Best Wishes for the Christmas holidays and the New Year!

Unfortunately a change of plans means Bev and I must head off down South, sooner than we had originally planned to be with Mum for Christmas.

I had planned to do a few more posts prior to Christmas and then, as I did last year, one for Christmas day.

Unfortunately that will all have to wait for when we get back.

I’d like to wish everybody all the best over the Christmas period and if I don’t post before, all the best for the New Year as well

 

Shrewsbury General Cemetery – Sgt. Alan John Francis RAFVR 1815847

Alan Francis was killed on or about the 17th of May 1943 when the Stirling Mk.I that he was  Gunner in suffered a double engine failure whilst on a training flight over Stoke-on-Trent.

On instructions from the Pilot, Leslie Charles Wright, the entire crew baled out. Sgt. Wright bravely stayed at the controls of the aircraft and in doing so, prevented the aircraft from crashing into Stoke-on-Trent. All of the crew landed safely, apart from Alan, who was found 4 days later in a field, one assumes a victim of a parachute failure.

As was common, a training flight sometimes included Ground crew and not a full compliment of Air crew. Certainly on that day, AC1 Bailey was on board. It would appear that Alan was also not regular crew. The Wright crew had only flown 4 Ops so far with 75(NZ) Squadron RAF, but for all of these, the positions of Mid Upper and Rear Gunner had been filled by Fred Crowther and Bert Knox respectively.

Read the post about the crash and the headstone of Sgt. Wright here.

A bit of a puzzle…..

Looking back through the database things seemed to become more, not less complicated……

Interrogating the database under the 2 gunnery positions only identified a ‘J. Francis’ – this individual flying essentially the ‘Stirling Portion’ of the Jackson crew’s tour before continuing, with the majority of the Jackson crew (sans John Jackson) to crew under S/L Frank Andrews.

Referring to the ‘Official’ records, there are 2 Francis’ that are to be considered:

FRANCIS Sgt Alan John RAF (1815847) AG 4 to 17 May 1943, c/w J H R Carey as R/Gnr. Died Monday 17th May 1943, age 19, during a local training flight when his aircraft developed a double engine failure. Died on baling out. Buried Shrewsbury Ceneral Cemetery, England.

and

FRANCIS. F/Sgt J RAF (1319643) A/G x Oct 1942 to 21 Oct 1943. c/w J Jackson as MU/Gnr. then F A Andrews.

The second individual fits perfectly into the record that the database presents and on the face of it – that should be that.

However, for some reason, I didn’t feel comfortable with this…..

“Sgt. Francis” as we shall refer to him arrives after the ‘main’ Jackson crew. The  Squadron is in a period of transition  from Wellington to Stirling bombers and 75(NZ) is negotiating the transfer  of the Squadron by Flights, to Oakington for conversion training. To this end, the Jackson crew take on an extra gunner for the position of Mid Upper Gunner – Sgt. Francis and a Flight Engineer, Bill Riley.

This ‘new’ Jackson crew fly their first Op back on Squadron on the 16th of December 1942 – Operations, Gardening off Bordeaux.

Sgt. Francis undertakes all Ops with the Jackson crew, through the beginning of the new year, as Mid Upper Gunner including on the 18th of February a Gardening trip to the Gironde Estuary.

Now referring back to the database – there is a sudden gap until the 5th of May 1943, for which I have no explanation.

Scanning through the crew movements for April at the end of the Form 540 identifies the following:

this clearly shows 4 of the Jackson crew – including a Sgt. A. Jackson 1815847 and their movement to 1657 Conversion Unit.

At this point, I would observe that if the two personnel records previously stated are true, there is no way that the Sgt. Francis listed in the above movement could possibly exist – theoretically his service number would not be known to the person typing this record, for another month………

In the equivalent portion of the May 540 the same 4 airmen are recorded as returning back to 75(NZ) Squadron from 1657 CU. Once again, but now with his second initial, A.J. Francis 1815847.

Perhaps, on the next page of this record for May there exists a clue to this puzzle:

Sgt. A.J. Francis is listed again, with Sgt. T.E. Beaver – who was part of John Carey’s crew. Now, I believe, this has to actually be Sgt. J. Francis – the irony being that having misidentified Alan all this time as J. Francis, as soon as a J. Francis DOES arrive, they misidentify him as Alan.

FINALLY, in the October Form 540 Sgt. J. Francis 1319643  appears – just as he leaves to go to No.12 O.T.U.

Based on the evidence, I believe that Alan John Francis was Mid Upper Gunner with John Jackson’s crew, from his first Op at the end of December 1942, until , or around the 13th of May 1943 when the crew flew to Bochum.

There is indeed an almost perverse irony that, it would seem that Alan’s replacement after his death on the 17th May was also called Francis.

 

John deserves his portion of the Jackson crew’s Op history to be presented, as do all the other members.

Perhaps finally he has a history – which until now seems to have been lost within the ‘Official’ records of the Squadron………..

John Jackson’s crew arrived at the Squadron, probably at some point early to mid July 1942, their first Op being on the 28th of July to Hamburg.

28/07/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Hamburg
Seventeen a/c were detailed to carry out an attack on the above target. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 30lb and 4lb incendiaries was dropped in target area and bursts were seen in dock area. A.A. fire was very accurate, light and heavy predicted. There were many accurate searchlight cones in parts but clear over target. Navigation was good by TR and DR. Six a/c failed to return to base

Wellington Mk.III X.3636 AA-R

Sgt. John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. F.J.G. Tanner, RAFVR – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Dunn, RAF? – Front Gunner.
Sgt. S.A. Warburton, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:00 – Landed 05:15
Flight Time 06:15

29/07/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Saarbrucken
Ten a/c were detailed to attack the above targets and bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs, 30lb and 4;b incendiaries was dropped in target area. Hits were observed in target area. A.A. fire was weak and searchlights scarce. A twin-engined fighter was seen on return route. Well. III, X3396 was attacked by JU88 but was able to evade it. Weather was cloudy. Navigation was TR and DR.

Wellington Mk.III X.3636 AA-R

Sgt. John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. F.J.G. Tanner, RAFVR – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Dunn, RAF? – Front Gunner.
Sgt. S.A. Warburton, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:59 – Landed 05:35
Flight Time 05:36

31/07/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Dusseldorf
Eleven a/c were detailed to carry out an attack on the above targets. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 30lb and 4lb incendiaries was dropped in target area. Good results were obtained and hits observed. A.A. fire was moderate and search lights although numerous, were ineffective. Well.III, X3396 was attacked by a JU88 but evaded successfully. F/Sgt. Lewis, rear gunner of Well.III, X3646 was struck and injured by a 4lb incendiary bomb falling from another a/c. Weather was good and navigation was by DR and TR

Wellington Mk.III X.3636 AA-R

Sgt. John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. F.J.G. Tanner, RAFVR – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Dunn, RAF? – Front Gunner.
Sgt. S.A. Warburton, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 00:25 – Landed 05:10
Flight Time 04:45

06/08/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Duisburg
Eight aircraft were detailed to attack the above target, Bomb load of 4000lb, 250lb, incendiaries and flares were dropped in the target area. A.A. fire was heavy and in some parts scattered, ground haze caused searchlights to be ineffective. No enemy aircraft were seen. The weather was good. Navigation was fairly good bt T.R. and D.R. Wellington X3636, captained by Sgt. Jackson.J. was hit by A.A. fire which caused hydraulics to be unserviceable in his aircraft, he landed successfully on return.

Wellington Mk.III X.3636 AA-R

Sgt. John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. F.J.G. Tanner, RAFVR – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Dunn, RAF? – Front Gunner.
Sgt. William George Henry White, RNZAF NZ41717 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 01:50 – Landed 06:00
Flight Time 04:10

27/08/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Kassel
Twelve aircraft were detailed to carry out the above attack. Bomb load of 4000 lb. 500 lb. and incendiaries were dropped in the target area. Numerous fires were seen in the whole area. A.A. fire was moderate, very few searchlights were encountered. Wellington BJ.584 captained by Sgt. Burril met JU88 when about 30 miles from target, combat ensued in which Sgt. Burrill’s aircraft was seriously damaged amid port engine put out of action. The rear gunner, Sgt. Gorman claims to have shot down the JU88 and to have seen it falling in flames to the ground, the bomb load was jettisoned, and he turned for home. The aircraft failed to maintain height and was down to 700ft at the Dutch Coast, being shot at by light A.A. fire. He crossed the sea still losing height and belly landed at R.A.F. Wattisham on return. The weather was fine, navigation was excellent. Wellington BJ.708 captained by F/Lt Osbourn failed to return.

Wellington Mk.III BJ.832 AA-Z

Sgt. John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. Hector Bernard Duffett, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. John David Robert MacGillivary, RAFVR 922684 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Edward McDermot, RCAF R.96960 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 21:00 – Landed 02:50
Flight Time 05:50

16/09/1942 – Operations. Attack Against Targets At Essen
Eight aircraft were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of4,000lb. and incendiaries were dropped in the target area, large fires seen. A.A. fire was intense heavy and accurate, searchlights were in heavy concentrations. Wellington B.J.790 captained by Sergt. Blincoe K, was hit by A.A. ire in starboard main plain two minutes prior to bombing, which made a large hole between starboard motor and fuselage, making it impossible to turn to port. Near Dutch coast on return, the aircraft was attacked from underneath by an unseen enemy aircraft, being hit several times and the WOP. Being wounded in the back The enemy aircraft was not seen by any of the crew. On return the aircraft belly landed on the aerodrome with hydraulics unserviceable. Wellington B.J.772 captained by F/Sgt. Wright J.L. was attacked by a JU.88 on return after bombing. The enemy aircraft was fired at by the front gunner; after several bursts it was seen by the captain WOP and front gunner to explode in the air. A few enemy aircraft were seen by other aircraft but no attacks were made. The target area was covered by 8/10 to 9/10 cloud. Navigation was good by TR and DR.

Wellington Mk.III X.3959 AA-L/R

Sgt. John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. Hector Bernard Duffett, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. L. Newbold, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 20:30 – Landed 02:00
Flight Time 05:30

18/09/1942 – Operations. Gardening of St. Nazaire
Five aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation. 1500lb. vegetables were successfully planted. Light tracer was encountered over St. Nazaire which appeared to come from the town. A few searchlights were seen operating independently. No enemy aircraft were seen, the weather was very clear at target area, navigation was by D.R. and T.R.

Wellington Mk.III X.3959 AA-L/R

Sgt. John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. Hector Bernard Duffett, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. W.F. Thompson, RAFVR 962902 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 19:05 – Landed 01:20
Flight Time 06:15

06/10/1942 – Operations. Attack Against Targets At Osnabruck
Fourteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4,000 lb. and incendiaries were dropped in the target area. Scattered fires were seen, flares were lighting up the whole area. Considerable light and heavy A.A. fire was encountered. Searchlights were numerous and operating mainly in cones. The weather was good with low cloud and slight haze at target area. Navigation was good by D.R. , T.R. visual, pinpoints, loop and fixes. Wellington DF639 captained by Sgt. Rhodes G.W. failed to return.

Wellington Mk.III BJ.832 AA-Z

Sgt. John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
P/O Alexander Fielding Minnis, RAFVR 126499 – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw , RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 19:10 – Landed 01:00
Flight Time 05:50

09/10/1942 – Operations. Gardening off East Frisian Islands
Seven aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation. 1500lb. vegetables were planted in the allotted area. No A.A. fire was encountered, one searchlight was seen to be sweeping the sea in the area. 10/10th. Cloud was over the allotted area, visibility was poor. Navigation was by D.R., T.R. loops, fixes and map reading.

Wellington Mk.III BK.362 AA-?

Sgt. John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. Hector Bernard Duffett, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw , RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:10 – Landed 23:10
Flight Time 05:00

13/10/1942 – Operations. Attack Against Targets At Kiel
Thirteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4,000 lb and incendiaries were dropped in the target area. Large fires were seen particularly on West side of Fiord. Light, medium and heavy A.A. fire was encountered over a large area, searchlights were also seen on the way to the target. No enemy aircraft were seen. The weather was clear, with no cloud over the target, visibility was good by the light of flares. Navigation was D.R, T.R. visual and pin-points. Wellington X3954 captained by Sergt. Watters failed to return. Wellington BJ837 captained by Sergt. Davey crashed at R.A.F. Station Lakenheath on return owing to shortage of petrol, four of the crew were injured. All taking part considered this to be a very successful raid.

Wellington Mk.III BK.362 AA-?

F/S John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. Hector Bernard Duffett, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw , RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:30 – Landed 01:30
Flight Time 07:00

22/10/1942 – Operations. Daylight Attack on Targets At Lingen
Two aircraft were detailed to attack the above target with bombs of 500lb. 250lb. incendiaries. The bombs were successfully dropped in the target area from a low altitude. One of the aircraft claimed successful hits on a railroad station. No A.A. fire was encountered and no enemy aircraft were seen. The cloud cover was good having a ceiling of 700ft. Navigation was good.

Wellington Mk.III BK.362 AA-?

Sgt. John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt Hector Bernard Duffett, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw , RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 12:30 – Landed 17:15
Flight Time 04:45

23/10/1942 – Operations. Attack Against Targets At Genoa
Eight aircraft were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 1,000 lb. 500lb. and 250lb. and incendiaries were dropped in the target area, some aircraft claimed to have also bombed Savona. A few light A.A guns and one or two searchlights were encountered. No combats took place. The cloud base at target was down to 3 to 4,000 feet. The aircraft came below this cloud to bomb. Navigation was good by D.R., T.R., loops and fixes.

Wellington Mk.III BK.362 AA-?

F/S John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt Hector Bernard Duffett, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw , RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:15 – Landed 03:20
Flight Time 09:05

25/10/1942 – Operations. Gardening of Frisian Islands
Two aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation. 1500lb. vegetables were successfully planted by one of the aircraft, the other aircraft returned early owing to the Wireless being unserviceable. No. A.A. fire searchlights or enemy aircraft were seen. It was cloudy over the Gardening area, although visibility was fairly good. Navigation was good by D.R. and T.R.

Wellington Mk.III BK.302 AA-?

F/S John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt Hector Bernard Duffett, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Observer.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw , RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 03:00 – Landed 06:30
Flight Time 03:30

There now follows a 3 week hiatus while the Jackson crew

16/12/1942 – Operations. Gardening off Bordeaux
Nine aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with 1500lb. vegetables. The take-off was rather cross wind and unfortunately during take-off the wind backed severely so that the flare path was dead cross wind. Three aircraft swung violently on take-off. Then Sergeant Frankin tried to take-off in Stirling I, R.9245, it swung as violently as the other aircraft, but went on, straightened and got airborne, only to crash a mile away from the aerodrome. Two mines exploded and all of the crew were killed. It later transpired that the starboard under carriage wheel had hit Devil’s Dyke, only four feet from the top. The under carriage carried away the oil tank to the starboard inner engine and this is presumed to have seized, causing the aircraft to spin into the ground. No other aircraft took off after this. The three aircraft who successfully took off all planted their vegetables in the allotted area. Some light tracer and a few searchlights were encountered, no enemy aircraft were seen. The weather was variable with heavy rain and hail storms over the gardening area, but clear generally. Navigation was good.

Stirling Mk.I BK617 AA-D

F/S John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276/ 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. Hector Bernard Duffett, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Navigator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. William Laurence Riley, RAFVR 994223/ 161701 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan John Francis , RAFVR 1815847 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw , RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 21:45 – Landed 05:00
Flight Time 07:15

08/01/1943 – Gardening off the North Sea of Denmark
Three aircrafts were detailed to carry out the above operations with vegetables of 1500 lbs.Two of the aircraft successfully planted their vegetables in the allotted area, the other aircraft captured by F/Sgt. Bailey, was forced to abandon the operation, as his port inner engine failed over the North Sea and he lost height. This put him in heavy icing cloud and forced him to jettison his bombs, all Sperry instruments went u/s. He eventually got “Gee” fix near English coast and arrive safely back at base. No A.A fire, searchlights, or enemy aircraft were seen. The weather was fairly good, as was also visibility, navigation was by D.R and T.R.

Stirling Mk.I BK617 AA-D

F/S John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276, 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. Charles Raglan Davey, NZ413937 – 2nd Pilot.
F/S Hector Bernard Duffet, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Navigator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Edward Henry Gray, RNZAF NZ412878 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. William Laurence Riley, RAFVR 994223/ 161701 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan John Francis, RAFVR 1815847 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw, RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 17:20 – Landed 22:45
Flight Time 05:25

03/02/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Hamburg
Nine aircraft were detailed to attack the above target with 4 lb. incendiaries. The crews were instructed to return if they hit bad weather, which unfortunately they did. Heavy cloud and icing were experienced forcing five aircraft to return early. Two aircraft attacked the target but they were unable to observe results owing to 10/10ths. cloud. Some A.A. fire and a few searchlights were encountered although low cloud prevented accuracy. No enemy aircraft were seen. Navigation was good. Two aircraft failed to return, they were Stirling 1 BK604 captained by P/O J McCullough and Stirling 1 R9280 captained by P/O K.H. Blincoe. This was a sad loss as they were two of the oldest captains in the Squadron, with them was also lost Sergt. Scott and P/O Henderson, two new captains gaining experience as second pilot. This leaving us with two headless crews.

Stirling Mk.I BK617 AA-D

F/S John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276, 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. Randolph Ernest Redding, NZ414678 – 2nd Pilot.
F/S Hector Bernard Duffet, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Navigator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Edward Henry Gray, RNZAF NZ412878 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. William Laurence Riley, RAFVR 994223/ 161701 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan John Francis, RAFVR 1815847 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw, RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:25 – Landed 22:00
Flight Time 03:35

04/02/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Turin
Seven aircraft were detailed to attack the above target with bombs of 1,000 lb. 500 lb., and 4 lb. incendiaries. Only five aircraft attacked the target, two returning early, one due to turret and inter comm., trouble and the other as the aircraft failed to climb over the Alps, he therefore bombed and objective in occupied France. The five aircraft attacking the target successfully did so on P.F.F. markers, large fires were seen from their own and other incendiaries. Light and heavy A.A. fire was encountered, which was inaccurate. A few searchlights were also operating. Some enemy aircraft were seen, but no combat took please. Heavy cloud was hit in France but the weather was good with clear visibility at the target area. Navigation was very good, by D.R. T.H., and visual. This /is considered to be a very good and concentrated operation.

