.
Lancaster Mk.III PB421 AA-K (26)
F/S Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S Percy Leonard Smith, RNZAF NZ39886 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 09:06 – Landed 13:33
Flight Time 04:27
31/10/1944 – Attack Against Bottrop
Six aircraft took off as detailed to attack a target at Bottrop. they all attacked the target in formation and a fairly concentrated raid was achieved. A.A. fire over the target was intense but all of our aircraft returned safely.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (22)
F/S Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S Percy Leonard Smith, RNZAF NZ39886 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:49 – Landed 16:32
Flight Time 04:43
02/11/1944 – Attack Against Homberg
Twenty aircraft took off to attack the Oil Refinery at Homberg, carrying 7 x 8,000 lb, 13 x 4,000, 99 x 1,000 and 132 x 500 lb Bombs. All aircraft were successful in bombing the target in clear weather, and a concentrated raid developed. A large pall of black smoke was soon burning in the target area, and many crews saw their bombs burst in the smoke, through which parts of the factory were observed. Flak opposition was moderate to intense and eight aircraft suffered minor damage, but one aircraft captained by NZ421343 F/L V.J. Andrew, was hit by heavy flak when over the target and the starboard engine caught fire which the crew only managed to extinguish with great difficulty.
Lancaster Mk.III PB421 AA-K (28)
Hit by flak once (AIR14/3463 Damage Reports)
F/S Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S Leslie Charles Witchard, RAAF AUS.424334 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:34 – Landed 15:40
Flight Time 04:06
05/11/1944 – Attack Against Solingen
Eighteen aircraft detailed to make a second attack in daylight on Solingen carrying 8,000 lb, 4,000 lb, 1,000 lb, 500 lb, 4 lb inc. No.17 Clusters. All crews were successful in bombing in formation and reports indicate that bombing was more concentrated than in the previous raid.
Lancaster Mk.I HK593 AA-H (7)
F/S Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S Leslie Charles Witchard, RAAF AUS.424334 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 10:16 – Landed 15:30
Flight Time 05:14
06/10/1944 – Attack Against Coblenz
Sixteen aircraft were detailed for a night attack against Coblenz carrying 8,000 lb; 4,000 lb; No.14 clusters; No.17 clusters; 4lb inc. Fifteen aircraft were successful. The aircraft captained by F/O T. Winter (152351) returned early on account of engine trouble. Crews were able to identify the target visually in clear weather and a good concentrated raid developed, with smoke rising to 10,000 feet. NZ421919 F/O Kilpatrick, M had a short inconclusive encounter with a JU.88. Flak was moderate to slight.
Lancaster Mk.I HK593 AA-H (8)
P/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S S. Cooke, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 16:57 – Landed 22:12
Flight Time 05:15
08/11/1944 – Attack Against Homberg
Twelve aircraft took off to attack the Oil Refinery at Homberg in daylight carrying 8,000 lb., 4,000 lb., 1,000 lb., 500 lb., and No 14 Clusters. All crews report identifying the target visually through breaks in the clouds, and bombing was fairly concentrated, much smoke and many explosions were seen around the target. Flak defences were moderate, but no fighter opposition was encountered.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (25)
P/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
P/O Henry James Abrahams, RAFVR 1313153/ 183761 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 08:01 – Landed 12:16
Flight Time 04:1
27/11/1944 – Attack Against Cologne Marshalling Yard
Twenty three aircraft carried out a successful attack on Cologne Marshalling Yard with 4,000 lb and 500 lb bombs. Flak over the target was moderate but accurate. One aircraft captained by F/O D.P. Leadley landed away at Manston. The crew were unhurt, but the aircraft was damaged.
As is sometimes the case, the reportage of the Form 541 Raid Summary barely fails to describe the actual events for the Leadley crew this night. As noted by Ron Mayhill, A/B with Jake Aitken’s crew HK 593 was, he thinks. one of the aircraft that he saw get hit by flak over the target.
Lancaster Mk.I HK593 AA-M (16)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 16 x 500 M.C.,
Primary target Cologne M/Y.
Landed at Manston on two engines
Hit by flak 20 times (AC) Landed at Manston, crew unhurt. (AIR14/3463 Damage Reports)
From Don Day’s logbook ‘s/c on 3 engines, bomber late – shot up by flak landed Marston with 1 1/2 engines.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S P. Kidd, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 12:13 – Landed 17:10
Flight Time 04:57
For his efforts and skill on the return flight, F/O Donald Percy Leadley was awarded an Immediate Distinguished Flying Cross. The citation for this raid adds extra detail to the events of that night:
Citation DFC (Imm) 21st Dec 1944): In November 1944 this officer was pilot of an aircraft detailed to attack Cologne. Early on the outward flight the propeller of the starboard outer engine had to be feathered. Although some height was lost, Flying Officer Leadley went on to the target and executed his attack. During the operation the aircraft was hit by shrapnel . Some time later, en-route for home, the port inner engine commenced to emit smoke , whilst oil poured from it. Soon afterwards yet a third engine became defective. In spite of this Flying Officer Leadley flew to the nearest available airfield in this country and effected a safe landing. This officer has completed numerous sorties and has invariably displayed a high degree of skill, coolness and courage.
