2
25
80
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/2067/34273/PStimpsonMC19050001.2.jpg
fc806af8b7389d6ef69f263cf7c50266
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/2067/34273/PStimpsonMC19050002.2.jpg
cfa7906f787a476bdc898c29a2b51443
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Stimpson, Maurice Cecil
Description
An account of the resource
124 items. The collection concerns Flight Lieutenant Maurice Cecil Stimpson DFC (1921 - 1944, 155249 Royal Air Force) and contains his log books, photographs, documents, and pennants. He flew operations as a pilot with 156 Squadron and was killed 15 February 1944. <br /><br />The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Tony France and catalogued by Barry Hunter. <br /><br />Additional information on Maurice Cecil Stimpson is available via the <a href="https://losses.internationalbcc.co.uk/loss/226992/">IBCC Loses Database.</a>
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2019-09-22
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Stimpson,
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Maurice Stimpson's Crew
Description
An account of the resource
Five airmen sitting on the rear of a Lancaster. On the reverse:-
' Left to Right
Harold -Navigator
Johny - Bomb-aimer
Joe - Engineer
Bill - Mid-upper gunner
Roy - Rear Gunner
Oct 1943'.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Photograph
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One b/w photograph
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
PStimpsonMC19050001,
PStimpsonMC19050002
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
air gunner
aircrew
bomb aimer
flight engineer
Lancaster
navigator
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1872/33392/EJonesJTJonesDE-EXX1225-010001.1.jpg
cad0a19da1395d35ae53c1fb9dbfb582
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1872/33392/EJonesJTJonesDE-EXX1225-010002.1.jpg
1b2136a4aa89f3e75df1a5cdba18126a
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1872/33392/EJonesJTJonesDE-EXX1225-010003.1.jpg
9433e03bc6b9b927a2dc39efb6f4832a
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Jones, J T
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2017-06-15
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Jones, JT
Description
An account of the resource
63 items. The collection concerns Flight Sergeant John Thomas Jones (1800039, Royal Air Force) and contains photographs, correspondence and documents. <br /><br />He flew operations as a bomb aimer with 626 Squadron and was killed on the night of 18/19 February 1945.<br /><br /> It contains a <span>collection of <a href="https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collections/show/2051">38 photographs</a> of his service in the police and the RAF.</span><br /><br />The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Carol Jones and catalogued by Barry Hunter.<br /><br />Additional information on John Thomas Jones is available via the <a href=" https://losses.internationalbcc.co.uk/loss/112466/ ">IBCC Losses Database.</a>
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Christmas Card from JT Jones
Description
An account of the resource
A Christmas card sent by Jack to Misses DE & ME Jones. The card is annotated 'To Mum & Pop' and signed 'Jack'.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10-21
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One double sided printed card and handwritten envelope
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Correspondence
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
EJonesJTJonesDE-EXX1225-010001,
EJonesJTJonesDE-EXX1225-010002,
EJonesJTJonesDE-EXX1225-010003
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Civilian
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Canada
Ontario--Picton
Great Britain
Ontario
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1826/33151/PScottEW1712.1.jpg
373d803194f5bcc8f1f5660a74112296
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Scott, Eric William
E W Scott
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2017-04-06
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Scott, EW
Description
An account of the resource
139 items. The collection concerns Flying Officer Eric Scott (1425952, 188329 Royal Air Force) and contains his log books, a memoir, correspondence, documents, newspaper cuttings, a flying course handbook and photographs. He flew operations in North Africa as a bomb aimer with 142 Squadron and then after an instructional tour in Palestine started a second tour on 37 Squadron in Italy where he was shot down and finished the war as a prisoner. <br /><br />The collection includes three albums.<br /><a href="https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collections/show/2040"><span>Album 1</span></a> <span>Photographs of Jerusalem, Bethlehem. Tel Aviv, Haifa and friends.</span><br /><a href="https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collections/show/2041">Album 2</a> <span>Photographs taken during training in the United States and England and during his service in North Africa and Italy.<br /><a href="https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collections/show/2046">Album 3</a> Correspondence, newspaper cuttings, documents and the last issue of the Prisoner of war Journal.<br /></span><br /><br />The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Jacqui Holman and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
People, aircraft, and places
Description
An account of the resource
Top left - a large group of airmen wearing khaki uniform sitting and standing in four rows in front of a Wellington. At front middle a sign '37 Sqdn, B Flight'.
Top right - two airmen wearing khaki shirt and shorts sitting on a wall. The man on the right has sergeant rank and half brevet. In the background multi-story buildings. Captioned 'J Taylor & Me, Tunis Oct 43'.
Bottom left - view through archway, man carrying load on left. Two men in centre walking towards camera. In the background buildings and trees,
Bottom middle - Man wearing shorts and vest sitting on a balcony wall with mountain in the background. Captioned 'J Norval, Basra [sic]'.
Bottom right - three men wearing khaki uniform and shorts sitting outside a tent. Captioned '37 Sqn, Foggia, Italy, Aug 1944'.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10
1944-08
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
Five b/w photographs mounted on an album page
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Tunisia
Tunisia--Tunis
Iraq
Iraq--Baṣrah
Italy
Italy--Foggia
North Africa
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
1944-08
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
PScottEW1712
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Photograph
37 Squadron
aircrew
Wellington
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/890/31594/OHumesEL642170-170826-010001.1.jpg
f6bd2c5b5792d3a39bcb22436f567971
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/890/31594/OHumesEL642170-170826-010002.1.jpg
40cd156b7e2a58d71148e3b6259ee7e4
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/890/31594/OHumesEL642170-170826-010003.1.jpg
e5f8118d35bee93a11f868a44b8304eb
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Humes, Eddie
Edward L Humes
E L Humes
Description
An account of the resource
Three items. An oral history interview with Warrant Officer Eddie Humes (b. 1922, 642170 Royal Air Force), RAF personnel document and a memoir. After serving in Balloon Command, he flew operations as a navigator with 514 Squadron
The collection has been loaned to the IBCC Digital Archive for digitisation by Eddie Humes and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2017-08-26
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Humes, EL
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Eddie Humes RAF personnel document
Description
An account of the resource
Contains personal details and postings including to 514 Squadron in October 1943 as well as reported missing in April 1944 and then a prisoner of war.
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
Three page printed document handwritten filled out
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Service material
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
OHumesEL642170-170826-01
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
1944-04
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
514 Squadron
missing in action
prisoner of war
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/592/31567/SJoynerJH1812689v1.1.pdf
7433d476357205e2d0cc404394ff7f21
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Joyner, John
John Howard Joyner
J H Joyner
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Joyner, JH
Description
An account of the resource
Three items. An oral history interview with John Joyner (1924 - 2016, Royal Air Force), his memoir and scrap book. He flew operations as an air gunner with 189 and 101 Squadrons.
The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by John Joyner and catalogued by Trevor Hardcastle.
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
[Flying Log Book]
JOYNER J
[Page break]
[Inserted] No 16 OTU [/inserted]
[Sergeants’ Mess Subscription Card R.A.F Upper Heyford] J. H. J[word missing]
[Inserted] 101 SQUADRON [/inserted]
[Sergeants’ Mess Subscription Card R.A.F. Ludford Magna] Sgt JOYNER No 619
[Inserted] 189 SQUADRON [/inserted]
[Sergeants’ Mess Subscription Card R.A.F. Bardney] Sgt. Joyner
[Inserted] 16 O.T.U. [/inserted]
[Sergeant’s Mess Subscription Card R.A.F. Barford St. John] 920 Sgt Joyner
[Page break]
[Drawings of aircraft]
John. H. Joyner
[Photograph]
– His Book
[Page break]
[Photograph]
Little did the Air Force know of the disaster about to befall them with the approach of the winter months, – Annual A.T.C. Summer Camp. Halton 1943.
[Photograph]
Air Crew Receiving Centre – October, 1943 (Juggernaut bottom right).
[Page break]
[Postcard] [Inserted] No 2 Squadron Grand Hotel No 1 Squadron Rusacks Marine. [/inserted]
St Andrews – P.N.B. Initial Training Wing
November 1943 – February 1944.
[Page break]
[Inserted] T.IW. St Andrews. [/inserted]
The Officer Commanding and Officers wish you all a Happy Christmas
[Inserted] Christmas 1943 [/inserted] [R.A.F. Crest] [Inserted] [Signatures] [/inserted]
ROYAL AIR FORCE
NO. 12 INITIAL TRAINING WING
Menu
Soup.
Cream of Celery.
[Underlined] Joints. [/underlined]
Roast Stuffed Turkey. Roast Pork.
Apple Sauce.
[Underlined] Vegetables. [/underlined]
Roast Potatoes. Creamed Potatoes.
Brussels Sprouts.
[Underlined] Sweets. [/underlined]
Christmas Pudding. Sauce. Mince Pies.
Cheese. Biscuits. Potato Crisps.
Apples. Dates.
Beer. Minerals.
Christmas,
1943.
[Page break]
[R.A.F. wings]
11 Embarkation Unit
Belfast
Northern Ireland
Christmas Fare
1946
[Page break]
[Underlined] MESSAGE FROM “THE OLD MAN” [/underlined]
We in 11 E.U. have travelled a long road – a hard road, since 1940 and I would say this to you who are with us now, when the job is nearly complete.
You have followed the traditions of the old R.F.C. and the young but sturdy, R.A.F.
11 E.U. has done a grand job of work. Keep it up until the last bit of Freight has been successfully handled, till the last vehicle has been slung on the ship and till the last “Body” has been allocated his space.
A right Merry Christmas to you all and Happiness and Peace in the future wherever you may be.
Thank you and good luck to you all.
R. S. Swanton.
Wing Commander.
[Page break]
Menu
08.00 hrs.
Breakfast (WHY?)
No. 9’s or SHREDDED WHEAT
BACON AND EGG
(Burned, Fried or Destroyed)
TOAST, MARMALADE AND BUTTER
(Try and get it)
TEA OR COFFEE
(With sugar and milk)
1300 hrs.
Dinner (A NECCESSITY) [sic]
CREAM OF CHICKEN
(Oil-skins to be worn)
DISEMBARKATION TURKEY – BREAD SAUCE
(Gave itself up)
BURNT PORK AND BRUISED HAM
(Kerr’s speciality)
ROAST POTATOES
(Basted Smiling Murphys)
SPROUTS AND PEAS
(Kempson’s Revenge)
CHRISTMAS PUDDING – G.D. SAUCE
MINCE PIES AND CUSTARD
(Smith’s Reply – Works and Bricks)
APPLES, BEER AND CIGARETTES
(Nuts)
[Underlined] No Gratuities for Waiters! [/underlined]
[Page break]
Evening
RUNNING BUFFET
(One Waiter – One Sandwich)
COLD HAM – TONGUE
ROAST BEEF
BREAD – BUTTER – JAM
TEA
[underlined] Any Complaints? [/underlined]
[Page break]
[R.A.F. Wings]
11 Embarkation Unit
Belfast
Northern Ireland
Christmas Fare
1946
[Page break]
[Photograph]
“Mac” and his grandfather.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Before leaving the “Tarmac” or parking area a complete and methodical cockpit check is to be carried out in the order laid down. [/underlined]
1. Controls working fully and freely in right direction (Rudder Tested whilst taxying).
2. Sufficient petrol for flight in tank.
3. All four switches on.
4. Petrol on.
5. Tail trim back for running up and taxying.
6. Mixture control back.
7. Throttle friction nut slack (for taxying).
8. Altimeter zero.
9. Compass set to wind direction.
10. Rev counter working.
11. Oil pressure satisfactory.
12. Slots unlocked.
13. Cockpit doors locked and harness secure.
14. Goggles down.
15. Run up the engine, testing the magnetos.
[Drawing vertical in margin]
[Underlined] Vital actions before take off (Tiger Moth) [/underlined]
T - (Throttle friction nut tight.
(Tail-trimming gear set for take off.
M – Mixture control back.
F – Fuel-cock on and sufficient fuel for flight.
F – Free slots.
Flying Grading School – Theale, Reading April 1944.
[Page break]
[Photograph]
[Page break]
[Photograph]Harry, Kim, Dicky & myself – [indecipherable], Heaton Park
[Page break]
No 7 Air Gunnery School
Pyle – Glamorganshire.
[Cartoon]
And it all depended on Winde!
[Photograph]
Marie of Pyle.
[Photograph]
[Page break]
W. G. Jones [Photograph]
[Photograph] MG Stockwell.
DJ. Brown. [Photograph]
[Photograph] S. Holtham.
R Erskine [Photograph]
[Photograph] Gordon J Page
[Page break]
[Photograph] George. F. Chatterton
[Signature] [Photograph]
[Photograph] J. B. Walker.
[Photograph] [Signature]
[Page break]
[Stormy Down Station Stamp]
23 JUN 1944
[Initials]
R.A.F. Form 295.
[missing letter]EAVE FORM.
[missing letter]ASS.
[missing letters]is pass is/is not valid for [missing letters]rthern Ireland and/or Eire.
[missing letters]tion. RAF Stormy Down
[missing letters]ficial No. 1812689 (Rank) AC/2
[missing letters]e JOYNER J. H.
[missing letters]m 1250 No 1990430
[missing word] permission to be absent from [missing word] quarters from A.D hrs. on 23/6/44 23.59 hrs. on 24/6/1944.
[Missing word] the purpose of proceeding on 1944 pass/leave to Garnant.
[Missing numbers]4 “Brynamlwg” Garnant Rd.
Garnant Carms.
Date 22/6/44.
[Signature] F/O.
for Commanding Officer.
[Page break]
[Photograph]
With Bill, Don, Ritch and Frank celebrating our reunion after three days separation. Sprog Air Gunners!
Trafalgar Square –
22nd August 1944.
[Page break]
[Section of Theatre Leaflet]
WHITEHALL
Licensed by the
London County Council to
LOUIS COOPER
6D DIXTRA ENTE[missing letters]
England’s Popular Pin-Up Girl
PHY[missing words]
“PEE[missingwords]
[Inserted] Phyllis Dixey. [/inserted]
CONTINUOUS from [missing words]
Reserved Seats Bookable
[Page break]
[Signed photograph]
[inserted] To Johnny Good Luck Phyllis ! [/inserted]
On leave – 22nd August 1944
[Page break]
[Telegram]
+ BNP/T 1812689 14 12 HUND 5/ +
16 9.20 BNP/T OHMS 40 [Stamp]
1812689 SGT JOYNER J 14 THE CRESCENT
ILFORD ESSEX = [Inserted] 5.30 [underlined] Paddington [/underlined] [/inserted]
REPORT TO RAF STATION UPPER-HEYFORD BY 1200 HOURS 5/ SEPTEMBER NEAREST RAILWAY STATION HEYFORD PRODUCE TELEGRAM AT NEAREST [word obscured] OR POLICE STATION FOR ALTERATION OF RAILWAY WARRANT AND ROUTING ACKNOWLEDGE = AEROS PYLE
[Page break]
[Photograph]
The village of Bloxham
Burford St. John
December 1944
[Photograph] [inserted] Happy Landings Johnny
Ken [/inserted]
Sergeant Ken Ketley –
Operational Training Unit.
Upper Heyford
September 1944
[Page break]
[RAF Form 295]
[Orderly Room Date Stamp] 21 OCT 1944
Station RAF BARFORD ST. JOHN
Official No 1812689 (Rank) SGT. (Name) JOYNER J.H.