Stirling Mk.I W7469 AA-T/C/O?

F/S John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276, 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. Randolph Ernest Redding, NZ414678 – 2nd Pilot.
F/S Hector Bernard Duffet, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Navigator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Edward Henry Gray, RNZAF NZ412878 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. William Laurence Riley, RAFVR 994223/ 161701 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan John Francis, RAFVR 1815847 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw, RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:45 – Landed 02:25
Flight Time 07:40

13/02/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Lorient
Eleven aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with bombs of 1,000 lb. and 4 lb. incendiaries. Nine aircraft are known to have successfully attacked the target, of the other two, one returned early owing to the mid upper and front turrets being u/s and the other aircraft failed to return. Fires were burning fiercely in the target area, although they appeared to be scattered. F/Lt. Trott had his aircraft damaged by flak at the target, the number two tank on the port side was holed, the trimming tab was hit and his aerial was shot off. He preceded to Middle Wallop and landed safely. Both heavy and light flak was encountered which was intense at first but later spasmodic and appeared to be swamped. Searchlights were seen in the early part of the attack but later went out. Some enemy aircraft were seen but no attacks were made. The weather was very good with clear visibility and no cloud. Navigation was very good. The missing aircraft was Stirling 1 R9316 captained by Sgt. R.A. Williams.

Stirling Mk.I BK602 AA-R

F/S John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276, 140920 – Pilot.
F/S Hector Bernard Duffet, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Navigator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. William Laurence Riley, RAFVR 994223/ 161701 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan John Francis, RAFVR 1815847 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw, RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 17:45 – Landed 23:15
Flight Time 05:30

14/02/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Cologne
Eight aircraft were detailed to attack the above target with bombs of 1,000 lb. and 4 lb. incendiaries. All of the aircraft, with the exception of one which returned early owing to engine trouble, successfully bombed the target in 10/10ths cloud by means of P.F.F. sky marker flares, so the success of the trip could not be judged, although a red glow was seen on the clouds as the aircraft left the target area. Heavy and light A.A. fire was encountered, mainly predicted. Several enemy aircraft were seen but no combats took place. There was broken cloud from base to enemy coast, which gradually built up to 10/10ths cloud at the target area. Navigation was very good. A stranger from 214 Squadron landed on our runway and made the aerodrome completely unserviceable. Three of our aircraft therefore, had to be diverted to Lakenheath and Waterbeach.

Stirling Mk.I BK602 AA-R

F/S John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276, 140920 – Pilot.
Sgt. Richard Otway French, NZ415756 – 2nd Pilot.
F/S Hector Bernard Duffet, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Navigator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. William Laurence Riley, RAFVR 994223/ 161701 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan John Francis, RAFVR 1815847 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw, RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:25 – Landed 23:55
Flight Time 05:30

18/02/1943 – Mining in the Gironde Estuary
Seven aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation, with mines of 1500 lb. six of the aircraft successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area and the majority of the parachutes were seen to open. One aircraft met flak at Cherbourg which proved to be quite accurate, but the aircraft was not hit. No searchlights were seen. Three enemy aircraft were seen but no attacks were made. The weather over the mining area was hazy, with visibility fair to good. Navigation was very good.

Stirling Mk.I BK647 AA-M

F/S John Jackson, RAFVR 1204276, 140920 – Pilot.
F/S Hector Bernard Duffet, RAFVR 1176955/ 141020 – Navigator.
Sgt. David Walker Findlay, RNZAF NZ412217 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. John Ellis Higgs, RAFVR 1161218/ 155859 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. William Laurence Riley, RAFVR 994223/ 161701 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Alan John Francis, RAFVR 1815847 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. E.A. Shaw, RAFVR 1059434 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:45 – Landed 00:35
Flight Time 05:50

 

 

 

Jim McQueen RNZAF NZ404466

Sad news passed on from the New Zealand Bomber Command Association Facebook page:

“RIP Jim McQueen (NZ404466)WOP/AG No. 75 (NZ) Squadron.

Died in Auckland last night.

Having lost his first skipper (on a first op trip) Jim re-crewed with NZ’er Dobbin but they were shot down on their second trip, 11/8/42.

Jim had a dry sense of humour and wrote ” full board was provided for us at Stalag VIIIB Lamsdorf until January 1945 when it was decided we should hike 500 miles west” .

What Jim didn’t say was he built and ran the secret radios in the camp to tune into BBC news, and the hike was the infamous Death March.

Many of his fellow “kreigies” considered he should have been decorated for his two and a half years as the camp radio man.

Post war Jim worked for the Union Bank in Fiji for many years, eventually retired and bought a motel in Whangarei and for the past three decades has lived in Manly just north of Auckland.

Jim was a great guy to listen to, extremely modest, and a bit shy about his “lack” of ops but totally enthusiastic when the subject of secret radios came up.

Another who will be greatly missed.”

Ake Ake Kia Kaha

Bristol (Canford) Cemetery – Norman Hathway Gale RAFVR 849986/ 151013

A trip down to see Mum at short notice with Bev provided a chance to get to a relatively close cemetery in Bristol. As it appears to be my unique want, I of course marhed around about 30 graves before finding Normans. For anyone elses reference – in through the main entrance and about 30 meters right.

Norman Gale, who rests now in Canford Cemetery, Bristol is the last member of military personnel to be recorded on the blog, who were killed on the night of the 8th of September when Stirling Mk.III BK809 JN-T, piloted by Ian Menzies crashed on take-off into houses on the edge of Mepal airfield.

Norman and his crew arrived at Mepal on the 28th of August 1943, from 1657 H.C.U. Ian undertook, as was obligatory at that times it seems, 2 ‘2nd Dickie Ops’ prior to the crew becoming fully Operational on the 2nd of September.

27/08/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Nuremburg
Nineteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with incendiary bombs of 30lbs. and 4lbs. One aircraft failed to return, but the remainder successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. Good concentrated fires and heavy explosions were seen. A moderate barrage consisting of light and heavy A.A. fire co-operating with searchlights were encountered, and two aircraft received slight damage. Some enemy aircraft were seen, one short combat took place, but no damage was sustained by our aircraft. The weather was cloudy on the outward journey but clear over the target and visibility was good. Navigation was very good. The missing aircraft was Stirling Mk.III EE955 captained by F/Sgt. Higham.

Stirling Mk.III EH936 JN-W

P/O Hilton Clifford Williams, RNZAF NZ416219 – Pilot.
P/O Ian Robert Menzies, RNZAF NZ415002 – 2nd Pilot.
F/S Trevor Gordon Dill, RNZAF NZ42292 – Navigator.
F/S Adrian Leslie Bernard Carson, RNZAF NZ411347 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. M. Williams, RAFVR 1314844 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. C. Dickinson, RAFVR 812100 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. W.A.C. Hemsley, RAFVR – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Ivon George Kaye, RNZAF NZ39558 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 21:31 – Landed 04:31
Flight Time 07:00

30/08/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Munchen-Gladbach
18 Aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with incendiary bombs of 30lbs. and 4lbs. All aircraft with the exception of one which failed to return, successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. Very large fires which were well concentrated and spreading, were seen. All crews were of the opinion that this was a good attack. Moderate heavy A.A. fire and a few searchlights were encountered, which were ineffective. A great number of enemy aircraft were seen and some short combats took place. The aircraft captained by F/Sgt. Batger, H. sighted an enemy aircraft 600 yards away, ahead and the front gunner fired a long and short burst, the enemy aircraft then disappeared and was claimed as possibly destroyed. . The aircraft captained by F/S McGregor,K. sighted an Me110 astern, the rear gunner fired a long burst. The enemy aircraft replied and dived away with smoke pouring from its engines. It is claimed as a possible destroyed. There was 8/10ths cloud at the target approaches although it was clear in the target area. Navigation was very good. The missing aircraft was  Stirling MK.III EH938 captained by Sgt. Parkin, T.

Stirling Mk.III BF434 AA-X

P/O Arthur William Burley, RAFVR 1315375/ 147201 – Pilot.
P/O Ian Robert Menzies, RNZAF NZ415002 – 2nd Pilot.
F/S Reginald Hill, RNZAF NZ413216 – Navigator.
F/S Ewen McGregor Elmslie, RNZAF NZ417200 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. R.W. Wilson, RAFVR 1035365 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. R. Risbridger, RAFVR 577918 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. J. Hubbock, RAFVR 1601799 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. A.F. Peters, RAFVR 1154968 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 00:30 – Landed 04:40
Flight Time 04:10

02/09/1943 – Mining in the Frisian Islands
Five aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with mines of 1,500lb., One aircraft returned early owing to a navigational failure, and brought its mines back. The remainder however, successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area, although the parachutes were not seen to open owing to 4/10th cloud. No A.A. fire or searchlights were encountered. One unidentified aircraft was seen and a short combat took place, but no damage was sustained to our aircraft. The weather was good on the outward route, but fog and patchy cloud was prevalent in the mining area. Navigation was very good.

Stirling Mk.III EE958 AA-V

F/O Ian Robert Menzies, RNZAF NZ415002 – Pilot.
P/O Derek Albert Arthur Cordery, RAFVR 136360 – Navigator.
P/O Norman Hathway Gale, RAFVR 849986/ 151013 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Ralph Herbert Barker, RNZAF NZ417189 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Albert Leslie Mellor, RAFVR 943914 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. G. Bullivant, RAFVR 1395379 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Stewart Donald Muir, RNZAF NZ416967 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 20:25 – Landed 23:20
Flight Time 02:55

03/09/1943 – Mining in the Gironde Estuary
Five aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with mines of 1,500lb.. They all successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area, and some of the parachutes were seen to open. A few searchlights and A.A. guns were encountered, but were ineffective. One enemy aircraft was seen but no combat took place. There was a clear sky in the mining area and visibility was good. Navigation was very good.

Stirling Mk.III EE958 AA-V

F/O Ian Robert Menzies, RNZAF NZ415002 – Pilot.
P/O Derek Albert Arthur Cordery, RAFVR 136360 – Navigator.
P/O Norman Hathway Gale, RAFVR 849986/ 151013 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Ralph Herbert Barker, RNZAF NZ417189 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Albert Leslie Mellor, RAFVR 943914 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. G. Bullivant, RAFVR 1395379 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Stewart Donald Muir, RNZAF NZ416967 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 19:35 – Landed 01:25
Flight Time 05:50

05/09/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Mannheim
Nineteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with incendiary bombs of 30lb. and 4lb. One aircraft had trouble shortly after take-off and was forced to jettison its bombs four miles north of CAMBRIDGE. The attack was well concentrated and large fires together with heavy explosions were seen. Moderate heavy A.A. fire co-operating with searchlights were encountered, which were ineffective. One aircraft on the return journey when near the FRENCH Coast was hit by A.A. fire. It received considerable damage and two of its engines were made unserviceable. The ENGLISH Coast was reached however, it belly-landed at Hunsden. Many fighters were seen and some combats took, place. The aircraft captained by F/Sgt. H.BATGER sighted an enemy aircraft on the port quarter which opened fire on them and our aircraft corkscrewed. The Mid-upper and Rear Gunner then opened fire and the enemy aircraft was seen to dive to the ground in flames. It was claimed as destroyed. Our aircraft received considerable damage and the Flight Engineer Sgt. R. DALKINS was seriously wounded. The aircraft captained by F/Sgt. R. WHITMORE sighted an enemy aircraft 100yds. astern, the Mid-upper and Rear Gunners opened fire, the enemy aircraft was seen to turn over and spin into the ground afire. It was claimed as destroyed. This was flowed by another enemy aircraft approaching from starboard to port astern, the Mid-upper and Rear Gunners again fired and the enemy aircraft broke away. One minute later an unidentified aircraft was seen firing at a Lancaster aircraft, which was afire. F/Sgt. WHITMORE’s Mid-Upper and Rear Gunners opened fire on the enemy aircraft, which disappeared. The Lancaster was then seen to break up. Some cloud was encountered on the way to the target, but there was a clear sky and visibility was good in the target area. Navigation was very good. One aircraft failed to return, it was captained by F/Sgt. WILKINSON, E.S.

Stirling Mk.III BK777 AA-U

F/O Ian Robert Menzies, RNZAF NZ415002 – Pilot.
P/O Derek Albert Arthur Cordery, RAFVR 136360 – Navigator.
P/O Norman Hathway Gale, RAFVR 849986/ 151013 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Ralph Herbert Barker, RNZAF NZ417189 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Albert Leslie Mellor, RAFVR 943914 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. G. Bullivant, RAFVR 1395379 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Stewart Donald Muir, RNZAF NZ416967 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 20:00 – Landed 02:45
Flight Time 06:45

08/09/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Boulogne
Seventeen aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets. The carried their maximum bomb load in bombs of 1,000lb., and 500lb.. One aircraft crashed whilst taking off and two returned early. The remainder successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. Not many fires were seen but numerous huge explosions were observed. Some heavy and light predicted A.A.Fire and a few searchlights were encountered but caused no trouble. A few enemy aircraft were seen, but no combats took place. The weather was good and visibility was clear  except for slight ground haze. Navigation was excellent.

The aircraft that crashed during take-off was captained by F/O. I.R.MENZIES. Whilst taking off it swung off the runway and crashed into two houses on the far side adjoining the perimeter track. It caught fire almost simultaneously, and in the fire, various bombs exploded, causing the aircraft to be a total wreck. Three members of the crew, a W.A.A.F. Officer of R.A.F. Station MEPAL and an aircrew Sergeant, and 2 civilians were killed and other civilians were injured. The W.A.A.F. Officer and the aircrew sergeant lost their lives whilst trying to render assistance.

Stirling Mk.III BK809 JN-T

F/O. Ian Robert Menzies RNZAF NZ415002. Pilot. KIlled age 28.
Buried Cambridge City Cemetery, Cambridgeshire.

P/O. Derek Albert Arthur Cordery RAFVR 136360. Navigator.

P/O. Norman Hathway Gale RAFVR 849986. Air Bomber. KIlled age 30.
Buried Bristol (Canford) Cemetery, Bristol.

Sgt. Ralph Herbert Barker RNZAF NZ417189. Wireless Operator.

Sgt. Albert Leslie Mellor RAFVR 943914. Flight Engineer. Succumbed to injuries, died age 30.
Buried Buxton Cemetery, Yorkshire.

Sgt. Bullivant G RAFVR 1395379. Mid Upper Gunner.

Sgt. Stewart Donald Muir RNZAF NZ416967. Rear Gunner.
Died 16th June 1944 with 7(PFF) Squadron.

 

The Flight Sergeant and W.A.A.F Officer that were killed when attempting to offer assistance were;

F/Sgt Peter Gerald Dobson MiD RNZAF NZ439022. Navigator (Whitehead crew)
F/Sgt Dobson was killed by exploding bombs as he went to the assistance of the aircrew crew and the occupants of the houses. Buried Cambridge City Cemetery, England.
Mention in Despatches (14 Jan 1944):
“For bravery in action and meritorious fulfilment of duty”.

Section Officer Joan Majorie Easton WAAF/RAF 2986.
S/O Easton was killed when the bomb load exploded as she went to the assistance of the aircraft crew and the occupants of the houses. Buried Greenwich (Charlton and Kidbrook) Cemetery. London, England.

Additionally, another member of the Squadron came to the aid of the crash victims. Unlike Peter and Joan, Terence survived the incident and was awarded the British Empire Medal for his bravery that night.

Cpl Terence Henry King BEM RAF 610334. ELECT 1, Electrical Sect. Citation BEM (24 Dec 1943) “In September 1943, an aircraft which was taking off with a load of bombs crashed into two houses on the edge of an airfield and burst into flames. Corporal King hurried to the scene and, although fully aware that high explosive bombs were likely to explode at any moment, he went to the cottages a few yards from the burning aircraft to warn the occupants of their imminent danger and render assistance. An injured man was found and while Corporal King, with the help of a civilian, was taking him to safety a bomb exploded. The bravery shown by Corporal King was instrumental in saving a life and many more lives might have been lost had it not been for his prompt action in helping to warn occupants of the nearby houses. “

The crash of BK809 JN-T, 8th September 1943 – the aftermath can be read here.
Greenwich Cemetery (Charlton and Kidbrook), London – S/O Joan Marjorie Easton WAAF can be read here.
Cambridge City Cemetery – Aircrew headstones recorded can be read here.
Buxton Cemetery part 2 – Albert Leslie Mellor, killed 8th September 1943 can be read here.

Elton (All Saints) Churchyard, Bury – Sgt. John Olive RAFVR 978156

Arriving at Elton Churchyard I was a little initially thrown to find myself at the dead end of a terrace street – more thrown, having left the car to be confronted by a rather imposing and apparently inaccessible gate with a code pad. Pausing to reassess the situation, I realised simultaneously that there another gate to it’s right and that the ‘church’ was in fact what appeared to be as series of flats.

Entering through the open gate I realised I was essentially stood in a gated plot, containing what remained of the churches graves. Right in front of me, first stone was Sgt John Olive, killed on the 10th of January 1941. The scene, to be honest felt a little sad – the stones partitioned by the church development and John’s gravestone marked with the rubber of a carelessly driven lawn mower – ignorant, or necessary maintenance simply a stipulation of property development……

John was  a consistent member of Brian McNamara’s crew from their first Op on the 14th of November 1940, through to their last Operation on the 8th of January.

