A conversation with Guy Sharp

A conversation with Guy Sharp

Guy starts with some comments on training at RAF Cranfield and RAF Lossiemouth, August 1940, before joining 9 Squadron at RAF Honington in November 1940 as a Wellington co-pilot. He recalls making a mistake on first operation to Mannheim. He was then selected to go, initially to Greece, but as the campaign was over, then went to Egypt and joined 70 Squadron in April 41. He mentions that one of six aircraft was lost in transit to Egypt, and comments on flying the Wellington and about other losses. He recalls that carried out 54 operations without a break, 20 on 9 Squadron and the rest on 70 Squadron. He talks about the trip back to England, Initially on target towing Blenheim, and then as Wellington instructor on OTU an RAF North Luffenham. He recalls meeting Arthur C Clark at RAF Honiley. He tells of a ground collision with another Wellington and losing the front turret. Talks about different marks of Wellington, including Mk V and Mark VI, although he did not fly them. Guy spends some time chatting with interviewer about contents of log book and photographs. He also mentions sorties with simulated mustard gas. He mentions an operation to Derma and strafing convoys. Guy stated that staff crews, not students, were used when OTU's were tasked on 1000 n=bomber operations. Guy says he was surprised that he got into RAF due to prior medical issues. He then relates some anecdotes about post war career in civil aviation. Includes contemporary colour photograph.

00:58:18 audio recording

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SBondS-SharpGv10010, SBondS-SharpGv10011