Form 1250 No 257212
has permission to be absent from his quarters from A.D. hrs. on [deleted] 23.59 [/deleted] 2 DECEMBER 1944 to 23.59 hrs. on 23rd Oct 1944
for the purpose of proceeding on [deleted] leave [/deleted] pass to 14 THE CRESCENT ILFORD. ESSEX. (leave address)
(Date) 21/10/44 I. G. McPhail F/LT. for Commanding Officer.
[Page break]
[Theatre advert]
Comedy THEATRE Licensees Comedy Theatre Ltd.
Lessee ARCHIBALD NETTLEFOLD
Managing Director CHARLES KILLICK
JACK DE LYON
in association with
MARCEL HELLMAN PRODUCTIONS
presents
Sonia Dresdel
In
This was a Woman
6D
[Inserted] Tuesday Boxing Day
26th December 1944 With Mum and Dad. [/inserted]
A NEW PLAY BY
JOAN MORGAN
[Page break]
[RAF Crest]
SERGEANTS’ MESS R.A.F. STATION, WINTHORPE
The Warrant Officers and Senior N.C.O.’s of the Sergeants’ Mess
REQUEST THE PLEASURE OF THE COMPANY OF
McQualky’s Kids’
TO A
Victory Dance
at the Sergeants’ Mess, Winthorpe
FRIDAY, JUNE 22nd, 1945, at 20.00 hrs.
R.S.V.P. C.M.C.
[Photograph] YOUR PLACE in the AIR CREW TEAM
[Page break]
[Theatre advert]
PRINCE OF WALES
THEATRE Coventry Street, W.1.
[Drawing]
SID FIELD
by Dame Laura Knight RA
in George Black’s
STRIKE IT AGAIN!
[Inserted vertically in margin] Friday 22nd December 1944. After visiting the [indecipherable word] And Johnny Collins
[Page break]
[Variety Show Programme]
GEORGE BLACK invites you to
“STRIKE IT AGAIN”
Designed and produced by ALEC SHANKS
With WENDY TOYE Dances
Musical Advisor: DEBROY SOMERS
1 MEET THE SWING STREET KIDS (“That’ll be the DAY” by Hubert Gregg)
The Good News is told by ROBERTA HUBY, STELLA MOYA, JOYCE WHITE, PAULINE BLACK, CORAL WOODS and LIND JOYCE
“The Adam in Me” (by Hubert Gregg)
Sung by BONAR COLLEANO Jnr.
2 A COME-BACK (by Bud Flanagan) – SID FIELD
Introduced by – JERRY DESMONDE
3 THE CONVICTS RETURN (by Frank Eyton)
The Heroine – ROBERTA HUBY
4 LOOK ON THIS PICTURE (Harold Purcell)
(a) Royal Diversion
The Singer – ROBERTA HUBY
(b) Affairs of State
Premiere Danseuse – WENDY TOYE
An Admirer – TEDDY KING
5 FRENCH WITHOUT A BLUSH (by Barbara Gordon and Basil Thomas)
The Parisian – BILLY DAINTY
The Vendeuses – STELLA MOYA & LIND JOYCE
A Tommy – SID FIELD
A G,I. – JERRY DESMONDE
6 THE FRENCH PANTOMIMIST (by Pam Smalley and P. Frustaci)
SHERKOT
7 FANTASY – “Fascinating You”
The Young Man – BERNARD HUNTER
The Dancer – JOYCE WHITE
8 BRUSHWORK (by John Jowett)
The Artists – SID FIELD & JERRY DESMONDE
A Student – PAULINE BLACK
A Rustic – SYD RAILTON
They’re Only Human (by Leslie Gibbs and Michael Carr)
(Note.- The Shirts used in this scene are washable)
[Page break]
[Variety Show Programme Cont.]
9 SOMETHING OLD – SOMETHING NEW
Around Chestnut Street – “Between 18th and 19th Chestnut Street”
The Boys and Girls: CORAL WOODS, BILL GORDON, CHARLES YATES and PAULINE BLACK
At the Café – “Canteen Bounce”
The Proprietor – BILLY DAINTY
The Pianist – JOHN SHACKELL
Bessie Rhonestone Gown – STELLA MOYA
The Waiters – ALAN WREN, BILLY MAGUIRE
The Checkroom Girl – JACQUELYN DUNBAR
The Guests: HAZEL HOLLAND, BERYL FRASER, JEAN CHAPPELLE, DAVID CAREY, TEDDY KING
Piccadilly – “I Left my Heart in Piccadilly (by Herbert Gregg) – BERNARD HUNTER and ROBERTA HUBY
The M.P.’s: KEN ASTELL, DREW PRINGLE, ARTHUR LOADER and ALAN EDWARDS
Further North – “Jingle Bells”
The Boy – BONO COLLEANO Junr.
The Girl – LIND JOYCE
South Again – “Come and Live on the Farm” (by Hedley Grey)
Sung by CORAL WOODS
The Train Arrives – “Headin’ South” (by Tommy Connor and Dennis Moonan)
The Traveller – LIND JOYCE
Dancing in the Barn – ALL THE FOLKS
Special Guests – THE WALLABIES
INTERMISSION
Orchestra under the Direction of
JIMMY CAMPBELL
10 SWING FEVER – THE GIRLS
11 SLIGHT CONFUSION
Boy and Girl – MARGERITE & CHARLES
12 PORTRAIT STUDY (by Martin Lane)
The Receptionist – HAZEL HOLLAND
The Sitter – JERRY DESMONDE
The Photographer – SID FIELD
13 FORCES FAVOURITE (Lyrics by Harold Purcell, Music by Phil Park)
Pin Up Girl, 1939 – CORAL WOODS
Pin Up Girl, 1914 – STELLA MOYA
Pin Up Girl, 1900 – LIND JOYCE
Jane, 1944 – ROBERTA HUBY
The Service Men: BERNARD HUNTER, BILLY DAINTY, WILLIAM GORDON and BONAR COLLEANO, Junr.
14 WE LIKE TO DANCE (Music by Phil Greene)
WENDY TOYE with IRVING DAVIES, DONALD REED and JOHN SHACKELL
PROGRAMME CONTINUED OVERLEAF
[Page break]
[Theatre advert]
STOLL THEATRE
KINGSWAY
Licensed by the Lord Chamberlain to Prince Littler
[Inserted] With Mac and [indecipherable]
Monday 23rd. October 1944. [/inserted]
THE LISBON STORY
[Inserted] This the result of a pleasant 48 hr. when we were just back to 92 Course. [/inserted]
EVENINGS AT 6.15
MATINEES: Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday at 2.30
[Page break]
[Underlined] Addendum March 2001 [/underlined]
This is a report composed and written by Stan [indecipherable], our Navigator, for F/O Harrison our pilot following the transfer of McQuitty our first pilot, to Transport Command.
It relates to Bill Jones, our rear gunner, who was later found to have sustained a burn from a short circuit in his heated suit (in addition to his problems with his chute).
[Page break]
To./
O.C. Flying – RAF Stn. Winthorpe.
From/
F/Lt. Harrison 21 Course.
Sir,
I, [inserted] F/Lt Harrison [/inserted] have the honour to report that while engaged on [deleted] night [/deleted] flying on the night of 26th inst. I allowed my gunner to leave the [inserted] rear [/inserted] turret due to [deleted] the [/deleted] intense cold [inserted] to his face [/inserted] & to the fact that ice was forming on his oxygen mask. [Deleted] While doing this his parachute was accidentally opened [/deleted]
[Page break]
[deleted] and his oxygen tube became damaged and removed from mask [/deleted]
After leaving the turret the gunner reached the oxy. pt at the door and plugged in.[symbol] From [deleted] that [/deleted] the time [inserted] R/G left the door position to [/inserted] reaching the Wop pos; he has vague recollect of what happened, [deleted] where [/deleted] [inserted] then [/inserted] he collapsed. [Deleted] I [/deleted] The W/op shared his oxygen supply, at the same time noticing that gunners tube was missing. I immediately decided to descend to [inserted] below [/inserted] oxygen level.[symbol] As I could not get any reply from the RG on the inter-com, I ordered the MUG to leave his turret to ascertain his whereabouts & condition. The MUG found RUG making his way forward obviously in a condition of oxygen lack and oblivious to the fact
[Page break]
[Post Office Telegram]
[Nottingham date stamp] 3 JU 45
1.29 9.50 PM EAST LDN T 21
1812689 SGT JOYNER C/O SGTS MES RAF STN WINTHORPE NR NEWARK-NOTTS
CONGRATS ON YOUR 21 ST WITH LOVE = MOTHER DAD AND JEAN +
1812689 21 ST +
[Page break]
[Photograph]
[inserted] B Flight Gunners 101 Squadron JULY 1945 [/inserted]
‘B’ Flight Air Gunners No 101 Squadron – Ludford Magna July 1945
[Page break]
[Underlined] Addendum March 2001 [/underlined]
Joyner Midupper sixth from right back row
Bill Jones Rear Gunner eighth from right back row
{opposite telegram dated 4/6/45)
[Page break]
[Newspaper clip]
[Hand of cards]
[indecipherable newspaper cutting]
[Photograph]
[Underlined] Above [/underlined] The Greatest Shootist of them all [underlined] John Cameron. Right - [/underlined] The famous passport to Poverty.
Ludford Magna August 1945
[Page break]
[Photograph]
[Page break]
[newspaper cutting]
Coming back in bombers
“Daily Mirror” Reporter
LONG before you awoke this morning Lancaster and Halifax bombers were winging their way over the British coast and across France on the same routes they’d taken months ago to bomb the Reich.
But in their bomb-bays were no bombs, the twin Brownings had gone from the gun-turrets, and inside the fuselage were rows of cushions.
For the bombers were off to Italy to bring home Army men, some on leave, and others for de-mobbing.
Bomber Command of the RAF has agreed to bring home nearly 20,000 men a month. Transport Command too, will fly a big number back.
After six or seven hours in the air all bombers will circle airfields near Naples and Bari before landing to pick up twenty men each for the homeward trip.
All the flying is done by day and at low altitude, so that the men, unused to air travel, will be as little fatigued as possible.
Air crews rest in Italy for a day and a half before making the long trip home.
Only fully trained crews, many with one or two tours of thirty operations to their credit, are picked for the job.
[Leaflet]
[Photograph] [inserted] Pompei 25th August 1945
Myself, Jock MacGregor and Cam – in front of the Catholic Cathedral in Pompei August 1945
[Page break]
[Postcard] Pompei – Santuaria – Interna
[Photograph] “Dear Old Pals” – Pete and Jock
[Banknote]
[page break]
“McQualky’s Kids”
[Photograph]
David McQuitty
[Pilot’s wings]
[Page break]
[Photograph]
Peter Gillespie [Engineer’s brevet]
[Page break]
[Photograph]
John Bennett Orr [Bomb aimer’s brevet]
[Page break]
[Photograph]
Stanley Annetts. [Navigator’s brevet]
[Page break]
[Photograph]
John Cameron. [Signaller’s brevet]
[Page break]
[Photograph]
William. G. Jones. [Air Gunner’s brevet]
[Page break]
[Postcard] Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem Inn, Nottingham.
[Underlined] 10th August. [/underlined]
And it came to pass that on this date + at this tavern in Nottingham Town, each and every year, those who are known as McQualky’s Kids were wont to meet. And many were the lines that were shot, the songs sung, And the drams drunk, for they had diced together, and were as brothers.
[Page break]
[Theatre advert]
THEATRE ROYAL
LINCOLN
WEEK COMMENCING MONDAY, OCT. 15th, 1945
6.0 p.m. – TWICE NIGHTLY – 8.0 p.m.
[Photographs]
ZISKA
FRED BRAND
Billy MAXAM
Jane
“JANE” of the DAILY MIRROR
the VICKERS TWINS and LESLIE JOHNS
ANGLO-AMERICAN PRODUCTIONS Ltd
Know you will be pleased that “JANE’S BACK!”
PAUL ROACH and SYLVIA ROYAN
The Marie-de-Vere Trio
Waddington – Lincoln December 1945
Good times with “Rip”
[Page break]
[Photograph] 1692006 RIPPON F/SGT
“Rip”
[Bottle label] “The Caf” LINCOLN January 1946.
[Photograph]
No 9 and 617 Squadron’s Farewell Party, Waddington December 1945
[Page break]
[Photograph]
[Photograph]
[Page break]
[9 Squadron Date Stamp]DEC 1945 By arrangement with the Traffic Superintendant, [sic] the undermentioned is permitted to travel by train on Special Christmas Leave, prior to proceeding overseas.
1812689 F/S JOYNER, J. H. (A/G).
[photograph]
[Inserted] Friday 7th December
Tower Hill
London [/inserted]
[Page break]
[Telegram] [Confirmation Stamp] [Lincoln Date Stamp]3 JAN 46
[inserted] 11-11 U SO [/inserted]
65 10.40 EAST LONDON T 20
FLT/SGT JOYNER 1812689 RAF SGTS MESS RAF STATION WADDINGTON NR-LINCOLN =
GOOD LUCK GOD BLESS YOU JEAN OKAY =
MOTHER AND DAD + [deleted] 1812689 [/deleted] + + +
[Page break]
[Postcard] DESTINATION SOUTH EAST ASIA
[Rupee Note]
[Inserted] 8 Mugs of “Char”
2 Cinema Seats
2 Lime and Lemons
8 Oranges.
11 Bananas
4 [deleted] Boxes [/deleted] packets of Gum
etc, etc. [/inserted]
[Photograph]
[Page break]
No. 17 STAGING POST
ROYAL AIR FORCE
CASTEL BENITO
North Africa
11th January 1946.
[Deleted] Snacks [/deleted]
Soup
Spaghetti Gratim
Roast Lamb
Peas
Fried Onions
Cream Potatoe’s [sic]
Trifle
Coffee or Tea
[2 Lire Note]
[Page break]
[Photograph]
[inserted] Cairo 1946 12th January [/inserted]
Cairo West “In quest of Brown Knees”
12th January 1946.
[Bank note]
[Page break]
[Beer label]
[inserted] SHAIBAH PERSIA 13th January 1946 [/inserted]
Shaibah IRAQ – 13th January 1946.
[Photograph]
Approaching Digh Road
Karachi
14th January 1946.
[Photograph]
Karachi –
15th January 1946
In front of the Catholic Church
[Page break]
Note –
Underneath the “White Label ale”
more correctly than SHAIBAH
SHU’AIBA
[Page break]
[Underlined] opposite “White Label” [/underlined]
The five NCOs of the new crew
[Underlined] Back row [/underlined] ‘Nobby’ Clark W/op?
Bill [deleted] spalding [/deleted] “Jock” Spalding (Bomb aimer) Self
(Mid upper) (Rear Gunner)
Addendum
[underlined] March 2001 [/underlined]
[Page break]
[Photograph] Jock Spalding with some of the local “colour” pose before the Catholic Church in Karachi.
15th January 1946
[Photograph]
Salbani Airfield
[Page break]
[Photograph] Runner up in the Salbani Annual Chariot Race.
Salbani Family Group. [Photograph]
[Photograph] A Hindu Girl –
Praying in the Pani
[Page break]
Note
31st March 2003
Bottom right –
The girl is in the PANI but is not praying.
She is making the NAMASKAR
A sort of salutation or greeting.
[Page break]
[Cartoon] HAMBOLO RECORDINGS
Well, I must jaldi now, Bessie – nearly Khanna time. hope [inserted] you, the [/inserted] chickos and the sub cheese are all teak hai. Hope to see you all tora peachy . . . “
One of the “Boys out East”!