A photograph of the McNamara crew – date and location unknown, though suggestion of a ‘Dwarf’ artwork on the Wellington in the background confirms 75(NZ) Squadron and therefore Feltwell. Brian is stood 4th from the left – unfortunately, as yet the rest of the crew are unidentified.
Photograph courtesy of Wings Over Cambridge/ Dave Homewood – original image and page can be see here :
http://www.cambridgeairforce.org.nz/Brian%20Mcnamara.htm

The McNamara crews first Op saw  George Key present as 2nd Pilot. For the remainder of their Ops together, Alex Ryan took over this position. Thus the crew were:

P/O Brian Patrick McNamara, RAF 42856 – Pilot.
P/O Alexander James Ryan, RNZAF NZ391367 – 2nd Pilot..
Sgt. Hunt, RAFVR – Observer.
Sgt. John Olive, RAFVR 978156 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Matthew Roy Ritchie, RAFVR 631868 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Ronald Edward Ashby-Peckham, RNZAF NZ40714 – Rear Gunner .

After the crews 7th Op, Sgt. Hunt as Observer leaves and is replaced by Richard Elliot.

P/O Brian Patrick McNamara, RAF 42856 – Pilot.
P/O Alexander James Ryan, RNZAF NZ391367 – 2nd Pilot..
Sgt. Richard Booth Elliott, RAFVR 581379 – Observer.
Sgt. John Olive, RAFVR 978156 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Matthew Roy Ritchie, RAFVR 631868 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Ronald Edward Ashby-Peckham, RNZAF NZ40714 – Rear Gunner .

On the night of 10th of January 1941 The McNamara crew took off from Feltwell on Night Flying Training (N.F.T.)

75(NZ)Squadron Form 540 January 1941
Jan.10
At 10.00 hours on 10.1.41, P/O McNamara was detailed to carry out a Night Flying Test on aircraft T.2550, Letter “L”. After the N.F.T. his instructions were to proceed to Bassingbourn, drop P/O Ryan and bring back a new Pilot who was taking P/O Ryans’s place.

Cloud base at Feltwell was 1,500 feet and P/O McNamara was warned that south and westwards the cloud base would be lower, and , if he did not like it to return to base.

Operations Room was notified of this proposed cross country flight and P/O McNamara ascertained from Operations Air Control that Bassingbourn was serviceable, and gave his approx.. time of take of as 11.30 hours. Station Signals failed to contact the aircraft after it had taken off, E.T.A. base was 13.00 hours. At 14.30 hours Control commenced taking overdue action and rang Bassingbourn on P.B.K. but did not connect until 15.25 hours when they ascertained that the aircraft had not arrived. At 16.40 hours No.3 Group informed us that the aircraft had crashed at Heath Farm, Stapleford, near Duxford, and the following personel were killed or died from injuries.

P/O B.P. McNamara (Captain) unmarried. P/O A.J. Ryan (2^nd Pilot) unmarried.
Sgt. Elliot R.B. (Navigator) unmarried. Sgt. J. Olive (W/Operator) unmarried.
Sgt. M.R. Ritchie (Front Gunner) unmarried. Sgt. R.E. Ashby-Peckham (Rear Gunner) unmarried. Seriously injured and taken to Addenbrooks Hospital.

P/O Brian Patrick McNamara, RAF 42856. Killed age 26.
Buried Feltwell (St. Nicholas) Churchyard, Norfolk.

P/O Alexander James Ryan, RNZAF NZ391367. Killed age 25.
Buried Feltwell (St. Nicholas) Churchyard, Norfolk.

Sgt. Richard Booth Elliott, RAFVR 581379. Killed age 19.
Buried Feltwell (St. Nicholas) Churchyard, Norfolk.

Sgt. John Olive, RAFVR 978156. Killed age 23.
Buried Elton (All Saints) Churchyard, Bury.

Sgt. Matthew Roy Ritchie, RAFVR 631868. Killed age 19.
Buried Biggar Croft Cemetery, Lanarkshire, Scotland.

Sgt. Ronald Edward Ashby-Peckham, RNZAF NZ40714. Seriously injured

‘Airmen of Steel’ – a new t-shirt in the store

A more graphic style based on a classic logo design dating back even to pre World War II.
A less formal, more graphic design  – it’s the youngsters that will keep all this going – so buy them one and let them clear their diaries for 4 hours a day, most weeks, of most months for  a few years – at least they can say they got a T-Shirt for it 😛

You might just get it for Christmas if you order today – maybe!

Buy it here.

Colne Valley (Slaithwaite) Cemetery, Yorkshire – Sgt Ronald Broadley RAFVR 937347

Hidden, below road level and running parallel to the A62 Manchester road, Colne Valley (Slaithwaite) Cemetery is not that easy to find and I would suggest that if you ever wish to visit it, trust in the instructions of your SatNav and (traffic allowing) stop when it says you are there – the cemetery has two entrances, one at each end, one looks initially more like an access track – the other a more formal entrance.

Ronald Broadley was killed on the 26th of July 1943 along with the rest of his crew, while returning from an Op on Essen.

13/07/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Aachen
Nine aircraft were detailed to attack targets as above, with incendiaries of 30lbs. And 4lbs. All of the aircraft successfully dropped their bombs in the target area, large fires were seen which appeared to be scattered. Some light and heavy A.A. fire co-operating with searchlights were encountered. The aircraft captained by P/O CC. Logan, was hit by A.A. fire in the starboard outer engine, fin and elevator, and had to make a landing at FORD, which he did successfully. Some enemy aircraft were encountered. The aircraft captained by P/O. A. Rankin was attacked by a JU.88 and the wireless operator was wounded. The rear gunner returned fire and the enemy aircraft broke away, returning astern and firing a short burst. The Stirling rear gunner then fired a long burst and the enemy aircraft gave a flash, spun half round and disappeared into the cloud , followed by an explosion on the ground. This aircraft was claimed as being destroyed. The aircraft captained by P/O. A.A. ALEXANDER sighted an ME210 on the port beam, 100 yards slightly below. As the enemy aircraft passed below, the front gunner fired a short burst, the Stirling corkscrewed and the enemy aircraft appeared astern, the rear gunner then fired a short burst and the enemy aircraft was seen to dive into the clouds, and is claimed as possibly destroyed. There was 8/10ths. broken cloud at the target, but visibility above that was good. Stirling Mk.III EE886 captained by F/O. C. EDDY on return, crash landed at OAKINGTON, the under carriage collapsed and the aircraft turned over and caught fire. The mid-upper gunner E.C. VICCARS was killed on impact and the remainder of the crew escaped although not without injuries. The captain, navigator, wireless operator and flight engineer were seriously injured, the remainder being slightly injured.

Stirling Mk.I BK646 AA-N

P/O Andrew Rankin, RAFVR 1345194/ 146332 – Pilot.
Sgt. Michael Henry Charles Ashdown, RAFVR 1320551 – 2nd Pilot.
Sgt. Mervyn Arthur Ericksen, RNZAF NZ416103 – Navigator.
F/S James Third, RNZAF NZ422671 – Air Bomber.
F/S Frederick William Thorstenson, RNZAF NZ414529 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Frank Morris Freeman, RAFVR 1575231 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. D. Catterick, RAFVR 1318470 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. George Ogden, RAFVR 1573298 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:55 – Landed 04:45
Flight Time 04:50

04/07/1943 – Mining off Ille de RE
Four aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with mines of 1,500lbs., which were dropped successfully in the allotted area, and the parachutes were seen to open. Some light A.A. Fire and one searchlight were encountered, but were ineffective. No enemy aircraft were seen. There was no cloud in the mining area and the visibility was good. Navigation was very good.

Stirling Mk.III BF461 JN-B

Sgt. Michael Henry Charles Ashdown, RAFVR 1320551 – Pilot.
Sgt. Ronald Kenneth Harold, RAFVR 1335706 – Navigator.
Sgt. Ronald Walter Threadgold, RAFVR 1457394 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Ernest Claude Denyer, RAFVR 1262911 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ronald Broadley, RAFVR 937347 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Archie Cleveland, RCAF R.167518 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Harold Clyde Dawson, RCAF R.178318 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:00 – Landed 04:10
Flight Time 06:10

08/07/1943 – Mining in the Gironde Estuary
Six aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with mines of 1,500lbs., all of which were successfully dropped in the allotted area, and the parachutes were seen to open. Some light A.A. Fire and a few searchlights were encountered, which were ineffective. One unidentified aircraft was seen and a short combat took place, minor damage to the rear turret of our aircraft was sustained, and the unidentified aircraft was probably hit. A sea haze and patchy cloud were experienced in the mining area, but visibility was good. Navigation was good.

Stirling Mk.III BF461 JN-B

Sgt. Michael Henry Charles Ashdown, RAFVR 1320551 – Pilot.
Sgt. Ronald Kenneth Harold, RAFVR 1335706 – Navigator.
Sgt. Ronald Walter Threadgold, RAFVR 1457394 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Ernest Claude Denyer, RAFVR 1262911 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. R. Holden, RAFVR 993297 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Archie Cleveland, RCAF R.167518 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Harold Clyde Dawson, RCAF R.178318 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:25 – Landed 05:45
Flight Time 07:20

24/07/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Hamburg
Twenty-three aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with bombs of 2,000lbs., 1,000lbs., and incendiaries of 30lbs., and 4lbs. Of these aircraft, two returned early due to unserviceable W/T and engine trouble respectively, and one aircraft failed to return. The remainder successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. It was a very concentrated and successful attack. Very large spread fires were seen with black smoke rising to height of 1,400ft., some heavy explosions were also seen. A heavy A.A. barrage co-operating with searchlights were encountered and two aircraft were coned in the searchlights but neither were hit. The aircraft captained by F/O. G. TURNER whilst avoiding a searchlight cone, the starboard wing was struck by a JU 88approaching head on. The enemy aircraft turned over and dived to the ground, it was claimed to be destroyed.. The Stirling was badly damaged having more that 4ft. of the starboard main plane torn off, and the aileron and aileron controls being useless. The captain had extreme difficulty in controlling the aircraft, but kept it on an even keel with the assistance of the Air-bomber, and after the 3 hours return flight to base, made a perfect landing. Two other short combats took place, but no damage was sustained to our aircraft. The weather was very good, with clear visibility, except for haze caused by smoke from the fires. Navigation was very good. The missing aircraft was Stirling Mk.III EE890 captained by Sergeant H. Nichol.

Stirling Mk.I BF518 AA-E

Sgt. Michael Henry Charles Ashdown, RAFVR 1320551 – Pilot.
Sgt. Ronald Kenneth Harold, RAFVR 1335706 – Navigator.
Sgt. Ronald Walter Threadgold, RAFVR 1457394 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Ernest Claude Denyer, RAFVR 1262911 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ronald Broadley, RAFVR 937347 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Archie Cleveland, RCAF R.167518 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Harold Clyde Dawson, RCAF R.178318 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:00 – Landed 04:00
Flight Time 06:00

25/07/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Essen
Twenty aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with bombs of 2,000lbs., 1,000lbs., and incendiaries of 30lbs., and 4lbs. One aircraft failed to take off, and two returned early, wing to engine trouble and an intercommunication failure respectively, and one aircraft failed to return. Sixteen aircraft successfully dropped their bombs on target area, which was an absolute mass of flames. Many huge explosions were seen in the midst of the fires. Moderate A.A. fire co-operating with searchlights were encountered, one aircraft receiving slight damage. An aircraft was held in a searchlight cone for 3 minutes, but avoided it by making diving turns. Some enemy aircraft were seen. The aircraft captained by F/Sgt. H.C. WILLIAMS sighted an unidentified aircraft 400 yds away approaching from astern. The Stirling corkscrewed and the Mid-upper and Rear gunners fired a long burst, the enemy aircraft exploded in the air and dived to the ground. It was claimed to be destroyed. Another aircraft was sighted by them approaching on the port quarter, the Rear gunner fired two short bursts and the enemy aircraft broke away. The weather was hazy to the enemy Coast, but clear over the target. Visibility was good except for haze caused by smoke from the fires, which could be seen west of the DUTCH coast. Navigation was very good. The missing aircraft was Stirling MK.III EE892 captained by Sgt.. M. ASHDOWN

Stirling Mk.III EE892 AA-F

Sgt. Michael Henry Charles Ashdown, RAFVR 1320551 – Pilot.
Sgt. Ronald Kenneth Harold, RAFVR 1335706 – Navigator.
Sgt. Ronald Walter Threadgold, RAFVR 1457394 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Ernest Claude Denyer, RAFVR 1262911 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ronald Broadley, RAFVR 937347 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Archie Cleveland, RCAF R.167518 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Harold Clyde Dawson, RCAF R.178318 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off – – Landed –
Flight Time Missing

Stirling Mk.III EE892 AA-F came down in the sea off Southwold, Suffolk, while returning to base. Eyewitness reports indicated that the Stirlng was on fire before it struck the water. All on board perished. Four bodies were picked up by the Aldeburgh lifeboat crew. The cause of the crash is unknown.

Sgt. Michael Henry Charles Ashdown, RAFVR 1320551. Killed age 20.
Buried Worcester Park (Cuddington) Cemetery,

Sgt. Ronald Kenneth Harold, RAFVR 1335706. Killed age 22.
Commemorated on Panel 151 Runnymede Memorial – No known grave.

Sgt. Ronald Walter Threadgold, RAFVR 1457394. Killed age 21.
Commemorated on Panel 167 Runnymede Memorial – No known grave.

Sgt. Ernest Claude Denyer, RAFVR 1262911. Killed age 34.
Buried Staines (London Road) Cemetery.

Sgt. Ronald Broadley, RAFVR 937347. Killed age 22.
Buried Colne Valley (Slaithwaite) Cemetery, Yorkshire.

Sgt. Archie Cleveland, RCAF R.167518. Killed age 24.
Commemorated on Panel 179 Runnymede Memorial – No known grave.

Sgt. Harold Clyde Dawson, RCAF R.178318. Killed age 21.
Buried Scottow Cemetery, Norfolk.

St. Helens Cemetery, Lancashire – F/S Derek Arthur Holt RAFVR 1217084. Whitkirk Cemetery, Leeds – Sgt. Ronald Smith RAFVR 1239376

It’s perhaps with the benefit of a delay, I have had time to do a bit of listing and planning and I realise after the gathering of these 2 headstones that Derek and Ronald were both killed in the same crew. The mechanics of the summer planning regarding my various trips to cemeteries was, perhaps inevitably, based entirely on opportunistic proximity or random opportunity to visit as many cemeteries as I could.

As I say, on realising these boys flew in the same crew, and having already started the post for Derek – it seemed more sensible and perhaps also, respectful to post them together.

The last post you have already digested, dear reader sees us leaving Selby Cemetery and heading off to Whitkirk Cemetery, just outside of Leeds to find Ronald Smiths headstone – I ask you to first suspend disbelief as we jump back a number weeks to pick me up leaving Liverpool Ford Cemetery……………

After the relatively time consuming search for Edward Appleton’s gravestone in Liverpool Ford Cemetery, it was a relatively quick sprint over to St. Helens Cemetery to find Derek Holt’s grave.

Mercifully, a very clear map at the entrance allowed me to locate the approximate position of the grave, though the decision no to take a picture of it meant i got half way there before walking all the way back down again to the map to do what I should have done first time around…….

Again, a check of all Commonwealth headstones in the vicinity proved it was a search for another family grave. Quite quickly a ‘Holt’ stone presented itself, but no instantly obvious reference to F/S Holt……….

Moving closer to try to understand the apparent absence of F/S Holt, my heart sank a little when, peering down between the headstone and the rather larger block of stone in front of it that in fact F/S Holt’s details were almost completely obscured by the stone……

SO, whilst the image at the top of this post is not perfect, given the circumstances – I’m glad I live in a digital camera/ Photoshop world – wet film would have not allowed the final result.

The second ‘major’ expedition to gather headstone images presented itself when I had to drive over to Grimsby to pick up Bev from a stay at her Mothers. Plotting a course back from Grimsby to Cheshire suggested that on paper at least a number of cemeteries could be visited. As I have mentioned in previous posts on this projects there is a band of cemeteries that run from the North East to the North West coast – Edward Appleton’s and Derek Holts’ graves framing the left hand side of the map.

Other details of this ultimately over ambitious trip will be recorded in later (or perhaps now, previous posts….)|posts – suffice to say, the vast majority of the journey on A roads and torrential/ storm rain for half the journey made going tougher than expected – though the endeavour of recording the gravestones of boys, half my age, who made the ultimate sacrifice , makes any dampness or arguments a moot point….

Sgt. Ronald Smith lays in Whitkirk Church Cemetery, outside of Leeds. As I have already noted, the act of locating a headstone is remarkably accelerated if you know its a CWGC stone. If its not, you have a search on your hands – and if its raining what feels like a much longer one. In total 3 passes of the graveyard was necessary before, as usual, Bev found it.

Derek and Ronald were two of 6 of George Kerr’s crew who were killed on return from a Gardening OP to the East Coast of Denmark on the 1st of December 1943.

Sgt. George Kerr and his crew arrived at Mepal on the 16th 0f September 1943.
The Kerr crew’s Op history is as follows:

22/09/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Hanover
Twenty aircraft were detailed to carry out the above attacks with bombs of 1,000lb. and incendiaries of 30lb. and 4lb.. Three aircraft returned early, but the remainder dropped their bombs in the target area. This was a very successful and concentrated attack. Numerous fires which appeared to be merging into one large fire were seen, and were still visible as the aircraft were returning over the DUTCH Coast. Heavy A.A. fire and a great number of searchlights were encountered, but proved ineffective. Several enemy aircraft were seen and one of our Stirlings was hit, but the attacker was not seen, damage was received to the tail and main plane, and the port petrol tanks were punctured. The aircraft, however, was safely flown back to base and a crash landing was made with three engines. It was clear over the target and visibility was excellent. Navigation was very good.