02/12/1944 – Attack Against Dortmund
Seventeen aircraft took off to make a daylight attack on the Coking Plant at Dortmund. All crews were successful in attacking the target which was covered by 10/10 cloud, tops being about 12,000 ft. and the raid was thought to be successful, though the Bomber stream was not as concentrated as usual. Flak was moderate, but very erratic, and none of our aircraft suffered damage. Bombs carried on this attack were 4,000 lb H.C., 1,000 lb. M.C. and 1,000 lb ANM.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (33)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 5 x 1,000 M.C., 4 x 1,000 ANM.
Primary target Dortmund.
Scattered attack.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S Leslie Charles Witchard, RAAF AUS.424334 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 12:47 – Landed 17:18
Flight Time 04:31
04/12/1944 – Attack Against Oberhausen
Twenty aircraft took off as detailed to attack an Oil target at Oberhausen, carrying 1 x 12,000 lb, 8,000 lb, 4,000 H.C., 1,000 ANM, 500 G.P., 500 M.C. and 4 lb I.B. bombs. Nineteen aircraft attacked the target using navigational aids and the raid was reported as well concentrated though results were unobserved owing to 10/10 cloud with tops 10,000 ft covering the target. One aircraft bombed Gelsenkirchen, having been damaged by flak.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (34)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 6 x 1,000 ANM, 6 x 500 G.P.
Primary target Oberhausen.
Second wave well concentrated bombing.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S Leslie Charles Witchard, RAAF AUS.424334 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 12:24 – Landed 16:08
Flight Time 03:44
05/12/1944 – Attack Against Hamm Marshalling Yards
Twenty one aircraft set out as detailed to attack the Railway Marshalling Yards at Hamm during daylight, carrying 8,000 lb H.C., 4,000 H.C., 500 G.P., 500 G.P. (LD.), 500 M.C., 4 lb I.B. bombs and Munroe bomb. Twenty aircraft attacked the target area through 10/10 cloud but a break in the cloud a little later disclosed bomb bursts to be rather scattered. One aircraft was led astray by the leader, and bombed a last resort target at Heintrop.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (35)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 12 x 500 G.P., 2 x 500 G.P. LD 6hrs
Primary target Hamm M/Y.
Good concentration.
P/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/L Stanley William Galloway, RAFVR 148919 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 09:09 – Landed 13:50
Flight Time 04:41
06/12/1944 – Attack Against Mersburg Leuna Oil Refinery
Twelve aircraft took off as detailed to participate in a night attack o the Merseburg Leuna Oil Refinery, carrying 8,000 lb, 4,000 H.C., 500 G.P., 500 G.P.(LD) bombs. The target was covered with 10/10 cloud, tops about 14,000 ft and all aircraft were successful in bombing the target with navigational aids. The attack was considered to be concentrated, though bombing results could not be seen, apart from the glow of fires seen beneath the cloud. Flak was intense in the target area and a few enemy fighters were seen en route but no attacks were reported. One aircraft, AA “R” captained by 1585981 F/O D. Atkin, had engine trouble after leaving the target, the starboard inner catching fire, and it was with great difficulty that the crew managed to keep the fire under control. When approaching this country the starboard inner engine went u/s and after jettisoning all equipment and with the aircraft losing height at 100 feet per minute, the Captain made a very good ditching in the River Orwell. None of the crew were hurt.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (36)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 6 x 500 G.P., 2 x 500 G.P.L.D. 6hrs
Primary target Meresburg Oil Refinery.
Fairly good concentration on markers.
P/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/L Stanley William Galloway, RAFVR 148919 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 17:05 – Landed 00:16
Flight Time 07:11
12/12/1944 – Attack Against Witten
Sixteen aircraft were detailed to attack Witten in daylight and again found their target obscured by ten tenths cloud. Moderate flak was encountered and enemy fighters were seen attacking the first wave of aircraft ahead. No results were observed owing to cloud. The aircraft captained by F/Lt Hannan collided with another aircraft just before reaching the target, however the target was bombed and base reached safely. The a/c captained by F/S Zinzan was damaged in landing and the Air Bomber F/O Mesure sustained a broken leg.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (39)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 14 x 500 G.P., 2 x 500 M.C.
Primary target Witten.