[Page break]
[Photograph]
With Nobby at the Bazaar –
[Underlined] Khargpur [/underlined]
24th March 1946.
[Travel ticket]
[Page break]
[Photograph] “Down by the River” Salbani Village
[Photograph] Another River Scene.
[Photograph]
Nobby plus background “T” Tail on the Salbani Dispersal
[Page break]
[Photograph]
Left to Right [indecipherable] Jimmy Taylor Nobby [indecipherable words], Bill
Standing in the doorway, with myself outside right “All for One and One for all”
[Photograph]
Salbani Airfield just after take-off
[Page break]
[Photograph]
[Page break]
Redundant –
Embarkation assistant
Belfast.
4-48
[Page break]
[Photograph]
[Page break]
Jock Spalding
Mid upper
[Page break]
[Photograph]
[Page break]
48
[Page break]
SALBANI BED MINUS NOBBY 27/3/46
Or CHARP minus CLARK
[sketch]
[Page break]
[3 Photographs]
[Page break]
[Photograph]
1999 Postscript
We are sitting on 500lb bombs at NAGPUR central India, to where we flew from SALBANI. Bengal. We were supposed to be dealing with [inserted] the [/inserted] mutiny of the Indian Navy. From Karachi we flew back without incident.
[Page break]
[Inserted] Mauripur Karachi. February 1946. [/inserted]
[ENSA Crest]
ENSA
Entertainment for H. M. Forces
By Arrangement with Canteen Services (India)
presents
“LABURNAM GROVE”
A COMEDY IN THREE ACTS
by
J.B. PRIESTLEY.
[Top of Newspaper]
REG. NO. S. 16. Editor: K. PUNNIAH
The Sind Observer
Evening Bulletin
NO. 12. VOL. 7. PRICE: HALF ANNA.
KARACHI, MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 1946.
[Page break]
AYAZ & Co.,
Manufacturers Cashmir Shawls, Embroidery & Wood Carving
Dealers in:-
Persian & Bukhara Carpets, furs and Namdas
Head Office
ERAHAH STREET
LUDHJANA (Punjab)
Branch
“KHAN MANZIL”
NAGIN ROAD
SRINAGAR (KASHMIR)
No. Date 2/4/46.
Received the sum of Rs. 20/- on a/c of the one Indian Carpet size 6 x 3
For Ayaz & Co.,
Manager,
M. jan.
Receipt for a 65 Rupee Carpet.
[Page break]
[3 x Photograph]
[Page break]
[Map] COMING HOME
[Page break]
[2 x photographs]
[Page break]
[Photograph]
Top F/O Kirkwood Pilot.
Bottom – Someone said this was the Dead Sea.
[Photograph]
[Page break]
[3 x Photograph]
[Page break]
[3 x Photograph]
[Page break]
[2 x Photographs]
[Page break]
[Photograph]
[Page break]
Units at which served
STORMY DOWN 18/8/44
[Page break]
[Sergeants’ Mess ROYAL AIR FORCE WADDINGTON. Lincs.]
[Sergeants’ Mess R.A.F. Coningsby. Mess Subscription Card]
Name
JOYNER
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
John Joyner's scrap book
Description
An account of the resource
A log book used as a scrap book. The photographs and documents cover his aircrew training from November 1943. It has sergeant's mess subscription cards, photographs, correspondence and cuttings.
Many of the entries are post war and a number refer to theatrical performances. It includes a promotional picture of Phyllis Dixie.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
John Joyner
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10
1946-12
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
Printed book with photographs and documents with handwritten annotations
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Physical object
Text
Photograph
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
SJoynerJH1812689v1
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
England--Lincolnshire
England--Nottinghamshire
England--Oxfordshire
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
1946-12
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
David Bloomfield
Anne-Marie Watson
101 Squadron
617 Squadron
9 Squadron
air gunner
aircrew
Anson
bomb aimer
entertainment
flight engineer
Lancaster
mess
military living conditions
military service conditions
navigator
Operation Dodge (1945)
Operational Training Unit
pilot
RAF Bardney
RAF Coningsby
RAF Ludford Magna
RAF Upper Heyford
RAF Waddington
RAF Winthorpe
Tiger Moth
training
wireless operator
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1773/31219/PFOMetheringhamAF19030007.2.jpg
ed5c87359fb7e7ad69f577655141aefb
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
RAF Metheringham collection
Description
An account of the resource
131 items. The collection is from the Royal Air Force Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre and contains photographs of aircraft, aircrew, other RAF personnel and places. Includes some target and reconnaissance photographs. Many items are concerned with 106 Squadron at RAF Metheringham and RAF Syerston.
The collection has been licensed to the IBCC Digital Archive by the RAF Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2019-01-31
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
FOMetheringhamAF
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is property of the Royal Air Force Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre which has kindly granted the International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive a royalty-free permission to publish it. Please note that it was digitised by a third-party which used technical specifications that may differ from those used by International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive. It has been published here ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Various RAF personnel
Description
An account of the resource
Top - six airmen, all wearing tunics with three squatting in front and three standing behind. The man middle rear wears a peaked cap and has half brevet. In the background part of a building. Submitted with description 'Duplicate of MAVCP:2019/M10/06. Group of six RAF personnel outside Commanding Officer/Adjutant Office, RAF Metheringham - date unknown. At centre of rear row is an aircrew officer - brevet illegible. Four of the others are LAC's, with three displaying good conduct stripes. The LAC on the right of the front row is a corporal. The fourth man's rank or trade cannot be identified. A duplicate photo (MAVC 37-14 Bottom) is annotated as follows. Back row, left to right: LAC Ciercy, F/Lt Martin, Cpl Bird. Front row left, LAC Needle. Other two airmen are not identified.'.
Bottom - two airmen, the one on the left wearing battledress with pilot's brevet, the man on the right wearing tunic with half brevet, both standing in front of a brick building with window left and door on right. Submitted with description 'Duplicate of MAVCP:2019/M08/25. W/Cdr R E Baxter and P/O Horobin (rear gunner) standing outside hut - March/April 1943. Horobin was part of W/Cdr R E Baxter's crew at RAF Swinderby for conversion to Lancaster and Halifax. He was a former page boy at Claridge's and was killed in action as part of S/Ldr Holroyd's crew, October 1943'.
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
Two b/w photographs mounted on an album page
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Photograph
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
PFOMetheringhamAF19030007
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
England--Lincolnshire
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is property of the Royal Air Force Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre which has kindly granted the International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive a royalty-free permission to publish it. Please note that it was digitised by a third-party which used technical specifications that may differ from those used by International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive. It has been published here ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
air gunner
aircrew
Halifax
killed in action
Lancaster
pilot
RAF Metheringham
RAF Swinderby
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1773/31182/PFOMetheringhamAF19010018.2.jpg
51f1565b34a93622f08bf801b7ecb388
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
RAF Metheringham collection
Description
An account of the resource
131 items. The collection is from the Royal Air Force Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre and contains photographs of aircraft, aircrew, other RAF personnel and places. Includes some target and reconnaissance photographs. Many items are concerned with 106 Squadron at RAF Metheringham and RAF Syerston.
The collection has been licensed to the IBCC Digital Archive by the RAF Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2019-01-31
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
FOMetheringhamAF
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is property of the Royal Air Force Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre which has kindly granted the International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive a royalty-free permission to publish it. Please note that it was digitised by a third-party which used technical specifications that may differ from those used by International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive. It has been published here ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
RAF aircrew
Description
An account of the resource
Top - Seven airmen all wearing battledress with peak or side caps, three sitting and four standing in front of a hut with windows. Submitted with description 'W/Cdr R E Baxter and his crew, RAF Skellingthorpe, 1943. Baxter is centre of front row, P/O Horobin to his left'.
Bottom - six aircrew all wearing battledress, four standing behind and two sitting on steps in front. In the background the entrance to a building. Submitted with description 'Group of six 106 Sqn airmen in uniform on steps of building, RAF Syerston, October 1943. Back row, left to right: P/O Hannahan - P/O Holcourne - P/O Mifflin. Front row F/O Horobin - F/O Lee'.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943
1943-10
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
England--Lincolnshire
England--Nottinghamshire
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943
1943-10
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
Two b/w photographs mounted on an album page
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Photograph
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
PFOMetheringhamAF19010018
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is property of the Royal Air Force Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre which has kindly granted the International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive a royalty-free permission to publish it. Please note that it was digitised by a third-party which used technical specifications that may differ from those used by International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive. It has been published here ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
106 Squadron
aircrew
RAF Skellingthorpe
RAF Syerston
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1773/31176/PFOMetheringhamAF19010013.1.jpg
d7b9ec58c145f8d09633e346149c148a
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
RAF Metheringham collection
Description
An account of the resource
131 items. The collection is from the Royal Air Force Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre and contains photographs of aircraft, aircrew, other RAF personnel and places. Includes some target and reconnaissance photographs. Many items are concerned with 106 Squadron at RAF Metheringham and RAF Syerston.
The collection has been licensed to the IBCC Digital Archive by the RAF Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2019-01-31
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
FOMetheringhamAF
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is property of the Royal Air Force Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre which has kindly granted the International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive a royalty-free permission to publish it. Please note that it was digitised by a third-party which used technical specifications that may differ from those used by International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive. It has been published here ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
RAF personnel
Description
An account of the resource
Top right - two RAF officers one wearing battledress and the other a tunic standing in front of the wall of a building. Officer on the left is smoking a pipe and both have hands in pockets. In the background left a window and right a door. Captioned 'L to R W/Cdr Baxter, P/O Horobin, kia with S/L Howroyd Oct 1943, formerly Page Boy at Claridges'. Submitted with description 'W/Cdr R E Baxter and P/O Horobin (rear gunner) - RAF Swinderby March 1943. Horobin was part of W/Cdr R E Baxter's crew at RAF Swinderby for conversion to Lancaster and Halifax. He was a former page boy at Claridge's and was killed in action as part of S/Ldr Holroyd's crew, October 1943.'.
Middle left - six aircrew, three sitting and three standing behind, all wearing battledress. In the background a hut with window. Submitted with description 'Six airmen outside hut - W/Cdr R E Baxter's crew. Standing, left to right: Sgt Taylor, Sgt Coulton, Sgt Thursby. Seated: P/O Moore, Sgt Berry and P/O Horobin. RAF Swinderby 1943.
Bottom left - five aircrew, four standing and one sitting on the ground with two dogs. All are wearing tunic. In the background a building with windows. Captioned 'Left to right, 1. F/O Gray, 2 F/O (Timber) Wood, 3 /Lt Avis (Adj), 4 F/Lt (Dolly] Gray, front F/Lt Stone, outside mess at Skellingthorpe April 1943, 50 Sqdn'. Submitted with description 'Group of 50 Sqn officers outside officers' mess, Skellingthorpe, April 1943. Standing, left to right: F/O Gray, F/O ("Timber") Wood, F/Lt Avis (Adj), F/Lt (Dolly) Grey. Seated F/Lt Stone'.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-03
1943-10
1943-04
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
Three b/w photographs mounted on an album page
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Photograph
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
PFOMetheringhamAF19010013
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
England--Nottinghamshire
England--Lincolnshire
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
1943-03
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is property of the Royal Air Force Metheringham Airfield Visitor Centre which has kindly granted the International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive a royalty-free permission to publish it. Please note that it was digitised by a third-party which used technical specifications that may differ from those used by International Bomber Command Centre Digital Archive. It has been published here ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
50 Squadron
air gunner
aircrew
animal
RAF Skellingthorpe
RAF Swinderby
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1490/27550/MMitchellJEF550261-160125-030001.1.jpg
14df1250d92fd230bea92ad8124b70cf
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1490/27550/MMitchellJEF550261-160125-030002.1.jpg
79c14e11c5aa169331fd6f262837d4a5
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1490/27550/MMitchellJEF550261-160125-030003.1.jpg
c2d88b94b82941079edb67f9696dd770
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1490/27550/MMitchellJEF550261-160125-030004.1.jpg
ba3224402309fb67dc848be56b22a2b0
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1490/27550/MMitchellJEF550261-160125-030005.1.jpg
a4c4142663d1c29bad111a72b77c4a1a
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1490/27550/MMitchellJEF550261-160125-030006.1.jpg
8df3e6d1e657235fd41db22ec96f3971
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1490/27550/MMitchellJEF550261-160125-030007.1.jpg
a2cd6a2eacea7b392b328ebf0e27bfc1
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Mitchell, Mitch
John Ernest Francis Mitchell
J E F Mitchell
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2016-02-27
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Mitchell, JEF
Description
An account of the resource
59 items. Flight Lieutenant John Ernest Francis 'Mitch' Mitchell. Joined the RAF as a boy entrant in 1934 and trained as a wireless operator. Flew on Vickers Virginia, Handley Page Heyford and Whitley before the war. Completed an operational tour on Whitley 1939-41. After being rested he flew a second tour of operations as a wireless operator with 207 Squadron before retraining as a pilot post war. Collection contains his flying logbooks, memoires of his air force career and first operations, lists of his operations, correspondence and photographs.
The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by C A Wood and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
[John Mitchell - notes for memoire]
1.
Describe first raid of war 3rd Sept 1939. Leaflets.
Loaded up A/C day before. Work Out details flight & route.
YORK across North Sea & DENMARK. Turn in via KIEL CANAL. OVER GERMANY TURN SOUTH INTO RHUR [sic] HEIGHT 12,000 SEARCH LIGHTS IN VIEW NO SIGN OF FIGHTERS
*LEAFLETS OUT* STARBOARD ENGINE OVERHEATING THROTTLE BACK TO COOL CHECK RADIATORS RAN FOR ½ HOUR AT LOWER TEMP LATER INCREASED AGAIN WENT ON RISING – HAD TO BE STOPPED INCREASE POWER OF PORT.
*PARACHUTE ON*
ONE HOUR TEMP RISING DANGEROUSLY HIGH – DECIDED BALE OUT OR FORCE LAND [deleted]ENGINE HAD TO BE STOPPED[/deleted] OR USED TO LAND
[page break]
2.
GROUND MIST – GETTING LIGHT USED LAST OF ENGINE POWER FOR LANDING BEFORE GOING ON FIRE.
FRENCH GATHERED ROUND A/C GERMAN LEAFLETS SCATTERED PITCH FORKS STICKS STONES CARTED OFF TO GATHERED UP BY ARMY. POLICE HOUSED IN OLD BARN – STRAW DOCUMENTS SECURITY 3 DAYS LATER DH116 FLY LONDON FLYING BOOTS NO HAT LIFT ON MOTOR CYCLE ISSUED RAIL WARRANT BACK TO BASE
[page break]
3.
1) FIRST RAID OF WAR 3 SEPT 1939
2) ENGINE FAILURE FORCED LANDING AMIEN[sic]
3) RETURN BOAC 2 DAYS LATER
4) CONVOY PATROLS WEST OF FRANCE
5) 1940 MINE LAYING CHANNEL KEIL CANAL
6) APRIL NORWAY (PAGE 1) STAVANGER
7) APRIL NORWAY OSLO
8) MAY HOLLAND & GERMANY DESCRIBE PREPARATION FOR RAID
9) JUNE [underlined] ITALY[/underlined] – TURIN ENGINE ICING UP 8 HOURS LIGHTNING – [indecipherable word] OF ICE ST ELMO FIRE PARACHUTES ON
10) JUNE FRANCE 3 – 5 HOURS RECALLED FORCE LANDED GERMANY 6 HOURS TRAINING SCOTLAND
[page break]
4.