Stirling Mk.III EE897 AA-G

F/O Norman Clarence Bruce Wilson, RNZAF NZ417139 – Pilot.
Sgt. George John Stewart Kerr, RAFVR 1558163 – 2nd Pilot.
F/O Thomas Lodge, RNZAF NZ417284 – Navigator.
P/O Alfred Thomas Dance, RNZAF NZ42495 – Air Bomber.
F/S Ronald Charlton, RAFVR 644136 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Raymond Walter John Stratton, RAFVR 1166593 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Leonard Charles Gaskin, RAFVR 1392668 – Mid Upper Gunner.
F/O Donald Arthur Laycock, RAFVR 1457004/ 130451 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 19:20 – Landed 02:00
Flight Time 06:40

24/09/1943 – Mining in the Frisian Islands
Two aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with mines of 1,500lb., which were successfully dropped in the allotted area and the parachutes were seen to open. No A.A. fire, searchlights, or enemy aircraft were encountered. 8/10ht cloud and intermittent rain were prevalent in the mining area, although visibility was fairly good. Navigation was very good.

Stirling Mk.III EF512 AA-A

Sgt. George John Stewart Kerr, RAFVR 1558163 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Frank Wort, RAFVR 1585034 – Navigator.
Sgt. Ronald Smith, RAFVR 1239376 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Derek Arthur Holt, RAFVR 1217087 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Leonard George Copsey, RAFVR 1691471 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. George William Thomas Lucas, RAFVR 1250557 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 19:20 – Landed 22:45
Flight Time 03:25

27/09/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Hanover
Sixteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with incendiary bombs of 30lb. and 4 lb. Two aircraft failed to return and one returned early owing to its rear turret being unserviceable. The remainder dropped their bombs in the target area. This was an exceedingly successful and well concentrated attack, considered to be even better than the previous one. Numerous large fires and columns of smoke rising to 12,000ft., were seen and the fires were again visible at the DUTCH coast. Very moderate, ineffective heavy A.A. Fire numerous searchlights and flares were encountered. Many enemy aircraft were seen and several combats took place. The aircraft captained by F.Sgt. HORGAN, D. had a combat with a JU88 which was claimed to be destroyed. The aircraft captained by F/Sgt. BURTON, H., sighted a JU88 and the Rear Gunner fired, it was then seen to fall in flames and was claimed as destroyed. Two other short combats took place and one of our aircraft received slight damage. The weather was poor on the outward and return journeys, but good with clear visibility over the target. Navigation was very good. The missing aircraft were Stirlings Mk.III, EF515 captained by Sgt. Martin, R., and EH877 captained by F/Sgt. WHITMORE, R.

Stirling Mk.III EF514 AA-?

P/O John Milward Mee, RNZAF NZ416518 – Pilot.
Sgt. George John Stewart Kerr, RAFVR 1558163 – 2nd Pilot.
F/S David Percy Bain, RNZAF NZ415814 – Navigator.
F/S David Newbury Luxton, RNZAF NZ414310 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. R. Haydon, RAFVR 1384978 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. S. Allan, RAFVR 1558635 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. J.D. Sofrin, RAFVR 1493880 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Richard Arthur Webb, RAFVR 1473046 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 19:40 – Landed 00:40
Flight Time 05:00

 03/10/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Kassel
Fifteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with incendiary bombs of 30lbs. and 4lbs. One aircraft returned early as the Navigator was ill, but the remainder successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. This was a good concentrated attack, large fires and heavy explosions being seen. Moderate A.A. Fire was encountered, which was ineffective except for one aircraft which received damage. This aircraft was captained by F/Sgt. N. PARKER, damage was received to the starboard elevator , starboard tail plane and the rear turret war partly shot away. The rear gunner Sgt. S.W. RIDDLER was lost over the target when the rear turret was damaged. It is considered that he may have baled out as the escape hatch was found to be open. The aircraft successfully landed at WING. Very few enemy aircraft were seen. It was clear at the target, but slight haze was encountered on the return journey. Navigation was very good.

Stirling Mk.III EF465 AA-H

Sgt. George John Stewart Kerr, RAFVR 1558163 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Frank Wort, RAFVR 1585034 – Navigator.
Sgt. Ronald Smith, RAFVR 1239376 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Derek Arthur Holt, RAFVR 1217087 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Leonard George Copsey, RAFVR 1691471 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. George William Thomas Lucas, RAFVR 1250557 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:45 – Landed 00:45
Flight Time 06:00

04/10/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Frankfurt
Thirteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with incendiary bombs of 30lb. and 4lbs. Three aircraft returned early and one failed to return. This was a good attack, ten aircraft successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. Very good concentrated fires and enormous explosions being seen, the fires were still visible on the homeward journey. A.A. Fire was negligible, there were many search lights which were cooperating with enemy night-fighters. The aircraft captained by S/Ldr. J.JOLL had a combat with a M.E. 109, which was claimed as possibly damaged. The weather was poor on the outward and return journeys, but clear over the target, visibility was good except for smoke haze. Navigation was very good. The missing aircraft was captained by SGT. H.J. MIDDLETON.

Stirling Mk.III EF465 AA-H

Sgt. George John Stewart Kerr, RAFVR 1558163 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Frank Wort, RAFVR 1585034 – Navigator.
Sgt. Ronald Smith, RAFVR 1239376 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Derek Arthur Holt, RAFVR 1217087 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Leonard George Copsey, RAFVR 1691471 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. George William Thomas Lucas, RAFVR 1250557 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:50 – Landed 21:35
Flight Time 02:45

08/10/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Bremen
Twelve aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets with bombs of 1,000 lbs., 500lbs., and indendiaries of 30lbs. and 4lbs. All of the aircraft successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. Results were rather disappointing as owing to thick cloud, it was not possible to assess damage. Very few fires were seen and only one large explosion was observed. Slight ineffective A.A, Fire was encountered. Searchlights were active but hampered by cloud. Several combats with enemy aircraft took place. The aircraft captained by F/SGT. SPIERS, R. claimed a M.E. 109 as probably destroyed and a M.E. 110 as damaged. Another M.E. 109 was claimed as damaged by the aircraft captained by P/O o. WHITE. Navigation was very good.

Stirling Mk.III BF461 JN-B

Sgt. George John Stewart Kerr, RAFVR 1558163 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Frank Wort, RAFVR 1585034 – Navigator.
Sgt. Ronald Smith, RAFVR 1239376 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Derek Arthur Holt, RAFVR 1217087 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Leonard George Copsey, RAFVR 1691471 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. George William Thomas Lucas, RAFVR 1250557 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:10 – Landed 04:10
Flight Time 05:00

19/11/1943 – Attack Against Targets at Leverkusen
Sixteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above target with bombs of 2,000lbs, 1,000 lbs and incendiaries of 30 lbs and 4lbs. One aircraft failed to return, but the remainder successfully dropped their bombs in the target area. Except for one vivid  red flash seen through the clouds, little results were observed. Heavy and medium A.A. Fire co-operating with Searchlights was encountered, but caused negligible damage. Some enemy aircraft were seen and a few combats took place but no damage was sustained by our aircraft. The aircraft  captained be F/S R.Hunt met a J.U.88 which attacked his aircraft, the fire was returned and strikes were seen on the enemy aircraft. Our aircraft was then attacked by a FW190, the first was returned but the enemy aircraft disappeared. The weather was poor, being ten-tenths cloud over the target, there was also a fog at base which necessitated the aircraft landing at BRADWELL BAY on return. Navigation was very good. The missing aircraft was captained by F/Sgt. N. PARKER.

Stirling Mk.III EH880 AA-J

Sgt. George John Stewart Kerr, RAFVR 1558163 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Frank Wort, RAFVR 1585034 – Navigator.
Sgt. Ronald Smith, RAFVR 1239376 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Derek Arthur Holt, RAFVR 1217087 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Leonard George Copsey, RAFVR 1691471 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. George William Thomas Lucas, RAFVR 1250557 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 17:12 – Landed 21:49
Flight Time 04:37

01/12/1943 – Mining off the East Coast of Denmark
Three aircraft were detailed to carry out the above operation with mines of 1,500lb. Two of the aircraft successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area, but the parachutes were not seen to open owing to ten tenths cloud. Some heavy A.A. Fire was encountered, but caused negligible opposition. Visibility was poor in the mining area. Navigation was very good. On returning the aircraft captained by SGT. F/SGT.G.J.KERR crashed whilst attempting to land at R.A.F. Station ACKLINGTON. The aircraft crashed into a house and all of the crew were killed, except for the Mid Upper Gunner SGT. K.G.HOOK who was seriously injured. In addition to the crew, five children who were in the house were killed and their parents were admitted to Hospital.

Stirling Mk.III EH880 AA-J

F/S George John Stewart Kerr, RAFVR 1558163 – Pilot.
Sgt. Donald Frank Wort, RAFVR 1585034 – Navigator.
Sgt. Ronald Smith, RAFVR 1239376 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. Derek Arthur Holt, RAFVR 1217087 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Leonard George Copsey, RAFVR 1691471 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. George William Thomas Lucas, RAFVR 1250557 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 15:16 – Landed 22:40
Flight Time 07:24

It would appear that owing to low visibility because of fog, the aircraft undershot the runway and crashed into the second story of Cliff House Farm. All the crew were killed except for the the Mid Upper Gunner, Sgt. Kenneth Hook, who escaped, but suffered serious burns. Tragically, also killed in the impact were all 5 children of the Robson family.

“Aircraft Crash on Farmhouse. Family of five young children killed.

Five children – all their family – of Mr and Mrs W. Robson were killed when an Aircraft crashed into Cliff House, a small dairy farm near Amble, Northumberland, on Wednesday night. The children’s ages ranged from one to nine years. They were sleeping in an upstairs room.

The mother and father, who with two friends Mr. and Mrs Rowell of Dilston [Terrace] Amble, were sitting in a downstairs room, were injured but not seriously. One of the crew of the aircraft, a gunner, was saved by Mr. Rowell.

Mr Rowell said last night: “We did not realize what had happened until the house collapsed above our heads. We managed to stand up, bruised and badly dazed, and, looking upward we saw the sky. Mrs Robson tried to make her way towards the stairs, which had been blown away. My wife called my attention to a burning object outside which was moving about.  We rushed over and found it was a gunner with his clothes alight. Mr Rowell rolled the airman on the ground to extinguish the burning clothes. Although badly burned, the gunner was alive.

The children’s partly charred bodies were recovered later.”

Extract from ‘The Times’ Newspaper, published 3rd December 1943

Despite Kenneth Hooks injuries, he returned to the Squadron and continued to fly:

15/02/1944 – Mining in the Mouth of River Ardour
Six aircraft dropped mines of 1500 lbs in the mouth of the river Adour. The visibility was excellent and all crews reported a successful operation. Photographs taken show the aiming point in three cases, and the factory is covered in two more. Unfortunately the sixth aircraft did not carry a photo-flash bomb. The Bomb Development Unit have, however, got the evidence from which to calculate where the mines dropped.

Stirling Mk.III LK378 ??-?

P/O Colin Roy Baker, RNZAF NZ42999 – Pilot.
F/S Charles Le Gallals Gardner, RNZAF NZ425204 – Navigator.
F/S Raymond Alexander Ramsay, RNZAF NZ416866 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. G. Marden, RAFVR 1585273 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. R. Conner, RAFVR 1603909 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. R. Cornish, RAFVR 1280506 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:35 – Landed 06:30
Flight Time 06:55

20/02/1944 – Mining off Morlaix
Two aircraft were detailed to lay mines of 1,500 lbs in the channels leading to Morlaix. They both completed their tasks without incident.

Stirling Mk.III EF454 ??-A

P/O Colin Roy Baker, RNZAF NZ42999 – Pilot.
F/S Charles Le Gallals Gardner, RNZAF NZ425204 – Navigator.
F/S Raymond Alexander Ramsay, RNZAF NZ416866 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. G. Marden, RAFVR 1585273 – Wireless Operator .
F/L Lyndon Oliver Sims, RAFVR 148590 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. R. Cornish, RAFVR 1280506 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:45 – Landed 22:35
Flight Time 03:50

25/02/1944 – Mining in Baltic Sea
Fifteen aircraft were detailed to lay mines of 1500 lbs, south of Zealand, an island in the Baltic Sea. Thirteen aircraft completed their mission successfully. The weather was good with excellent visibility. One aircraft (Captain NZ421803 F/Sgt. Willis W.) encountered six JU.88s, four of which fired short bursts, our rear gunner and mid-upper gunner returning fire. Our aircraft was not damaged and no claims were made on the enemy aircraft. Two aircraft returned early with engine trouble.

Stirling Mk.III EE958 ??-V

P/O Colin Roy Baker, RNZAF NZ42999 – Pilot.
F/S Charles Le Gallals Gardner, RNZAF NZ425204 – Navigator.
F/S Raymond Alexander Ramsay, RNZAF NZ416866 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. G. Marden, RAFVR 1585273 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. W. Thompson   not listed?, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. R. Cornish, RAFVR 1280506 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 19:40 – Landed 03:05
Flight Time 07:25

10/03/1944 – Special Operations – March Moon Period MONGREL 6 (SUCCESSFUL)
Operation MONGREL 6 (Successful).   The m/n crew in Stirling III ‘J’ took off at 20.53 hours. The target was reached at 00.17 hours and pin pointed. The reception letter was flashed very quickly and twelve containers were dropped from 300′ at 00.29 hrs. The weather was very good. Course was set for Base at 00.30 hours, two packages being dropped in the Chambery area. The aircraft, without further incident, landed at Base at 04.20 hours.

Stirling Mk.III EF236 AA-J

P/O Colin Roy Baker, RNZAF NZ42999 – Pilot.
F/S Charles Le Gallals Gardner, RNZAF NZ425204 – Navigator.
P/O Raymond Alexander Ramsay, RNZAF NZ416866 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. G. Marden, RAFVR 1585273 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. R. Hughes, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt R. Cornish, RAFVR 1280506 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 20:53 – Landed 04:20
Flight Time 07:27

13/03/1944 – Mining off Brest
Sixteen aircraft were detailed for mine laying off St. Nazaire, Lorient, La Rochelle, and Brest. One aircraft (Captain NZ414567 F/Sgt. Rowberry T.) failed to return. Another aircraft (Captain NZ42999 P/O. C. Baker) returned early with aileron trouble and crashed at Castle Comb, without injury to the crew although the aircraft was burnt out. The remaining fourteen successfully laid their mines, one aircraft landing at Woodbridge on return.

Stirling Mk.III EF236 AA-J

P/O Colin Roy Baker, RNZAF NZ42999 – Pilot.
F/S Charles Le Gallals Gardner, RNZAF NZ425204 – Navigator.
P/O Raymond Alexander Ramsay, RNZAF NZ416866 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. G. Marden, RAFVR 1585273 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. R. Hughes, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt R. Cornish, RAFVR 1280506 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off – – Landed –
Flight Time no record

16/03/1944 – Attack Against Targets at Amiens
12 aircraft were detailed to attack the marshalling yards at Amiens. One aircraft was withdrawn and one, being unable to maintain height owing to engine trouble, was forced to jettison near the target. The remaining ten aircraft successfully bombed the target although haze prevented identification of ground detail. No fighter opposition was encountered, and only very slight A.A. Fire.

Stirling Mk.III EF137 AA-E

P/O Colin Roy Baker, RNZAF NZ42999 – Pilot.
F/S Charles Le Gallals Gardner, RNZAF NZ425204 – Navigator.
P/O Raymond Alexander Ramsay, RNZAF NZ416866 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. G. Marden, RAFVR 1585273 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. R. Hughes, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt R. Cornish, RAFVR 1280506 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 20:15 – Landed 00:10
Flight Time 03:55

20/04/1944 – Attack Against Cologne
Nine Lancaster aircraft were detailed to attack Cologne, of which one failed to take off and one returned early owing to the illness of the wireless operator. The remainder successfully completed their mission.

Lancaster Mk.I LL865 ??-?

P/O Colin Roy Baker, RNZAF NZ42999 – Pilot.
F/S Charles Le Gallals Gardner, RNZAF NZ425204 – Navigator.
P/O Raymond Alexander Ramsay, RNZAF NZ416866 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. G. Marden, RAFVR 1585273 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. R. Hughes, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. R. Cornish, RAFVR 1280506 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 00:20 – Landed 04:00
Flight Time 03:40

19/05/1944 – Attack Against Le Mans
Twenty for aircraft successfully bombed the marshalling yards at Le Mans. Good results being reported.

Lancaster Mk.I LL921 AA-E

P/O Colin Roy Baker, RNZAF NZ42999 – Pilot.
F/S Charles Le Gallals Gardner, RNZAF NZ425204 – Navigator.
F/O Raymond Alexander Ramsay, RNZAF NZ416866 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. G. Marden, RAFVR 1585273 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. W. P. Watson, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
F/S Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. R. Cornish, RAFVR 1280506 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:15 – Landed 03:00
Flight Time 04:45

21/05/1944 – Attack Against Duisberg
Twenty five aircraft took off to attack Duisburg, of which twenty one attacked the primary target. Three returned early with various technical failures and one failed to return (Captain NZ421803 P/O. W. Willis). Another aircraft (Captain AUS413157 P/O. A. Humphreys) was attacked by an enemy fighter and the navigator 1438903 F/Sgt. Hill, A. was injured, the aircraft also being damaged.

Lancaster Mk.I ME752 AA-E

P/O Colin Roy Baker, RNZAF NZ42999 – Pilot.
F/S Charles Le Gallals Gardner, RNZAF NZ425204 – Navigator.
F/O Raymond Alexander Ramsay, RNZAF NZ416866 – Air Bomber.
Sgt. G. Marden, RAFVR 1585273 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. W. P. Watson, RAFVR – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. R. Cornish, RAFVR 1280506 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:10 – Landed 03:40
Flight Time 04:30

22/05/1944 – Attack Against Dortmund
Twenty three aircraft were detailed to attack Dortmund of which eighteen completed their mission successfully. Three aircraft returned early and two failed to return (Captains NZ417016 P/O. E. Burke and NZ42354 P/O. C. Armstrong). The raid was well concentrated and carried out in good weather with excellent visibility. One aircraft had an inconclusive combat with a JU 88. Otherwise the operation was uneventful.