Lead in first wave somewhat scattered due to attack by enemy fighter.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S J. Brown, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:19 – Landed 15:54
Flight Time 04:35
21/12/1944 – Attack Against Trier
Fourteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above target in daylight. Crews bombed by instruments in ten tenths cloud. Results were unobserved. NZ42397 F/L I. Hannan landed at Mendlesham on return, but reached Base later the same evening.
Lancaster Mk.I PB132 AA-X (55)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 8 x 500 ANM, 2 x 500 M.C., 6 x 250 G.P.
Primary target Trier.
Gunners saw target through gap, seemed well hit.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S J. Brown, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 12:19 – Landed 16:50
Flight Time 04:31
23/12/1944 – Attack Against Trier
The twenty one aircraft detailed on the 22nd December took off to attack Trier in improved weather conditions, carrying 4,000 H.C., 500 G.P., 500 M.C., 500 ANM., 250 G.P. bombs. The target could be identified visually and T.Is were aimed at by most crews. The attack was reported as being good with very few scattered bombs. Several explosions were seen as our aircraft left the target.
Lancaster Mk.III LM544 AA-J (76)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 8 x 500 ANM, 2 x 500 M.C., 6 x 250 G.P.
Primary target Trier.
Very good concentration of bombs in target area.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S J. Brown, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:44 – Landed 16:37
Flight Time 04:53
27/12/1944 – Attack Against Rheydt
As many crews as possible were required for an attack on Cologne. The target was cancelled and an attack on Rheydt was substituted. Inexperienced and special equipment leaders not being required the offer of 26 was reduced to 20. Aircraft took off carrying 1,000 ANM., 500 ANM., 500 M.C. and 250 G.P. Bombs. Visibility over the target was excellent and crews were able to identify the target, the flares being accurately placed. Clouds of smoke were seen to rise from the target. One aircraft AA”Q” captained by NZ421746 F/O H. Miles failed to return. This aircraft was seen to be hit by bombs and to spiral down.
Lancaster Mk.I LM266 AA-F (49)
Bomb load 6 x 1,000 ANM, 4 x 500 ANM, 2 x 500 M.C., 4 x 250 G.P.
Primary target Rheydt.
Very good concentration of bombing over target. AA-O dropped bombs from 23,000ft. after being directly above for 3 minutes and had to take violent evasive action to avoid being hit.
P/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S J. Brown, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 12:27 – Landed 16:45
Flight Time 04:18
28/12/1944 – Attack Against Gremberg M/Y at Cologne
Twenty one aircraft were detailed to attack the Gremberg Marshalling yard at Cologne carrying 4,000 H.C., 1,000 ANM., 500 ANM., 500 M.C., and 250 G.P. Bombs. Nineteen aircraft bombed the target and one bombed short due to technical failure. One aircraft AA”S” captained by NZ425292 F/O D. Sadgrove returned early owing to engine trouble. Crews were satisfied that the attack was successful, many reporting smoke rising well above the cloud tops. Slight H/F was experienced, but no fighter opposition.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (41)
Bomb load 2 x 1,000 ANM, 15 x 500 ANM.
Primary target Grenberg M/Y.
A bit too concentrated to be safe.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S J. Brown, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 12:15 – Landed 16:58
Flight Time 04:43
31/12/1944 – Attack Against Vohwinkel
Seventeen aircraft were detailed to attack Vohwinkel in daylight. Moderate accurate heavy flak was met over the target, but all aircraft returned safely. A scattered raid was reported.
Lancaster Mk.I PB741 AA-E (16)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 8 x 500 ANM, 2 x 500 M.C. 4 x 250 G.P.
Primary target Vohwinkel.
Generally good but some scattered bombing.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S J. Brown, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:44 – Landed 16:23
Flight Time 04:39
01/01/1945 – Attack Against Vohwinkel
Twenty one aircraft were detailed to attack Vohwinkel, in datlight. Nineteen aircraft took off, seventeen of which attacked the primary target. F/O McMillan attacked a last resort target. NZ40984 W/Cdr. R.J. Newton and NZ429286 P/O R. Aitchison as second pilot, failed to return. There was very little opposition in the target area.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-U (44)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 12 x 500 ANM, 2 x 500 M.C. 4 x 250 T.I.
Primary target Vohwinkel.
Uneventful trip.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S J. Brown, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 16:01 – Landed 21:38
Flight Time 05:37
03/01/1945 – Attack Against Dortmund Oil Refinery
Fourteen aircraft were detailed to attack Dortmund Oil Refineries in daylight. Crews bombed by instruments in ten tenths cloud. Results were unobserved. The aircraft carried 4,000 H.C., 500 M.C. 500 G.P. 500 ANM and Munro bombs. NZ42397 F/L L. Hannan landed at Mendalsham on return, but reached base later the same evening.