11) TO 207 SQUADRON
APRIL 43 DUSSELDORF BOCHUM
JUNE FREIDRICKSHAVER [sic] 9.45 LANDED BLIDA N/AFRICA
JUNE BLIDA TO BASE VIA SPEZIA BOMBS
26 JUNE GELSENKIRKEN [sic] SHOT UP FORCED LANDED COLTISHALL
JUNE 43 BERLIN LEIPZIG GLADBACH [sic]
AUGUST SEPT OCT NOV INVASION PORTS
DEC 43 PARIS FRANCE ANTWERP VISITED SUB PENS
FEB 44 BERLIN LEIPZIG
MARCH SUB PENS “V” SITES
JUNE 45 RHUR[sic] MUNSTER DUSSELDORF
AUG 45 NORTH LUFFENHAM TRAINING
NOV 46 POSTED 91 GROUP MORTON HALL 5 GROUP
5.
9 AUG 48 TO TERNHILL
20 AUG 53 TO 202 SQUADRON ALDERGROVE HASTINGS AIRCRAFT
26 AUG TESTING FOR RUSSIAN ATOM BOMB CLOUDS CAPTAIN FAILURE FORCED LANDED
NOV 53 MARITIME TRAINING ST MAWGAN LANCASTERS
JAN 54 220 SQUADRON ST EVAL SHACKLETON
MAR 54 236 OUT KINLOSS SHACKLETON
JUNE 54 224 SQUADRON GIBRALTAR SHACKLETON
FEB 55 GIBRALTAR EXERCISE FORCED LANDED MALTA
[page break]
6.
10 FEB 55 GIBRALTAR FORCED LAND IN MALTA
16 AUG 55 GIB TO EL ADAM – ENGINE 1 U/S 5.06
18 AUG 55 EL ADAM MAURIPUR
19 AUG 55 MAURIPUR NEGOMBO
6 SEPT NEGOMBO POONA 5.30
8 SEPT POONA MAURIPUR 3.00
9 SEPT MAURIPUR HABBANIYA [sic] 6.30
10 SEPT HABBANIYA[sic] – IDRIS 7.45
11 SEPT IDRIS – GIBRALTAR 6.30
11 DEC 55 MADEIRA – AZORES EXERCISE TWO A/C MISSING AFTER HEARING RADIO
14 MAY 56 FLYING IN SUNDERLAND FROM PEMBROKE DOCK TO GIBRALTAR
15 OCT 56 AT LUQA MALTA HYDRAULIC FAILURE
15 NOV 56 S/L FLOOD LANDING GIB WIPED TAIL WHEEL ON RUNWAY THRESHOLD
OCT 57 POSTED VAMPIRE TRAINING WORKSOP
[page break]
7.
1954 ALGERIA EARTHQUAKE
1955 SUEZ UPSET
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
John Mitchell - notes for memoire
Description
An account of the resource
Notes describing first leaflet sortie, problems with starboard engine, forced landing and activities in France and return to England. Then moves on to 207 Squadron and lists operations and flying after finishing second tour and post war.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
J E F Mitchell
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
Seven page handwritten document
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Memoir
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
MMitchellJEF550261-160125-03
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Germany
Germany--Kiel Canal
Norway
Norway--Stavanger
Norway--Oslo
Netherlands
Italy
Italy--Turin
Germany--Düsseldorf
Germany--Bochum
Germany--Friedrichshafen
Algeria
Algeria--Blida
Italy
Italy--La Spezia
Germany--Gelsenkirchen
Germany--Berlin
Germany--Leipzig
France
France--Paris
Belgium
Belgium--Antwerp
Germany--Münster in Westfalen
North Africa
Germany--Ruhr (Region)
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1939-09-03
1940
1940-04
1940-05
1940-06
1943-04
1943-06
1943-08
1943-09
1943-10
1943-11
1943-12
1944-02
1944-03
1945-06
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
David Bloomfield
207 Squadron
bombing
forced landing
mine laying
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/455/25239/MCothliffKB[Ser -DoB]-151020-39.jpg
ce1d121742ea85368526dac62b00b82f
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Cothliff, Ken
Ken Cothliff
K Cothliff
Description
An account of the resource
486 items in 12 sub-collections. The collection concerns Ken Cothliff's research on 6 Group Bomber Command and contains an interview with Adolf Galland, documents and photographs. Sub-collections include information on 427 Squadron, 429 Squadrons, Gerry Philbin, Jim Moffat, Reg Lane, Robert Mitchell, Steve Puskas and logs from RAF Tholthorpe.
The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Ken Cothliff and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2015-10-20
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. Some items have not been published in order to protect the privacy of third parties, to comply with intellectual property regulations, or have been assessed as medium or low priority according to the IBCC Digital Archive collection policy and will therefore be published at a later stage. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal, https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collection-policy.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Cothliff, K
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
427 Squadron Crest
Description
An account of the resource
A copy of the 427 Squadron Crest with 'Approved George R.I.'
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One b/w print
Language
A language of the resource
eng
lat
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Artwork
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
MCothliffKB[Ser#-DoB]-151020-39
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Canadian Air Force
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Great Britain. College of Arms
427 Squadron
George VI, King of Great Britain (1895-1952)
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1623/25111/PCothliffKB15110111.1.jpg
d986ab2edd32aa414fb73a02fa935d58
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Cothliff, Ken. Folder 1511
Description
An account of the resource
77 items. The collection contains photographs.
The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Ken Cothliff and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. Some items have not been published in order to protect the privacy of third parties, to comply with intellectual property regulations, or have been assessed as medium or low priority according to the IBCC Digital Archive collection policy and will therefore be published at a later stage. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal, https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collection-policy.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Cothliff, K
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Lancaster KB700 at Woodford
Description
An account of the resource
A rear/port view of a Lancaster on the ground. Information supplied with the collection identifies this as Woodford, October 43.
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One b/w photograph
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Photograph
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
PCothliffKB15110111
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
England--Cheshire
England--Stockport
England--Lancashire
Lancaster
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1623/25020/PCothliffKB15110055.2.jpg
6ce81bfbe2d89faaa96934061ec9e482
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Cothliff, Ken. Folder 1511
Description
An account of the resource
77 items. The collection contains photographs.
The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Ken Cothliff and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. Some items have not been published in order to protect the privacy of third parties, to comply with intellectual property regulations, or have been assessed as medium or low priority according to the IBCC Digital Archive collection policy and will therefore be published at a later stage. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal, https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collection-policy.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Cothliff, K
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Lancaster KB700
The Ruhr Express
Description
An account of the resource
The Lancaster is running its engines on the ground watched by ground crew, who have just removed its chocks.
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One b/w photograph
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Photograph
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
PCothliffKB15110055
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Royal Canadian Air Force
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
ground crew
ground personnel
Lancaster
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1612/24526/MCothliffKB[Ser -DoB]-151020-120002.pdf
5214645160d527c9a5ec952a1035df39
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Cothliff, Ken. Tholthorpe Logs
Description
An account of the resource
10 items. The collection contains flying control log books from RAF Tholthorpe.
The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Ken Cothliff and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. Some items have not been published in order to protect the privacy of third parties, to comply with intellectual property regulations, or have been assessed as medium or low priority according to the IBCC Digital Archive collection policy and will therefore be published at a later stage. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal, https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collection-policy.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Cothliff, K
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
FLYING CONTROL
LOG
[Government Crest]
FROM OCTOBER 7th 1943.
TO = NOVEMBER 26th 1943.
[Page break]
[Blank page]
[Underlined] October 7, 1943, Thursday. [/underlined]
1830 On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
2030 Pundit Leeming’s pundits temporarily u/s. They think they can repair it within an hour so AS4 not informed.
2040 Hostiles From 12 Gp. MLO. – 60+ x-raids plotted off coast of East Anglia, believed to be hostiles. Our 1664 Bullseye a/c is due at Norwich at 21.58. Croft informed. Controller informed.
2054 Balloons Canterbury & Thames balloons at 6500 ft. All stations informed re this & intruders. Controller instructs no action to be taken with ops. a/c.
2057 Pundit Leeming’s pundits now okay.
2057 Hostiles 12 Gp. Controller orders recall of our Bullseye a/c due to hostile activity. DSO will handle the signals and Croft informed. All groups are recalling.
21.12-21.30 Crash Eastmoor report crash NE of them: ROC informed and give final plot of V2105 (a few miles east of Wombleton in Eastmoor crash area) Contacted Base 62 & Base 61. Eastmoor have operational take off at 21.55 so Topcliffe instructed to send out crash tender, ambulance & M.O. Helmsley and possibly two other village fire brigades were sent out (we requested Helmsley to go out) Controller & AOC informed.
[Page break]
2120 Hostiles – Signal Controller instructed DSO to send out following message on GOF at 21.50 & 22.20: “Enemy a/c on your course between 21.30 & 22.30 hrs.” T.O.O. 21.30
2122 Hostiles – Signal Linton have sent to their ops. a/c on H/F D/F “Switch off Nav. lights” after getting permission of their Air Commodore.
2140 Crash C1408 The a/c [inserted] that [/inserted] crashed (see 21.12 above) was 408/C. All crew baled out, according to Linton who were speaking to one of the crew.
2145 Bullseye a/c acknowledged recall signal.
2150 Crash 408/C From Topcliffe: Helmsley police have informed Topcliffe base that the a/c crashed to Spaunton village (22/203097) and bomb exploded setting some houses on fire, causing [deleted] a few [/deleted] one casualty. All crew baled out but 2 not yet located.
2205 Crash Tried to get through to Spaunton by phone but apparently there is no phone there. Spoke to pilot at Huttonly Hall, nr. Spaunton, who said he was the last to bale out. Reason for baling out: controls locked on take-off.
2232 Weather Met. say they are not too happy about weather at base on return but will let us know by 0100 hrs. Controller says no action till after Met. conference.
2240 426/V Sent message: “Pilot hit, going to jettison in sea” sent in plain language. Position obtained by South. is 5044N 0017W 2nd. not passed to a/c as it was too approximate. 11 Gp. FCLO informed who says he has aerodromes in that area lit up. R/T call signs passed.
[Page break]
2255 Crash 12 Gp. informed of crash of 408/C
2310 Weather Controller instructs that diversion bases be laid on with CFC in view of bad weather expected at our bases. Referred to our Met.
2315-0030 Diversion requested from CFC. They have practically [deleted word] no fit aerodromes they can offer us that are any good. Suggested Silloth for 432 a/c which we accepted after consulting met. They finally decided we would have to wait until after 0100 hrs. met. broadcast. Controller said okay.
2350 426/V landed Tangmere at 2305. Pilot in SSQ and says “a message he had sent he wants cancelled” Informed Linton.
[Underlined] Friday Oct. 8, 1943 [/underlined]
0047 Diversion Gave Silloth all gen. re diversion.
0110 Hostiles all gone and 11 Gp. balloons down to 1500 ft except Dover which is 2500 ft. Stations informed.
0130-0230 Weather From Met: Middleton, Acklington, Croft &Thornaby will be good enough to land 408 & 426 between them. In view of this Controller decided not to send out diversion message but to bring them back to base and divert them as follows by R/T:
408 & 426 – to Middleton & Croft (one each alternatively)
432 to Silloth
Stations are only to divert if their own weather bad. Scorton & Thornaby standing by in case Middleton & Croft go unfit. The latter two stations are not
[Page break]
to re-divert without notifying Group. Informed CFC and Middleton, Croft, Scorton & Thornaby, 12 Gp. and 62 Base HQ. Thornaby say squeakers do not interfere unduly with Bomber R/T and they will attend to grounding of nearby balloons.
0230 10/K from Welbourne landed Linton at 0222 after giving darky call. Will be staying over night. 4 Gp. informed.
0247 432/B landed at Docking at 02.30. Reason: WOP thought he received a diversion message but could not understand it. Controller instructs that he stay over night & return first thing in the morning after checking weather. Linton informed.
0240 Billingham balloons will be grounded from 0330-0500 hrs.
0300 432 a/c all accounted for. Silloth stood down with thanks. CFC informed.
0315 432/B From 16 Gp: the reason mentioned in 0247 note is apparently wrong; 16 Gp. do not know where it came from. The reason now given for landing at Docking is “engine trouble” Linton informed.
0320 Crew that baled out – all now located and okay.
0430 Diversion bases, Thornaby & Scorton stood down as Middleton and Croft are holding out okay – Controller’s instructions.
0450 Darky Croft heard darky call by a “Handkerchief F” at 0449. There vis. was poor at that time so we instructed them to send him to Middleton if they can contact him again. They think it is an Anson; ROC has 3 or 4 Ansons on the board. Croft got no results by shooting
[Page break]
Friday Oct 8/1943
mortars off. 12 Gp. informed.
0500 Results of ops. S/426 still outstanding. Middleton landed 4 of Linton’s a/c. Middleton & Croft stood down as far as Linton a/c are concerned. Nothing heard of 426/S.
0515-0525 Darky Croft have had another darky from an Anson and Middleton have been instructed to send up rockets & put their lights on. Croft have sent a “G” over to Middleton, & Scorton who have had a darky are going to send him to Middleton if they can contact him.
0530 Darky ROC have only 1 a/c, an Anson in our Group. They say he is circling Croft. Middleton shooting off rockets etc. & have contact lights on but a/c continues to call Croft asking them to put their lights on – Croft have lights on and are trying to contact him on R/T but without success. Scorton are pointing their Sandra light towards Middleton. 12 Gp. FCLO at a loss as to what to do.
0600 Darky has now left Croft and gone SW to Z40 into 9 Group who are now handling him. Middleton’s weather has now gone “out” but Thornaby still okay. Middleton & Croft informed.
0710 Anson landed at Cork at 0625.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
09.00 On duty FD Clelland F/LT.
10.20 Diversion Bases. CFC asked for Provisional diversion bases for 67 Hals, 17 Lancs & 13 Wells. Will give answer to us after Met. Conference at 12.00 hrs.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Friday Oct. 8 1943. [/underlined]
10.10 V/426 F/O Buchanan called re instructions about returning. Linton will arrange this.
10.45 C/408 Wombleton are guarding the aircraft. Only one casualty caused by bomb exploding.
10.30 Linton Aircraft lands away from base. Linton will arrange for their return.
14.45 1659 on Bullseye - Cancelled due to inexperienced crews.
1679.- Still on. (1 Lanc.)
16.30 Diversion Bases * C.F.C. contacted & we requested provisional bases in eastern coast of Norfolk if possible. They will call –
16.52 Hurricanes landed Skipton. 2 a/c of 174 & 2 a/c of 175 Sq. en route Drem to Northolt landed Skipton. FCLO 12 & 11 informed. Will probably stay night –
17.45 Billingham Balloons. Will be down until 05.30 hrs instead of 04.30.
17.50 Diversion Bases. CFC offer Swanton Morley definitely for Wellingtons 432
18.05 Bullseye Controller has scrubbed 1679 aircraft on bullseye due to weather at base for ETR.
18.20 X-Country. 1679 wanted to know if they could arrange a X-Country with ETA approx. 11.00 hrs. After consulting Mr Lumm here it was decided that weather would be too uncertain possibly 1000 to 1500 yds vis.
