Squadron Operations: Summary Information

Overview

There follows below a list of the all of the operations flown by 550 Squadron and the aircraft involved on each. The information used to build this page was taken in the first instance from the lists provided on the original Squadron Association web-site, but has been augmented by new information gathered since that time (squadron operations logs, individual aircrew log books, and other sources).

This information is not yet complete: it has been build from the a number of sources (documentary and people) and compilation of complete lists is an ongoing task that is expected to take quite some time to complete. So please don't shout just yet if you spot an omission - work continues to build a more complete, and accurate, list.
Do however shout if you spot an error! Please email any corrections or information to the contact details in the link at the bottom of the page.

Operation Summary: The column headers should be fairly self-explanatory. The term "aborted" as used here covers a number of possibilities:

Aircraft Deployed: When a link to a particular aircraft is given, this indicates aircraft known to have taken part in this raid (in the records currently available to the web-site author). A record of whether the aircraft returned or failed to return (FTR) is also logged.

Servicemen Deployed: Names of the crew in the operation.

Station Summary: This section is the information from the RAF North Killingholme Station Record Book for the operational date (if available).

Definitions of the abbreviations used are available: here.

Manageable Lists

The amount of data in the database is growing and this is resulting in the "all operations/targets" list getting rapidly bigger and thus slower to generate. There are options to display shorter, more quickly generated, reports if you want to home in on something specific. For example, there are options to generate reports on operations to a single target, or by single aircraft (to all targets) or by single aircraft to a single target. There is, on the database-reports summary page, a short user guide (PDF format) on how to do this.