Lancaster Mk.I LM266 AA-F (53)
Bomb load 1x 1,000 H.C., 13 x 500 G.P., 2 x 500 M.C. 1 Munro.
Primary target Dortmund oil refinery.
Good concentration on flares.
Hit by flak once (AIR14/ 3463 Damage reports)
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Noel Thorpe, RNZAF NZ428168 – 2nd Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. W. Pugh, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 12:39 – Landed 17:35
Flight Time 04:56
11/01/1945 – Attack Against Krefeld
Nineteen aircraft were detailed to attack Krefeld, carrying 4,000 H.C., 500AMN., 500G.P., 500 M.C., 250 G.P., and Munro bombs. Seventeen aircraft bombed the target in tenths cloud with special equipment and two aircraft bombed last resort. Slight H/F was met over the target, but no fighters were seen.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (48)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 8 x 500 M.C., 4 x 250 G.P., 1 x 350 Munroe.
Primary target Krefeld.
Fairly good bombing around flares.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S D. Brazier , RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:34 – Landed 16:46
Flight Time 05:12
13/01/1945 – Attack Against Saarbrucken
Eighteen of nineteen aircraft detailed carried out a successful daylight attack on Saarbrucken Marshalling Yard, carrying 4,000 H.C., 500AMN., 500G.P., 500 M.C., 250 G.P., and Munro bombs. W/Cdr Baigent in ‘A’ had to return with his full load after reaching the target owing to technical trouble which prevented release of bombs. Crews bombed on special equipment. The Marshalling Yard was visible and many bursts were seen on the target. No opposition reported. All aircraft were diverted owing to bad visibility at Base.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (49)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 7 x 500 ANM, 4 x 250 G.P., 1 x 350 Munroe.
Primary target Saarbrucken.
A very good attack. Blue markers a great improvement.
P/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
W/O John Smyrk, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:31 – Landed 17:14
Flight Time 05:43
15/01/1945 – Attack Against Langendreer
Eighteen aircraft were detailed to attack Langendreer, carrying 4,000 H.C., 500AMN., 500 M.C., 250 G.P., and Munro bombs. One aircraft ‘D’ captained by F/O Leadley failed to reach the target owing to starboard inner engine failing. No results were observed owing to ten tenths cloud. Flak was slight over the target. No fighter opposition was encountered.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 X AA-D (1)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 9 x 500 ANM, 2 x 500 M.C., 4 x 250 G.P. 1 x 350 Munroe.
Primary target Langendreer, but abortive.
Furthest point reached 5027/0530 E 14:14hrs 16,000ft. Bombs jettisoned, stbd. inner failed.
Confirmed in Don Day’s logbook – ‘Engine failiure – returned’
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
P/O F. Power – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 11:31 – Landed 17:02
Flight Time 05:31
16/01/1945 – Attack Against Wanne Eickel
Seventeen aircraft attacked Wanne Hickel in ten tenths cloud, tops 6/7000 feet, carrying 4,000 H.C., 500 G.P. 500 ANM, 500 M.C. 250 G.P. and Munro bombs. Crews bombed with the aid of instruments and sky markers. Flak was moderate. The general impression was that bombing was concentrated on markers and red glow seen through cloud. The aircraft captained by NZ426235 F/S Wood, J, was attacked by a F.W. 190. The rear gunner opened fire, but no hits were observed and our aircraft suffered no damage. The aircraft captained by NZ414376 F/L T. Blewett unfortunately crashed in this country. The captain and Air Bomber NZ426234 F/O J. Wilson were killed. The Navigator 1398282 F/S Cornell, B.T. died later as a result of severe injuries.
Lancaster Mk.I PB763 AA-A (18)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 10 x 500 G.P, 2 x 500 M.C., 2 x 250 G.p, 1 x Munroe.
Primary target Wanne Eickel.
Bombing scattered – saw red glow – S/L followed stream in and out this side of front line.
Hit by flak twice (AIR14/3463 Damage Reports)
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
F/S D. Brazier , RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 23:35 – Landed 04:09
Flight Time 04:34
28/01/1945 – Attack Against Cologne (Gremberg)
Twenty aircraft attacked Cologne (Gremberg) as ordered, carrying 4,000 H.C., 500 ANM., 500 M.C. “50 G.P. and Munro bombs. Cloud broke to nil just before the target and crews were able to identify the marshalling yard. Accurate slight to moderate H/F was met over the target. No fighters were seen. Bursts were seen on the marshalling yard. All returned to base.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (50)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 8 x 500 ANM, 2 x 500 M.C., 2 x 250 G.P, 1 Munro.
Cologne (Gremburg).
