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:
- the operation was cancelled before crews were briefed
- the crews have been briefed as to the target, and in some cases the planes may even have been bombed up and the crews on-board at their stations awaiting take-off, before the op has been stood-down
- finally a number of cases where the op was already under way and the planes en-route but for whatever reason the operation was aborted (e.g. the master bomber orders the attack cancelled due to weather conditions at target adversely affecting targeting).
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: 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. |
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. |
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 1,500 ft at 03.26 hrs. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 5,000 ft at 01.18 hrs. Bomber green T.I. Claim JU88 |
|
Operation/Target: Gelsenkirchen (12 Jun 1944 - 13 Jun 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Gelsenkirchen |
12 Jun 1944 |
13 Jun 1944 |
N |
Nineteen aircraft offered for operations and briefed to attack synthetic oil plant at GELSENKIRCHEN four miles north of Essen. All the squadron aircraft carried nearly six tons of H.E. including a "Cookie" and claimed to have bombed the markers. The weather offered no unusual difficulties the target, however, was a more than usually elusive one even for the Ruhr, consisting as it did of a compact and highly vulnerable plant in a sparsely built up area. First impressions culled from our crews are very optimistic, although it appears that there were two areas collecting both markers and bombs. The main concentration of both markers and bombs seems to have achieved the fireworks which only a highly inflammable target could provde. Most of the crews report a vivid yellow explosion early in the bombing period which started with a flame estimated to reach several thousand feet and finished in a pall of oily black smoke. Those who bombed later report a cleary defined fire area, which strengthens that belief that the attack was a highly successful one. Good photographs were obtained and all the aircraft returned safely to base.
F/L Waite and P/O Rogers and their crews completed the first operational tour on this sortie. |
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 20,000 ft at 22.44 hrs. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Abortive - Port outer engine u/. Jettisoned 6 x 500. Nose I. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 16,000 ft at 15.45 hrs. Smoke obscuring target. |
|
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. |
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 12,000 ft at 03.21 hrs. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 13,000 ft a 03.31 hrs. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 14,000 ft at 13.30 hrs. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 14,000 feet at 08.00 hours. Bombed on Gee. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 15,000 feet at 14.15 hours. |
|
Operation/Target: Orleans (04 Jul 1944 - 04 Jul 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Orleans |
04 Jul 1944 |
04 Jul 1944 |
N |
Fifteen aircraft and crews offered, accepted and briefed for operations, but owing to a swing on take off by "S" (P/O Vaughan) the aircraft failed to take off and crashed at the end of the runway, preventing "F" (P/O Shaw) from taking off. Fortunately there were no casualties and although fire broke out it was soon under control and confined to one wing only, thanks to the speed and efficiency with which the Fire Party worked. The bomb load did not blow up. The remaining thirteen aircraft took off successfully and reached their target a Marshalling yard just north of Orleans in Eastern France. The markers over the target area were puntual and accurate. Many of the crews found visual confirmation of the town lay-out, thanks to good visibility. The bombing appeared to be reasonably concentrated and an encouraging red explosion lasting several seconds was seen. Good photographs were obtained and the attack is considered successful. P.R.U. photographs confirm this. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 7,000 ft at 01.44 1/2 hrs. Bogus M/C heard instructing to cease bombing. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 7,500 ft at 01.52 1/2 hrs. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 17,000 ft at 21.01 hrs. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 6,000 ft at 21.52 1/2 hrs. Orange explosions 21.51 1/2 & almost continuously thereafter. |
|
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 |
PA991
|
Returned |
Abortive. Landed Haleworth. |
|
Operation/Target: Caen (18 Jul 1944 - 18 Jul 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Caen |
18 Jul 1944 |
18 Jul 1944 |
N |
The eighteen aircraft warned yesterday were detailed to attack military strong points in the Caen area in support of the military plans to break through. The Squadron's aiming point was the village of SANNERVILLE where the enermy had concentrations of mortars, long range guns, anti-tank guns, A.A. units, Transport and reserve personnel. Our aircraft arrived over the target just before sunrise at 05.45 hours. Conditions were ideal, visibility being excellent. The markers which were easy to identify in the light of dawn were punctual and accurate with the exception of one dropped 100 yards south. Bombing concentrations weer excellent. Flak was negligible at first but on leaving the target, accurate predicated flak was encountered. The only fighters seen were those of the Spitfire cover. All our crews arrived back safely in time for breakfast feeling highly satisfied with their mornings work. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 6,500 ft at 05.47 hours. |