18.30 Off duty FD Cleland F/L
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
1925 Pundits A.S.4 request, #1, 91, 115 & 140 dusk-dawn. Stations informed.
2015. Div. Base. Advised Linton that Swanton Marley had been laid on for 432 Sqn.
[Page break]
2130. Anson M.G. 516. Leeming state message received this a/c landed at Fraserburgh & would stay overnight. FCLO 12 informed.
2145 Emerg. Div. Bases. In collaboration with Met, Controller & C.F.C. following emergency weather bases have been laid on & allocated as noted:
Horham – 419 Sq..
Manston – 428 Sqn.
Snetterton Heath – 427 Sqn.
Hethel – 429 Sqn.
Shipdham – 431 & 434
Bury St. Edmunds – 408 & 426.
Bradwell Bay – 432. – all stations informed.
2150. ditto. Air I instructed that a substitute diversion base be laid on in place of Snetterton Heath.
2245 ditto. C.F.C. have cancelled Bradwell Bay as diversion base.
2325 427/Diversion F/L Durham F/C Leeming advises this Squadron received all information re. Snetterton Heath. He also advised that W/C Pattison stated “Air I said he had permission to return to Leeming and do a Beam Landing if diverted.” Advised Controller who could not confirm.
[Underlined] SATURDAY – OCT. 9.
[Deleted] 1200 [/deleted] 0001 Diversion C.F.C. offer West Malling in place of Bradwell Bay. After consulting Met & Controller accepted. C.F.C. now state Horham not available. (Fortress difficulty) and offer Great Ashfield or Thorpe Abbotts. neither
[Page break]
of which are on our Diversion Schedule.
[Deleted] 1205 [/deleted] 0005 419/T. 12 Gr. advise Hal. returning, making landfall at Whitby. They are search-lighting him & Thornaby is lighting up. Also request M.S.G. to be ready. Have instructed M.S.G. – Landed M.S.G. 0023. 12 Gr. Informed.
[Deleted] 1220 [/deleted] 0020 Diversion After consulting Controller accepted Great [deleted] Abbotts [/deleted] Ashfield & Thorpe Abbotts in place of Horham. Aircraft will be re-diverted by Horham to the other 2 stations.
0110/0120 Diversion Gen Passed to 11 Gp, 2 and 4 U.S. Wings. Re: [underlined] 427 [/underlined] Squadron – this squadron is to be sent to Horham and then re-diverted to Great Ashfield.
[Underlined] 429 [/underlined] - Hethel
[Underlined] 431-434 [/underlined] - Shipdham
[Underlined] 408-426 [/underlined] – Bury St. Edmund’s – the former will be diverted to Snetterton Heath if things are so at St. Edmunds.
[Underlined] 419 [/underlined] Horham – thence to Thorpe Abbots.
[Underlined] 428 [/underlined] – Manston
[Underlined] 432 [/underlined] West Malling
Advised all stations of the above.
Have made arrangements with 4 Gp. to take our early returns in case all of our bases out. Told stations & said advise this group before doing so in order that we could authorize the best aerodrome with regard to weather & also prevent overcrowding in that Gp.
0150 408/H This a/c idented at 0142. Permission granted by GDSO
[Page break]
and Controller for the station to divert him to Lisset on their H/F D/F. once he crossed the Coast.
0200 Diversions Controller decides to make Diversions DEFINITE after hearing Met. story. Told stations; C.F.C. and 11 Gp F.C.L.O. 4 and 2 U.S. Wings D.F.C.O. At this [deleted] this [/deleted] time C.F.C. said, “I forgot to tell you, but 1 Group could take about 50 a/c and Docking is O.K. [Underlined] Only a phone call was needed and told him so. [/underlined]
0215 408/H DIVERTED TO LISSETT. Landed Leconfield 0255
0255 427 & 429 Sqns. a/c away F.C.O. Leeming (F/L. Durham) advised that their a/c should stay “put” until instructions for return are received from their base after 0800 hrs.
Ident Board changed.
0030 419/M. From Hull – Message “GCST VX (Rear Turret U/S.” TOO-0015 T.O.R.-0024 – Fix 5404N 0049E, 2nd class, Ident 0024 hrs. Passed to M.S.G.
0600 427 & 429 Sqn a/c away Passed Lemming’s instructions to F.C.O. of 2 & 3rd U/S Bomb Division for transmission to concerned stations.
426 sqn a/c away Linton requested this Sqn’s a/c to be ready to return between 0800 & 0900 but to await definite instructions. Passed to 2nd U/S Bomb Wing & 3 Gr.
[Deleted] 0900 Off duty H.L. Spence P/O. [/deleted]
[Page break]
0820 0840. 419 & 428 a/c away. M.S.G. request a/c be ready to return to base by 1100 hrs. but must get OK from station before taking off. These instructions passed to F.C.L.O. of 11 & 12 Groups, and F.C.O. 3 Gr. & 3rd U.S. Bomb Div. for transmission to stations concerned.
0900 Off duty H.L. Spence P/O. D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1040-1050 Crash Leeming F/C say a civilian phoning from Kirby Hall (North of Leeming) reports a crash of an a/c near Kirby Fleetham. A/c is in flames. Catterick think it is a bomber. Leeming and Catterick both taking action. ROC give plot as Z7913 which is not near position given by Leeming. Asked them to check again. Passed to Leeming.
1056 Crash R.O.C. give us another plot Z7715 which still does not coincide with Leeming’s plot. They are checking further.
1100-1115 Crash Put through “a/c priority” call to Kirby Fleetham Hall and learned that a/c was a Wellington and crashed 3/4 mile east of Kirby Fleetham Hall. Fire is now under control. 3 RAF crash tenders and 2 NFS fire engines are at scene of crash. A/c not yet identified and only one member of crew located (dead) Passed this to Leeming & Catterick. 432 Sqdn have nothing flying from base.
1200 a/c away On instructions from Middleton F/C instructed all 419 a/c at Thorpe Abbott to return immediately Met. say okay.
[Page break]
11.25-11.45 a/c away Leeming give us the following instructions to pass to their a/c away: 427 & 429 to stand by at 12.30 for permission from Leeming to take off. Passed this to stations concerned.
From Middleton: are happy about weather at base and want all of 419 & 428 to return immediately.
From Linton base: 432 a/c to return immediately 431, 434, 408 & 426 to be ready by 1300 for permission to take off.
All diversion A/D’s advised.
Met. say Middleton should be okay but are not happy about the other stations.
[Deleted] 1230 [/deleted]
1230 Weather by 1300 hrs. general weather in Group should be: 1500-2200 yds. vis. 4-8/10th at 2000. Vis. should pick up to 3000-5000 yds. later on Warned 62 Base & Middleton
1255 a/c away 3rd U.S. Bombing Div. want to know if 419 & 428 a/c can take off. Said yes, we had given them permission an hour ago.
1310 a/c away Asked Middleton about this weather and they are not happy about it. They want all their a/c that have not taken off to stand by. Informed appropriate Group HQ’s. 11 Gp. say 11 [inserted] a/c [/inserted]/428 have already taken off. Informed Middleton
1305 a/c away 426 & 408 are to return immediately and land at other 6 Gp. or 4 Gp. stations if necessary. Checked with 4 Gp. who say Holme should be fit for an hour or two at least. Passed instructions to Group HQ’s.
[Page break]
1315 a/c away Tholthorpe want 434 & 431 to return immediately Warned them of weather. Passed instructions to Group HQ’s.
1440 a/c away G/C Ross wants us to either send the 11 a/c of 428 back to Manston or divert them en route as he is not happy about Middleton’s weather. Referred to Met. who say Bottesford okay. 5 Gp. informed and will take them. D.S.O. instructed to pass gen. to Middleton to send [inserted] message [/inserted] out at [deleted] 141 [/deleted] 15.15. Middleton informed.
1455 419 & 428 a/c Arranged for Holme to stand by for any of these a/c that are returning to Middleton. Holmes’ weather is quite reasonable.
1525 427 & 429 W/C Turnbull & acting sqdn. commander of 429 want al crews of these two squadrons stood down in view of weather, & to be ready to return in the morning. Passed this to all Group HQ’s concerned.
1530 Crash From Catterick: the a/c that crashed this morning was a Wellington from Lossiemouth. 4 crew killed and pilot injured (now in Catterick Military Hosp.) Catterick taking all casualty action. Controller informed.
1800 a/c away 35 a/c still away from base (46 a/c returned)
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
18.30 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L. [Signature]
0001 Sunday Oct 10th 1943.
0100 – Ident Bd Corrected
[Page break]
Oct 10th 1943.
0147 Sycamore L. London W/T JyP Ex F.C.L.O 12 – Help requested for Wellington from 93 Group. reported short of petrol in Z-43. – Due west of Middleton.
0148 – Duty Met 6 Gp advised that Middleton would be best having 4000 yds vis, 4700’ ft cloud 8/10.
- CROFT = vis. 2200 yds, cloud 9/10 at 5700’.
- Skipton = vis 4000 yds, Cloud 3/10 at 6000’
(No duty flying control watch at Skipton because of Stand Down.)
0149. – Ex FCLO 12: Sycamore/L told to [deleted] ste [/deleted] fly EAST. (Acknowledged)
0150 – Broadcast to F.C. Middleton – Leeming – Topcliffe and Linton – Passed gen on, Sycamore L – asked all stations to light up (including Pundits) and to give all help they could
0153. – Ex FCLO 12 – Position = Z-30 N.W.
- F.C. 93 reported a/c working Lindholm W/T – QDM 150°.
A/C flying reciprocal course.
0214 Ex: F.C. Linton = Sycamore/L on R/T .
- F.C.L.O. 12 and 93 Gp (Tied on line 19) unable to understand R/T contact with Linton – because position of a/c given as proceeding NW over Pennines towards Carlisle!
P.T.O.
[Page break]
Oct 10th 1943.
Sycamore “L” Brief of R/T dialogue with Linton F.C.
0214 Darky call from Sycamore “L” – answered by Linton told a/c Linton-on-Ouse standing by.
0214 1/2 Sycamore “L” asked Linton to “Say again”
- Linton F.C. repeated.
0216 – F.C. Linton to Sycamore “L” message that see lights ON
- No reply.
0217 – F.C. Linton to Sycamore “L” message that all lights and Contact Strip on – advised against landing.
- No reply.
0218 – F.C. Linton to Sycamore “L” “Watch for Rockets” –
- Sycamore “L” acknowledged.
0220 F.C. Linton to Sycamore “L” Query – Can you see Rockets and Sandra?
- No Reply.
0221 Same message [inserted] as 0220 entry [/inserted] to a/c –
- No Reply.
0221 1/2 Hears Darky call from Sycamore L {heard and answered by Linton, who
[Page break]
Told the aircraft has strength was growing weaker.
- No reply.
0222-0226 – Repeated calls to Sycamore L from F.C. Linton
- No Joy.
[Underlined] N.B. [/underlined] AT NO TIME DURING ALL THE FOREGONE DID LINTON SEE THE AIRCRAFT OR HEAR HIS MOTORS.
The F.C.L.O. 12, F.C. 93 and all 6 Group Stations (Lighted) were kept in the picture on Lintons R/T with the aircraft.
The F.C.L.O. 12 and R.O.C. continued to plot Wellington flying N.W. to Carlisle. The ROC maintained there was no other a/c flying in the area. The F.C.L.O. 12 maintained this to be the only a/c flying in all England!
Plots showed a/c to fly NM to Carlisle – thence NE to
0245 … Drem – and out to sea NE towards East coast of Scotland.
0247 (?) approx. – Ex F.C.L.O. – 6 Group Stns may dowse lights. Stations advised of whole picture.
0315-0330 To F.C. 93: Linton R/T Dialogue with Sycamore L. –
[Page break]
Oct 10th 1943.
0335 Sycamore L. Ex. F.C. 93 – Crew of this aircraft bailed out over Doncaster!!! Contact made with one of the members of the crew at Doncaster Police Station.
R.O.C. No plots of any crash.
The other Wellington which was plotted out over Drem – now considered by F.C.L.O. to be one from Lossiemouth!
- Stations advised and stood down completely.
0900 – Off duty [Signature] F/L
On duty HL Spence P/O Cleland F/L.
0950 1000 a/c away 427/429 Leeming request all a/c away to stand by between 1230 & 1300 hrs. for return to base. Final authority to take off will come through them.
Passed to F.C.O. 2nd & 3rd U/S Bomb wings for transmission to Hethel 9 (429) – Great Ashfield 5 (427), Horham 2 (427), & Snetterton Heath 1 (429) also Flying Control 12 Group for Coltishall (1 ea)
1055 1110 ditto S/L Pattison explained his intention to get his a/c (429) as far north in 4 Group as possible today, arranging to have the more experienced Pilots land on the beam at Leeming if weather is fairly satisfactory and cannot
[Page break]
get down at Skipton. He states W/C Turnbull (427) wishes to have better weather [inserted] for base [/inserted] but also desires to get his a/c as far north as possible.
Met state fog more widespread than yesterday and with the lower temperature to-day any lifting of the fog would take longer. There is less smoke today. The most optimistic forecast is 1500 to 2000 yds viz in our group by 1700 hrs. with somewhat similar conditions in 4 Group. Controller states the plan of 429 sounds reasonable provided the Met is watched. 4 Gr. F.C. (Elvidge) will be glad to co-operate, if their a/c’s are fit and ours not, in getting them further north. Leeming informed.
[Deleted] 115 [/deleted]
1125 1140 a/c away 427/429 F.C.O. 2nd & 3rd U/S Bomb Wings advised of the plans of Leeming (to be transmitted to S/L French at Hethel) F.C.L.O. 12 also informed a/c at Coltishall may not return direct to base but be diverted to 4 Group.
1205 1230 ditto F.C.O. 4 Group states there has been very little improvement of Met in their Group since 0900 hrs. All stations are red. Similar condition at Coltishall reported by FCLO 12 Gr. Some improvement in visibility in 6 Group (Leeming 1000 & M.S.G. 1600). Informed Leeming above Met picture indicating that while there was a possibility of there being [inserted] fairly [/inserted] good viz around 1600 hrs., the situation did not look favourable for a/c to return.
[Page break]
Air I and Controller think it would be wiser if a/c away did not attempt to return to-day, as conditions appear at present, but no instructions were given as this is a Station responsibility.
1405 Defiant a/c. 12 Gr. Requested we offer every assistance to above a/c to land. Plotted over Linton, Topcliffe, Skipton area. Arranged for Linton, Topcliffe, Skipton to be on look-out.
1410 ditto 12 Gr. Reported a/c now over M.S.G. & requested to be landed & held for better weather. A/c has no R.T. Pilot F/O Treen en route to Sherburn. M.S.G. state a/c just landed.
1450. Hurricane [deleted] DDR15 [/deleted] DD715 Landed from Fairlop (en route to Church Fenton) at Tholthorpe. Will stay overnight. Informed FCLO 12.
1525 Defiant [deleted] DD715 [/deleted] a/c Entry 1405 & 1410. A/c took off 1521, to continue to Sherburn. 12 Gr. FCLO informed.
1530. Defiant #587. a/c. Landed at M.S.G. 1522 F/S Swan. En route to Sherburn. Waiting better weather.
1530-1545 Fortress F.C.L.O 12 Group advised that Newcastle Sector had given a Fortress QDM to M.S.G. Latter have not heard from this a/c although Croft had previously heard a darky call.
[Page break]
1600 427/ac away W.C. Turnbull states crews at diversion bases may knock off for today but to stand by at 0930 hrs tomorrow. Advised FCO. 3rd U.S. Bomb Div. & 12 Gr. F.C.L.O.