Target seemed to get a good plastering with tendency to overshoot.
Hit by Flak twice (AIR14/3463 Damage Reports)
P/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. W.E. Campin, RAFVR 1673010 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 10:20 – Landed 16:24
Flight Time 06:04
29/01/1945 – Attack Against Krefeld M/Y
Nineteen aircraft attacked Krefeld marshalling yard in ten tenths cloud, carrying 4,000 H.C., 500 ANM., 500 M.C., and 250 G.P. Bombs. Aircraft bombed in formation with the aid of instruments. A good concentration was reported. Slight H/F over the target was the only opposition encountered.
Lancaster Mk.III PB418 AA-G (63)
Bomb load 1 x 4,000 H.C., 9 x 500 ANM, 2 x 500 M.C., 4 x 250 G.P.
Primary target Krefeld M/Y.
Other aircraft were bearing through the target and upset the formation after owing to slipstream.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. W.E. Campin, RAFVR 1673010 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 10:02 – Landed 15:40
Flight Time 05:38
01/02/1945 – Attack Against Munchen Gladbach
Seventeen aircraft bomber Munchen Gladbach. No results were observed owing to cloud being ten tenths over the target.
Lancaster Mk.I NG113 AA-D (51)
Bomb load 1x 4,000 H.C., 9 x 500 ANM, 2 x 500 M.C., 3 x 250 G.P., 1 x 240 Smoke Puff.
Primary target Munchen Gladbach.
Seemed a scattered affair. Blue puffs over a wide area. A shakey port inner which caught fire on way home was cause of low maximum height.
F/O Donald Percy Leadley, RNZAF NZ427062 – Pilot.
F/S Donald Arthur Day, RAFVR 1602082 – Navigator.
F/S Robert A. ‘Bob’ Gill, RAFVR 1292170 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. W.E. Campin, RAFVR 1673010 – Wireless Operator.
F/S R. Clare, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Phillip Baden Baker, RNZAF NZ416976 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Keith Kitchener Heslop, RNZAF NZ425422 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 12:36 – Landed 18:19
Flight Time 05:43
Don stood second from right on his Brother, Dave’s wedding day. © Peter Day
Sgt. Eric Arthur Wilkes, RAFVR 1575513, Navigator with the Bruhns crew. Lost without trace February 24th 1944 whilst mining in the Kiel Bay area.
Many thanks to Helen for reaching out to us regarding information about her Great Uncle, Eric Wilkes, Navigator with Henry Bruhn’s crew, all of whom were lost on the night of the 22nd of February 1944 on a Gardening Op to Kiel Bay.
Like many relatives, Helen knows very little about Eric’s time with the Squadron and it was quite humbling to hear back from her after I had sent the Op history below, to realise that this was more of Eric’s Wartime career than any of the family knew of.
As always in these request for information posts, fingers crossed that someone, perhaps another relative of the crew might see this and be able to tell us all a little more about the Bruhns crew.
The Bruhns crew arrives from 1651 Conversion Unit:
NZ42367. F/S. PIL. BRUHNS, H. Posted from 1651 C.U., w.e.f. 3/1/44. (Authy.P/N.3G/3580/43 dtd. 20/12/43)
NZ421672. Sgt. A/B. BUTLER, L. Posted from 1651 C.U., w.e.f. 3/1/44. (Authy.P/N.3G/3580/43 dtd. 20/12/43)
1575513. SGT. NAV. WILKES, E. 1395702. SGT. W/AIR. SUMMERS, W. 1601839. SGT. F/ENG. HARRY, J. 1392121. SGT. A/G HALL,R. Posted from 1651 C.U. w.e.f. 3/1/44. (Authy. P/N.3G/3580/43 dated 23/12/44)
AUS447521. SGT. A/G. SAWTELL, A. Posted from 1651 C.U. w.e.f. 3/1/44 (Authy. P/N. 3G/3580/43 dtd. 22/12/43).
Harold Bruhns undertook 2 ‘2nd Dickie’ Ops before becoming skipper of his own crew. On the 6th of January 1944 he flew with S/L James Climie, Gardening in the Gironde Estuary and 8 days later on the 16th of January with David Gibb’s crew to a ‘Special Target’.
4 days later, the Bruhns crew began their operational tour with 75(NZ) Squadron.
20/01/1944 – Mining off the Frisian Islands
Seven aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with mines of 1500 lbs. One aircraft was withdrawn but the remainder successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area. No opposition was met and the trip was uneventful. The weather was good and visibility clear except for slight sea haze. Navigation was excellent.
Stirling Mk.III BK695 AA-N (9)
F/S Harold Henry Bruhns, RNZAF NZ42367 – Pilot.