Lancaster Mk.I LL866 AA-S Sugar

P/O Robert Albert ‘Popsy’ Potts, RAAF AUS.415353 – Pilot.
F/S Dudley Joe Hall, RNZAF NZ426996 – Navigator.
F/S Thomas Edwin Fletcher, RNZAF NZ427195 – Air Bomber.
F/S George Wilks, RAFVR 1601175 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. W. Andrews, RAFVR 1129988 – Flight Engineer.
F/S Elmer Roy Kanenen, RCAF R.178271 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:50 – Landed 02:50
Flight Time 04:00

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 LL866 AA-S Sugar

P/O Robert Albert ‘Popsy’ Potts, RAAF AUS.415353 – Pilot.
F/S Dudley Joe Hall, RNZAF NZ426996 – Navigator.
F/S Thomas Edwin Fletcher, RNZAF NZ427195 – Air Bomber.
F/S George Wilks, RAFVR 1601175 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. W. Andrews, RAFVR 1129988 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Elmer Roy Kanenen, RCAF R.178271 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 03:35 – Landed 07:05
Flight Time 03:30

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.I LL866 AA-S Sugar (20)

P/O Robert Albert ‘Popsy’ Potts, RAAF AUS.415353 – Pilot.
F/S Dudley Joe Hall, RNZAF NZ426996 – Navigator.
F/S Thomas Edwin Fletcher, RNZAF NZ427195 – Air Bomber.
F/S George Wilks, RAFVR 1601175 – Wireless Operator .
Sgt. W. Andrews, RAFVR 1129988 – Flight Engineer.
Sgt. Elmer Roy Kanenen, RCAF R.178271 – Mid Upper Gunner.
Sgt. Kenneth Gordon Hook, RAFVR 1335989 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:45 – Landed 03:55
Flight Time 04:10

Ken Hook was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal on the 19th of December 1944. HIs citation reads as follows:

“As an air gunner, Sergeant Hook has completed many operational sorties and has at all times shown great determination to engage the enemy. This airman was involved in a serious air crash during December 1943 of which he was the sole survivor, he himself receiving very serious injuries. Despite this, since his recovery he has displayed great eagerness to participate again in operations. His courage and efficiency have been an example and inspiration to the remainder of the squadron”.

 

 

 

Selby Cemetery, Yorkshire – Cpl. Kenneth John Howes RAF 912524

From Hull Northern Cemetery it was back in the car and through the still torrential rain and varied closed and diverted roads to Selby Cemetery to visit and record the Gravestone of Cpl. Kenneth Howes, a member of ground crew who was killed in a training flight accident on the 28th of February 1942.

Again. I must remark on the strange coincidences that seem to follow me with this blog. Last night, while putting together the post about Robert Bertram, Googling, I came across a fascinating thread about the crash that involved Robert Colville. Reading through the very detailed information regarding this crash, I decided to copy paste it all for later reading with a thought it surely would be useful at a later date. Of course, I now realise that the ‘later date’ is actually now – a day later…….

I have already posted the gravestone for Wilfred Pownall, the other fatality in the crash, which can be seen here.

The additional details regarding the crash of X.3355 is as follows and can be read in its entirety here, from the excellent PPRuNe forum(s).

from Errol:
“The crash above occurred in daytime on an air test, presumably would not have a bomb load aboard. The crash originally referred to happened at night and left a large crater when the bombs exploded. How close to Feltwell is Brandon? The mystery deepens!” My entry is in error regarding the location of Lime Kiln Farm from Brandon – it is not ESE, nor really SW but almost directly west, lying almost equidistant between Brandon and the Lakenheath Railway Station (which lies a mile or two north of the town of Lakenheath). I could cannot now find Brandon Fields and wonder if this might have been a transcription error of data on the Form 1180 by my researcher. Since publication I have obtained a copy of a precis of the Court of Inquiry. This lists the crew sans initials and includes Aircraftman Hall, who is the name missing from Bill Chorley’s entry (p38 of his 1942 Vol). It describes Colville, Godwin and Hall’s injuries as ‘serious’. The precis states in part: “On 28-2-42, Sgt Colville (1st pilot) with crew of five, took off in Wellington X.3355 on a test flight. Shortly after becoming airborne the starboard engine failed. The pilot endeavoured to return to the aerodrome but while making a circuit the port engine spluttered and when approaching for a forced landing the aircraft stalled and crashed. An outbreak of fire occured on impact and with the exception of the rear half of the fuselage and engines, the aircraft was destroyed… …the starboard engine failed when the aircraft had not much height. The pilot possibly in trying to force land before he crashed, was compelled to turn to the right against his bad engine. It seems probable that the evidence of AC Hall (seventh witness) that the starboard wing stalled during the turn and dropped, and as the aircraft hit the ground with the starboard wing tip first it swung round to the right… …it took off about 1600 hours and the crash must have occured just before 1625 hours when it was reported to F/Lt Walkerdine (12th witness). Although Mr Harrington {note spelling} (11th witness) states he found one of the occupants in the nose turret, we think it was probably the pilots cockpit. Both AC Godwin and AC Hall state that there was not one in the nose turret at the time of the crash and when we found the front turret it was completely smashed and there was no evidence of it having been occupied…” I don’t think that there can be much doubt about this being the crash the crippled Colville so badly. Perhaps, though, by 1957 memory had played tricks on him or he had embellished the account somewhat, or the account as retailed on the PPRuNe board is a little garbled. Given that there is no mention of a bomb load or explosion in the precis it seems very unlikely that the crash would have caused a ‘crater’. Could this in fact just be an old lime quarry?”

Additional detail from RobFJ:
“My mother today told me the following story :

During this part of the war, she lived in Hockwold, adjacent to RAF Feltwell. She remembers the day the plane came down (she heard the crash). It was in the daytime as she was in her office. She lived in the pub, the Red Lion on Hockwold Green which was on the Brandon Road. The billet for the aircrew was just down the road; they used the pub regularly – so she knew most of the aircrew. That evening she asked the pilots about the crash and they said it was Sergeant Arthur Colville’s plane.

Arthur Colville was actually the pilot who replaced my father, Squadron Leader William Francis Jordan, after he was injured and in hospital from  another crash

Mum was a member of the WRVS and she visited Arthur in Ely Hospital until he was transferred to Stoke Mandeville (by which time he had been promoted to Squadron Leader). Two days after the crash, mum asked Arthur what caused it, he mentioned he was on a test flight but he did not know what had happened except that the ground crew had done their checks but the aircraft, in flight, just wasn’t fit to fly

Although he was in a wheelchair when he left Ely Hospital, mum is totally certain that Arthur had not lost his legs – although his injuries on this crash included fractured skull, arms, legs and ribs”.

Flixton Buck then added:
“Concerning incident on 28.02.42, Wellington Ser. No. X3355 which did indeed crash at Brandon next to George Harrington’s farmhouse.
It was a very cold February afternoon with temperatures below zero and by that time in the afternoon quite dark. The ground crew had been working all day to service the aircraft and were the last off the airfield for an air test. As was the tradition of the time, the skipper of the kite flew it and the Erks went along for the ride. The fire destroyed most of the aircraft and it proved to be impossible to ascertain the exact cause of the crash but it was suspected that in their haste to get away they forgot to open balance cock “A”, located under the Pilots seat which evened up the fuel in the tanks. The engines had enough fuel in the near empty tank for the run up but as soon as she started to lift off started to chuck it.
Sgt Colville turned back towards the Station; Lime Kiln farm was on the downward leg of the circuit, when the Wellington crashed. There was a very small fire behind one engine and Mr Harrington, the Farm foreman who lived at Lime Kiln, started pulling the men from the aircraft and taking them into the kitchen of his house. By the time he reached Colville the aircraft was fully ablaze, and the ammo on board was starting to explode. George noted that Colville was pretty banged up and took him inside the house, where he noted that one of the other men who he had placed on his kitchen table had passed away.

The injured were taken to Ely RAF Hospital and Colville was placed under the care of Sir Archie McIndoe a New Zealander of some repute. That night he was given the last rites but never the less he was a young man and gradually improved. As far as I know he kept his legs but may have had substantial metal plates fitted.
George Harrington was called up to meet the old King and was awarded the British Empire Medal for his troubles.

There was never a large crater at Lime Kiln Farm, but you can still find small pieces of Wimpy there when they plough the field where it crashed”.

So, belatedly, thank you to all above who shared this extra information.

 

RAF Benevolent Fund – Princess Marina House Christmas Appeal

I just received an email from the RAF Benevolent Fund while eating lunch and it seems like such a simple but moving request I thought I should share it all with you.

Put simply, Princess Marina House is an RAF Benevolent Fund care and respite home for former and serving RAF personnel in Rustington. The appeal is to let RAF veterans spend some time with others over the Christmas period, which for some, would otherwise be a lonely or perhaps impossible time of the year.

You can donate as little or as much as you would like, though fittingly, one of the default values is £75 (just a hint). For UK tax payers, Gift Aid increases the value of your donation.

I have given – and I feel better for doing it – I have less now to waste on the typical festive crap that I usually buy every year……..

Please, give a thought to those that may otherwise spend their Christmas alone.

You can donate here.

Hull Northen Cemetery – Sgt. John Hall RAFVR 988980, Nola crew

A short drive or if it had not been pouring down with rain, a quick walk from the Columbarium in Hull Northern Cemetery took us to the second grave of the day, that of Sgt John Hall,  Front Gunner with David Nola’s crew, all who, apart from the Rear Gunner, were killed when the Wellington they were in hit barrage balloon cables in the Humber estuary, crashing near Trinity Sands.

Seasoned readers might recall that the first gravestones that I presented on the blog was at the very beginning of my journey and were, in fact, happened upon my chance when Bev and I were visiting her Grandparents graves in Scartho Road Cemetery in Grimsby.

Coming across a number of RNZAF gravestones a little bit of digging identified 2, David Leo Nola and Alexander Coutts Mee as not only both flying with 75(NZ) Squadron RAF, but also dying together.

Perhaps because I found them first, perhaps because they rest in Grimsby, Bev’s home town I have a bit of a soft spot for  these two boys and have always hoped I might hear from a relative of them.

I knew on visiting John’s grave that he had also been part of the Nola crew and perhaps finding him, pricked a thought regarding information on the crew.

Well, as part of this post I am please to say that a few weeks ago now I was contacted by Luke, whose Grandmother was David Nola’s Mother. Luke has passed on a letter that David sent to his Mother. The letter was written not long after David arrived at Feltwell and describes his first 2 Ops with Jim Falconers crew as 2nd Pilot.

I have in the first instance, broken the letter apart and added in parts, relative to the Op entries mentioned.

The complete letter can be read at the foot of this post.

22/01/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Dusseldorf
Five Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above targets. A mixed bomb load was carried and consisted of 500lbs. N.D.T., 250 lbs. N.D.T., and containers of incendiaries. TKP.422 dropped bombs through cloud, but results were unobserved. THP.564 bombed through 10/10 cloud on E.T.A. from 11,000 feet on centre of flak concentration. One 250lbs. dropped on ROTTERDAM Aerodrome from 6000 feet on return; no results observed. TKP.616 reports target obscured by 10/10 cloud. Astro fix obtained over target and bombs dropped. Glow of incendiaries seen burning through cloud. TKP.917 dropped bombs in one stick in target on flak. No observations were made and no reconnaissance carried out. There was intense light and heavy flak in target area. Searchlights were moderate over target area. Few experienced on route. No enemy aircraft were encountered. There was 10/10 cloud over target. Navigation was by D/R, astro, R/T, Q.D.M’s

“Everything is going well so far – got my first cold this winter when I arrived here and still have got a beauty. After getting back from leave I was idle for about six days until Jim Falconer and the crew came back. They arrived on the Monday that is the 19th and on that Wednesday I did my first operational trip – to Dusseldorf in the Ruhr. We took off about 5pm – it was still daylight and headed up through the clouds and finally got into clear sky again about 5000ft and then going up to about l2,000ft, temperature about -12C. Crossed the English coast, North Sea, Holland without seeing a thing as the clouds were unbroken below us. After about three hours we came over or I should just near Dusseldorf – Jim took the controls then – we knew we were over Dusseldorf if our navigation was correct and then the flak started to come up – they were bursting all around us – could not see the ground so after dodging about twisting, turning, diving, climbing we finally let go the bombs and incendiaries into the middle of the hottest part. Then they let us have it – very interesting and beautiful if it was not so serious. The big shells burst in front and all around us – the light flak comes up in streams sometimes red, sometimes green and occasionally red and green alternatively – it makes you think. I took over the controls again and took her back to within a few miles of the drome when Jim finished and landed her. It was about 10.30 in the evening when we came in. I wasn’t very cold had a drink of hot coffee out of the thermos flask while we were over Germany and that brought the circulation back nicely. The hardest part of it was breathing — we kept plugged in the oxygen as much as possible but when l went back to pump oil to the engines had to plug out for about half a minute and does it take it out of you. Pumping oil is another hard job as it takes 50 strokes per gallon and you need a gallon for each engine and it is pretty hard work, you must not forget also that the oil is also just about frozen. On landing we went to operations room for briefing — that is giving details of what we did and saw. However we could not do much in this case owing to low cloud. However next day we were informed that something pretty important was hit in Dussledorf”.

Wellington Mk.Ic T.2503 AA-?

P/O Arthur James Falconer, RNZAF NZ39910 – Captain.
Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Anthony Vincent Muir, RNZAF NZ40195 – Navigator.
Sgt. William Donald ‘Don’ Morrison, RAFVR 946356 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Harry Thomas Hellier, RAFVR 650057 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Andrew Moore Brodie, RNZAF NZ391378 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 17:40 – Landed 22:00
Flight Time 04:20

27/01/1941 – Bombing Attacks on Targets at Hanover
Seven Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above targets. One of these aircraft, BNF.882, captained by S/L. Kain, failed to reach target owing to engine trouble, and bombs were jettisoned “safe” in sea. A mixed bomb load was carried and consisted of 1000lbs. N.D.T., 500lbs. N.D.T., 250lbs. N.D.T. and containers of incendiaries. BNF. 253 reports bursts observed in target area by rear gunners. BNF. 268 dropped bombs in a single stick: 1000 lbs. seen to burst near railway station. BNF.432 reports two fires caused by incendiaries. H.E. dropped in target area. BNF.550 dropped incendiaries on target on first run. H.E. dropped on second run and seen to explode on the fires. Three red fires burning in middle of incendiaries upon leaving target. BNF.654 dropped bombs in two sticks across centre of city. Numerous fires started, increasing in size as target was left. BNF.817 located target and dropped a stick of bombs running North East. Line of fires resulted. Aerodrome observed 10 miles N.W. of LINZEN. Two photos of target area taken by BNF.253.. Fairly accurate heavy and light A.A. fire was experienced in target areas. Very few searchlights over target area: not accurate. No enemy aircraft were encountered. The weather was clear over Germany. Low cloud over England and elsewhere en route. Navigation was by D/R, W/T, astro, Q.D.M’s.

“Weather was pretty bad for the next four days however on Sunday we were to go to Hanover but it was not until 1.30 on Monday that we finally took off in terrible weather with fog almost down to the ground. To keep the ground in sight we had to fly at 800 feet –  we passed the coast and then over the North Sea which only a few hundred feet below looked very cold. lt was not until we had covered about fifty miles out that the clouds suddenly and up and we went crossing the Dutch coast at about 9000 feet and then over the Zuider Zee which was frozen. It was a clear night with no moon but even so we could see the ground quite clearly although we could not distinguish much as there was pretty heavy fall on the ground. We passed just north of lnnsbrook and then on to Hanover where they met us with plenty of flak. We circled around until we found the town after a while. The Jerries are pretty cunning as they get dummy fires going, a few miles away from the town so as to draw the bombs, but you can usually pick these. However as our target was the centre of the town, in other words a blitz we went right over the top of the place and let go our incendiaries and heavy bombs. We did not see the results immediately but afler getting away some distance there were two long lines of fires started by our incendiaries — looked as though a couple of streets were burning. Then someone else dropped their bombs and more fires were started. We could see them while we were fifty miles away. The flak was pretty heavy, so heavy that it seems amazing that you can get through it. l am always glad to get out of it l can tell you, When we got back to the English coast our troubles started again as the fog was pretty thick and required us to go down to about 300 ft which is no joke at night or early morning as it was about 7 o’clock and not dawn yet We got wireless bearings back to the drome but could not find it owing to low fog and had to cruise around for about an hour until we finally got down just as dawn was breaking Boy was I tired alter 7 hours in the air. Went into report the results of the operation at the same time hoeing into sandwiches and coffee. It was about 10 o’clock when I finally got to bed, where I stayed all day getting up for supper – then back to bed again for the night”.

Wellington Mk.Ic L.7818 AA-R

P/O Arthur James Falconer, RNZAF NZ39910 – Captain.
Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Anthony Vincent Muir, RNZAF NZ40195 – Navigator.
Sgt. William Donald ‘Don’ Morrison, RAFVR 946356 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Harry Thomas Hellier, RAFVR 650057 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Andrew Moore Brodie, RNZAF NZ391378 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 01:40 – Landed 08:05
Flight Time 06:25

 

“For the last fortnight we have done no operations owing to the weather – we have been due to go to Berlin, Hamburg and Boulogne but had to be cancelled owing to rain, snow cloud and ice.