Operation/Target: Stuttgart (15 Mar 1944 - 16 Mar 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Stuttgart 15 Mar 1944 16 Mar 1944 N Seventeen aircraft with crew were offered for operations and briefed to attach targets in STUTTGART. One aircraft did not take off owing to unserviceability. Two aircraft (Captains F/Lt S G Crawford LM392 "J" and F/Lt J F Craig LL852 "X") failed to return to base (no news since take off) and are with the crews posted as "missing". Fourteen aircraft successfully the target and returned safely to Base.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 23,000 ft at 23.59 hrs. Explosion seen at 23.26hrs P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Frankfurt (18 Mar 1944 - 19 Mar 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Frankfurt 18 Mar 1944 19 Mar 1944 N Seventeen aircraft with crew were offered for operations and briefed to attack targets in FRANKFURT. All returning safely after a very successfuly attack. The speedy take-off was a very fine show indeed the seventeen aircraft all being airbourne in 16 mins. Three aircraft ("J" NB733, Captain Sgt Lloyd, "K" LL834 Captain P/O Bouchard and "X" ME687, W/O Romber) were subseuqently abortive, due to electrical failure, Gee u/a and rear and mid-upper turrets u/s respectively. Few fighters were seen and only the French coastal batteries gave any trouble. The only combat reported was a short burst from the mid-upper gunner of "F" ME556 (Captain W/O McCrae). No hits are claimed and the E/A did not return the fire.
A special message of congratulations to all concerned for aircrew and ground staff was received from the Base Commander. Good show 550!
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 22,000 ft at 22.05 hrs. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt W Essar (MU/AG)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Frankfurt (22 Mar 1944 - 23 Mar 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Frankfurt 22 Mar 1944 23 Mar 1944 N Seventeen aircraft and crews were offered for operations and briefed to attack targets in FRANKFURT. Another excellent take-off was achieved all seventeen aircraft being airbourne within 21 minutes. There was only one abortive sortie, "N" LM425 (Capt F/S Jefferies) having to return, after reaching the enemy coast, with an unserviceable starboard inner engine. All the rest of the aircraft successfully bombed target and returned safely to base, after one of the best attacks for some time. Enemy defences were moderate and night fighters not much in evidence.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 23,000 ft at 21.50 hrs. Bombed red TIs. P/O N S Rogers (P)
P/O E F Marles (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Berlin (24 Mar 1944 - 25 Mar 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Berlin 24 Mar 1944 25 Mar 1944 N Seventeen aircraft and crews were offered for operations and were briefed to attack targets in BERLIN. Another snappy take-off was achieved, sixteen aircraft being airbourne within 17 minutes, the seventeenth aircraft being delayed for five minutes while a navigation aid indicator was changed. The route was "hot" but 15 aircraft bombed Berlin. The remaining two were forced to bomb last resort targets - "T" LM455 S/Ldr Graham Captain bombing an aerodrome 50 miles SW of Berlin after overshooting and "G" ND403, Captain P/O Bowen-Bravery who, after having his rear turret rendered u/s, bombed a flak emplacement on the West coast of Denmark. Soon afterwards "G" encountered a single engineed aircraft and the mid-upper gunnner gave it a short burst. A short while later a burning aircraft was seen by three members of the crew to be descending, and burning on the ground. It is claimed as destroyed. Defences over Berlin were moderate, but there were a large number of enemy night-fighters around Berlin. Soon after leaving Berlin "D" ME581 Captain F/L R. W. Picton had a combat with a FW. Condor and both the MU gunner (Can.R.110509 Sgt. Keen, W.M.), and rear gunner (Sgt. Porteous, J.W.) received serious injuries from cannon fire. Fortunately, however, both are recovering. The wireless operator (Sgt. Williams, K.T.C.) who was in the astrodome after warning the pilot continued to give advice and evasive instructions to the pilot. After the action Sgt Williams went to the rear gunner whose oxygen was severed, gave him his own mask and assisted him out of the turret. Subsequently Sgt. Williams sent a W/T message giving details of the casualty so that medical aid was waiting when the aircraft landed. Sgt. Williams prompt action combined with the pilots skilled handling of his aircraft undoubtedly prevented the E/A from making a more effective attack. All the aircraft landed safely at Base, except "F" LL747 (Captin F/O Richard, Can.J.23518) which without brake pressure landed safely at Woodbridge.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 23,000 ft at 22.33 hours. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Essen (26 Mar 1944 - 27 Mar 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Essen 26 Mar 1944 27 Mar 1944 N Seventeen aircraft and crews were offered for operations and were briefed to attack targets in ESSEN. Sixteen aircraft took off in 25 minutes, the seventeenth "C" MD425 (Capt F/S Foster being cancelled due to the rear turret being u/s. Much layer cloud wasencounted at the enemy coast going out, over the target and to the enemy coast on return. Opposition from the ground was light in the early stages of the attack, with a tendency to increase as the attack developed, while fighter activity was on a somewhat reduced scale as compared with recent raids. LL831 "M" (Captin F/O E V Sage) and DV309 "S" (Cpatin F/S Hinde) both had inconclusive combats, in which no damage or casualities were sustained. All our aircraft returned safely to base.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 23,800 ft at 22.10 hrs. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Nuremberg (30 Mar 1944 - 31 Mar 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Nuremberg 30 Mar 1944 31 Mar 1944 N Seventeen aircraft and crews were offered for operations and were briefed to attack targets in NUREMBURG. Twelve successfully attacked the main target, three the last resort target and two (F/S Jefferies in LM425 "N" and F/S Foster in ND425 "C") failed to return. The remaining aircraft landed at base with the exception of F/O Sage in "U" who landed at Kelstern owing to fuel shortage. One new crew also carried out night circuits and landings. P/O McCrae in ME556 "F" received injuries to his left arm and the rear gunner Sgt Brown injuries to his left eye in combat with an enemy night fighter. The aircraft also suffered extensive damage.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 21,600 ft at 01.25 hours. Bombed red T.I's P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Villeneuve (09 Apr 1944 - 10 Apr 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Villeneuve 09 Apr 1944 10 Apr 1944 N Sixteen aircraft with crew were offered for operations, five of these being accepted with number later reduced to three. The crew were briefed to attack the marshalling yards at VILLENEUVE. The three aircraft were airbourne in two minutes, but unfortunately JA712 ("Q") (Captain P/O J S Bibby [Ed: LL837??]) was forced to abandon the sortie on reaching SELSBY BILL owing to the pilot head cover have been left on thus rendering the air speed indicator u/s. The F/Eng (Sgt McLauchlin [Ed: McLoughlin]) and Air Bomber (F/O Susdeck [Ed: Shedock]) made valiant efforts with a stick to remove the cover but to no avail. The other two aircraft found weather conditions excellent over the target area, and many bomb explosions were seen bursting on the yards, followed by large clouds of block smoke. Fifteen minutes after leaving the target a member of F/O Milburn's crew saw a line of what looked like a train, followed buy a satisfactory explosion. Defences throughout were conspicious by their absence, whilst over the target only light flak was encountered. Both sorties obtained good photographs of ground detail and landed safely at base
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Target not attacked - returned early owing to ASI being u/s. P/O W J Bibby (P)
Sgt F P McLoughlin (F/Eng)
F/O J P Rennie (Nav)
F/O A N Shedock (A/B)
Sgt A J Jeffries (W/Op)
Sgt D R S Howell (MU/AG)
Sgt R J Kimbrey (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Aulnoye (10 Apr 1944 - 11 Apr 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Aulnoye 10 Apr 1944 11 Apr 1944 N Fifteen aircraft and crew were offered for operations and were briefed to attack the marshalling yards at AULNOYE. The weather was clear over the channel and France, and at the target some thin cloud or ground haze did not prevent the PFF markers being clearly seen. The attack was well concentrated and many HE explosions were seen., Retuning to the French coast active searchlights and flak were encountered, while night fighter were also active in the area. LL747 "P" (Captain F/O J.O. Richard) had an inconclusive combat with an ME109, and strikes were seen, although no claim was made. No damage ot casualties were received by aircraft "P". All our aircraft returned safely to Base, except LL836 "E" (Captain F/Lt R.W. Picton) about which no news has been received since take off.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 8,000 ft at 02.35 hours. P/O R A Jones (P)
Sgt S G Conrath (F/Eng)
F/O A H Crich (Nav)
F/O D J Bremner (A/B)
Sgt E K C Smith (W/Op)
Sgt J C Johnson (MU/AG)
Sgt W C T Freeman (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Aachen (11 Apr 1944 - 12 Apr 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Aachen 11 Apr 1944 12 Apr 1944 N Fifteen aircraft with crews were offered for operations, eleven being accepted and were briefed to attack targets in AACHEN. Another smart takoff resulted in all eleven aircraft being airborne in 10 3/4 mins. The weather en route was fair and on arrival at the target some patchy thin cloud and haze was apparant. All our aircraft bombed within the space of five minutes and although the haze prevented detailed observation most crews considered that the attack had been successful. Defences throughout were seen and they were not aggressive. All our aircraft returned safely to base.
Station Summary
Station conducts its first District Court Martial. An airman was tried on various counts of thefts from the Officers Mess and found guilty on all charges.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 20,000 ft at 22.42 hrs. W/O T E Boyle (Nav)
F/L J O Richard (P)
Sgt A G Day (F/Eng)
Sgt R W Scott (A/B)
F/Sgt W G Rate (W/Op)
Sgt T J Connaghan (MU/AG)
Sgt W J Carthew (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Rouen (18 Apr 1944 - 19 Apr 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Rouen 18 Apr 1944 19 Apr 1944 N Eighteen aircraft with crews were offered for operations and sixteen accepted, the crews being briefed to attack the marshalling yards at ROUEN. Another splendid take-off was achievced, all sizxteen aircraft being airbourne within 15 minutes. Excellent weather prevailed over France and the PFF delivered their markers with punctuality and clarity. The attack was both accurate and concentrated and many HEs were seen exploding on the marshalling yards. Night photographs of ground details were obtained by practically all the crews. Defences over the target were slight to moderate, mainly projected at the higher flying aircraft, and search lights were conspicuous by their absence. All out crews returned safely to Base. Training was continued, two new crews taking part in a night cross-cournty and night circuits and landings.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 10,000 ft at 00.31 hrs. Bombed R/G TIs. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Cologne (20 Apr 1944 - 21 Apr 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Cologne 20 Apr 1944 21 Apr 1944 N Eighteen aircraft with crews were offered for operations and briefed to attach targets in COLOGNE. All our aircraft were airbourne within 24 minutes despite the fact that enemy intruders were in the neighbourhood. The route was quiet and on arrival at Cologne 10/10ths cloud with tops approximately 1-50000 ft were encountered. PFF were late and when they arrived were somewhat scattered. Although the could mitigated against observation, two explosions penetrated through, and the glow reflected in the sky was visible until our aircrafrt were past the Dutch Coast on return. Defences over Cologne were reported as a moderate flak barrage with search lights ineffective due to the cloud blanket. LL 747 "P" (Captain F/Lt J.O Richard) was shadowed by an unidentifed twin engined aircraft over the North Sea on the outward journey which made three approaches, but a short burst from the rear gunner (Sgt. Conaghan) discouraged any further attentions. The homeward route was quiet and all our aircraft returned safely to base. Only four sightings of enemy aircraft were reported throughout the trip. Train continued, one new crew successfully completing a night cross country flight, bombing and circuits and landings and another crew day circuits and landings.