|
Operation/Target: Wizernes (20 Jul 1944 - 20 Jul 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Wizernes |
20 Jul 1944 |
20 Jul 1944 |
N |
Nineteen aircraft andcrews were offered, accepted and briefed for an early evening attach on a target in WIZENEF [Ed. - assumed incorrect spelling, and Wizernes or Wizemes(?) V-bomb site is intended.]. All the aircraft took off successfully in good style and all reached the target which was bombed with the usual precision. Flak opposition at the target was negligible and the only fighters to be seen were, once again, Spitfires. All our aircraft returned safely to base bringing back good photographs. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 14,000 ft at 21.01 hours. |
|
Operation/Target: Kiel (23 Jul 1944 - 23 Jul 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Kiel |
23 Jul 1944 |
23 Jul 1944 |
N |
Seventeen aircraft and crews offered, accepted and briefed for operations against the enemy's Naval Base at Kiel. All the aircraft took off in the usual Squadron style and the outward journey was uneventful with mainly cloudy conditions. More cloud was encountered in the target area, but being fairly thin the markers were seen through it. Concentration appeared to be satisfactory, healthy fires were buring and were seen when 120 miles away. Flak was reported as intense over the target and the West Danish Coast was also active, but no serious trouble was encountered, "C" (P/O Holdsworth) had a short encounter with a JU88, the firing starting simultaneously; no damage or casualties were sustained by our aircraft, while strikes were observed on the enemy - it is only claimed as probably damaged. All our aircraft returned safely to base. |
Operation/Target: Stuttgart (24 Jul 1944 - 24 Jul 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Stuttgart |
24 Jul 1944 |
24 Jul 1944 |
N |
Fifteen aircraft were laid on to bomb STUTTGART, that take off being as usual without incident. All claimed to have bombed the target successfully although the city was covered by thin cloud the markers could be seen and several fires illuminated the cloud. Several vivid explosions brightened the proceedings. Flak at the target was repoted as being moderate. Several Night Fighters were seen but did not attack, two peeled off when the gunners of "F" (F/O Cann) and "T" (F/O Roche) opened fire. |
Operation/Target: Stuttgart (28 Jul 1944 - 28 Jul 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Stuttgart |
28 Jul 1944 |
28 Jul 1944 |
N |
Eighteen aircraft and crews were offered but only seventeen were accepted for operations. The crews were briefed to attack STUTTGART once again and all successfully took off without incident. All the aircraft claim to have bombed the target area and contrary to the previous raids experienced fairly heavy opposition from the ground defences, Two of our aircraft "O" P/O Jones and "T" F/O Roche failed to return from this mission, two other aircraft failed to reach Base and landed at Woodbridge and Bombrook. In the crew of "O" as Navigator was F/O Dinney who has for several weeks been acting as the Squadron Navigation Leader. |
Operation/Target: Cahagnes (30 Jul 1944 - 30 Jul 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Cahagnes |
30 Jul 1944 |
30 Jul 1944 |
N |
The fourteen aircraft and crews which had been accepted for operations were detailed to attach targets behind enemy lines at CAHAGNES in Normandy. All crew members were in high spirits delighted at being able to go on another daylight strafe, and on this mission the Squadron was led by Squadron Commander W/Cdr Sisley. After attacking the target successfully the boys carried out some daring ground straffing from a height of 100 feet, shooting up tanks, rolling stock, and Huns. In fact anything they thought to be of military value to the enemy. No fighters were encountered and flak was negligible. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 3,000 ft at 08.32 1/2 hrs |
|
Operation/Target: Le Havre (01 Aug 1944 - 02 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Le Havre |
01 Aug 1944 |
02 Aug 1944 |
N |
Yesterday evening the fourteen aircraft which had been offer an accepted took off at about 18.15hrs to attack the dock installations at LE HAVRE. The compact dock area was unmistakably clear to the Bomb Aimers and pin-pointing was even easier than on the dusk operation six weeks ago. The fighter cover prevented any molestation by the Luftwaffe though ground opposition was spirited at most stages of the attack, and "P" (S/L MacAleavey) was slightly damaged by Flak which varied during the attack from slight to intense. The photographs obtained were some of the best ever achieved and all were easily plottable. One of our crews reports that a "U" boat was seen to received a direct hit causing it to settle at an angle in the water. In addition to the operational sorties one of our new crews carried out a cross country in a "Y" aircraft, having with them as instructors F/L Gardiner. |