The jerries have been paying us quite a number of visits and have put the wind up me a few times when they have dropped bombs. The other night they came over and got a couple of direct hits right on our mess and put the place out of action however, very luckily no one was hurt as most had gone to the shelter – the bomb landed 300 yards from the shelter. Luckily I was out that night and still spend most of my nights off the station. I took the plane up for a test today — have done little, day flying since arriving here- Still manage to take off and land in one piece. The crew are a jolly decent crowd and I get on well with Jim Falconer the first pilot he is a crack-a-jack pilot.

Have been travelling around quite a bit since coming – been to Cambridge a couple of times, also to Newmarket, King’s Lynn, Downham Market.

We spend most of our nights doing a spot of drinking in Brandon about seven miles from here. Going over to Norwich some nights – would have gone tonight we have a dance or at least we are going to a dance in the an army sergeants mess a few miles from here – the bar will be open until midnight – it is funny over most dance places have a bar in them – just like a pub so you can drink and dance as you please”.

Extract from the Feltwell Flyong Control log for the 4th of February 1941.
At. 20:38 enemy aircraft attacked the airfield and bombs are dropped.
5 minutes later, more bombs are dropped by the attacker.

10/02/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Hanover and Rotterdam
Thirteen Wellington aircraft of this Unit carried out individual bombing attacks on the above target. Hits were registered in the target area. A balloon was seen flying over Hanover at 9,000 feet. Two beacons were observed at Ymuiden flashing one dot every three seconds. Many dummy fires were also seen. Fair amount of heavy and light A.A. fire was encountered in target area. This ceased when red tracer followed by white tracer was fired. A number of enemy aircraft were seen, while LUX.657 reports being hit by machine gun bullets and explosive shells fired by enemy aircraft which attacked. The hydraulic gear was damaged and the aircraft crashed on landing at Methwold. The weather was good but there was scattered cloud. Navigation was by astro, pin points and map reading

Wellington Mk.Ic T.2503 AA-?

P/O Arthur James Falconer, RNZAF NZ39910 – Captain.
Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Anthony Vincent Muir, RNZAF NZ40195 – Navigator.
Sgt. William Donald ‘Don’ Morrison, RAFVR 946356 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Harry Thomas Hellier, RAFVR 650057 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Andrew Moore Brodie, RNZAF NZ391378 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 21:25 – Landed 00:15
Flight Time 02:50

14/02/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Gelsenkirchen
Twelve Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above target. Bombs were seen to burst in target area, and many fires were observed. Dummy fires were seen near the target. Heavy and medium A.A. fire was encountered in the target area and on route. Searchlights were active from the Dutch coast to target. No enemy aircraft were seen. The weather was fine, but there was some ground mist.

Wellington Mk.Ic T.2503 AA-?

P/O Arthur James Falconer, RNZAF NZ39910 – Captain.
Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Anthony Vincent Muir, RNZAF NZ40195 – Navigator.
Sgt. William Donald ‘Don’ Morrison, RAFVR 946356 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Harry Thomas Hellier, RAFVR 650057 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Andrew Moore Brodie, RNZAF NZ391378 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:35 – Landed 00:35
Flight Time 06:00

21/02/1941 – Bombing Attacks on Wilhelmshaven
Seven Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above target. One of the aircraft, JAH.124, captained by P/O Falconer, failed to return to base. A mixed bomb load was carried and consisted of 1000lbs. 500lbs. 250 lbs. and containers of incendiaries. JAH.243 bombed docks at EMDEN. Incendiaries not observed; 500lbs. bombs seen to explode in target area. Owing to front and rear turrets being unserviceable, JAH.460 returned to base. Bombs were jettisoned in sea. JAH.598 reports bombs seen to explode on docks. Incendiaries seen to cause large fires. JAH.607 reports one good fire, and three minor fires. JAH.969 dropped in vicinity of target area. JAH.996 bombed on ETA and heaviest flak concentration. Bomb bursts seen under cloud. No observations were made, and no reconnaissance carried out. The A.A. fire encountered was medium and inaccurate. There were few searchlights, mostly operating in cones. No enemy aircraft were seen. There was 10/10 cloud over most of the journey, with severe icing conditions. Navigation was by D/R, W/T, map reading, pin points.

Wellington Mk.Ic R.1161 AA-?

P/O Alec Herbert Burton, RAFVR 84007 – Pilot.
Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – 2nd Pilot.
Sgt. Revitt, RAFVR – Navigator.
Sgt. Milborne, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Brown, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. James William George, RNZAF NZ40722 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off – – Landed –
Flight Time not listed

23/02/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Boulogne
Eight Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above target. Three of these aircraft failed to locate the target (WLR.245, WLR.807, WLR.948). A mixed bomb load was carried and was made up of 1000lbs., 500lbs., 250lbs., and containers of incendiaries. WLR.319 bombed the dock area at BOULOGNE. WLR.519 reports bombs burst in target area, and fires were observed. WLR.547 reports two bombs seen to burst in dock area, 250lbs. not seen to burst. WLR.867 bombed target and saw bursts across docks. Small fires started. Explosions observed by rear gunner. WLR.398 reports that bomb bursts were not seen, owing to layer of cloud blowing across target. S.B.C’s seen to light in target area. A number of parachute flares were seen shot up on coast near Calais. A.A. fire was intense and fairly accurate. Searchlights were numerous un target area. One enemy aircraft was seen. Eight tenths to 10/10 cloud was experienced over target area. Navigation was by map reading, D/R, and pin points.

Wellington Mk.Ic L.7818 AA-R

P/O Gilbert Theodore Kimberley, RNZAF NZ391359 – Pilot.
Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – 2nd Pilot..
Sgt. Williams, RAFVR – Navigator.
Sgt. Fairlam, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. McCracken, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Watts, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 18:55 – Landed 21:55
Flight Time 03:00

26/02/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Cologne
Nine Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above target. Bombs were seen to burst in the target area and fires were started. Fairly accurate heavy to medium and light A.A. fire was encountered, and searchlights were intense and accurate over Holland and the target area. A few enemy aircraft were seen but no attacks made. The weather was fairly good over most of the journey, but ground haze covered the target.

Wellington Mk.Ic L.7818 AA-R

P/O Gilbert Theodore Kimberley, RNZAF NZ391359 – Pilot.
Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – 2nd Pilot..
Sgt. Williams, RAFVR – Navigator.
Sgt. Fairlam, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. McCracken, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Watts, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 19:06 – Landed 23:50
Flight Time 04:44

01/03/1941 – Bombing Attacks on Cologne
Six Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above target. Hits were registered in the target area. Many fires were observed in the target. Area and DLN 881 reports seeing dummy fires North West of the target. DLN 626 reported a stick of bombs seen to burst 15 miles East of Lowestoft. Inaccurate heavy A.A. fire was encountered and searchlights were numerous. One enemy searchlight carrying fighter seen by DLN 931 at 500 yards but no attack made. 10/10ths cloud was experienced over North Sea but clear over target area. Navigation was by pin-pointing and map reading.

Wellington Mk.Ic L.7818 AA-R

P/O Gilbert Theodore Kimberley, RNZAF NZ391359 – Pilot.
Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – 2nd Pilot..
Sgt. Williams, RAFVR – Navigator.
Sgt. Fred Haigh, RAFVR 939478 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. McCracken, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Watts, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:00 – Landed 03:50
Flight Time 05:50

 

21/03/1941 – Bombing Attacks on Ostend and L’Orient
Three Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing arracks against the above targets. A mixed bomb load was carried and consisted of 500lbs., 250lbs., and containers of incendiaries. No results were observed by SLY.486. SLY.498 dropped bombs on A.A. batteries and searchlights at Boulogne. SLY.509 dropped bombs on West bank of river. Bursts not observed. Considerable A.A. fire was experienced on route. Slight searchlight activity was experienced at many parts of route. One unidentified aircraft was seen over BRIDPORT and YEOVIL while one enemy aircraft was seen over target area. Ten-tenths cloud was experienced over target area. Navigation was by D/R, map reading and astro.

Wellington Mk.Ic R.1038 AA-H

Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – Pilot.
Sgt. Chapman, RAF – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Clifford Frederick Page, RAFVR 60780 – Navigator.
Sgt. Walter Russell, RAFVR 949560 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. John Hall, RAFVR 988980 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Craven, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:50 – Landed 04:50
Flight Time 05:00

14/04/1941 – Bombing Attacks on Brest
Ten Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above targets. The weather was fine but there was a thin layer of cloud over the target area. Bombs were dropped and a number of bursts were observed in target area. A.A. fire was fairly intense and accurate, and searchlights were accurate when operating in cones. No enemy aircraft were encountered. Navigation was by D/R, astro, W/T and map reading.

Wellington Mk.Ic Serial not listed

Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – Pilot.
Sgt. Alexander Coutts Mee, RNZAF NZ40656 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Clifford Frederick Page, RAFVR 60780 – Navigator.
Sgt. Walter Russell, RAFVR 949560 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. John Hall, RAFVR 988980 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Craven, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 21:35 – Landed 03:50
Flight Time 06:15

16/04/1941 – Bombing Attacks on Bremen
Ten Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above targets. One of these aircraft, captained by F/Lt. Fletcher, failed to locate target and bombs were bought back. The remaining aircraft all dropped bombs and bursts were observed from which fires resulted. Light and heavy A.A. fire, fairy accurate, was experienced in target areas. Searchlights were very active. One enemy aircraft was seen but no attack was made. There was a haze and layers of thin cloud over target areas. Navigation was by D/R, astro, W/T and map reading.

Wellington Mk.Ic R.3166 AA-M

Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – Pilot.
Sgt. Alexander Coutts Mee, RNZAF NZ40656 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Clifford Frederick Page, RAFVR 60780 – Navigator.
Sgt. Walter Russell, RAFVR 949560 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. John Hall, RAFVR 988980 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Craven, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 20:35 – Landed 03:20
Flight Time 06:45

17/04/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Berlin
Seven Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above targets. One of the aircraft, AXC.555, crashed on landing at Ternhill. No one was injured. All bombs were dropped and bursts were seen. A.A. fire was spasmodic and very accurate. Searchlights were intense over target and on route. A number of enemy aircraft were seen but no attacks made. There was ground haze over the target with heavy could on route. Navigation was by D/R, astro, W/T, map reading.

Wellington Mk.Ic R.3166 AA-M

Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – Pilot.
Sgt. Alexander Coutts Mee, RNZAF NZ40656 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Clifford Frederick Page, RAFVR 60780 – Navigator.
Sgt. Walter Russell, RAFVR 949560 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. John Hall, RAFVR 988980 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Craven, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 20:40 – Landed 01:35
Flight Time 04:55

29/04/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Mannheim and Rotterdam
Seven Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above targets. Two of the aircraft bought bombs back, having failed to locate target. The remaining aircraft dropped bombs and fire were started. A.A fire was fairly intense but not very accurate. Searchlights were numerous, effective and working in cones. No enemy aircraft were encountered. Weather was good, but there was slight haze over target area. Navigation was by D/R, W/T, astro and map-reading.

Wellington Mk.Ic R.3169 AA-P

Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – Pilot.
Sgt. Alexander Coutts Mee, RNZAF NZ40656 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Clifford Frederick Page, RAFVR 60780 – Navigator.
Sgt. Walter Russell, RAFVR 949560 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. John Hall, RAFVR 988980 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Craven, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:55 – Landed 04:20
Flight Time 04:25

02/05/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Hamburg and Emden
Seven Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above targets. The bomb load was mixed and consisted of 1000lbs. G.P., 500lbs. G.P.; 250lbs. G.P. and containers of incendiaries. Bombs were dropped and hits scored. Many fires were started. Accurate heavy A.A. fire was experienced in target areas. There was intense stationary cones of searchlights over Hamburg. A few enemy aircraft were seen but no attacks made. The weather was fine and visibility was good. Navigation was by D/R, W/T, map reading and astro.

Wellington Mk.Ic R.3169 AA-P

Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – Pilot.
Sgt. Alexander Coutts Mee, RNZAF NZ40656 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Clifford Frederick Page, RAFVR 60780 – Navigator.
Sgt. Walter Russell, RAFVR 949560 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. John Hall, RAFVR 988980 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Craven, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 21:25 – Landed 03:50
Flight Time 06:25

04/05/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Brest
Thirteen Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above targets. The bomb load was mixed and consisted of 2000lbs. S.A.P. 500lbs. S.A.P. 250lbs. S.A.P. while flash bombs were also carried by two aircraft. All bombs were dropped and bursts were observed. Many fires were started. Intense heavy and light flak was experienced on route and in target area, while searchlights were intense but not very accurate. A few enemy aircraft were seen but no attacks made. The weather was fine and clear. Navigation was by astro. D/R, W/T, and map reading.

Wellington Mk.Ic R.3169 AA-P

Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – Pilot.
Sgt. Alexander Coutts Mee, RNZAF NZ40656 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Clifford Frederick Page, RAFVR 60780 – Navigator.
Sgt. Walter Russell, RAFVR 949560 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. John Hall, RAFVR 988980 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Craven, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:00 – Landed 03:50
Flight Time 05:50

06/05/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Hamburg
Ten Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out individual bombing attacks against the above target. One of these aircraft, R,3169, after having bombed the target area, and while on return journey, crashed into a barrage balloon cable at the mouth of the River Humber and dived into the water. The rear gunner, SGT. Craven, was the only survivor of the crew of six. The bomb load carried by the ten machines consisted of 1000 lbs., 500 lbs., and 250 lbs.

Bombs were dropped by all aircraft, but owing to heavy cloud no results were observed. No observations were made and no reconnaissance carried out. Some light and heavy A.A. fire was experienced on route and in target area. Searchlights were few and ineffective. No enemy aircraft were encountered. The weather was not good, ten-tenths cloud being experienced over route and target area. Navigation was by D/R, W/T, astro,

Wellington Mk.Ic R.3169 AA-P

Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930 – Pilot.
Sgt. Alexander Coutts Mee, RNZAF NZ40656 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Clifford Frederick Page, RAFVR 60780 – Navigator.
Sgt. Walter Russell, RAFVR 949560 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. John Hall, RAFVR 988980 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Craven, RAFVR – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 00:00 – Landed 00:00
Flight Time 00:00

R.3169 and crew, took off from Feltwell, Norfolk to attack Hamburg. 115 aircraft took part including 50 Wellington’s (10 from 75(NZ) Squadron RAF), 31 Whitley’s, 27 Hampden’s, 4 Manchester’s and 3 Stirling’s. Due to poor visibility few aircraft failed to identify the targets. Only 12 bomb loads hit the target area and all aircraft returned.

On the return trip Wellington R.3169 crossed the East coast of England and collided with barrage balloon cables. The Wellington crashed out of control in the River Humber near Trinity Sands.

Sgt. David Leo Nola, RNZAF NZ39930. Killed age 25.
Buried Grimsby (Scartho Road) Cemetery Lincolnshire England.

Sgt. Alexander Coutts Mee, RNZAF NZ40656. Killed age 23.
Buried Grimsby (Scartho Road) Cemetery Lincolnshire England.

Sgt. Alexander Mee had previously escaped in another incident on the 19th March 1941 when he escaped by parachute from Wellington Mk.Ic T.2736 AA-A.

Returning from Kiel, the aircraft had contacted Hull to request searchlight assistance, but this had been denied owing to enemy activity in the area. Running short of fuel, possibly owing to flak damage to tanks, the crew baled out. T.2736 subsequently crashed at Ryhill, approximately 14 miles South, South East of Leeds. Tragically, Sgt. Daniel Gilmore’s parachute failed to open and he was killed. The remainder of the crew all survived.

P/O Clifford Frederick Page, RAFVR 60780. Killed age 22.
Buried Great Yarmouth (Caister) Cemetery England.

Sgt. Walter Russell, RAFVR 949560. Killed age 23.
Buried West Bromwich Churchyard Staffordshire England.

Sgt. John Hall, RAFVR 988980. Killed age 20.
Buried Hull Northern Cemetery, England.

Sgt. Craven, RAFVR – Rear Gunner. Survived.
There appears to be no reference to Sgt. Craven flying further with the Squadron,
Letter from Sgt. David Leo Nola to his Mother, 4th of February 1941.
75(NZ) Squadron
Feltwell
Norfolk

4″‘ Feb 1941

Dear Mum

Your airmail letter dated Dec 5th has arrived that is the one from you and Dad, also letter dated 24 Dec from Dad, Vera and yourself, apparently the letter of Dec 5″‘ missed the previous airmail. It is about a fortnight since I last wrote and although we don’t seem to do much still l can’t seem to find time to get down to some serious writing.

Everything is going well so far – got my first cold this winter when I arrived here and still have got a beauty. After getting back from leave I was idle for about six days until Jim Falconer and the crew came back.

They arrived on the Monday that is the 19th and on that Wednesday I did my first operational trip – to Dusseldorf in the Ruhr. We took off about 5pm – it was still daylight and headed up through the clouds and finally got into clear sky again about 5000ft and then going up to about l2,000ft, temperature about -12C. Crossed the English coast, North Sea, Holland without seeing a thing as the clouds were unbroken below us. After about three hours we came over or I should just near Dusseldorf – Jim took the controls then – we knew we were over Dusseldorf if our navigation was correct and then the flak started to come up – they were bursting all around us – could not see the ground so after dodging about twisting, turning, diving, climbing we finally let go the bombs and incendiaries into the middle of the hottest part. Then they let us have it – very interesting and beautiful if it was not so serious. The big shells burst in front and all around us — the light flak comes up in streams sometimes red, sometimes green and occasionally red and green alternatively – it makes you think. I took over the controls again and took her back to within a few miles of the drome when Jim finished and landed her. It was about 10.30 in the evening when we came in. I wasn’t very cold had a drink of hot coffee out of the thermos flask while we were over Germany and that brought the circulation back nicely. The hardest part of it was breathing — we kept plugged in the oxygen as much as possible but when l went back to pump oil to the engines had to plug out for about half a minute and does it take it out of you. Pumping oil is another hard job as it takes 50 strokes per gallon and you need a gallon for each engine and it is pretty hard work, you must not forget also that the oil is also just about frozen. On landing we went to operations room for briefing — that is giving details of what we did and saw. However we could not do much in this case owing to low cloud. However next day we were informed that something pretty important was hit in Dussledorf.