Darky Call. Linton advise call from Banco “S” calling “Impact”. Transmission loud but a/c did not reply to them when they answered.
1630 429/ac away. W/C Pattison instructs his crews away to stand by 1000 hrs tomorrow. Informed 2nd & 3rd U.S. Bomb Divs & 12 Gr. F.C.L.O.
Fortress Landed at Osford (?) (field practically). Several Spits sent up to bring him in to MSG without success. M.S.G. state the a/c apparently went right over them (report from Gun ops.) but they didn’t see or hear him. He then turned back into Tyne area. M.S.G. do not know whether landing was good or not.
1830 Off duty H.L. Spence. P/O. On duty F/Lt Miller F/Lt.
2050 93 Gp. Wellington (see morning of Oct. 10) The [inserted five [/inserted] crew, who baled out over Doncaster are all okay. 93 Gp. have not spoken to any of them and do not know any further particulars as yet.
[Underlined] Monday Oct. 11, 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident. Bd changed.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
[Page break]
[Underlined] October 11th 1943 [/underlined]
09.00 On duty. F.D. Cleland F/LT.
09.45 Aircraft [underlined] 429 [/underlined] away from base. W/C Pattinson asked that all his aircraft be standing by to take-off at 13.00 hrs for Leeming.
Groups concerned advised.
10.00 427 a/c W/C Turnbull wants crews standing by at 12.30 hrs.
431 a/c Arranging direct from F/C Tholthorpe
434 a/c Arranging direct but is U/S. (S/434 at Shipdham)
408/T Captain to leave after lunch. Met. report first.
432/Y U/S.
429 a/c Arranged direct from station.
428 a/c To leave between 12-13.00 hrs.
10.30 Use of Oxford for attending Court Martial W/C Ferris called to see if S/L Main could use the Oxford to attend a Court Martial in I. O. Man Oct 14-16th. Air I’s reply was no.
11.25 Topcliffe Inner Marker Inner Marker U/S T.F.N.
11.45 Blanket Coverage Non-op movements 12 Gp. have given blanket coverage for Air to Air, Air to Sea Firing, Fighter Affil & Height tests. *Bombing under serial number E19 (hours of daylight)
12.22 429 a/c Message from W/C Pattison. To take off fly at 5000’ on return until in clear over Lincolnshire, route Spalding to base. If S/L French considers any crew unfit then he can make decisions.
429 a/c. This message passed to S/L French by #2 Div. USAAF.
429 A. To leave when vis. 1500 yds.
429 V. To leave when vis. 1500 yds
427 a/c All to leave when vis. is 2000 yds.
13.00 Air I gives permission to W/C Sweatman to fly Lanc. to Tangmere to pick up Flight Commander (11.00 hrs)
[Page break]
13.00 Permission given to Tholthorpe to fly Halifax to Harwell to pick up Hal M/434, subject to met. considerations.
12.45 429 a/c at Hethal Ex W/C Pattison – message for S/L French “Weather here is fine. You are at liberty to take off when weather is fit at Hethal. All to come back together. Climb to 5000’ and return via Spalding.”
15.45 Linton a/c away from base. Acting on Air I’s suggestion, Linton say 431 aircraft may return after dark up until 22.00 hrs. depending upon met. conditions.
431 a/c Shipdham say all 431 & 434 are U/S. Will not return tonight.
16.40 429 A. W/C Pattinson says for this ac to take off if vis. improves to 1000 yds – Passed to 3 Bomber Div.
16.50 429 A W/C Pattinson says for a/c to take off as soon as pilot thinks vis. is good enough. The 1000 yd. limit has been rescinded.
Note: Evidently [deleted] wea [/deleted] vis. at Snetterton Heath has not been good all day. [deleted] and [/deleted] Until W/C Pattinson decided to lower the limit from 1500 to 1000 and then finally leave it to pilot’s discretion this a/c has been unable to leave.
17.30 Snetterton Heath. Vis. 130 yds. Control there will not let him [inserted] (A/429) [/inserted] take off.
17.45 429 A. Ex W/C Pattinson. If A/429 does not take off before 18.30 they are to stay the night. Passed to 3 Bomber Div.
18.00 Ref: Movement W5. Linton have sent message to these a/c to be back at base by 22.00 hrs – (Weather reasons)
Ref. W8. Linton have sent message to these a/c to return to base by 21.30 hrs. (Weather reasons)
18.00 428/D 428/P These aircraft serviceable but weather bad. Wing Commander does not want them to return after dark.
[Page break]
18.15 [Deleted] Sp [/deleted] Hurricane from Skipton. E26. Took off 15.46. Have not arrived Northolt. Controller 12 enquiring. They already had warned Skipton that they might not reach Northolt tonight, but would drop down en route if weather bad.
18.30 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
On duty H.L. Spence. P/O.
1845 Pundits A.S.4 request 1, 91, 115, & 140 Dusk to dawn. Stations informed.
1900 Group Night Flying passed to Stations & R.O.C.
2230/2245 1659/B. Topcliffe advise this a/c more than 1 hr overdue from cross country. Course from Fishguard – Market Drayton – Water Beach – Goole – Base. Checked R.O.C. 9 & 11 for plots but none showing. [Deleted] M.L.S. [/deleted] F.C.L.O. 12 stated he had heard of a crash in 9 Gr area, vicinity of Edgehill – Moreton-in- [deleted] Moor [/deleted] Marsh & crew of 2 at least had baled out. F.C.L.O. 9 Group had no further details of crash as yet but would advise us later. He believes one of the crew was named Hainefyse.
2320 1659/B. F.C.L.O. 9 stated this appeared to be [deleted] Crofts [/deleted] Topcliffes aircraft and that all the crew had baled put but only 2 had been heard from.
2330. 1659/B. F.C. 92 Group contacted Topcliffe advising that this a/c appeared to have been having engine trouble; first one motor had gone U/S and he appeared
[Page break]
to lose height. Then 2 more motors went U/S and it lost further height & crashed. On instructions of the Pilot all the crew baled out, 5 were accounted for out of the 7 as follows:-
Sgt. Mauher – Sick Quarters, Edgehill – OK.
P/O Denver. Ditto OK
Sgt. Boyd. Ditto. OK
Sgt Couron – Shipston hospital – Broken collar bone.
and one on his way to Edgehill by transport, apparently OK.
Position of crash. Lower Braills, about 6 miles west of Banbury. Time 2115 hrs.
2340. 1659/B. F.C.L.O. 9 Gr. Stated all the crew but one, the Bomb Aimer, had been accounted for and his name was not known to the others.
2345 1659/B. F.C. 92 Group again contacted. [Underlined] All [/underlined] crew accounted for. Sgt Lockyer now in Sick Quarters, Edgehill and OK. The two others Sgts Rowe & Harrison were OK., and transportation had been sent to bring them to Edgehill, a satellite of Chipping Norden. The latter were handling the crash and providing a guard. The a/c burned [inserted] completely. Crew staying where they are tonight. [/inserted] Thanked 92 Gr. For co-operation.
2350. 1659/B. (JB-893.) Advised F.C.L.O. [inserted] 92 Gr. [/inserted] of above. He stated Moreton-in-the-Marsh had answered a Mayday call intending to send it to Honeybourne but the aircraft apparently
[Page break]
did not hear them. Except for this Mayday call no request for them to light up or give assistance had been received. This may have been 1659/B.
[Underlined] TUESDAY – OCT 12/43 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0900 Off duty HL Spence P/O. D.H. Miller F/Lt on duty
1055 Darky Croft have ju8st heard a Darky call from an “Ardmore W” whom they believe to be an American. They answered once but no joy and now think another station is working it
1056 Darky Linton have heard a darky from an “Oldwell” (no letter picked up) They overheard something about the a/c being at 7000 ft. and say another station is working it.
1100 Darky Informed 12 Gp FCLO. ROC have no plots on our board at present but had 3 Ansons during the last 1/2 hour flying at a “fair heights”. They have now gone into Durham area.
1120 Darky 12 Gp FCLO after speaking to 9 Gp. say there are three Dakotas which have just arrived from America and are apparently lost. Call sign is “Addwolf” one of which is “W”. They have no plots on them but many stations have been getting these Darky calls all over the country. Informed all stations and asked them to report anything heard from this a/c.
[Page break]
1128 Darky Linton base say Tholthorpe have heard Benson working the Darky a/c, giving “course to steer 90°, fly 3 min. and circle.” 12 Gp informed.
1144 Darky Tholthorpe have heard Benson working [deleted] a/c [/deleted] Addwolf/N again, giving him “pancake”. 12 Gp. say Benson know nothing about it so Linton are checking up.
1152 Darky Tholthorpe have checked call signs and now find out it was not Benson but St. Davids. Informed 12 Gp. FCLO who says he has just learned that all the Dakotas are now down okay, the last two having landed at St. David’s. All stations informed.
1310 Weather Warned Tholthorpe (via base 62) that on their x-country (434 Sqdn) they will not be able to see much of ground, and the bases on return (2000 hrs) will be generally 1-2000 yds. mostly yellow. Met. will not guarantee them past 18.30 Topcliffe also given above gen. for their x-countries
1315 Movements To MLS: Hal. & Lancs. bombing at Strensall & airfiring Robin Hd. Bay from 1330-1800 and fighter affiliation from 1300-17.30 locally 5-8000 ft. – blanket movement.
1410 a/c away F/Lt. Durham says 429/A at [deleted] Sh [/deleted] Snetterton and 429/K at Castle Camps are to return immediately but not to take off after 15.30 due to expected deterioration at bases. Informed 11 Gp. & 3rd US Div.
W/C Turnbull says the same applies to 427/L & V at Great Ashfield. Warned them of weather.
[Page break]
1435 4 Hurricanes (see 18.15 Oct. 11) landed at Cambridge at 17.25 Oct 11th, according to Skipton F/C. Informed Station Z AS4 by phone who will inform Northolt.
1520 Wellington Litchfield of 27 OTU requested permission to land at Linton but due to their poor vis. they sent him to Pocklington which is “green”. Warned 4 Gp.
1620 a/c away 429/A at Snetterton did not have enough fuel on board when he got permission to take off, (required more fuel due to duff weather) and was not able to get refueled [deleted] by [/deleted] in time to arrive back at Leeming by 1700 hrs.
427/L – did not have enough brake pressure.
427/V – took off at 16.10 after having received instructions that he was not to take off unless he could make Leeming by 17.00.
429/K – (Castle Camps) had something wrong with his a/c (They think it was his wireless)
Informed Leeming of the above.
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1830 On duty SR Wyman F/Lt. & H.L. Spence P/O.
1900 Wellington Litchfield F.C. 27 O.T.U. state all their a/c accounted for & that one landed at Goxhill at 1710 hrs. This would appear to be the one referred to in entry 1520 which was given a QDM by Linton for Pocklington. Goxhill is on the same QDM & a/c did not land at Poklington. Informed 4 Gr F.C.
Pundits AS4 requested 1, 115, 91, 140 & 155 dusk to dawn. Stations informed.
[Page break]
2230. Provisional American Diversion C.F.C. intimated possibility of the necessity for diversion bases for American Squadrons a/c if they took off on ops. tomorrow. Our co-operation was requested. After consultation with the Controller following stations in 6 Group were selected to be used:- Middleton, Croft, Topcliffe, Linton & Eastmoor, - providing weather conditions were O.K.
2235 ditto Informed C.F.C. of above, and inasmuch as the probability of being able to take off was remote, it was not considered necessary to inform our stations.
[Underlined] WEDNESDAY – OCT 13- 1942 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0200 Pundits 1, 91, & 140 cancelled by A.S.4.
0330 Pundits 115 & 155 ditto.
0900 Off duty H.L. Spence P/O.
0900 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
09.15 428/I. At Bottesford. 5 Gp. enquire if he can return. Consulted Met. here & also Middleton. Decided weather unfit & he will probably have to remain until morning.
09.45 429 a/c Instructions passed to all 429 a/c away from base to stand by their aircraft ready to take off (W/C Pattison’s instructions) Doubtful if they can return due to weather conditions –
[Page break]
[Underlined] Wednesday, Oct 13th 1943 [/underlined]
10.00 427/L Told to stand by aircraft at Gt. Ashfield for instructions to return later in day. (W/C Turnbull.)
11.20 Ẋ/76 from Top., This a/c took off from Top. at 11.15 for Holme. Informed MLS 12 Gp.
1500 427 429 a/c All crews away from base to stand-down. Warned to be ready early tomorrow morning.
15.00 X-Countries 1659 C. U. Scrubbed.
16.45 Oxford P822 overdue. Leeming F.C. called stating that they had received signal from Gt. Ashfield that their Oxford was returning at 14.16. This put him one hour overdue. Checked with F/C Gt. Ashfield & they said he had called on RT to say he was going to Hethal. Called Hethal who say he is still there. Flap over -
18.40 Met. for tonight. Warning that despite temporary improvement met. feel very strongly that weather may clamp down at any moment. All contemplated X-C’s should be scrubbed.
1830 Off duty F/Lt. Cleland, on duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
[Underlined] Thursday October 14, 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident. Board changed.
0830 a/c away Air I instructed that stations & our met. be consulted as to getting our a/c back as soon as possible. Met. Say our weather is okay but some of the southern stations still have fog (all our stations want them back immediately.) Instructed by 11 Gp. 3rd & 2nd U.S. Div. to have
[Page break]
our a/c return as soon as the weather was fit down there. Stations informed.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
0910. 428/P. M.S.G. instruct the 2 members of this crew who were to have come back from Manston with F/L McLeish are to stay there until F/S. Armour arrives. Passed to F.C.L.O. 11 Group for transmission to Manston.
0915 Movement. Arranged with M.L.S. 12 for air firing at R.H.B. & Whitby & bombing at Strensall for Hals. Wells. & Lancs from 1000-1800 hrs. Ref. E-15.
1005 426/V Air I authorized W/C Sweatman to fly Lancaster to Tangmere for purpose of taking down crew to bring back 426/V. S/L Hughes (Pilot of 426/V) who is in hospital is to be ready to return at 1400 hrs. Passed to F.C.L.O. 11 Group for transmission to Tangmere.
1015 American Early Returns C.F.C. advise allotment of Croft, M.S.G. & Topcliffe for any American early returns this morning. Stations concerned, & Controller informed.
1125 ditto. 509/R Polebrook 1st U.S. Wing state this early return has been diverted to Topcliffe. R/T cs. Seagreen. W/T LG.K. Topcliffe informed.
[Page break]
1128 Crash Nr Thirsk R.O.C. report [deleted] crash [/deleted] smoke [inserted] 1/4 mile [/inserted] north of Thirsk near Stockston Rd. in Z9103.
1130 ditto Topcliffe sate crash occurred 1/4 mile north of Thirsk on the Kelvington Rd. No identification has been made yet. The N.F.S. are on the scene and our Fire Tender & Ambulance are on the way. The aircraft is burning and it is understood four bodies have been removed.
1200 1659/T. Crash (JD419) Reference entries 1128 & 1130 hrs. Topcliffe state this is their own a/c which was on a & l practice. 2 Port Engines cut and attempt was made to force land. Crew consisted of only 4 personnel – 2 of which are O.K. and 2 badly injured.