Operation/Target: Belle Croix les Bruyers (02 Aug 1944 - 02 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Belle Croix les Bruyers |
02 Aug 1944 |
02 Aug 1944 |
N |
Once again an evening attack and fifteen aircraft and crews were offered but only eleven required. The crews were briefed to attack military objectives at BELLE CROIX LES BRUYERS, this the Squadron's second daylight sortie in as many days was very disappointing to the boys, as owning to 10/10 cloud it was not possible to attack with sufficient accuracy and the Master Bomber called the party off. A further fifteen aircraft and crews were required for operations during the afternoon but were informed that it would again be an evening attack. |
Operation/Target: Trossy St Maximim (03 Aug 1944 - 03 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Trossy St Maximim |
03 Aug 1944 |
03 Aug 1944 |
N |
Shortly before lunch a striking force of twelve aircraft took off in as a many minutes to attached a Flying Bomb site at TROSSY ST MAXIMIM, the Squadron being led by the Station Commander Group Captain McIntyre D.F.C and all the aircraft carried 15,000 lbs of H.E. which is a new record load devised by the Armoury. No fighters were seen over the Channel but covering Spitfires were well in evidence on reaching the French Coast. Accurate bursts of Flak were encountered during the trip and "V" (F/O Fauman) came back with a small shrapnel hole in the fuselage. Low cloud persisted over France but there were many large gaps, through which craters would be seen, evidence of previous attacks on other Bomb Sites.
Our 12 aircraft released there 80 tons of bombs within 1 1/2 minutres and most of the photographs confirm that a very large proportion of the bombs landed "plumb on" the target. The particularly fine photograph of "F" (P/O Shaw) was enlarged and forwarded to the C in C and shows the dense profusion of bursts 2 minutes after the attack opened. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 13,000 feet at 14.16 1/2 hours. Returned on three engines from the French coast. |
|
Operation/Target: Le Havre (03 Aug 1944 - 03 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Le Havre |
03 Aug 1944 |
03 Aug 1944 |
N |
The fifteen aircraft took off again without incident to attack targets in the port area of LE HAVRE, as in spite of the previous concentrated bombing the "U" boat seen before seems to have borne a charmed life and had apparantly been towed to another part of the docks and this with other shipping was our target. The fifteen aircraft, after climbing through cloud had a perfect run down over England in blazing sunshine. Weather at Le Havre was clear and with good visiblity and all the Bomb Aimers were able to identify the aiming point visually. Very good bombing was accomplished on this raid and the good photographs brought back confirm this. No enemy fighters were seen and the only fly in the ointment was accurate flak which was not so intense as during the previous raid. A burst uncomfortably near made several sears on "K" (F/O Steele) but the Pin up girl on the aircraft was unmarked.
All our aircraft returned safely and touched down in the neighbourhood of 20.30 hours just in t ime for the crews to receive some well earned refreshment.
When the aircraft had been evacuated by the crews they were taken over by the hard working ground staff who worked far into the night and in some cases all through the night, to service and bomb up once again.
Shortly before lunch a striking force of twelve aircraft took off in as a many minutes to attached a Flying Bomb site at TROSSY ST MAXIMIM, the Squadron being led by the Station Commander Group Captain McIntyre D.F.C and all the aircraft carried 15,000 lbs of H.E. which is a new record load devised by the Armoury. No fighters were seen over the Channel but covering Spitfires were well in evidence on reaching the French Coast. Accurate bursts of Flak were encountered during the trip and "V" (F/O Fauman) came back with a small shrapnel hole in the fuselage. Low cloud persisted over France but there were many large gaps, through which craters would be seen, evidence of previous attacks on other Bomb Sites.
Our 12 aircraft released there 80 tons of bombs within 1 1/2 minutres and most of the photographs confirm that a very large proportion of the bombs landed "plumb on" the target. The particularly fine photograph of "F" (P/O Shaw was enlarged and forwarded to the C in C and shows the dense profusion of bursts 2 minutes after the attack opened. |
Operation/Target: Pauillac (05 Aug 1944 - 05 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Pauillac |
05 Aug 1944 |
05 Aug 1944 |
N |
Fourteen aircraft and crews were required, provided and briefed to attack oil depots at PAUILLAC a few miles south of the previous days attack.
All of the aircraft took off successfully with most of the crews in their shirt sleeves. Formation flying which has been practiced by the Squadron stood them in good stead and all the aircraft kept togther as far as the target, with S/L Redmond's section all the way home as well. The weather at the target was cloudy but the markers were accurately placed and all our aircraft planted their bombs on and around the aiming point. A huge fire was soon started and gradually enveloped the whole target with a particularly large explosion occurring at 19.10 hours. Excellent photographs were obtained by our crews and P.R.U. whol following close on their heels reported that severe damage was done in the attack.