Weather was pretty bad for the next four days however on Sunday we were to go to Hanover but it was not until 1.30 on Monday that we finally took off in terrible weather with fog almost down to the ground. To keep the ground in sight we had to fly at 800 feet – we passed the coast and then over the North Sea which only a few hundred feet below looked very cold. lt was not until we had covered about fifty miles out that the clouds suddenly and up and we went crossing the Dutch coast at about 9000 feet and then over the Zuider Zee which was frozen. It was a clear night with no moon but even so we could see the ground quite clearly although we could not distinguish much as there was pretty heavy fall on the ground. We passed just north of lnnsbrook and then on to Hanover where they met us with plenty of flak. We circled around until we found the town after a while. The Jerries are pretty cunning as they get dummy fires going, a few miles away from the town so as to draw the bombs, but you can usually pick these. However as our target was the centre of the town, in other words a blitz we went right over the top of the place and let go our incendiaries and heavy bombs. We did not see the results immediately but afler getting away some distance there were two long lines of fires started by our incendiaries — looked as though a couple of streets were burning.

Then someone else dropped their bombs and more fires were started. We could see them while we were fifty miles away. The flak was pretty heavy, so heavy that it seems amazing that you can get through it. l am always glad to get out of it l can tell you, When we got back to the English coast our troubles started again as the fog was pretty thick and required us to go down to about 300 ft which is no joke at night or early morning as it was about 7 o’clock and not dawn yet We got wireless bearings back to the drome but could not find it owing to low fog and had to cruise around for about an hour until we finally got down just as dawn was breaking Boy was I tired alter 7 hours in the air. Went into report the results of the operation at the same time hoeing into sandwiches and coffee. It was about 10 o’clock when I finally got to bed, where I stayed all day getting up for supper – then back to bed again for the night.

For the last fortnight we have done no operations owing to the weather – we have been due to go to Berlin, Hamburg and Boulogne but had to be cancelled owing to rain, snow cloud and ice.

The jerries have been paying us quite a number of visits and have put the wind up me a few times when they have dropped bombs. The other night they came over and got a couple of direct hits right on our mess and put the place out of action however, very luckily no one was hurt as most had gone to the shelter – the bomb landed 300 yards from the shelter. Luckily I was out that night and still spend most of my nights off the station.

I took the plane up for a test today — have done little, day flying since arriving here- Still manage to take off and land in one piece. The crew are a jolly decent crowd and I get on well with Jim Falconer the first pilot he is a crack-a-jack pilot.

Have been travelling around quite a bit since coming – been to Cambridge a couple of times, also to Newmarket, King’s Lynn, Downham Market.

We spend most of our nights doing a spot of drinking in Brandon about seven miles from here. Going over to Norwich some nights – would have gone tonight we have a dance or at least we are going to a dance in the an army sergeants mess a few miles from here – the bar will be open until midnight – it is funny over most dance places have a bar in them – just like a pub so you can drink and dance as you please.

The car is going well now – I have a ground mechanic who looks after it for me and does all the servicing for free of charge – jolly handy.

I got those papers and Weekly News you sent. Jolly good to get them.
Be an idea if send a Weekly say once a week or fortnight.
I sent a cable yesterday – “I hope you are all well.”

Oh by the way I forgot to mention that I received one pound 12 shillings which I suppose you sent – thanks very much. Going on leave again in about three weeks time – we get 6 days off every six weeks – could do with more but just as well as I could not afford more.

Well I think that covers the lot for the present – sorry not to have written sooner but things have been upset a bit since we were bombed — we are in temporary quarters at present will be back in our permanent quarters in a week or two I hope.

Well I had better wind up now wishing you all the very best — give my regards to everyone. I won’t go into names.

Au Revoir’
Love
Dave

Sgt. N.L. Nola
75 (NZ) Squadron
Feltwell

 

Hull Crematorium – P/O Robert Bertram RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 .

A fortuitous need to travel over to Grimsby to pick up my wife from a visit to her family allowed the chance to plot and then try to execute a perhaps in hindsight, overly ambitious tour of a number of churchyards on the way back to Cheshire. Torrential rain upon waking suggested it would be a hard but rewarding day and many hours and miles later, this was just about the consensus opinion……..

Arriving in Hull it was relatively easy to find the Northern Cemetery, but my heart sank when, after asking staff in the Crematorium office where the ‘Screen Wall’ was, they looked rather blank. A polite explanation that this information was from the CWGC website seemed to cut no further mustard with them – after discussion they suggested I try the ‘Columbarium’. At this point I was desperately trying not to let my facial expression say ‘What is a Columbarium’ and mercifully, a helpful member of staff appeared and said he would drive to it and let us follow him.

“A columbarium is a place for the respectful and usually public storage of cinerary urns (i.e., urns holding a deceased’s cremated remains). The term comes from the Latin columba (dove) and originally referred to compartmentalized housing for doves and pigeons called a dovecote.”
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbarium

 Leaving the car and walking to the Columbarium in torrential rain, this was not going to be an easy task, there appearing to be no clear indication even to where we should start our search – of course in these circumstances, we finally found Robert, having looked at almost every other single plaque…..

06/11/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Essen and Le Havre
Five Wellington Ic aircraft from this Unit made attacks against the above targets. A mixed load consisting of 500lbs and incendiaries were carried. Bombs were dropped in target area and extensive fires were left burning. There was little A.A. fire but there was great activity with searchlights. No enemy aircraft was met. Weather was fair with 6/10ths. Cloud over target area. Navigation was satisfactory.

Wellington Mk.Ic T.2747 AA-J

Sgt. Spence, RAF – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot..
Sgt. Harrington, RAF – Observer.
Sgt. R.S. Davey, RAF identity not sure – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Baker, RAF – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Cope, RAFVR 548460, 55877 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 16:00 – Landed 21:05
Flight Time 05:05

23/11/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Dunkirk
Seven Wellington Ic aircraft were detailed from this Unit to attack the above targets. A mixed bomb load was carried consisting of 500lbs, 250lbs and containers of incendiaries. Bombs were dropped on target area and flashes seen but full results were not seen. Heavy A.A. fire was met over target area and searchlights in large cones were active. No enemy aircraft were met. Weather was fair with 7/10th. Cloud over target area and freezing level was at 9,000ft. Navigation was good.

Wellington Mk.Ic Z.1083 AA-K

Sgt. Spence, RAF – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot..
Sgt. Harrington, RAF – Observer.
Sgt. R.S. Davey, RAF identity not sure – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Baker, RAF – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Cope, RAFVR 548460, 55877 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 17:15 – Landed 20:05
Flight Time 02:50

26/11/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Emden and Ostend
Seventeen Wellington Ic aircraft were detailed from this Unit to attack the above targets. A mixed bomb load was carried consisting of 4000,lbs, 1000lbs, 500lbs. 250lbs and containers of incendiaries. Very bad weather prevented the target being identified and results were not observed. A few bombs were however dropped in target area and one flash was seen. The remainder were brought back to base. Heavy and light predicted A.A. fire was met over target area and cones of searchlights were active. One single engine aircraft and one Junkers 88 enemy aircraft were seen but were successfully evaded. Weather was extremely bad and marred the whole operation. 10/10th cloud was met throughout the journey to and from the target. Navigation was D.R. and Q.D. M.s. One of these aircraft, Z.1114, captained by Sgt. Evans, returned to base with engine trouble.

Wellington Mk.Ic Z.8971 AA- ?

Sgt. Spence, RAF – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot..
Sgt. Harrington, RAF – Observer.
Sgt. R.S. Davey, RAF identity not sure – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Baker, RAF – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Cope, RAFVR 548460, 55877 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 17:45 – Landed 23:25
Flight Time 05:40

30/11/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Emden and Hamburg
Eleven Wellington Ic and two Wellington II aircraft were detailed from the Unit to attack the above targets. A mixed bomb load was carried consisting of 4000lbs, 1000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs and containers of incendiaries. Weather was clear and visibility good. A few bombs were dropped in the target area the remaining were bought back to base. Heavy, medium and light flak was encountered and a large number of searchlights were active. (Sentence illegible). One unidentified aircraft was also seen off the Frisian Islands. A convoy off Cromer fired at aircraft until colours were fired. Navigation was good. Astro and D.R. loop being used. One Wellington Ic aircraft, 1099, captained by Sgt. Harrison-Smith failed to return to base.

Wellington Mk.Ic Z.1108 AA-X

Sgt. Spence, RAF – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot..
Sgt. Harrington, RAF – Observer.
Sgt. R.S. Davey, RAF identity not sure – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Guy Lionel Roy Heywood, RNZAF NZ40622 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Cope, RAFVR 548460, 55877 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 17:20 – Landed 23:50
Flight Time 06:30

23/12/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Brest
Seven wellington Ic aircraft from this Unit were detailed to carry out the above attacks. Bomb load consisted of 4000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs and containers of incendiaries. Bomb bursts and fires were seen in the target area. Light, medium and heavy flak was met and searchlights were not very active. Weather was good over the target. Navigation was good. Wellington Z.8834, captained by Sgt. Bentley, crashed at Burner’s Heath on return and Sgt. Bentley was killed, the crew being injured.

Wellington Mk.Ic Z.1083 AA-K

Sgt. James Kenneth Climie, RNZAF NZ403561 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot..
P/O Allen Roy Henderson, r NZ401382 – Observer.
Sgt. Ries, RAF – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Walsh, RAF – Front Gunner.
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 17:20 – Landed 23:20
Flight Time 06:00

27/12/1941 – Bombing Attacks Against Targets at Brest and Dusseldorf
Twelve Wellington Ic aircraft from this Unit were detailed to carry out the above attacks. Bomb load consisted of 4000lbs, 1000lbs,250lbs and containers of incendiaries. Bombs were seen to burst in town and railway station at Dusseldorf. Intense heavy flak was encountered over target areas and large concentrations of searchlights were active. Weather was good with very good visibility over target area. Navigation was good. Wellington Z.8971, captained by Sgt. Machin, crashed near Dartmoor owing to the port engine failing. The entire crew baled out safely.

Wellington Mk.Ic Z.1083 AA-K

Sgt. James Kenneth Climie, RNZAF NZ403561 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot..
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Walsh, RAF – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ries, RAF – Front Gunner.
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 16:30 – Landed 11:00
Flight Time 18:30

12/02/1942 – Daylight Attack – German Battleships in the Channel
Two Wellington III aircraft from this unit were detailed to carry out the above attack. Bomb load consisted of 500 lbs G.P. Owing to very bad weather, 10/10 cloud and rain in large areas, the ships were not bombed. The bomb load was returned to base. Wellington aircraft X3390 encountered fierce light A.A. Fire from two destroyers on two occasions. Fire being returned by the rear gunner. This aircraft also attacked by two ME 109’s but sustained no damage. Navigation was entirely by D.R. The whole operation was marred by very poor visibility and low cloud. Wellington X3475 was also detailed to carry out an attack on the above target but the vessels were not contacted owing to darkness and adverse weather conditions. Several unidentified aircraft were seen. A.A. Fire was observed over clouds.

Wellington Mk.III X.3390 AA-S

P/O James Kenneth Climie, RNZAF NZ403561 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
P/O Allen Roy Henderson, RNZAF NZ401382 – Observer.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 15:10 – Landed 18:50
Flight Time 03:40

08/03/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Essen
Eleven Wellington aircraft carried out an attack against the above target. Bomb load consisted of 500 lbs, 250 lbs and S.B.C’s which were dropped in the target area, fires were seen to be burning in the target area. Weather was clear except for haze over the target. There were many searchlights but these were ineffective. Accurate heavy flak was encountered over the target. No enemy aircraft were seen. Navigation was by D.R. and TR1335 and was good.

Wellington Mk.III X.3359 AA-H (1)

P/O James Kenneth Climie, RNZAF NZ403561 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
P/O Allen Roy Henderson, RNZAF NZ401382 – Observer.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 00:30 – Landed 04:40
Flight Time 04:10

09/03/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Essen
Eleven Wellington III aircraft carried out an attack against the above target. Bomb load consisted of 500 lbs, 250 lbs and containers of incendiaries, and was dropped in the target area, fires and bomb bursts being seen. A strong flak defence was encountered over the target and searchlights were very active. One Me.110 was seen and one unidentified aircraft was seen to be shot down by an enemy fighter. Weather was good. Navigation was by D.R. and TR1335.

Wellington Mk.III X.3359 AA-H

P/O James Kenneth Climie, RNZAF NZ403561 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
P/O Allen Roy Henderson, RNZAF NZ401382 – Observer.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 20:00 – Landed 01:00
Flight Time 05:00

12/03/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Kiel
Eight Wellington aircraft carried out an attack against the above target, one aircraft, captained by Sgt Bell did not carry out an attack. Three aircraft captained by S/L Kitchin, F/O Sandys and Sgt Parnham failed to return to base. Bomb load consisted of 1,000 lbs, 500 lbs and 250 lbs was dropped in the target area, bomb bursts being observed. There was heavy and light predicted flak and large cones of searchlights in the target area and one twin engined enemy aircraft made one unsuccessful attack on Wellington III X3586 captained by S/L Newton. Weather was clear over the target with 5/10 cloud over North Sea. Navigation was by D.R. and TR1335.

Wellington Mk.III X.3597 AA-C

P/O James Kenneth Climie, RNZAF NZ403561 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
P/O Allen Roy Henderson, RNZAF NZ401382 – Observer.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 20:25 – Landed 02:25
Flight Time 06:00

25/03/1942 – Attack Against Targets at St.Nazaire and Essen
Twelve aircraft were detailed to carry out the above attack. Wellington III X3652, captained by P/O Slater failed to return, and two aircraft failed to locate the target. Bomb Load consisted of 500 lbs and 250 lbs, this being dropped in the target area but no results were observed. Slight A.A. fire and a few ineffective searchlights were encountered but no enemy fighters were seen. Weather was fine with slight ground haze. Navigation by TR1335 and D.R. was good.

Wellington Mk.III X.3359 AA-H

P/O James Kenneth Climie, RNZAF NZ403561 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
P/O Allen Roy Henderson, RNZAF NZ401382 – Observer.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 20:05 – Landed 23:40
Flight Time 03:35

05/04/1942 – Operations – Attack Against Targets Cologne
Nine Wellington Aircraft from this unit were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, and 250lbs and 4lb incendiaries was dropped but results were not observed. There was intense heavy flak and many searchlights were active but ineffective owing to the bright moonlight. One Ju.88 aircraft was seen near the target and Wellington III X3705 was attacked by a Me.110 near Liege without result. Weather was good and navigation by TR1335 and D.R was also good. One aircraft did not carry out it’s mission and two are missing. Wellington III X3489, captained by W/Cdr Sawrey Cookson the C.O. of the squadron, and Wellington III X3661 captained by F/S Thomas.

Wellington Mk.III Z.3636 AA-R

P/O James Kenneth Climie, RNZAF NZ403561 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
P/O Allen Roy Henderson, RNZAF NZ401382 – Observer.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Desmond Stewart Tutty, RNZAF NZ404576 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 01:00 – Landed 06:15
Flight Time 05:15

06/04/1942 – Operations – Attack Against Targets Essen
Wellington aircraft were detailed from this unit to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4000lbs, and 250lbs was dropped in the target area and fires were observed. There was intense heavy flak over the target but only a few searchlights were active. One single engined fighter attempted to attack Wellington II X3636 but was driven off by flak. There was 9/10th cloud on the route and 3/10th to 5/10th cloud over the target at 11,000 feet. Navigation was good TR and DR being used.

Wellington Mk.III Z.3636 AA-R

P/O James Kenneth Climie, RNZAF NZ403561 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
P/O Allen Roy Henderson, RNZAF NZ401382 – Observer.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Desmond Stewart Tutty, RNZAF NZ404576 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 00:30 – Landed 05:50
Flight Time 05:20

08/04/1942 – Operations – Attack Against Targets Hamburg
Nine Well.III aircraft from this unit were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, 30lbs L.C. and 4lb incendiaries was dropped in the target area but no results seen owing to cloud. Intense predicted flak S.W. of Hamburg but searchlight ineffective owing to cloud. One enemy a/c seen off Heligoland and believed JU88. Weather was very poor with 10/10 cloud over target and electric storms off East coast of England. Navigation was by DR and TR.

Wellington Mk.III X.3667 AA-D

P/O James Kenneth Climie, RNZAF NZ403561 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Desmond Stewart Tutty, RNZAF NZ404576 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 21:50 – Landed 02:10
Flight Time 04:20

12/04/1942 – Operations – Attack Against at LeHavre and Essen
Ten Well.III, aircraft were detailed to attack the above targets. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs, was dropped in the target area, bomb bursts being observed. Fairly accurate heavy and medium flak was encountered. There were a great number of searchlights active in cones. Many fighters flares and red and green lights were seen on route. One fighter a/c was seen over North Sea about 250 miles from the Dutch Coast. Weather was very clear with visibility up to 100 miles. Navigation was by TR, DR and loops.

Wellington Mk.III X.3586 AA-A

S/L Raymond John Newton, RNZAF NZ40984 – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
P/O Francis William Green, RAFVR 581283/ 41730 – Observer.
F/S Leonard Roy Gould, RAFVR 552462/ 49001 – Wireless Operator.
Cptn. Peter Terrey Wykes , British Army 85197 – Front Gunner.
P/O Walter Gordon Fenton, RNZAF NZ391838 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:10 – Landed 04:30
Flight Time 06:20

17/04/1942 – Operations – Attack Against Targets at Hamburg
Eight Well.III a/c were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 1000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs, 30lb and 4lb incendiaries was dropped in the target area and bomb bursts were seen. Well.III, X.3636 jettisoned its bombs when in searchlight beams. There was intense heavy flak co-operating with searchlights which were numerous. Weather was clear and there was a slight ground haze. Navigation was good by TR, loops and DR.