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 22,000 feet at 02.06 hours. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Karlsruhe (24 Apr 1944 - 25 Apr 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Karlsruhe 24 Apr 1944 25 Apr 1944 N Eighteen aircraft with crews were offered for operations and briefed to attach targets in KARLSRUHE. The weather was more difficult than usual; thick cloud was encountered soon after the enemy coast was reached and this remained until near the target area with a great deal of static disturbance and icing. The cloud broke suddenly just short of the target, and most crews were able to see quite clearly the PFF markers, which although a few minutes late, were well concentrated. Defences en route did not affect most of our aircraft, although the MANNHEIM area was active. At KARLSRUHE defences were reported as slight to moderate with flak with no searchlight, while the homeward route was uneventable. Night fighter activity was not very apparent, only four sightings and no comabts being reported. All our crews retuned safely to base. Training proceeded, a new crew carrying out air to air firing.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 22,000 ft at 00.45 hrs. Bombed red and green T.I's. Smoke up to approx. 12,000 feet seen. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Essen (26 Apr 1944 - 27 Apr 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Essen 26 Apr 1944 27 Apr 1944 N Eighteen aircraft were offered and accepted for operations. The crews were briefed to attach ESSEN and after the usual excellent Squadron take-off all attacked the target area and returned safely to Base. The general impression was that the ESSEN defences has lost much of their sting, but as for the searchlight belt, F/O Sage "U" said "I have never seen so many searchlights, but they did not worry us and we went straight through them without any trouble." P/O Kenyon in "M" however, had a less pleasant experience, watching a cone building up on his aircraft during his bombing run, he was forced to drop his load short in order to escape from it. As his photos show, he was only 4 miles north of the aiming point when this happened. One "cookie" made the round trip on "S" (P/O Jones) whose Bomber Aimer found it had "hung up" over the target and brought it home. Only slight flak damage was reported by two aircraft "H" W/Cdr Bennett DFC and "O" P/O Marles. Weather en-route caused no trouble and although industrial haze over the target was reported by most crews conditions were good for ground marking. The Target Indicators were all "pranged". F/Lt A B Craig and his crew were first home by a short spinner to finish their first tour. In addition to the Squadron Operational effort three new crews carried out night circuits and landings.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 22,500 feet at 01.29 hours. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Friederichshafen (27 Apr 1944 - 28 Apr 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Friederichshafen 27 Apr 1944 28 Apr 1944 N Eighteen aircraft were offered and accepted for operations. The crews were briefed to attack targets in FRIEDERICHSHAFEN, Seventeen aircraft became airbourne in seventeen minutes, maintaining the high standard of take off met by the Squadron. One aircraft had to be cancelled owing to engine trouble at the last moment much to the disappointment of F/O Sage in "U" and his crew. Two more aircraft developed engine trouble soon after take-off, P/O Jones "S" had trouble with the inner starboard motor, and F/S Shervington "B" experienced trouble with port outer motor, both aircraft jettisoned their bombs into the sea. P/O Jones "S" landing at Kirmington, F/S Shervington returing to base. W/Cdr J.J. Bennett DFC "O" bombed the last resort target owing to engine trouble. The remainder successfully bombed primary target. The weather was good and good concentration on target was reported, smoke from fires rising to 6000 ft.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 20,500 ft at 02.09hrs. Bombed red & green T.I's. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Lyons (01 May 1944 - 02 May 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Lyons 01 May 1944 02 May 1944 N Eighteen aircraft and crews were offered for operations but only seven were accepted. The crews were briefed to attack the SOCIETE BERLIET MOTOR VEHICLE WORKS at LYONS. Weather conditions were good, bright moonlight, cloudless sky with good visibility marred only by slight ground haze over the target. Bombs were seen to burst on buildings and large clouds of black smoke soon began o obscure the target. Excellent photographs secured by six of the seven Squadron aircraft indicate that the attack was successful. The journey to and from the target was entirely uneventful. Several crews reported having seen fires still burning in the distance from last nights attach on Ammunition Dump at MAINTENON. All our aircraft returned safely to Base, the 550 Squadron representatives were lead by W/Cdr J.J. Bennett DFC the Squadron Commander who had taken with him a "sprog" crew to give them condfidence.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 9,800 ft at 01.12 1/2 hrs. P/O W N H Brawn (P)
P/O E C W Bull (F/Eng)
W/O C A Sowden (Nav)
Sgt P Pindar (A/B)
Sgt F E Dawson (W/Op)
Sgt R A Caley (MU/AG)
Sgt W J Jones (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Mailly (03 May 1944 - 04 May 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Mailly 03 May 1944 04 May 1944 N Eighteen aircraft and crews were offered for operations and were accepted. The crews were briefed to attack the Military Barracks at MAILLY. The accepted number of aircraft and crews took off without incident in the usual Squadron style. The weather was clear throughout the journey to and over the target, good visibility and bright moonlight assisted in locating the target, resulting in the target being effectively dealt with. Fires caused by earlier attacks int he MAILLY area were still burning but the Master of Ceremonies had some difficulties in assessing the markers accuracy, with the result that the main force was held up for some minutes. When the order to bomb was finally given, the rush, to quote W/O Knox "D", was like the starting gate at the Derby! Markers appeared to be accurate and a very good concentration of bombing at once became apparent with one or two healthy fires and smoke clouds rising to a height of 8,000 ft. The flak defences in the MAILLY area were only moderate, although the light flak was more intense than had been seen for some time. Numerous enemy night fighters were present and many combats were seen taking place in the bright moonlight - these combats continued until well on the way homewards. "J" F/Sgt Lloyd had a somewhat "dicey" return journey, about half an hour after having bombed the objective he was attacked by an unidentified aircraft and with the trimming tabs shot away his aircraft became temporarily out of control but managed to shake off the enemy fighter. Five minutes later a second attack set fire to the aircraft bomb bay and fuselage. The order to bale out was given and obeyed by the Mid Upper Gunner Sgt Pearce, Read Gunner Sgt Crilley and the Air Bomber F/O Yaternick. The aircraft went into a dive which help to extinguish the flame. Sgt Moore the wireless operator, used all the extinguishers to put out the remaining fire, and when these were exhausted, beat out the flames with his feet and hands. Finding the navigator suffering from severe burns, he rendered first aid and took over the navigational duties, obtained accurate fixes which enabled the pilot to bring back his aircraft safely to England, landing at R.A.F. Station FORD. A very good show put up by the worthy members of 550 Squadron. Many crews found that interference from a broadcasting station made listening to the Master of Ceremonies possessive wireless instructions difficult - as F/Sgt Salmon of "Q" said "One didn't know whether to go in and bomb or stay 'Deep in the Heart of Texas'!" Fourteen good night photographs taken by the Squadron aircraft show that this small precision target received a good "Strafing".
One aircraft "H" (F/L Grain and crew) failed to return. In addition to a very fine crew the aircraft contained the Army Local Defence Adviser, who had gone to see what real modern bombing attacks were like.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 8,500 ft at 00.29 hrs. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Rennes (07 May 1944 - 08 May 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Rennes 07 May 1944 08 May 1944 N Seventeen and crews were offered for operations but only eleven were accepted. The crews were briefed to attack RENNES AIRFIELD, and an AMMUNITION DUMP situated some three miles south of the airfield. The eleven aircraft took off in the Squadron style, ten having been detailed to attack the hangers, flying control and oil fuel stores between the runways and "K" P/O Bouchard with fourteen aircraft of other Squadrons, to attack the Station Headquarters buildings and barracks and also the main runway. All seems to have gone according to plan and to quote "D" (F/O Bowen-Bravery) "a cookie dropped between hanger and runway and I saw part of the hanger blow up". Several members of aircrews reports having see thick black smoke clouds from oil fires up to 10,000 ft. The weather was clear and the airfield clearly seen. The defences were not at all pronounced and the searchlights were immediately doused after the first bomb went down, another case of "discretion being the better part of valour". Ten good night photographs were taken. All our aircraft returned to Base. Two new crews (P/O Purney and Sgt White) completed night cross country training flights.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 12,000 feet at 00.22 hrs. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Orleans (19 May 1944 - 20 May 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Orleans 19 May 1944 20 May 1944 N Eighteen aircraft and crews offered for operations, fifteen of which were accepted and briefed to attack Marshalling Yards immediately north of the City of ORLEANS. The boys in the Squadron were delighted at the thought of being able to take to the air again after a lull of eight days. The take-off was of the usual 550 Squadron standard, the fifteen aircraft taking off in 14 minutes. The preliminary reports of the attack give every sign of it having been highly successful - another feather in the cap of Bomber Command and 550 Squadron. All reports speak of explosions of which the most outstanding one seems to have been at 00.46hrs early in the attack when debris was hurled up to 3000 ft. The explosions turned into a raging fire seen from 40 miles away. Photographs taken show that the Squadron were either on or very near the aiming point. W/Cdr Connellys' pre-bombing photo shows him travelling in the right direcvtion some 550 yards short of the aiming point - a promising preface, but his bombing pictures were unplottable due to the smoke. This was W/Cdr Connelly's first operatiuonl trip with the Squadron since taking command. P/O Marles in "T" (Tommy) made the round trip in spite of the rear turret being unservicebale from a few minutes after take-off. P/O Dukelow put up a creditable show on his maiden trip. All our aircraft returned safely to Base, and the crews satisifed with their nights work.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 9,000 ft at 00.47 hrs. F/L A D McConnell (A/B)
P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Duisburg (21 May 1944 - 22 May 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Duisburg 21 May 1944 22 May 1944 N Eighteen aircraft and crews offered for operations and all were accepted and briefed to attach targets in DUISBURG, the steel and coal centre of the Ruhr and Rhine, which has not had the attention of Bomber Command for about twelve months. The weather over the target was cloudy and called for blind bombing by a method which has already paid good dividends in "Happy Valley". Photographs as was to be expected yielded no joy and cannot profitably be commented upon, all showing thick cloud and in some instances fine tracks. Although there were several sightings of the enemy the general impressions of DUISBURG defences confirms the view that they were less active than a year ago. P/O Dukelow, F/S Hinde and Sgt Essex with their crews failed to return to Base.