Sgt. Eric Arthur Wilkes, RAFVR 1575513 – Navigator.
Sgt. Laurie Licence Butler, RNZAF NZ421672 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Woolf Jack Summers, RAFVR 1395702 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Piers Trevor Stevens, RAFVR 1813627 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Robert Ewen Hall, RAFVR 1392121 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Arthur Hertley Sawtell, RAAF AUS.417521 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 17:00 – Landed 20:00
Flight Time 03:00
21/01/1944 – Attack against a Special Target
Twenty aircraft were detailed to attack the above target with bombs of 500 lbs. All of the aircraft successfully dropped their bombs in the target area, large bomb bursts and some fires being observed. Very little opposition was encountered and this proved to be negligible. The weather was good with no cloud and clear visibility. Navigation was excellent.
Stirling Mk.III BK695 AA-N (10)
Listed as BK605, but no record of this A/C – I suspect its actually BK695
F/S Harold Henry Bruhns, RNZAF NZ42367 – Pilot.
Sgt. Eric Arthur Wilkes, RAFVR 1575513 – Navigator.
Sgt. Laurie Licence Butler, RNZAF NZ421672 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Woolf Jack Summers, RAFVR 1395702 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Piers Trevor Stevens, RAFVR 1813627 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Robert Ewen Hall, RAFVR 1392121 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Arthur Hertley Sawtell, RAAF AUS.417521 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 18:20 – Landed 21:30
Flight Time 03:10
25/01/1944 – Attack against a Special Target
Twenty aircraft were detailed to attack the above target with bombs of 500 lbs. One aircraft failed to take-off, & four brought their bombs back. The remainder however, successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. This operation did not appear to be very successful, the bombing being rather scattered, some large explosions were seen, however. The weather was good with no cloud and clear visibility. Navigation was very good.
Stirling Mk.III EH945 ?-? (1)
F/S Harold Henry Bruhns, RNZAF NZ42367 – Pilot.
Sgt. Eric Arthur Wilkes, RAFVR 1575513 – Navigator.
Sgt. Laurie Licence Butler, RNZAF NZ421672 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Woolf Jack Summers, RAFVR 1395702 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. James William Harry, RAFVR 1601839 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Robert Ewen Hall, RAFVR 1392121 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/S Arthur Hertley Sawtell, RAAF AUS.417521 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 23:44 – Landed 04:00
Flight Time 04:16
30/01/1944 – Mining in the Gironde Estuary
Six aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with mines of 1,500lbs. Five of the aircraft brought their mines back as bad visibility prevented them from finding the mining area. One aircraft successfully dropped its mines in the allotted area although the parachutes were not seen to open. No opposition was met and the trip was uneventful. The weather was bad and there was 10/10ths cloud in the mining area. Navigation was good.
Stirling Mk.III EF948 ?-? (1)
F/S Harold Henry Bruhns, RNZAF NZ42367 – Pilot.
Sgt. Eric Arthur Wilkes, RAFVR 1575513 – Navigator.
Sgt. L. Buckley, – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Woolf Jack Summers, RAFVR 1395702 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. James William Harry, RAFVR 1601839 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Robert Ewen Hall, RAFVR 1392121 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Arthur Hertley Sawtell, RAAF AUS.417521 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 17:00 – Landed 01:45
Flight Time 08:45
19/02/1944 – Mining in Kiel Bay
Fifteen aircraft were detailed to lay mines of 1500 lbs from a high level, but two aircraft failed to take off owing to engine trouble. The remaining thirteen aircraft completed their operation without incident, and the pathfinder markers were dropped accurately for the final run, being identified by all.
Stirling Mk.III EF217 ?-? (12)
F/S Harold Henry Bruhns, RNZAF NZ42367 – Pilot.
Sgt. Eric Arthur Wilkes, RAFVR 1575513 – Navigator.
Sgt. Laurie Licence Butler, RNZAF NZ421672 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Woolf Jack Summers, RAFVR 1395702 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. James William Harry, RAFVR 1601839 – Flight Engineer.
F/S Arthur Hertley Sawtell, RAAF AUS.417521 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Robert Ewen Hall, RAFVR 1392121 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 23:50 – Landed 05:50
Flight Time 06:00
22/02/1944 – Mining in Kiel Bay
Fifteen aircraft were detailed to lay mines of 1,500 lbs in Kiel Bay. After being airborne for one hour all of the aircraft were recalled owing to unsuitable weather conditions.
Stirling Mk.III EH948 AA-Q (15)
F/S Harold Henry Bruhns, RNZAF NZ42367 – Pilot.
Sgt. Eric Arthur Wilkes, RAFVR 1575513 – Navigator.
Sgt. Laurie Licence Butler, RNZAF NZ421672 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Woolf Jack Summers, RAFVR 1395702 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. James William Harry, RAFVR 1601839 – Flight Engineer.