The route and target was trouble free from Flak and fighters while our fighter cover was comfortingly noticeable. All our aircraft returned safely though owing to fog conditions at base all landed at Sandtoft, with the exception of "H" which landed at Skellingthorpe. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 8,000 ft at 19.05 hrs. |
|
Operation/Target: Fontenay (08 Aug 1944 - 08 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Fontenay |
08 Aug 1944 |
08 Aug 1944 |
N |
The seventeen aircraft took off in the evening to carry our an attack on enemy troop concentrations at FONTENAY in the Caen sector. Haze at the target limited visibility, markers, aided by the ground forces, were generally good, but in the latter stages were obscured by smoke dust and haze. The Master Bomber accordingly felt compelled to order sorties who had not yet bombed to take their bombs home again, five very disappointed crews of this Squadron did this, but the remainder had bombed. Flak was negligable and as no photographs were taken on this trip it was left to P.R.U. to confirm the concentation was amongst the best of the night. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 8,000 ft at 23.20 1/2 hrs. |
|
Operation/Target: Duigny (10 Aug 1944 - 10 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Duigny |
10 Aug 1944 |
10 Aug 1944 |
N |
Twenty aircraft were offered, accepted and briefed for operations again an oil storage depot at DUIGNY. The target was reached and bombed in clear weather, which was heavily defended by accurate predicted Flak, which scarred several of our aircraft and caused two slight casualties F/O Dubois "H" was hit in the neck by shrapnel and in spite of severe pain and loss of blood safely brought the aircraft back to base. F/S Francis (A/B of "V") also sustained a slight wound in his leg whilst over the target. F/O Shaw "F" when outward bound lost the use of one of his engines and reached the target about 9,000 ft below the bomber stream. He successfully bombed his target and was escorted home by five Spitfires. "F" attracted the attention of numberous Flak batteries but reached base safely. Photographs were once again of excellent quality. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 16,000 ft at 12.00 hrs. |
|
Operation/Target: Douai (11 Aug 1944 - 11 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Douai |
11 Aug 1944 |
11 Aug 1944 |
N |
Sixteen aircraft and crews were provided and briefed for an attack on DOUAI. Nearing the taget some 6/10-7/10 cloud was encountered and with the markers being a few minutes late the leading aircraft found some difficulty in locating the target with the result that they bombed the marshalling yards at CAMBRAI. Immediately after this the markers were seen to go down over DOUAI and were very accurately placed. Both targets were well and truly bombed as the photographs show. Flak and fighters were once again conspicious by their absence. |
Operation/Target: Fontaine le Pain (14 Aug 1944 - 14 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Fontaine le Pain |
14 Aug 1944 |
14 Aug 1944 |
N |
Nineteen aircraft and crews were offered and accepted but the number required was later reduced to fourteen and all took off to attack targets at FONTAINE LE PAIN in support of the Allied armies. Clear weather over the target area was marred by smoke from the battle area which also obscured the markers for some of our crews in spite of the low level attack which was made. Map reading was hampered by the numerous criss crossing of the tracks of the amoured vehicles, but all of our aircraft found and bombed their target. All our aircraft returned with the exception of "V" (F/S Hough) which crashed near Wansford all the members of the crew losing their lives. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 3,000 feet at 15.29 1/2 hours. |
|
Operation/Target: Le Coulot (15 Aug 1944 - 15 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Le Coulot |
15 Aug 1944 |
15 Aug 1944 |
N |
Eighteen aircraft and crews were again offered for operations, seventeen finally taking off to attack a Luftwaffe night fighter base ay LE COULOT near Louvain in Belgium which is the most distant daylight target so far tackled. Good weather prevailed and all the aircraft identified the spot without difficulty and gave it its desserts. The runways were pleatered and the and the technical and administrative buildings got their share of a very successful prang. Flak was dispirited in most stages of the attack but the only fighters seen were those of our own cover. Good photographs were once again obtained. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 15,000 feet at 12.02 hours. |
|
Operation/Target: Ghent Terneuzen (19 Aug 1944 - 20 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Ghent Terneuzen |
19 Aug 1944 |
20 Aug 1944 |
N |
Just before "The Lone Ranger" touched down the remaining thirteen aircraft had taken off on yet another oil raid. This time to GHENT TERNEUZEN in Belgium. Weather over the target was clear and most of our crews identified the markers easily and there is very indication that they did their job well. Once again the Luftwaffe did not interfere and flak at the target was described as nil to negligible, and all our aircraft once again returned to base. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 12,000 feet at 00.06 hours. |