[Ed: but can only find 17 aircraft listed in the battle-order (after multiple cross-checking of the ORB) of which 3 aircraft and crews FTR.]
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 24,000 ft at 01.11 hrs. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Dortmund (22 May 1944 - 23 May 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Dortmund 22 May 1944 23 May 1944 N Sixteen aircraft and crews offered for operations all being accepted and were briefed to attack DORTMUND.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 22,000 feet at 00.49 hrs. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Aachen (24 May 1944 - 25 May 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Aachen 24 May 1944 25 May 1944 N Seventeen aircraft and crews offered and accepted for operations. The crews were briefed to attack the Marshalling yards at AACHEN. With their mission successfully completed all aircraft and crews returned safely and unscathed. The take-off was good, as is usual, and the weather good. Two of the Squadrons aircraft were engaged in combat F/Sgt Barton ("T") and P/O Newman ("C") both proved inconclusive, the enemy breaking off the engeagement in both cases. Bombing photographs taken were of exceptional interest to the Intelligence, and confirm that the Squadon has assisted in adding some aches to AIX-LA-CHAPELLE.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 22,000 ft at 02.29 hrs. F/O M A Buchanan (P)
P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Aachen (27 May 1944 - 28 May 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Aachen 27 May 1944 28 May 1944 N Eighteen aircraft with crews offered for operations, fifteen of which were accepted and briefed to attack the Marshalling yards ROTHE-ERDE of AACHEN, east of the city. The fifteen aircraft took off in typical 550 Squadron style. Two aircraft "K" (P/O McCrea and "H" (P/O Purney) failed to return, but the majority of the others claim to have bombed the primary target, which despite a light haze, was clearly marked and in some cases visually identified. Information from crews and photographs taken suggests that the attack was successfully carried out. Poor visibility at Base made it necessary for ten aircraft to land at other airfields on their return, and were accommodated at Binbrook, Kelstern, Ludford-Magna and Waltham. The only three which made Base were "J" (W/Cdr Connolly), "S" (P/O Maxwell) and "P" (F/Lt Richard). With this trip the last named with his crew completed their tour.
Higher authority have officially recognised the destruction of a JU 88 by Sgt Campbell the rear gunner in "F" (Sgt White) on 22/23rd May 1944, as a result of supporting evidence having been recorded by five other bombers in the Command.
S/Ldr Graham (Australian) "B" Flight Commander affectionately know to the boys as "Bluey" completed his second tour of operations, rendered his Swan Song prior to his departure from the Squadron on posting to No. 1 Lancasters Finishing School, RAF Station Hemswell. "Bluey" was always keen and conscientious and extremely popular with the boys and it often needed a firm hand to keep him on the ground. Had he succeeded in getting his own way, he would have simply whistled through his second tour of operations.