1230 ditto Topcliffe now state original report of only 2 being injured was optimistic. Crew of 3 are at North Allerton Hospital & the 4th is being taken by Skipton ambulance
Crew were:-
F/O Dickson – Pilot
F/L. Cook – Gun Ldr.
P/O. Shaw.
Sgt. Omar. All concerned informed
1238 525/E From Kimbolton (1 U/S Wing) landed at Croft 1238 hrs. F.C.O. 1st U.S. Wing informed.
1345 25756/J R Polebrook Landed at Leeming 1310 hrs. Informed 1st. U.S. Wing. Used R/T CS Daisychain & is the one diverted to Topcliffe originally.
[Page break]
1400 E/431 Air I authorized 431 Sqn to send crew in Halifax to Shipdham to bring this a/c back. 62 Base informed.
1600 Prov. Diversion Americans Central Flying Control warn of possibility of diverting American a/c at dusk & later. Following consultation with Met., Controller, Stations, the following were offered:-
M.S.G.
Croft.
Leeming
Topcliffe
Linton
Tholthorpe
Eastmoor
Each station to be prepared to take care of 20 a/c. Stations & Air I informed.
1700 1659/C Fix from Hull. 5329N 0442W 1st class 1647 hrs. Acknowledged. Topcliffe informed.
1659/S Fix Fix from Hull 5419N 0446W 2nd class, 1653 hrs. acknowledged. Topcliffe informed.
1755 Prov. Diversion Americans. Central Flying Control advise American home bases were coping satisfactorily and there appeared little likelihood of our assistance. 6 Group stations informed of the situation. They are to stand down but be prepared to take care of any stragglers if necessary.
1805. 431/B. 431/P Fix Fix from Hull. 5539N 0051E, 1st Class 1742 hrs Ack.
Fix from Hull 5522N 0108E, 1st Class, 1746 hrs. ack.
62 Base informed.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Oct 14th 1943 [/underlined]
1805 Pundits 1, 91, 115, 140 & 155 requested by A.S 4 from dusk to dawn. Stations informed.
1830 Off duty H.L. Spence P/O.
1830 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
18.50 Anson Crashed. ROC 9. state that Anson (Millom) crashed near Whiteavon. Had originally believed it to be Oxford from Linton. All under control now.
19.30 Diversion to Leeming. 5 Gp. wish us to take 6 Lancs. After consulting met, decided Leeming was best. Leeming warned – 207 Squadron from Spilsby.
[Underlined] WT Call Sign A/C RT. Call Sign [/underlined]
KCQ DBK. 4 Officers 38 NCO’s. “October”.
WUY ZSP.
Purely weather diversion – no petrol shortage.
20.00 Night Flying. Night flying details passed to stations, 12 Gp & R.O.C.
21.00 Leeming’s weather. Leeming not to satisfied about weather. Checked with met. re diversions from Spilsby – If they arrive soon then Leeming OK – if not, Middleton is expected to be OK. Middleton warned –
Tholthorpe’s Aircraft. 62 Base request provisional diversion base – Told Middleton is OK.
Lancs. from 5 Gp. All landed safely at Spilsby. Middleton & Leeming informed.
22.50 Tholthorpe a/c. All down but C/431.
22.55 431/C. Told by W/C Newsome to break cloud on Leeming beam. Checked with met who say QBB Tholthorpe is only 7-800 ft. Advised Linton Base to send him to either Topcliffe or [deleted] Linton [/deleted] Leeming if unable to land Tholthorpe.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Oct. 14th 1943. [/underlined]
23.25 431/C Did not break cloud on Leeming beam. Was diverted by RT. from Tholthorpe to Leeming. This was done by W/C Newsome [inserted] (ic night flying). [/inserted] When I checked [deleted] abo [/deleted] upon Leeming this info. from 62 Base and called Leeming; they did not have lights on and had not been warned by Tholthorpe previously. This matter was reported to F/C Linton Base who will take it up tomorrow.
23.35 431/C Landed at Tholthorpe OK after breaking cloud. Topcliffe & Leeming stood down.
[Underlined] Friday. Oct. 15th 1943 [/underlined]
00.01 All quiet.
07.00 Anson from Leeming. Leaving for Mildenhall at 07.30 via Spalding. Pilot is S/L of BAT Flight Leuchars who will use beam en route & for landing. Checked met who say conditions for take-off & landing – OK, but fog & low cloud en route.
07.30 Gladiator from Docking. Met. reconnaissance aircraft. C.F.C. enquire if we can land him in this group. Yes. 16 Group enquired direct and were told that we have fit stations. Will call us later if we are needed.
0750 Gladiator from Docking. Landed at Base OK.
09.00 Off duty F.W. Cleland F/L. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1015 Croft a/c. Hal. took off to have a look at the weather and is having trouble getting down. Where can they land him as there weather has closed in? After consulting Met., gave them Acklington. Croft could not contact him again by R/T and plots showed him stooging all over Group. Informed all station in Group to try and contact him by R/T or W/T and give him a course to steer to Acklington & fly at 4000 ft.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Friday Oct 15th 1943 [/underlined]
Croft a/c (cont) 12 Gp. say Newcastle balloons at 1500 ft. and defences have been warned.
Leeming eventually picked him up on W/T and he asked for the QFE. Leeming told him to fly at 4000 ft. gave him the QFE but when they sent out the diversion he did not acknowledge. He flew up and down Leeming’s beam, apparently working it. No further contact by R/T or W/T was effected. Leeming have their contact on & money flares out.
At 11.30 Acklington’s weather went unfit and 12 Gp. & Met. say Drem is very fit. All stations informed that they are to send him to Drem at 4000 ft.
Pilot is P/O Barker, has a full crew and 6 hours petrol. P/O Barker is an instructor at Croft.
The a/c finally landed at Leeming at 11.35 in vis. of 150 yds (!)
[Underlined] Report from Pilot: [/underlined] his R/T was u/s and as he intended to land on the beam [inserted] at Leeming [/inserted] he sent his WOP back to the rest position so had no W/T contact. He found the money flares at Leeming very helpful.
All stations informed & stood down. Also 12 Gp.
1215 Topcliffe have heard an R/T transmission: “Return to base, weather u/s, steer 045°” Call sign “Pegan L” ROC have 3 Lancs which they say are from Bourn
1220 Skipton – Darky Have heard a darky call but cannot contact him. ROC now have what they think is a Halifax at 6000 ft west of Skipton going west, and also 2 Lancs. 12 Gp. informed.
1310 Wyton a/c Middleton H/F D/F had TCU-E (Wyton a/c) on to them asking if they had any message – said he would
[Page break]
[Underlined] Friday Oct 15th 1943. [/underlined]
call back at 13.20. Wyton have no message and say their weather is good. Passed “no message” to aircraft.
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty HL Spence. P/O.
2359 All quiet.
[Underlined] SATURDAY – OCT 16/43. [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
09.00 Off duty [deleted] FD [/deleted] HL Spence P/O
On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
09.30 a/c away from Bases. 428/P at Manston & 428/Z at Bottesford both S. Told to return by Middleton.
11.30 Radar Routes. List of Special training X-Countries on Movements file.
12.15 Ex Topcliffe. Signals Officer at Topcliffe has told F.C. to discontinue giving QFE’s in clear, but in terms of a + or – from the basic QFE. Topcliffe will continue in clear in cases of emergency.
15.48 Well. NZ415 This a/c left Leeming at 13.40 hrs to go direct to Silloth. Pilot got met. report & said he would fly at 4000’ direct. Reported overdue by 9 Group via 4 Group. Pilot S/L Matthewman.
16.07 Well. NZ415 OK. Circling Silloth now.
16.20 Oxford R6160 Left Tholthorpe this morning 10.52 hrs. Route via West of Newcastle, Dyce & Peterhead. Had not landed Peterhead at 16.20. Query from 12 Gp.
[Page break]
Saturday. Oct 16/43
17.00 Exercise “Rose” MLO 12 called re Middlesborough [sic] balloons on day of exercise. If enemy approaches then balloons must go up. Suggested a warning or recall signal to be devised by Middleton in this event. Also requested early information if exercise to be carried out or not on Oct 24th
Passed to F/C Middleton-
18.25 Crash at Z6155 12 Group report crash. Middleton asked to send out Fire tender & Ambulance. Fir Tree 4 mi W of Bishop Aukland [sic]. Crash occurred at 17.45, say ROC.
1830 Off duty F.D Cleland On duty D.H Miller F/Lt.
1850 Crash Phoned Tow Law police station to get some information on the crash at Fir Tree (aircraft priority call) One of the men on ROC post J1 (Durham area) was at the police station and says up till ten minutes ago he had seen no crash. He did see, however, an a/c over his post at 17.45; it turned west flying very low but did not appear to be in any trouble. Informed 12 Gp. of this. He says he got his information from the police in the area and will check back right away. Middleton’s crash tender & ambulance have both gone. All Group aircraft are down.
[Underlined] DFCO Note [/underlined] Dishforth’s pundit has moved to Riccall.
20.10 Crash ROC Durham report via ROC that the police have been searching the area of the reported crash and can find no trace of it. 12 Gp. FCLO informed but is inclined to have our crash tender out there till it is definitely confirmed there is no crash.
2020 Martinet on way from Yeovilton to Ouston, landed Middleton 1840 due to weather. All informed.
[Page break]
2055-21.15 Crash After several calls to 12 FCLO nothing definite re crash could be obtained so contacted Newcastle controller and put a strong complaint to him. He gives the following story: ROC asked the police to search for an aircraft they thought may have crashed in Z6155 at 19.45 hrs. Durham & Stanhope police made a search & reported they could find nothing. The ROC post misinterpreted the report, taking it there had been a crash & so passed it to Newcastle, then to 12 Gp who passed it to us as a definite crash at 18.25 and requested us to send out our crash tender from Middleton.
21.15 Crash S/L Harris, who went out with crash tender phoned from Fir Tree, saying they could find [deleted] noet [/deleted] nothing of the crash and was told to return immediately by the Controller.
[Underlined] Sunday October 17/43 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Bd. changed.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty HL. Spence P/O.
0915 R.A.F. Sta. Heston Visiting a/c prohibited from remaining overnight except on account of unserviceability or bad weather.
D.F.C.O’s [underlined] to note [/underlined] No re-fuelling facilities afforded to visiting a/c except in emergency; pilots must make arrangements to refuel at other airfields when visiting Hendon.
1030. Petrol Weather Provis. Diversion Requested Harwell for 6 Wells.
[Page break]
11.30. Prov. Diversion Base. Cancelled request for Harwell & asked for Pershore – weather should be better:- on advice of Met. & Controller
1115 LFB #24 (Torquay) 10 Group F.C.L.O. requested to lay on from 2130-2230 on 360°T.
62 Base informed.
1115 to 1200 Balloons B.L.O’s 9, 10 & 12 Groups confirmed flying of balloons as follows:-
Manchester & Crew. [sic]
Cardiff, Bristol } all at 500 ft.
Newport Weston } from 1800-0001 hrs.
Derby & Sheffield
We will be informed if need arises to change the height – 62 Base informed.
1135. Lanc from Lossiemouth 4 Gr. F.C. has stated an a/c of 3 Group en route from Lossiemouth might require diversion landing. Checked with Met and as MSG was only Green airfield in 6 Group offered it. MSG standing by.
1215 ditto. 3 Gr. F.C. advise they have diverted the concerned a/c to Tangmere and M.S.G. not required to stand by. Informed M.S.G.
1440 Balloons Yeovil B.LO. 10 Gr. confirmed these balloons will be at 1500 ft, this Group to be informed of any change. [inserted] 2145-2245. [/inserted] 62 [deleted] Group [/deleted] Base informed.
1505 Prov Diversion C.F.C. confirmed Pershore as provisional diversion base.
[Page break]
1630 Pundits A.S. 4. Request 91, 115 & 140 dusk to dawn. Stations informed.
18.30 Off Duty H.L. Spence P/O
On duty. F.D. Cleland F/L
20.00 Met. Met. say weather should be fair to midnight. Clear skies & moderate visibility.
21.00 A/c Landed Away from bases last 7 op. flights Air I asked for total numbers of aircraft landed away and also number landing at American bases.
* Attention DFCO There is a list of aircraft and bases they landed at in back of log if required for fuller details.
22.30 Leeming for 432 a/c Warned Leeming that diversion of 432 a/c to them is probable due to weather. All details passed.
23.30 Leeming. Stood down.
[Underlined] Oct 18th 1943 [/underlined]
00.01 Pershore Called 91 Gp & stood Pershore down.
01.00 Ident. Board changed
09.00 Off duty FD Cleland F/L On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1025 Permission given by Air I to send ground crew down by air to Shipdham to repair 431/E which has a coolant leak & mag. drop.
1045 Weather Met. say no diversion bases required tonight.
Bullseye 12 Gp. Night Ops. (12 Gp PBX 128) requested our participation in a Bullseye tonight: Route:- Base – St. Neots – Goole(IR) Newcastle, Glasgow,
[Page break]
Edinburgh, Middlesborough, [sic] Goole (IR) Lincoln, Base.
Bombing runs will be made at Newcastle, Glasgow, & Middlesborough.
Starting beacon at St. Neots
Starting time 19.30 at St. Neots.
Aircraft will fly at 14000-15000 ft and will be spaced at 2 minute intervals. There will be searchlights and beams and Mosquitoes all along the route.
All information passed to stations concerned.
1350 Movements [underlined] E 296 [/underlined] Hal. & Lancs. bombing at Strensall and air firing at Strensall from 14.15 till 1800.
1430 Weather 431/E on practice flight over east coast to 5500N 0200E is going to send an [deleted] practice [/deleted] training bomber code between 1600 & 16.30 hrs. the tops of the clouds in that area. Tholthorpe want message to be sent to them undecoded.
1530 LFB #2 Arranged with Controller 12 Gp. for LFB #2 to be exposed at bearing of 265°T. Times to be notified later when target is decided.
1600 LFB #2 will be exposed as above from 21.45-23.00 hrs.
1745 Night Flying passed to ROC & stations
1750 Weather 431/E (see 1430 above) sent message to 62 Base that tops of clouds over North Sea were at 18000 ft. Controller informed.
1755 AC Marshal Ludlow Hewitt. landed at Dalton 17.53 in an Oxford from Church Fenton. AOC, & Controller & Air I
[Page break]
informed. AOC knew nothing of this visit and would like to know more about it. On enquiry from Topcliffe it was found that the visit is thought to be unofficial so Topcliffe although expecting him did not notify Group. ACM L/H will be staying overnight in Ripon and landed at Dalton as it was the nearest aerodrome. W/C Holmes, C.O. of Dalton met him. He will be going to Scotland tomorrow.
1830. Off duty F/L. Miller
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
1840. Darky. F.C.L.O. 12 Group. A/c (Hal) circling in. Z64 asking for course to steer, appeared lost. After consultation offered Croft & M.S.G. Believe it is 1664/O. a/c as they heard from him on R/T but he did not appear to get them on either R/T or W/T.
1850 1920 do. 12 Group advise a/c now in Newcastle area (Ouston & Woolington). Beaufighters sent to lead him in. He appears to start to follow the Beau. but veers off. Viz about 1 mile at Ouston. Last heard of about 10 miles SE of Ouston. Newcastle instructed to have Beau. lead him to Croft.