F/S Arthur Hertley Sawtell, RAAF AUS.417521 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Robert Ewen Hall, RAFVR 1392121 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 16:45 – Landed 19:20
Flight Time 02:35
24/02/1944 – Mining in Kiel Bay
Fifteen aircraft were detailed with a large force to lay mines of 1500 lbs in Kiel Bay, and fourteen returned after completing their mission successfully. One aircraft (Captain NZ42367 F/S. Bruhns H.) is missing, and no news was heard after take-off.
Stirling Mk.III EH948 AA-Q (16)
F/S Harold Henry Bruhns, RNZAF NZ42367 – Pilot.
F/S Eric Arthur Wilkes, RAFVR 1575513 – Navigator.
Sgt. Laurie Licence Butler, RNZAF NZ421672 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Woolf Jack Summers, RAFVR 1395702 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. James William Harry, RAFVR 1601839 – Flight Engineer.
F/S Arthur Hertley Sawtell, RAAF AUS.417521 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Robert Ewen Hall, RAFVR 1392121 – Rear Gunner.
Take Off 18:10 – Landed MISSING
It is presumed that EH948 crashed in the target area – nothing being heard from it after take-off. Of the 7 crew, only the body of F/S Athur Sawtell was recovered.
F/S Harold Henry Bruhns – Pilot. Died age 22.
Commemorated on Panel 263 Runnymede Memorial.
F/S Eric Arthur Wilkes – Navigator. Died age 22.
Commemorated on Panel 240 Runnymede Memorial.
Sgt. Laurie Licence Butler – Air Bomber. Died age 22.
Commemorated on Panel 253 Runnymede Memorial.
Sgt. Woolf Jack Summers – Wireless Operator. Died age 22.
Commemorated on Panel 238 Runnymede Memorial.
Sgt. James William Harry – Flight Engineer. Died age 20.
Commemorated on Panel 231 Runnymede Memorial.
F/S Arthur Hertley Sawtell – Mid Upper Gunner. Died age 19.
Buried Aabenraa Cemetery Denmark.
Sgt. Robert Ewen Hall – Rear Gunner. Died age 25.
Commemorated on Panel 230 Runnymede Memorial.
Many thanks to Noel for reacting so quickly to last nights post about the Crawford crew with this wonderful picture of Bruce Crawford, Noel Thorpe and Noel’s Dad, Wynn Russell.
Noel says that the photograph was taken in Brighton in March 1944 with the caption ‘note the crowns‘ – clearly a hint that they are all Flight Sergeants. Based on the date of this visit to Brighton, it was certainly when Noel Thorpe was at No. 3 (P) A.F.U. – we must assume that therefore, Bruce and Wynn arrived in the UK at the same time and also were at No. 3 at the same time.
Clearly the boys were close and must have literally moved through training along side each other – arriving at 75(NZ) Squadron on the 21st, 30th and 31st of December 1944 respectively.
Tragically the 3 friends would not see the end of the War together. On the 26th of February 1945, whilst in formation over base, having returned from Dortmund, ME450 AA-W appeared to lose power in its starboard engines and whilst in a gentle right turn, the aircraft lost height and crashed North West of the airfield near the village of Chatteris at 16:10. As well as Noel Thorpe, the Navigator George William McManus, Joseph McKenzie Alfred the Air Bomber and Frederick Henry Saffill the Mid Upper Gunner were killed in the crash.
The Crawford crew – left to right, back row ( I believe) : Francis Geoffrey Boulton (Navigator), Sgt. C. Bullock (Air Bomber), Roderick Bruce Crawford (Skipper), Sgt. J. Tutty (Rear Gunner) & Sgt. D. Scott (Wireless Operator). Front row, left to right: Sgt. R. Allred, Flight Engineer & Arthur George Smith (Mid Upper Gunner) © Rosalind Ebbrell
It never ceases to amaze and please me when, after a post, a relative of another of the crew contacts me. I have to confess, Rosalind probably broke all records to date, when after posting the story about Arthur Smith, the Crawford crew and the crash of ND801 ‘Get Sum Inn’ she had placed a comment on the post within 30mins! I am a little ashamed that I have only just got round to posting this remarkable set of photographs of Rosalind’s Father and the rest of the Crawford crew.
Rosalind’s Father was Francis Geoffrey Boulton, Navigator with the Crawford crew. Known as Geoff, he suffered a broken neck in the February 3rd crash and this explains his absence from the last recorded flight by the crew on the 26th of May 1945 (Form 541).
Ros has passed on a number of photographs and a puzzle exists in terms of who is in some these photographs if we subtract Geoff, Bruce Crawford and Mike Smith……..