Information received from HQ Bomber Command that the King, on the recommendation of the Air Officer Commanding, had approved the Immediate Award of the Distinguished Flying Medals to F/Sgt LLOYD and Sgt. MOORE for their magnificient show on the night of 3/4th May after attacking their target at MAILLY. [As narrated earlier on page 1.]
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 10,000 ft at 02.26 hrs. Landed at Waltham F/O L Wareham (P)
Sgt F J Thrush (F/Eng)
F/O B O Sibree (Nav)
F/O G F Bodman (A/B)
Sgt C A McKernan (W/Op)
Sgt J H Washington (MU/AG)
F/O R W Kemp (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Wimereaux (03 Jun 1944 - 04 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Wimereaux 03 Jun 1944 04 Jun 1944 N 16 aircraft offered for operations and 14 accepted. Crews briefed to attack railborne coastal battery in the vicinity of the peace-time resort of Wimereaux near Boulogne. All the Squadron aircraft successfully took off in the usual style and claimed to have bombed their objective. The Squadron's striking force had to contend with thick cloud over most of the route, but found the target practicially clear at their bombing heights. P.F.F markers were prompt, and, as far as can be ascertained from the bombing photographs were accurate to within a hundred yards of the bombing point. P/O Holdsworth "B" sighted a twin engined aircraft while bombing, and shortly afterwards the mid upper gunner had a crack at a F.W. 190 which appeared to be acting as a decoy for a M.E. 110 which was attended to by the Rear Gunner. Neither of the enemy aircraft returned the Lancaster's fire, and the Pilot observed stikes on the F.W. 190, which is claimed as probably damaged.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 9,500 ft at 01.16 hrs. P/O W N H Brawn (P)
P/O E C W Bull (F/Eng)
W/O C A Sowden (Nav)
Sgt P Pindar (A/B)
Sgt F E Dawson (W/Op)
Sgt R A Caley (MU/AG)
Sgt W J Jones (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Crisbecq (05 Jun 1944 - 06 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Crisbecq 05 Jun 1944 06 Jun 1944 N The crews of the 18 aircraft which had been accepted for operations were briefed to attack a coastal battery commanding a strategic position on the Cherburg peninsula at CRISBECQ. All aircraft took off promptly and without incident. Although some cloud was encountered across England on the outward journey enough was seen to realise that the whole of southern England was on the move. Whilst flying across the Channel a vast armada, of ships was seen making their way towards France. At the target 10/10th cloud was encountered but the glow from the markers was seen quite distinctly beneath. All crews agreed that the bomb flashes, as far as could be judged were well centred around the marker. The Flak around the target was negligable and very few incidents were reported by our crews who all returned safely after participating in the opening phase of the invasion of Europe.
The A.O.C No. 1 Group has received a message from the A.O.C in C in which he states that a recent return showed 100% servicability of all first line aircraft throughout Bomber Command. This extraordinary degree of serviceability not only reflects the utmost credit upon the devoted efforts of all maintainance personnel during the intensive operations but is, and will be a major contribution towards winning the War. The Squadron personnel can justly, and with pride claim that they have and will continue to contribute towards the destruction of the Hun.
Since recording the above S.H.A.E.F. have issued a communique to the effect that surprisingly little resistance was offered by coastal defences which is very gratifying to the boys of the Squadron. The Squadron striking force of eigtheen aircraft who beat the spearhead by a matter of hours know now, like all the world that the spear was driven straight and true, leaving 550 Squadron to create more chaos behind the Hun's lines.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 9,000 ft at 23.37 hrs.