|
Operation/Target: Russelheim (25 Aug 1944 - 26 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Russelheim |
25 Aug 1944 |
26 Aug 1944 |
N |
Sixteen aircraft and crews were offered and accepted for operations but were warned to stand by for a night attack. All the aircraft originally detailed took off to attack targets in RUSSELHEIM, the sixteenth being cancelled owing to the starboard outer engine being unserviceable on W5005 "N". No fewer than five new Captains were on this trip as second pilots. News was also received late in the day of the awards of the DFC to P/O Purvis for his part in the raid on 12 Aug 1944 and to F/O Dubois for his trip on the 10th Aug. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Abortive - Gee u/s. Brought all bombs back. |
|
Operation/Target: Kiel (26 Aug 1944 - 27 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Kiel |
26 Aug 1944 |
27 Aug 1944 |
N |
Eighteen aircraft and crews were offered and accepted for operations and were briefed to attack KIEL. After a first class takeoff at 21.00hrs the crews enjoyed good weather en-route to the target, but on the return journey a severe electrical storm was encountered. All crews returned safely although F/S Hopman and crew in "N" ditched in the River Humber whilst preparing to land, but were none the worse for this ducking. |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
Returned |
Primary 18,000 feet at 23.11 hrs. |
|
Operation/Target: Wemars-Cappel (28 Aug 1944 - 28 Aug 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Wemars-Cappel |
28 Aug 1944 |
28 Aug 1944 |
N |
Ten aircraft and crews were detailed to attach a buzz-bomb sight ay WEMARS-CAPPEL in daylight. It is greatly regretted to have to put on record the loss of S/L K MacAleavey the "A" Flight Commander, who was also a member of the crew of "E". S/L K MacAleavey was a very popular Flight Commander and a well known member of the Navigation Union.
[Ed: in fact S/L MacAleavey survived the crash to become a POW. See below under PA991.] |
| Aircraft Deployed |
Servicemen Deployed |
Aircraft Service Number |
Returned
or FTR |
Comments |
Crew Details |
PA991
|
FTR |
Missing.
[Ed. PA991 had just bombed the Wemars/Cappel launching site near Amiens, when it received a direct hit from a flak battery near Dunkirk. The Lancaster went down in flames and exploded.
The pilot, P/O Beeson, and 3 other members of the crew escaped by parachute, but the wireless operator and the two gunners were killed. Sergeants JK Norgate, HS Picton and JA Trayhorn were thus the last fatal casualties in the Bomber Command campaign against the V-1 flying bomb. (Source http://www.raf.mod.uk/bombercommand/aug44.html)] |
S/L K MacAleavey (Nav)
F/O S C Beeson (P)
Sgt K J R Hewlett (F/Eng)
F/Sgt F Neal (A/B)
Sgt J K Norgate (W/Op)
Sgt H S Picton (MU/AG)
Sgt J A Trayhorn (R/AG)
|
Operation/Target: Agenville (31 Aug 1944 - 01 Sep 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Agenville |
31 Aug 1944 |
01 Sep 1944 |
N |
Twelve aircraft were detailed for a daylight operation at 13.05hrs, a flying bomb sight at AGENVILLE. To add to confusion there was quite a lot of heavy and accurate flak though no other opposition. This attack was considered a great success by the crews that took part. One aircraft "V" with W/Cdr AFM Sisley and P/O Siddall and crew is missing from this Operation. |
Operation/Target: Gilze-Rijen (03 Sep 1944 - 03 Sep 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Gilze-Rijen |
03 Sep 1944 |
03 Sep 1944 |
N |
Thirteen aircraft and crews were detailed for a daylight operation on the aerodrome of GILZEREGEN. They all took off successfully, though "A" piloted by F/O R.Purvis aborted with the ASI unserviceable. Take off time was at 15.50hrs. It started to rain at Base just before take off and the weather was generally bad. The height to fly at was 12000 ft but there cloud at this height which consisted mainly of 10/10th strata cumulus. Some crews flew above this cloud and others below as there was pretty severe icing in it. Over the target itself the cloud broke to 4/10ths str. cum. with tops about 6000 ft. There was very little opposition of any sort, no fighter and slight flak. The PFF dropped their markers "bang on" and the bombing was well concentrated. From the bombing photographs the aerodrome and runways seem very hard hit. On the return journey aircraft ran into cloud about 60 miles from the English coast which cleared for about 100 miles and the closed in again. Most of the crews seem to have flown back from Nottingham at about 1000 ft to avoid low cloud. The weather back at Base was very bad indeed with rain and bad visibility combined with low cloud. "J" piloted by P/O McCarthy came back with the starboard inner engine feathered; this was was to save the engine which was running very badly. All aircraft landed back at Base safely. |
| Station Summary |
OPERATIONS
Two days of preparation bore fruit with the despatch of 13 aircraft (part of a Group force of 30) to raid the GILZE-RIJEN airfield in Holland. 1 aircraft abandoned its mission due to technical trouble. The remainded returned to base claiming to have attacked the primary target. Before they took off at about 1600 hours news had been received that there would be no further targets for today and tonight.
