Story of my war

Story of my war

Describes a two year delay in joining the Royal Air Force due to his reserved occupation making cables for barrage balloons. Covers recruitment and life during initial training, Recalls 'crewing up' with Harry Watkins (P), Doug 'Duggie' Hockin (N), Fred Jowitt (E), Johnny Wave (W/O), Ted Ray (B/A) and Carson J 'Jack' Foy (RG) and selection to fly in Stirlings with OTU and transferring to Lancasters with 61 Squadron. Some of the operations are described in detail including one to a V1 installation during which Carson J 'Jack' Foy was killed. After completing 33 operations, on two tours, the crew were given the option of joining 607 Squadron, Pathfinders or 9 Squadron. Four of the crew, including Ken, went on to join 9 Squadron and his 44th and final operation was on Eagle's Nest with a tallboy bomb. Post hostilities Ken transferred to North-West Strike Force and took part in Operation Exodus. After promotion to warrant officer and getting married Ken was posted to Egypt where he took command of a motor transport division involved in the repatriation of British Forces. After witnessing riots and blockades in Cairo Ken was demobbed and returned to Liverpool by troopship. After five years of service he describes how long it took him to adjust to civilian life.

Additional information on Carson Jack Foy is available via IBCC Losses Database.

12 printed sheets

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