[Squadron CO W/Cdr Connolly pilot.]
W/Cdr P E G G Connolly (P)
Sgt C C C Pettit (F/Eng)
Sgt J S Jenkins (A/B)
Sgt F A Willson (W/Op)
Sgt J Jackson (MU/AG)
Sgt E J Morgan (R/AG)
P/O W Dinney (Nav)

Operation/Target: Achères (06 Jun 1944 - 07 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Achères 06 Jun 1944 07 Jun 1944 N Nineteen aircraft and crews offered for operations and briefed to attack the rail junction at ACHÈRES, near Paris. The weather was cloudy and quite a few of the aircraft brought their bombs back on orders from the Master Bomber. The evidence of those who saw and bombed the markers together with the tale told by their photographs, gave every indication that this particular junction no longer exists. Two of our newer crews returned with very fine bombing prints. From this operation "F" (P/O Shervington and crew) failed to return.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 5,000 ft at 02.26 hrs. F/O G H Packham (P)
Sgt C C C Pettit (F/Eng)
Sgt J Matthews (Nav)
Sgt J S Jenkins (A/B)
Sgt F A Willson (W/Op)
Sgt J Jackson (MU/AG)
Sgt E J Morgan (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Flers (09 Jun 1944 - 10 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Flers 09 Jun 1944 10 Jun 1944 N 18 aircraft offered and briefed for operations. The attack was made against the enemy airfield at FLERS and all the aircraft took off to time and without incident. The weather difficulties less than expected and all crew claim a successful attack. Owing to low cloud over the target, bombing took place at heights from 1500 ft to 6000 ft and several reports of visual identification indicate that the airfield believed to be used by day fighters, was both accurately marked and bombed, several explosions were seen. The whole force on this target returned without loss.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 3,500 ft at 03.18 hrs. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Achères (10 Jun 1944 - 11 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Achères 10 Jun 1944 11 Jun 1944 N Eighteen aircraft were offered for operations, sixteen of which were accepted and briefed to attack the railway station at ACHÈRES, on the main Paris-Rouen line. The aircraft took off in the usual Squadron style and successfully completed their missions, claiming to have bombed the target from 4000 ft to 10,000 ft. The haze over the target was insufficient to prevent visual identificiation and the bombing photographs bear out the general opinion that the attached was successful. The rear gunner of "K" (F/O Dubois) reported having fired at a J.U. 88 which did not return fire. The rear gunner of "E" (P/O Purvis) saw a JU 88 attacking a Lancaster which it apparantly shot down. He gave it a short burst at 650 yards range as the fighter turned in to attack, both gunners beaded the Hun, who after some ineffectual return fire dived steeply and exploded on the ground. All the Squadron striking force returned safely to base.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 4,000 ft at 01.11 hrs. Bomber green T.I. P/O N S Rogers (P)
Sgt H J Pearce (F/Eng)
F/O H T A Evans (Nav)
Sgt N C Jenkins (A/B)
F/Sgt D Salmon (W/Op)
F/Sgt M E Mills (MU/AG)
Sgt J H Marshall (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Le Havre (14 Jun 1944 - 15 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Le Havre 14 Jun 1944 15 Jun 1944 N 16 aircraft were called for to attack the dock area of the French port of Le Havre one hour after sunset, which necessitated a daylight take-off, much to the delight of all the crews. Weather conditions at the target were ideal for the operation. All the aircraft and crews returned safely and are looking forward eagerly to some more daylight raids - referred to as the bomb aimers paradise. One aircraft failed to take off owing to a tyre bursting on the perimeter track and only 15 aircraft participated.