Wellington Mk.III X.3541 AA-H

Sgt. Turner, RAF – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
Sgt. William Henderson Taylor, RAFVR 1051621/ 122053 – Observer.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Charles Smith, RNZAF NZ401466 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 21:30 – Landed 01:20
Flight Time 03:50

22/04/1942 – Operations – Attack Against Targets at Cologne
Ten Well.III a\c were detailed attack the above targets. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 100lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs, 30lb and 4lb incendiaries was dropped in the target area but no results seen owing to cloud. There were only a few searchlights active and A.A. fire was slight. Well.III, X3487 captained by P/O Jarman was attacked by a JU.88 which attacked once and broke away to port. The results of this short attack were however serious the second pilot, P/O Nicol being mortally wounded, the rear gunner Sgt. Harris being killed and the Navigator Sgt. Taylor and W/Op. Sgt. Fernie were wounded. The bomb load was not dropped on the target but was dropped in the sea. The a/c was brought back to base and crash landed. Well.III, X3705, captained by F/S. McLachlan, was also attacked and the second pilot killed (P/O. Fountain) and Sgt. Tutty was wounded. F/Sgt. McLachlan managed to reach base and crash land.

Wellington Mk.III X.3482 AA-J

Sgt. Turner, RAF – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
Sgt. Stanley Frederick Hall, RNZAF NZ402182 – Observer.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Gordon Edwin Caitcheon, RNZAF NZ404016 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 21:20 – Landed 01:25
Flight Time 04:05

23/04/1942 – Operations – Attack Against at Rostock
Seven Well.III a/c from this unit were detailed to attack the above targets. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 1000lbs, 500lbs, 4lb incendiaries was dropped on the target. Results were very good, many large fires were seen and bomb burst. A.A. fire was very small, some light and heavy flak being encountered. There were few searchlights active and no enemy a/c were seen. Weather was very good with slight ground haze. Navigation was good.

Wellington Mk.III X.3408 AA-Q

Sgt. Turner, RAF – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
Sgt. Stanley Frederick Hall, RNZAF NZ402182 – Observer.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Gordon Edwin Caitcheon, RNZAF NZ404016 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:40 – Landed 06:20
Flight Time 07:40

25/04/1942 – Operations – Attack Against at Rostock and Dunkirk
Seven Well.III a/c were detailed to attack the above targets. Bomb load of 1000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs and 4lb incendiaries was dropped in the target area and fires were seen burning fiercely. Bombs were seen to burst across aiming point A.A. Fire was only slight and searchlights afew. One enemy a/c was seen near Dunkirk. Weather was very clear with slight ground haze.

Wellington Mk.III X.3720 AA-U

Sgt. Turner, RAF – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
Sgt. Stanley Frederick Hall, RNZAF NZ402182 – Observer.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Charles Smith, RNZAF NZ401466 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:18 – Landed 05:30
Flight Time 07:12

27/04/1942 – Operations – Attack Against Targets at Cologne and Mine Laying off Heligoland
Eight Well.III a/c were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4000lbs, and 4lbs incendiaries was dropped on the target and fires were seen burning at Cologne. The mine laying a/c successfully carried out ther task, without interference. There was moderate A.A. fire over Cologne and searchlights working in cones. One enemy a/c was seen but no attack was made. Weather was good with visibility up to 100 miles. Navigation was good, DR, TR, loops and map reading.

Wellington Mk.III X.3408 AA-Q

Sgt. Turner, RAF – Pilot.
Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – 2nd Pilot.
Sgt. Stanley Frederick Hall, RNZAF NZ402182 – Observer.
Sgt. Walsh, RAFVR – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ries, RAFVR – Front Gunner.
Sgt. Charles Smith, RNZAF NZ401466 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:03 – Landed 04:23
Flight Time 06:20

29/05/1942 – Bombing Attacks Against Dieppe
Four Wellington aircraft of this Unit were detailed to carry out the above attacks. The target area was bombed, but owing to cloud and poor visibility results were not observed. A.A. fire was light and searchlights were not numerous. No enemy aircraft were encountered. Navigation was by D/R, TR, Loop.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ian Gordon Stewart, RNZAF NZ404623 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:35 – Landed 02:40
Flight Time 04:05

30/05/1942 – Bombing Attacks Against Cologne
Twenty-three Wellington aircraft, including IA, IC,III, were detailed to carry out the above attacks. One of these aircraft, Wellington IA T.2894, captained by P/O Johnson (attached to this Unit from C.G.S. Suton Bridge) failed to return to base. Another aircraft X.3751 captained by P/O Jarman, was badly damaged by flak, both fuel tanks being holed and both port and starboard airspeed indicators rendered unserviceable. The bomb load consisted of 4000lbs, 1000lbs, 500lbs and 30lbs. and 4lbs incendiaries. The weather conditions were excellent, and the target was bombed successfully many fires being started in all parts of the town. A.A. fire was very erratic and searchlights were working in cones. A large number of enemy aircraft were seen but no attacks resulted. Navigation was by D/R, TR, Q.D.M., Loop.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Kenneth Atherton Crankshaw, RNZAF NZ404533 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:10 – Landed 04:05
Flight Time 04:55

01/06/1942 – Attacks Against Targets at Essen
Twenty Well. a/c were detailed to carry out the above attack. Bomb loads of $000lbs, 500lbs, 250, 30lb inc and 4lb inc was dropped in the target area but results were not observed owing to cloud over target. Large fires were, however, seen to be burning in the target area. A.A. fire was not particularly intense and searchlights were scattered. One ME.109 followed Well.IC DV884 for about 5 minutes but was eluded. Weather was fairly good until target was reached where there was low cloud and haze. Navigation was good by all aids.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Kenneth Atherton Crankshaw, RNZAF NZ404533 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:44 – Landed 02:44
Flight Time 03:00

02/06/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Essen
Sixteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs and 4lb inc was dropped in the target area but no results were observed. A few small fires were seen near target. A.A. fire was fairly heavy and searchlights operating in cones were numerous. No enemy a/c were seen. Weather marred the operation, there being a heavy ground have. Navigation was excellent. Well, X3408, captained by P/O Carter, failed to return.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Leslie William Kennedy, RNZAF NZ41594 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 00:24 – Landed 03:46
Flight Time 03:22

05/06/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Essen
Thirteen aircraft were detailed to attack the above. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs and 4lb inc was dropped in the target area. No results were observed. A.A. fire was intense and searchlights active in cones. No enemy a/c were seen. Weather was clear except for ground haze. Nav was excellent.

Wellington Mk.III X.3586 AA-A

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Clifton Robert Brailley, RNZAF NZ404587 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:25 – Landed 03:15
Flight Time 03:50

06/06/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Emden
Twelve aircraft were detailed to carry out an attack on the above target and a bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs and 4lb inc. was dropped on the target. Large buildings were seen to be ablaze and there were a number of small fires. Flak was fairly intense but searchlights few. No enemy a/c were encountered. Weather was good. Navigation was very good. One a/c sighted enemy flak ships and dived down to 200ft and attacked them. Results were not observed.

Wellington Mk.III X.3586 AA-A

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ian Gordon Stewart, RNZAF NZ404623 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:20 – Landed 04:30
Flight Time 05:10

08/06/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Essen
Twelve aircraft were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs and 4lb inc was dropped in the target area. Owing to haze results were not observed. There was a heavy concentration of flak and searchlights in target area. Two unidentified a/c were observed near Dutch Coast by Well.III, X.3720 and were eluded. Weather was good no cloud over target but hazy. Navigation was very good. Well.III, X.3587, captained by P/O. Smith and Well.III, Z.1573, captained by P/O Murdoch failed to return.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ian Gordon Stewart, RNZAF NZ404623 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:28 – Landed 03:12
Flight Time 03:44

16/06/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Essen
Seven aircraft were detailed to attack the above. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 1000lbs, 500lbs and 4lb inc was taken. One a/c did not carry out its task and returned early. Owing to insufficient cloud cover Essen was not attacked by a/c but bombs were dropped on Bonn. There was heavy flak and searchlights were moderate. Weather was unfavourable. Navigation was good. No enemy a/c were seen.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ian Gordon Stewart, RNZAF NZ404623 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:23 – Landed 03:38
Flight Time 04:15

19/06/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Emden
Eleven a/c were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, 4lb inc was taken. Aircraft unable to identify Emden attacked Osnabruck. Results were not observed. Flak was not intense but searchlights were fairly active. One unidentified a/c followed Well.III X3539 for about 5 miles but made no attack. Weather was clear over Osnabruck. Nav was excellent.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ian Gordon Stewart, RNZAF NZ404623 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:49 – Landed 04:12
Flight Time 04:23

20/06/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Emden
Twelve a/c were detailed to attack the above target. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 250lbs and 4lb inc was dropped in the target area. Results were not observed. There was intense flak and searchlights were few. A JU88 attacked Well.III, X3539 without result. Weather was hazy with 5/10 cloud. Visibility very bad. Nav was good. Well.III, X3760 P/O Fraser failed to return.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ian Gordon Stewart, RNZAF NZ404623 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:29 – Landed 03:43
Flight Time 04:14

22/06/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Emden
Thirteen a/c were detailed to attack the above. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, 250lbs and 4lb inc was dropped in the target area. Results were not observed. Flak was moderate and searchlights were scarce. One JU88 and one ME109 sighted by one of our a/c but no attack made. Weather good 5/10 cloud at 15,000’, clear over target. Slight haze. Nav was excellent.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Ian Gordon Stewart, RNZAF NZ404623 – .
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:20 – Landed 03:40
Flight Time 04:20

23/06/1942 – Attack Against Targets at St. Nazaire and (Gardening)
Eight a/c were detailed to carry out the above sortie. Bomb load was 500lbs and vegetables. The task was carried out as ordered. No results observed. Small concentration of flak and searchlights at Cherbourg. No enemy a/c seen. Weather was fine with slight ground have over France. Nav was good.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D (11)

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. A. Gordon, RAFVR 1376471 – . Question of identity of this individual –
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 22:58 – Landed 04:57
Flight Time 05:59

25/06/1942 – Attack on Targets at Bremen
Twenty a/c were detailed to attack the above. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 1000lbs, 500lbs and 4lb inc was dropped in the target. Results not observed. There was a large amount of A.A. fire searchlights were ineffective. A JU88 followed Well.III X3664 but did not attack. Weather was moderate with 10/10 cloud. Nav was good.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Norman Mitchell, RNZAF NZ404084 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23:15 – Landed 04:13
Flight Time 04:58

29/06/1942 – Attack Against Targets at Bremen
Sixteen a/c were detailed to carry out the above attack. Bomb load of 4000lbs, 500lbs, and 4lb inc was dropped in the target area. Results not observed. A.A. fire was heavy in target area. Searchlights were ineffective through cloud. A JU88 was attacked and claimed as shot down by Well.BJ837, captained by Sgt. Hockaday. Weather was cloudy. Nav was excellent. Well.III (P/O Monk) failed to return and Well.III Z1616 (Sgt. Bertram) crashed after take-off and caught fire. All crew killed.

Wellington Mk.III Z.1616 AA-D

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536 – Pilot.
Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373 – Observer.
Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026 – Wireless Operator.
Sgt. Norman Mitchell, RNZAF NZ404084 – Front Gunner.
Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706 – Rear Gunner.

Take Off 23.20 – Landed –
Flight Time – crashed after take off – all crew killed

Z.1616 AA-D completed a normal take-off at 23.20, but approximately 5 minutes after becoming airborne, fire was seen to break out on the aircraft (witnesses say the aircraft was on fire before it crashed) The Wellington then crashed in flames near Red House Farm, Methwold, a few miles north of Feltwell. All five crew were killed.

Sgt. Robert Bertram, RAFVR 1112264/ 128536. Killed age 26.
Buried Hull Crematorium, Kingston Upon-Hull, England.

Sgt. Joseph Guy Quin, RAFVR 1256373. Killed age 25.
Laleham (All Saints) Churchyard, Staines, Middlesex, England.

Sgt. Richard John Grenfell, RNZAF NZ404026. Killed age 33.
Buried Feltwell (St. Nicholas) Churchyard, Norfolk, England.

Sgt. Norman Mitchell, RNZAF NZ404084. Killed age 25.
Buried Feltwell (St. Nicholas) Churchyard England.

Sgt. George Walter Matthew Archer, RAFVR 1355706. Killed age 25.
Buried Feltwell (St Nicholas) Churchyard, England.

275,000 views – as always thank you so much

Thumper and VeRA over a dark and wet Southport, 2015

As is now customary, I must continue to thank you all for the support you are showing for 75nzsquadron.com.

It has been just a fraction over 3 months since we racked up the milestone of a quarter of a million views – so in this small extra period of time its fantastic that we have seen another 25,000 views of the blog.

I am really pleased to observe that new visitors, both relatives of members of the 75(NZ) Squadron RAF and also interested parties still continue to make contact and the material keeps coming in. Its a broken record (I even think I have said that before) when I now say I am still working through the backlog of material donated  – I know how the painters on the Forth Bridge feel – I will keep doing it as long as there is material to post.

It’s a perverse thing to say that I am doing things in the background, given the time needed on this blog, but I have slowly over the last few months been moving extracted information from the Squadron database to individual Operational histories for crews.

I have uploaded the majority of crews that began their Operational service in 1943. As usual, I make no apologies for my non linear approach – it was where I started the database, because that was the year Dad first arrived at Mepal.

I am aware that the list is not as yet definitive – a number of crews were left headless when their Pilot was killed flying an initial ‘2nd Dickie’ Op. These need to be gathered and added and where possible their subsequent histories recorded. As a case in point – Jack Thomson’s loss on the 3rd of August 1943, while 2nd pilot with Cyril Bailie’s crew, which resulted in his Mid Upper Gunner, Ton Darbyshire and Wireless Operator Bill Lake, joining my own Father’s crew.

The crews are broken down by year. Irrespective of duration of stay, they will be listed in the year their Pilot flew his first Op with the Squadron. To this end, the list is not alphabetical – it is ordered chronologically based on arrival at the respective RAF Station, or if this is not known, the date of the first operational sortie by the Pilot. As it was common for a Pilot to undertake a number of Ops with a more experienced crew – the first of these ‘2nd Dickie’ Ops will be used as the date, as it theoretically represents the closest date to arrival – in this case the date will be listed with the suffix ‘2ndDO’

To this end, if a crew arrival is unclear and an individuals arrival cannot be suggested or corroborated by any other individual in that crew, the date of their first operational sortie will be listed (1stOS).

You will also perhaps note if you search in other years that some crews are already recorded – this is where a full post in the now standardised Op history format has previously been made for a crew. To this end, more of these records will probably be added before that particular year is tackled properly.

If, as was tragically the case in far too many instances, the crew were killed, or a fatality was suffered within the crew, the crew will have a ‘†’ as an additional suffix. Again, as a non standard example of this, the Whitehead crew has this suffix to denote the loss of Peter Dobson, the crew’s Navigator when attempting to provide assistance to the crew and civilians after the take off crash of BK809 JN-T on the evening of the 8th September 1943.

Ideally, I will try when and where possible to link a ‘visitor’ in the crew list to their ‘main’ crew – however of course, this assumes the other crew(s) are already listed in this section and that the individual in question had a ‘main’ crew – I am mindful of those more experienced airmen who were Squadron ‘trade’ leaders (as opposed to Flight or Squadron Leaders) – there is also the case of a number of airmen who came to the Squadron specifically as Mid Under Gunners, who crewed up as necessary in aircraft fitted with a ventral turret.

Each crew will have as much information eventually added that exists. In the first instance an Op history will be generated form the database that will list the date, target, Op summary, aircraft, crew and up/ downtime and duration of flight. I am mindful that the inclusion of the raid report for each Op for each crew makes the document a long one, as does the listing of perhaps a completely uniform crew composition, however I think as a record for each crew it is important to fully list it and it perhaps makes it clearer the incredible bravery and dedication these boys showed every night or day they climbed the ladder into their aircraft.

I would note also at this point, that where a crew suffered a fatality, this might not yet be recorded, the activity is staged and I feel that its better to have a series of rolling states of completion and have the material accessible to all of you, rather than hold it for potentially an infinite period of time, waiting for that minuscule piece of information that may never come.

I would encourage the contribution of details to these histories – each page has a comments section. If you know anything about the boys in a crew – post it up there and I will add it to the main page text

More information will then follow as I discover and or process it. For all the relatives that have so graciously and generously donated information so far I thank you and I know if Bob was still around, he would as well.

The 1943 section can be accessed via ’75(NZ) Squadron RAF’ in the top menu and then down to ’75(NZ) Squadron RAF Crews’ and then across to ‘Crews Starting 1943′. I would advise you look through on this main blog page – the list for 1943 is so long, and so tragically filled with ‘†’’s that you need to scroll quite a way down to reach the end. I would also note the term ’empty’ against a crew means, currently, just that – information is yet to be added.

And Finally……….

Another significant milestone has also been reached.

When you join and create a blog on WordPress, you get 3 Gigabytes of free storage space. Ostensibly this space is taken by uploaded material – photographs documents etc.

Well, readers, that space as of this evening, has been consumed! I must now pay for more space, which having reached this achievement of uploaded, online accessible material related to 75(NZ) Squadron RAF, I am more than happy to do. A very modest outlay has gotten us all another 10 Gig to fill with more wonderful and priceless things.

The blog, without question or challenge, is the most visited and physically the largest online resource for the Squadron in existence – and it’s thanks to all of you.

For all those out there, who dislike or resent what I am doing, to all those who have attempted to sidelined, undermine or just ignore me – well done, you wasted your time………..:)

Ake Ake Kia Kaha!