Geoff Boulton, sat front row, 4th from left. © Rosalind Ebbrell
Taken obviously at some point through Geoff’s training, in my mind, the white flashes on the caps and the generally plump and happy demeanor of the individuals in the photograph suggest that this might actually be No 1 Aircrew Reception Centre, RAF Regent’s Park.
© Rosalind Ebbrell
This second picture of Geoff, is possibly from his trade training – none of the individuals in the picture, apart from the chap with his hands on the shoulders of the little boy, have brevets or stripes – both awarded after this stage of training, prior to crew formation at O.T.U.
© Rosalind Ebbrell
My suspicion is that these 2 pictures are also from Geoff’s time, training as a Navigator.
© Rosalind Ebbrell
As will all trainee aircrew, after completion of ‘trade training’, he would have gone To O.T.U, formed into a crew, progressed through a Conversion Unit and at this point in the War, completed a final week at a Lancaster Finishing School, before being posted to an OPerational Squadron – in the case of Geoff and the rest of his crew, 75(NZ) Squadron RAF, Mepal, Cambridgeshire.
Picture 1 – The Crawford crew: from Left to Right (I think) Sgt. R. Allred, Geoff Boulton, Sgt. C. Bullock, Bruce Crawford, Sgt. J. Tutty, Sgt. D. Scott and Arthur Smith.
The following 2 images (above and below) provided me with enough to go on, in terms of known individuals and visible brevets to make a stab at identifying all the airmen in the photographs. My logic was as follows, based on the known identities of 3 – Geoff the Navigator, Bruce Crawford the Pilot and Arthur Smith the Rear Gunner. Picture 1 (top image) – obviously I have begun with Bruce, Geoff and Arthur. At this point I did not know who the other members of the crew in this photograph were.
Picture 2 – Looking at the individuals to the right of this photograph, the airman second in has what appears to be a 2 letter brevet (uniform badge). This means he is the other air gunner in the crew, thus, I believe Sgt. J. Tutty.
The airman on the far right of the photograph I think has a ‘B’ brevet – thus I think he is Sgt. C. Bullock. The airman on the far left of the picture seems to have a WOAG (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) badge on his right shoulder – I think therefore he is the Wireless Operator Sgt. D. Scott. By a process of simple elimination this means that the 7th member in the top picture is missing from this lower photograph and thus must be Sgt. R. Allred, the crew’s Flight Engineer. Based on this, I then named the individuals in Picture 1
Picture 2 the Crawford crew:from left to right (again I think) Sgt. R. Allred, Arthur Smith, Bruce Crawford, Geoff Boulton, Sgt. J. Tutty and Sgt C. Bullock. © Rosalind Ebbrell
This third group photograph has provided far more discussion in the Sommerville household. Bev’s vehement refusal to believe the individual on the front row far right was Arthur Smith, finally was infact proved to be correct – having latterly shown the image to Arthur’s daughter Pauline, she also felt this wasn’t Arthur.
© Rosalind Ebbrell
After the Dormund crash on the 3rd of February 1945, The Crawford crew did not fly together again until the 25th of May. On this Op, Geoff was still absent and his position of Navigator was taken by P/O McGarry. Geoff returned to the crew, first under taking a formation flying exercise on the 15th June 1944. Three more training flights took place during the rest of June.
© Rosalind Ebbrell
Through July of ’44, Geoff and at least Bruce, flew another 4 times – interestingly, the logbook page for July seems to suggest through the ‘Summary for 75 NZ Squadron’ that perhaps at this point the crew’s time with the Squadron was at an end – I have never seen however a final tally entry like this, only to then see another flight after it – perhaps an indication of the lack of necessary immediacy to ‘get out’, now the War in Europe, at least, was 2 months over………
© Rosalind Ebbrell
The crew history that I originally posted in my first post about the Crawford crew and ND801 “Get Summ Inn’ (here) shows that certainly the 2 gunners in the crew, Arthur Smith and Sgt. Tutty completed a number of Ops after Dortmund, both surviving the crash relatively unscathed. This might in some part suggest at least their absence from this picture.
Frustratingly, Form 541 ceases to exist at the beginning of July, so unless we hear from someone else, it might be difficult to put names to the faces in this last photograph.
A picture of the ‘Skipper’ Roderick Bruce Crawford. © Rosalind Ebbrell
I am aware, though not of the specific details of Geoff’s career after his time in 75(NZ) Squadron, but the final photograph shows Geoff and 3 unknown individuals in sunnier climes, in front of the Taj Mahal in India – now sporting an “R.A.F. moustache”
Geoff Boulton, by this time, ex-Navigator with the Crawford crew, second from left. © Rosalind Ebbrell
75(nz)squadron 