[Ed: the summary sheet says 16 aircraft called for op. But the detail in the battle order records only 15 aircraft.]
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 20,000 ft at 22.42 hrs. F/O L Wareham (P)
Sgt F J Thrush (F/Eng)
F/O B O Sibree (Nav)
F/O G F Bodman (A/B)
Sgt C A McKernan (W/Op)
Sgt J H Washington (MU/AG)
F/O R W Kemp (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Sterkrade (16 Jun 1944 - 17 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Sterkrade 16 Jun 1944 17 Jun 1944 N Nineteen aircraft and crews were offered, accepted and briefed to attack the syntheic oil plant at STERKADE on the north western edge of the Ruhr. All the aircraft took off without incident, but one aircraft "B" (P/O Beeson) was forced to abandon shortly afterwards due to the Port Inner Engine becoming unserviceable. The remainder found cloudy conditiions over most of the route, and some icing troubles were encountered. Over the target conditions of 10/10th cloud, tops above 10,000 ft and from two to three thousand feet thick prevailed. However the glow of the PFF markers could be clearly seen through the cloud and the concentration was not so good as had been the case recently. Crews opinions were mixed and it is possible that bombing was somewhat scattered. Flak at the target was reported as moderate to intense, it being heavier than on previous sorties to the Ruhr, and night fighters were active. F/O Thygessen "N" had an indecisive combat, being fired at by an unidentified aircraft and returned fire, no damage or casualties were sustained. A member of "O" (F/O Wareham) thought he was seeing things when he spotted 15 enemy aircaft flying in formation, as they was on a reciprical course to "O", took no notice, he decided that Brer Rabbits advice was good so "laid low and said nothing". After a long period of sixty-nine successful sorties, it is regretted that three of our aircraft failed to return, no news being received since take off. "V" (S/Ldr Smith DFC - "B" Flight Commander), "H" (F/O Neilsen) and "P" (P/O Packham). Among the crew of F/O Neilson was the Squadron Bombing Leader F/Lt McConnell. They will be sadly missed, for they were all jolly good fellows.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 21,000 ft at 01.22 hrs. Bombed Glow RTI F/O L Wareham (P)
Sgt F J Thrush (F/Eng)
F/O B O Sibree (Nav)
F/O G F Bodman (A/B)
Sgt C A McKernan (W/Op)
Sgt J H Washington (MU/AG)
F/O R W Kemp (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Pas de Calais (22 Jun 1944 - 23 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Pas de Calais 22 Jun 1944 23 Jun 1944 N The seventeen aircraft and crews were again offered and accepted were briefed to attack a "Doodle Bug" (Flying Bomb) lair in the Pas de Calais soon after lunch, the Squadron's first real day-light excursion after almost a week of stand-ups and stand-downs without any operations taking place. Great excitment prevailed at having the opportunity of taking part in a Mind-Sumers day's dream, not to mention the satisfaction given to the Station personnel and the local inhabitants of seeing the boys take off and return between lunch and tea time. The weather conditions were almost ideal, the Lancasters raced the clounds and get to the target first, where visibility was excellent. In the concentrated queue of aircraft making for the target, most or our crews were, at one time or another, able to recognise our own Lancasters. An inconspicious, but effective fighter cover completed the picture. The general impression was that is a very quiet trip, the Luftwaffe was either too busy elsewhere or too "browned off" to interfere. One aircraft "G" (P/O Lord) had to return early due to engine trouble. The remaining aircraft successfully bombed the target including "S" (F/Lt Redmond) which after having been badly damaged by enemy flak crashed near Tunbridge Wells, after all the members of the crew had baled out without injury. Two others were damaged by flak and one member of "M" - F/O Strecke - sustained a slight shrapnel wound in his feet. The cameras recorded a good concentration of bombs in the target area.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 15,000 feet at 15.45 hours F/O L Wareham (P)
Sgt F J Thrush (F/Eng)
F/O B O Sibree (Nav)
F/O G F Bodman (A/B)
Sgt C A McKernan (W/Op)
Sgt J H Washington (MU/AG)
F/O R W Kemp (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Saintes (23 Jun 1944 - 24 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Saintes 23 Jun 1944 24 Jun 1944 N Seventeen aicraft and crews were again offered and accepted and briefed for operations against a marshalling yard outside the small Basque town of SAINTES some sixty miles north of Bordeaux. The weather over the target was good and visibility likewise, the markers were both prompt and accurate and effective. Earlier photographs disclose that extensive yards with a marker burning brightly in the centre of the tracks and at least one stick of bombs bursting along the central tracks, on which were standing several lines of rolling stock.
Photographs taken later in the attack prove that the marshalling yard took a heavy concentrated straffing.
The trip concluded the first operational tour fo F/O Bowen-Bravery and his crew.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 8,000 ft at 02.02 1/2 hrs. F/O L Wareham (P)
Sgt F J Thrush (F/Eng)
F/O B O Sibree (Nav)
F/O G F Bodman (A/B)
Sgt C A McKernan (W/Op)
Sgt J H Washington (MU/AG)
F/O R W Kemp (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Pas de Calais (24 Jun 1944 - 25 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Pas de Calais 24 Jun 1944 25 Jun 1944 N Eighteen aircraft and crews were offered, accepted and briefed to attack another flying bomb lair in the Pas de Calais. P/O Boocock in "O" was forced to abandon the mission owing to engine trouble, otherwise the Squadron effort passed without incident, and all the remaining aircraft claimed to have bombed the markers in clear weather. All crews agree that the searchlight belt has been brightened up, three of our aircraft were held in the cones of searchlights for varying periods although the Ack Ack response seems to gave been spasmodic. Sightings of enemy aircraft were few and far between, being exceeded by glimpses of pilotless planes seen crossing the Channel.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 14,000 ft at 03.21 hrs. F/O L Wareham (P)
Sgt F J Thrush (F/Eng)
F/O B O Sibree (Nav)
F/O G F Bodman (A/B)
Sgt C A McKernan (W/Op)
Sgt J H Washington (MU/AG)
F/O R W Kemp (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Pas de Calais (27 Jun 1944 - 27 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Pas de Calais 27 Jun 1944 27 Jun 1944 N Seventeen aircraft were offered, accepted and briefed to attack another lair of the "Doodle Bug" in the Pas de Calais. The trip was largely without incident "M" (P/O Clarke) had, however, a close brush with an unidentified enemy fighter who opened fire at point blank range with no effect. This was the only sighting reported. All our aircraft returned safely and claimed to have bombed the primary target. Opposition over the target was reported as being negligible.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 14,000 ft at 03.32 hrs. F/O W D Robertson (A/B)
F/O V A Thygessen (P)
Sgt R Finlay (F/Eng)
F/O E C Packham (Nav)
Sgt A Pavlovitch (W/Op)
Sgt A E Howting (MU/AG)
F/O H B Parker (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Domleger/Pas de Calais (29 Jun 1944 - 29 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Domleger/Pas de Calais 29 Jun 1944 29 Jun 1944 N Seventeen aircraft were offered, accepted and briefed for another daylight attack on the lair of the "Doodle Bug" at DOMLEGER in the Pas de Calais. Fifteen aircraft took off without incident about noon, but two aircraft were unable to leave the "deck" owing to last minute snaggs, which had developed after a somewhat hectic bombing up and servicing. All the aircraft, it is claimed, reached the target area. Most of them broke cloud before bombing and found the target area free of cloud., Opposition was reported once again as being slight and all our aircraft returned safely to base.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 14,000 ft at 13.32 hrs. F/O W D Robertson (A/B)
F/O V A Thygessen (P)
Sgt R Finlay (F/Eng)
F/O E C Packham (Nav)
Sgt A Pavlovitch (W/Op)
Sgt A E Howting (MU/AG)
F/O H B Parker (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Oisemont-Neuville (30 Jun 1944 - 30 Jun 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Oisemont-Neuville 30 Jun 1944 30 Jun 1944 N Nineteen aircraft and crews were offered, accepted and briefed to attack OISEMONT-NEUVILLE yet another lair of the "Doodle Bug". Once again the aircraft took off successfully at 06.00hrs and all returned safely at approximately 09.45hrs. The target was obscured by cloud through which all bombs were released. No opposition from enemy fighters was reported and the Flak was slight and spasmodic. The port outer engine of "D" (F/Lt MacAleavey) cut when the aircraft was setting course over the base, but "Mac" and his crew were determined not to be deprived of a daylight show and carried on, the aircraft making what height it could, and although deprived of certain navigational aids, bombed on a D.R. rim from several thousand feet below the stream, after having reached the target in time. The successful completion of this trip enabled the Squadron once again to chalk up one more 100% effort. Although the Squadron has only operated on fifteen occasions during the month it has certainly been the busiest month so far, due to cancellations and one recall. It is however noteworthy that the Squadron's operational hours far exceeds those of any other month since its formation, as does the tonnage of bombs dropped.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 14,000 feet at 07.58 hours. Bombed on Gee. F/O W D Robertson (A/B)
F/O V A Thygessen (P)
Sgt R Finlay (F/Eng)
F/O E C Packham (Nav)
Sgt A Pavlovitch (W/Op)
Sgt A E Howting (MU/AG)
F/O H B Parker (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Pas de Calais (02 Jul 1944 - 02 Jul 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Pas de Calais 02 Jul 1944 02 Jul 1944 N The nineteen aircraft and crew offered were accepted for operations. All took off successfully shortly before miday without incident as usual. Eighteen returned at 15.45 hours. "D" (P/O Hussey) returned earlier through engine failure and was sent out to jettison part off the bomb load before landing. The target was the Flying Bomb Site in the Pas de Calais and the weather over the target was good. Most crews brought back enthusiastic reports. Markers were well placed and most of the crews were able to map read their positions to good purposes. The evidence of our own cameras makes it reasonable to suppose that the operation was highly successful. No Luftwaffe opposition was experienced the defence being confined to light flak.
W/Cdr Connolly returned from six days leave and S/L Nicolas proceed on leave on completion of his second tour of operations.
The Squadron was given a definite stand down until the evening of 3rd July which was much appreciated by the boys, who needless to say took full advantage.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 14,000 ft at 14.18 hours. F/O W D Robertson (A/B)
F/O V A Thygessen (P)
Sgt R Finlay (F/Eng)
F/O E C Packham (Nav)
Sgt A Pavlovitch (W/Op)
Sgt A E Howting (MU/AG)
F/O H B Parker (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Dijon (05 Jul 1944 - 05 Jul 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Dijon 05 Jul 1944 05 Jul 1944 N Fourteen aircraft and crews offered, were briefed for operations. All the aircraft took off in good time and without incident to bomb a rail centre on the outskirts of DIJON in Eastern France. The weather en route and over the target was good, a full moon with visibility excellent. The markers were punctual and accurate and many crews found visual confirmation in the town layout, the river, canal and marshalling round houses themselves. The bombing, from all accounts, was reasonable concentrated and there was an encouraging red explosion lasting several seconds soon after the attack opened. Good photographs are obtained. Flak was negligible, and no enemy night fighters were encountered.
Two new crews were detailed to carry out cross-country exercises to complete their training in the Squadron prior to becoming operationally efficient.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 7,000 ft at 01.54 1/2 hrs. F/O L Wareham (P)
Sgt F J Thrush (F/Eng)
F/O B O Sibree (Nav)
F/O G F Bodman (A/B)
Sgt C A McKernan (W/Op)
Sgt J H Washington (MU/AG)
F/O R W Kemp (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Dijon (06 Jul 1944 - 06 Jul 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Dijon 06 Jul 1944 06 Jul 1944 N Fifteen aircraft and crews were required for operations and were briefed and successfully took off at 19.00hrs to attack another flying bomb site in the Pas de Calais. One aircraft "Q" (F/O Wareham) was bogged down for a short time and it seemed that "Q" would not take-off, but the "A" Flight Commander - F/Lt MacAleavey - came along, leant against the wheel an within five minutes "Q" was airbourne. As on most of these targets, flak was neglligible and no fighters dared to brave the effective Spitfire cover. Excellent photographs were obtained, the bombing was concentrated and the attack once again was successful. The new Squadron Signals Leader, F/O Davidson, joined the Squadron vice [??] F/Lt Tippett who was admitted to R.A.F. Hospital, Rauceby suffering from Pleurisy and is likely to be off the Squadron strength for roughly three months. The weather was excellent so good in fact that it brought out visitors from Group Headquarters. Nine aircraft was required for operations in the morning.
P/O D F Laing, attached from No. 17 S.F.T.S under the Affiliiiation Scheme flew with P/O Shaw in "F", as second pilot.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 17,000 ft at 21.00 hrs. F/O L Wareham (P)
Sgt F J Thrush (F/Eng)
F/O B O Sibree (Nav)
F/O G F Bodman (A/B)
Sgt C A McKernan (W/Op)
Sgt J H Washington (MU/AG)
F/O R W Kemp (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Caen (07 Jul 1944 - 07 Jul 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Caen 07 Jul 1944 07 Jul 1944 N The nine aircraft and crews who originally were briefed at 10.00hrs and later stood by for late afternoon operations for which a further nine crews were added and all briefed ay 17.30hrs. The eigthteen [Ed: hand-written note states 17] aircraft successfully took off at 19.30hrs to attack the town of CAEN in co-operation with the Allied armies in France. The attack was highly successful and thoroughly enjoyed by all members of the air-crews who participated in the strafe. A congratulatory message by signal was received on the Station as the crews were touching down. "From 2nd Army: - the heavy bomber attack which has just taken place was a wonderfully impressive show. The second Army would like their appreciation passed to all crews. Flak appeared to be intense at the beginning of the attack but died down during the attack". Later a further note of appreciation was struck by our receipt of the following message for all crew concerned in the operation: It was passed to our C in C by the AOC of TAF Group and reads: "The effort of your chaps we witnessed over Caen tonight made us all feel very proud to belong to the RAF".
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Primary 6,000 ft at 21.54 1/2 hrs. F/O L Wareham (P)
Sgt F J Thrush (F/Eng)
F/O B O Sibree (Nav)
F/O G F Bodman (A/B)
Sgt C A McKernan (W/Op)
Sgt J H Washington (MU/AG)
F/O R W Kemp (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Revigny (12 Jul 1944 - 12 Jul 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Revigny 12 Jul 1944 12 Jul 1944 N Nineteen aircraft and crews were offered accepted and briefed for operations. All took off at 21.15hrs without incident to bomb Marshalling Yards at REVIGNY in Eastern France. The weather over the target was bad, which precluded accurate marking or visual identification on the target. Recco flares having failed to lighten the darkness, the Master of Ceremonies, for whose instructions our crews were waiting, felt obliged to call the party off. The gunners of one of our crews, P/O Bell and F/S Teasdale, Mid-Upper and Rear Gunners respectively of "C" (Sgt Town) accepted a challenge from an enemy fighter and claim to have shot it down in flames and to have seen it hit the deck. Two of our crews P/O Boocock and P/O Davies failed to return. Owing to bad weather conditions all the Squadron aircraft landed at ten different airfields in the Norfolk and Suffolk areas, one crash landed at Wattisham, and another crew abandoned their aircraft, all members making successful parachute descents. A signal was received from the Air Ministry stating that Sergeant J G Pearce has arrived in the UK. This N.C.O is one of three ordered to bale out whilst over enemy occupied territory when F/S Lloyd's aircraft got into difficulties whilst returning from Mailly on the 4th May.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 Returned Abortive. Told not to bomb. Landed at Hethel. F/O L Wareham (P)
Sgt F J Thrush (F/Eng)
F/O B O Sibree (Nav)
F/O G F Bodman (A/B)
Sgt C A McKernan (W/Op)
Sgt J H Washington (MU/AG)
F/O R W Kemp (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Revigny (14 Jul 1944 - 14 Jul 1944)