GENERAL
A United Voluntary Service for the National Day of Prayer was held in the Station Church, Padre Croft of R.A.F. Station Elsham Wolds taking the service. It was well attended by Station Personnal, considering there was an operaitonal take off at the same time. |
Operation/Target: Le Havre (06 Sep 1944 - 07 Sep 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Le Havre |
06 Sep 1944 |
07 Sep 1944 |
N |
15 aircraft and crews were detailed once again to attack troop concentrations to the north east of the town of LE HAVRE where Hun suicide regiments were still holding out and who had not felt the weight of our bombs the evening before. The aircraft took off to time in usual 550 Squadron style. "J" F/O Rose returned early owing to RAE compressor being unserviceable. The weather enroute was fairly good with 10/10 thin cloud at the target, this did not however prevent our bomb aimers from clearly identifying the aiming point. |
| Station Summary |
OPERATIONS
Once agan No. 550 Squadron took part in a daylight attack on LE HAVRE. Fifteen aircraft took off as part of a Command force of 290. 1 abandoned its mission due to a U/S bombsite. All returned safely to Base.
ORGANISATION
M.T. Fitters sent on 2 weeks tyre course.
Snow plough collected in readiness for coming Winter.
GENERAL
Lecture given by S/Ldr Cameron [Ed: of the R.A.F. Regiment] on "Prisoners of War" proved of great interest, being well attended by both the WAAF and Airmen. |
Operation/Target: Le Havre (08 Sep 1944 - 08 Sep 1944)
| Operation Summary |
| Target |
Out |
Back |
Aborted
(Y / N) |
Comments |
| Le Havre |
08 Sep 1944 |
08 Sep 1944 |
N |
15 aircraft were detailed to attack the Huns who were still holding out on the Northern outskirts of LE HAVRE. Unfortunately had visibility over the prevented the bombing being carried out. Owing to the close proximity of our own troops precision bombing was essential and rather than strafe our own troops the Master Bomber called off the attack. "K" F/Lt Steele who had been orbiting the area for 15 minutes pressed down regardless and from 2000 ft released his bombs on the target, the bursting bombs rocked the aircraft considerably, the remaining aircraft brought their bombs back. "A"/ F/O Purvis returned early owing to the bombsight being unserviceable. A spectacular and skilfull landing was made by "V" F/O Devereau on one wheel, the other wheel puncturing on landing. The pilot managed to keep the aircraft on an even keel until speed was reduced. The "V" swung to starboard and slewed round blocking the runway. The Flare Path personnel quickly changed the runway which was soon in action, but not for long. "C" F/O Dodds, on landing overshot and in consequence "E" F/O McCarthy had to be sent to Elsham Wolds to land. |
| Station Summary |
OPERATIONS
The early morning operation was once again on the German garrison at LE HAVRE. Fifteen aircraft took off about 0700 hours and apart from 1 aircraft which lost height and bombed on clear visual identification, all brought their bombs back on the instructions of the Master Bomber, who called off the attack due to cloud.
ORGANISATION
Flying Control had proved the asset of having three runways today. On return from OPERATIONS one aircraft burst a tyre on landing necessitating the diversion of other aircraft to No. 2 runway. A second aircraft overshot on this runway and became bogged, so the third runway had to be brought into use to land the remainder of the aircraft.
GENERAL
Crash Crew called out to Mustang from GOXHILL which crashed at WOOTEN but were not called upon to operate on arrival. |
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 |
43 |
MAX Aircraft deployed
in single operation |
1
(Crisbecq, 05 Jun 1944) |
These details were last updated: 21 November 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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