Operation Summary
Target Out Back Aborted
(Y / N)
Comments
Revigny 14 Jul 1944 14 Jul 1944 N Eleven aircraft and crews only were required for operations. The crews were briefed and took off to bomb REVIGNY Marshalling Yards. As was the case on our last visit to this target two nights previously it was again found impossible to mark the target with sufficient accuracy to ensure the desired results. Our aircraft received instructions to return to Base with their bombs. Opposition from the ground defences was reported as being negligible, there there appears to have been considerable activity by the Luftwaffe. W/O Ansell in "D" was attached unsuccessfully by a rocket firing fighter whose fire was returned, but no strikes were claimed by our gunners. No printable photographs were obtained. Wing Commander Connolly and crew, which included the Gunnery Leader Flight Lieutenant K.W.L. Fuller D.F.C failed to return to base. Wing Commander Connolly, during his comparatively short time with the Squadron proved hmself to be a leader of men, a man of understanding, and was liked by all with whom he came into close contact. The Squadron has lost not only an efficient Commander, but a very gallant Gentleman.
Aircraft Deployed Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number Returned
or FTR
Comments Crew Details
LL837 FTR Missing - no news after take off.

[Squadron CO W/Cdr Connolly pilot]
W/Cdr P E G G Connolly (P)
F/L K W L Fuller (A/G)
Sgt J R Penton (F/Eng)
Sgt J D Naunton (Nav)
F/O N Nunns (A/B)
Sgt J T Kermack (W/Op)
Sgt C J Watson (MU/AG)

Summary Statistics

Based on the data in the lists displayed above, and keeping in mind that data is still being updated and thus not yet complete, the following statistics are generated:

Aircraft Deployment Statistics


Aircraft deployments 41
MAX Aircraft deployed
in single operation
1
(Stuttgart, 15 Mar 1944)

These details were last updated: 05 December 2024


Note

this list is still being built and will take some time to complete
what is currently displayed is believed accurate but much more is still to be added

This note describes the options currently available to produce a smaller, more manageable list and also describes planned future enhancements to the reporting facility.


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