1935 1945 1664/O. Landed at Ouston, roughly due to bent starboard Oleo leg. Crew OK and staying overnight. Croft state Sgt. Smilie has no experience on night landing in Halifax. Requested Croft to advise us,
[Page break]
DFCO [underlined] NOTE for information of 12 Group F.C.L.O. of the assistance received by this a/c from the R.O.C. and reason for not following Beaufighter, etc. [/underlined] Croft suggest latest information on method used by fighters to lead in last aircraft be circulated to all stations.
[Deleted] 09 [/deleted] 2100 408/H 426/K. [underlined] SOS ↓[/underlined] 62 Base advise these 2 E.R’s have been instructed to jettison 30 miles out from Flamborough Head. M.L.O 12 request they go 50 miles out if possible. Informed 62 Base who believe a/c are out of range but would try to contact them again.
2145 426/T S.O.S. At 2133 a/c gave position [deleted] 043 [/deleted] 5232N 0433E and requested fix in S.O.S. message. Hull replied with 1st class fix viz, 5210N 0343E at 2134. A/c acknowledged. At 2138 Hull gave 2nd class fix of 5155N 0355E, also acknowledged by a/c.
F.C.L.O. 11 Group advised of above and asked to render all possible assistance.
2148 426/T FIX IN “G” CO-ORDINATES Hull reported message from a/c “B672 C3840” at 2140 hrs – interpreted as “G” position [deleted] 02 [/deleted] 5212N 0352E
2150 426/T Fix from Hull 5158N 0300E 3rd class at 2143, acknowledged.
62 Base informed of above status of aircraft.
[Page break]
2158 426/T S.O.S. message from Hull: “Force landing 5207N 0220E – 2152 hrs.” 62 Base informed.
Proposal of 11 Group to send out a fighter was cancelled due to enemy activity.
0145 19/10/43 429/T 11 Gp F/C say entire crew of a/c picked up by a “flack” ship off Southwold and at present in the Aldeburgh Police Station. Linton told.
2200. 426/F Ident & message from Hull: 5303N 0225E. 2nd class. Sighted crew baled out 1824 at 5324N 0047E. Passed to 62 Base & 12 Group F.C.L.O.
[Underlined] TUES. – OCT. 19/43 [/underlined]
0041 426/F Received amplification of entry 2200 hrs from Captain viz. that a/c was at 18000 ft on a course of [deleted] 182° [/deleted] 128°M and saw an eruption of water indicating jettisoning, and a parachute. Two parachutes seen close together later.
Passed above to 12 Group.
0100 Ident Board changed.
0140. Pundits A.S.4 request cancelled.
0900 Off duty H.L. Spence. P/O.
09.00 On duty. F.D. Cleland F/L
10.45 Prov. Petrol Diversion Bases. Asked C.F.C. for bases for approx. 77 Halis. & 28 Lancs between S. coast & the Wash. Approx. time midnight. They will call after Met. conference.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Tuesday. Oct 19th 1943. [/underlined]
11.00 Air Chief Marshall Ludlow Hewitt. Oxford DF 336. Leaving Dalton at 11.00 hrs. W/Op. requests we ask E. Fortune to pass their call sign on DF at intervals and listen to their call sign RBV as they may be very weak – also Darky set up. Route. Base – Middleton – Tesham Harbour – East Fortune.
Passed to 17 Group. ROC, 12 Group & E. Fortune. 13 Gp.
11.40 MLS 12 Gp. Blanket coverage [underlined] E229 [/underlined] given for Air to Air, Air to Sea, Fighter Affil. Bombing at Strensall – Ht. Tests up to 18000’ during 11.30 hrs to 18.00 hrs.
12.45 Thames Est Balloons & Canterbury Balloons. At 1500’ [deleted] dusk to dawn [/deleted] 00.01-02.00 hrs.
Billingham. Close hauled 16.30-1800 and 01.30-03.00 hrs.
Dungeness – Landfall beacon 360° 00.15-01.15 hrs.
Bradwell Bay – Landfall beacon 320° 00.30-01.30 hrs.
13.00 ASR of 426/T. No further information. Evidently landed close to a Flak ship and were sighted very quickly.
15.30 Ops Cancelled. Cancelled LF Beacons & Balloon arrangements
1600. HQ. 62 Base. Permission given to 408 Sqdn to fly Lancaster to Martlesham Heath to pick up crew who ditched last night. Taking off at 16:30.
1630 HQ Base 62 Checked with S/L Lyles that the weather picture for a/c going to Martlesham is fully appreciated since conditions for return are expected to be very serious.
S/L Lyles advised that weather picture is appreciated. That the a/c has taken off. That pilot will recheck
[Page break]
conditions at Base prior to take off for return.
1650 Advised F/C. Martlesham of all foregoing entry.
1820 V/408 Ex. Base 62. Aircraft which went to Martlesham Heath is remaining there the night. Pilot S/L Miles.
1830 – Off duty [Signature]
On duty F/Lt. Miller
1845 V/408 3 Gp. phoned asking if we had diverted V/408 to Stradishall. Told them it was news to us but checked with 62 Base who said all they knew was that it had been okayed by W/C Ferris. Apparently Martlesham F/C had told Stradishall direct that he was just taking off for Strad. and 3 Gp. are very put out about the whole thing. The Station Commander at Stradishall is also displeased & wants to know why this a/c is coming when they haven’t been properly notified. CFC are taking a dim view of the whole business.
1900 V/408 62 Base have now learned from W/C Ferris that the pilot V/408 phoned W/C Ferris from Martlesham saying the weather was okay to return to Linton. W/C Ferris said to come back but if he met with adverse weather he was to land at an intermediate A/D. Explained the situation to 3 Gp. and apologised for the trouble they were caused. V/408 landed at Stradishall at 18.48 and will be staying the night. 62 Base informed.
[Page break]
1930 1664/O Darky (see 18.40 Oct. 18 log) Croft explain that the reason this a/c did not follow the Beaufighter was as follows: Pilot (F/S Smillie) was uncertain of his position at dusk, his W/T was U/S and he had no Gee. He asked for QDM to base after calling darky, thought he heard “185° 17 miles Newcastle”; he circled but had no further contact with ground. Later he saw a pundit which he circled, flashing his lights. He got no reply however but saw some rockets and lights and prepared to land. It was then he saw the Beaufighter for the first time but his petrol was low and he landed. The aerodrome was Ouston but he had no R/T contact with it as they were on a different frequency.
2130 A/S Rescue Can we send 8 a/c on air sea search tomorrow morning? Air I says 8 a/c of 432 to be detailed for it.
Area: 5452N 0330E 5510N 0450E
5510N 0330E 5452N 0450E
Callsign: WCF 65-72 inclusive
Parallel track search from west to east with 1/4 mile visibility. A/c will be on 500 kc. except at the hour & 1/2 hour when for a period of 5 min they will be on sect J (385 kcs.)
When they see a dinghy, a/c are to climb & get a fix over the dinghy on 385 kc. & send a report in Operational Bombing code on this freq. giving number of occupants, and remain circling dinghy to total of their endurance. Instructions will be given to a/c by W/T. Not likely there will be any boats out as far as that and as airborne life boat may have to be sent out. A dinghy is believed to be in that area.
[Page break]
Air I’s instructions: aircraft are not to fly above 2000 ft. on the way out and back and are to be careful of being blown too far east by strong SW’ly winds. They are not to be airborne more than 5 hours – ETZ to ETD.
Met: Front will be past 0500°E by 0900 hrs. but there will be showers with 2-3000 ft/ cloud base. Wind at 2000 ft 220° 40-50 mph. Bases will be okay from 0800-1300 hrs.
All information passed to 62 Base.
1030 A/S Rescue From Chatham: a/c [deleted] circling [/deleted] sighting a dinghy, after sending message in code, is to circle dinghy and listen out on 385 kc. continuously for relieving a/c and home it when it comes up.
2330 Pundits AS4 request Pundit 115 from now till dawn.
2345 A/S Rescue Linton DSO enquired what code the a/c were to use. He was instructed to use Operational Bomber Code which 16 Gp. agreed with.
[Underlined] Wednesday October 20th 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Bd. changed.
0817 V/408 instructed him to return to base from Stradishall immediately. Informed 62 Base
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty HL Spence P/O.
Blanket Movement Air firing at R.H.B. & Whitby and bombing at Strensall for Hals. Wells & Lancs from 1000-1800 hrs – arranged with M.L.S. 12 – Ref. E15
[Page break]
0915 426/T 11 Group reported wreckage of a Lancaster washed up on beach near Cost Guard Station at Aldeburgh. Framlingham (U.S. Station) is arranging to pull it further up the beach to prevent it being washed away with the tide which goes out at 1600 hrs. It is thought likely to be the 426 Sqn a/c which was abandoned night of 18/19. Group Engr. Officer informed & Air I.
0945 Air-Sea Rescue 16 Group F.C.L.O. informed 432 Sqn a/c airborne 0921 hrs.
1220 LFB #2 Will be laid on 270°T from 2330 to 0030 hrs. Arranged thru Ops 12 Gr. 62 Base informed.
1200 1355. 1664/W. Darky. This a/c on C & L and local flying appeared to become lost. Croft heard Darky calls at various times from it but could not make contact. Checked with R.O.C., 12 Gr., Thornaby, Scorton, etc. who had no information of any a/c in distress. Finally 12 Group informed us it had landed at Morpeth. Latter stated a/c had a glycol leak in S.I. Motor. Landed 1330 hrs.
1050. 431/E Air I authorized 431/N to land at Shipdham on x-country to deliver spare parts for this a/c. 62 Base informed.
1458 Crash. Advice from 12 Group of a Halifax having crashed in Z8139. R.O.C.
[Page break]
state position as Grid Z8139 on the Darlington Sedgefield Rd., near Sudburgh. [inserted] Sedburgh [/inserted] M.S.G. informed. Darlington Police are believed to have arranged for ambulance & fire tender to go to the scene.
1510 1520. Crash M.S.G. reported the crash occurred near Army Searchlight Battery 343 and Army ambulance & guard was on hand. Army map ref. 849433. Latest information is that all crew were killed and aircraft is a total loss. Our crash tender, Engr. Officer & M.O. proceeding to scene of crash.
1530 [Underlined] A.S.R. Search 432/Q [/underlined] reported seeing a red bottom dinghy from height of 25-30 ft. at position 5508N 0348E at 1108 hrs.
[Underlined] 432/H [/underlined] reported a balloon (barrage) at pos. 5444N 0247E, at 1245 hrs. from a height of 600 ft. A Mitchell aircraft was circling it.
F.C.L.O. 16 Group informed of these reports & that last a/c of 432 Sqn on the search returned at 1446 hrs.
12 Group informed any showing of a broad I.F.F. from an aircraft of 432 Sqn on this search could only have been through faulty mechanism and a check of the sets is being made.
1600 408/V Landed back at base from Stradishall at 1000 hrs. (Not informed until checked-up.)
[Page break]
1740 Crash 1664/L. DG343. Controller received advice that crash referred to in previous entries was 1664/L from Croft. A/c had just finished Fighter Affiliation exercise. R.O.C. had it plotted at 4000 ft – it appeared to make 2 rolls and then dropped at a 45° angle to crash. The a/c burned, and 6 bodies recovered were scattered over an area of 2 to 3 hundred yards. (All parties informed)
1830. Night Flying passed to R.O.C. & Stations
Off duty HL Spence. P/O.
On duty FD Cleland F/L.
23.04 Florid “N” This aircraft circling MSG & calling “Middleton St. George this is “Florid” N-Nan.” Checked on call sign for MSG. A/c belongs to Wymeswold 93 Gp O.T.U.
23.25 Florid “N” Landed.
23.25 408/H Sent message HF/DF Linton 23.15. “53°10’N 0450E Heading 250° 165 mph 18000’. Running short of petrol.”
408 H Upon inst. from Air I this a/c was told to land at Coltishall. Acknowledged by a/c. Also told to go over to MF.
23.32 408 H. MF Hull told if H called to confirm diversion
[Underlined] Thursday Oct 21st 1943 [/underlined]
00.10 408 J Fix “5308N 0220E II” puts him off E. Anglia. Passed C’signs to FCLO in case he makes for Nkf or Suffolk.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Thursday Oct 21st 1943 [/underlined]
00.35 Well. O/82 OUT Gamston. Landed 00.15. Croft. Told 93 Gp.
00.45 Hal. D/1664 Croft now claim this a/c overdue
00.48 Hal. D/1664 Croft now say he landed at 23.30. We were not told, and also times for X-C route were not correctly passed earlier.
(Explanation later from Croft – New clerk put X-C times on their board wrongly – those given to us were correct. Also clerk forgot to write up landing time, so this was not passed to us.)
07.47 Whitley 81 OTU. – 403N. Landed at Skipton after calling “Darky”. Belongs to Tilstock 81 OTU. Pilot Sgt. Ross. Short of petrol. Had been on unsuccessful gardening mission.
09.00 Off duty. F.D. Cleland F/L On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0945 Movement E 216 Hal. & Lancs. bombing at Strensall & air firing at Whitby from 1100 to 1800 hrs. Also height tests locally from 1030-1700 hrs. to height of 16000 ft.
1100 Tilstock a/c at Skipton ready to take off. Checked weather at Tilstock with 93 Gp. who say they are having an occasional shower there and want the a/c to remain until they advise us weather is okay. Informed Linton. 93 Gp. say weather at Gamston is okay & advised them their Well. O/82 OTU would be taking off in about 10 mins.
1045 Wombleton 1666 a/c are now moving to Wombleton; 2 or 3 a/c have already taken off without flying control either at base, Dalton or Wombleton having been notified. The wind at Wombleton is 15+ mph. 60° off the runway giving a strong starboard drift. Flying control is not very happy about
[Page break]
the situation but the flight commander, F/Lt. Reed thinks the a/c can cope. Controller suggests F/Lt Reed fly over & if he thinks it is all right then, the a/c are not to be stopped.
1130 AOC to Wombleton From 61 Base: The AOC intends to fly to Wombleton today but the conditions (see above) are not very good. Controller informed.
1310 F & W of 1659 H.C.U. – w. crossing coast at Scarborough 1420 hrs for Air Firing practice and recrossing coast at 1520 hrs.
“F.” practicing 3 engine flying locally between 1600 hrs and 1800 hrs.
Z & J Air to Air – Crossing cost at 1535 hrs – recrossing coast at 1636 hrs.
1315 “E” of 419 Sqdn crossing coast at 1410 for Air to Air – recrossing coast at 1510.
1430 AOC to Wombleton From 62 Base: AOC took off from Linton at 14.25 for Wombleton in the Phoenix. 61 Base informed. There is a strong cross wind at Wombleton but AOC has been warned.
1440 AOC landed at Wombleton at 14.35.
1400-1545 408/H at Bungay – pilot phoned through to say his CSU or SOE is U/S and wants to know what to do. Referred to 408 W/C who says pilot is to try and contact eng. officer at Little Snoring (115 Sqdn) and have him repair the a/c if possible. Could not contact the pilot again as the lines are U/S for the present (!) Finally got through at 1550 and passed message to the pilot direct.
[Page break]
1630 1666 HCU 9 a/c are now at Wombleton [deleted] Cro [/deleted] S/D informed. 5 left at Dalton, 1 at Croft, 1 at Topcliffe.
1702 AOC left Wombleton at 1700 hrs. 62 Base informed.
Ditching of 426/T (see 21.45 entry Oct 18) On enquiry into this matter the following was found:
From the duty Staff Officer at Harwich: the ditching of the a/c was heard and reported by a soldier to the [deleted] Naval [/deleted] Duty Staff Officer at Harwich via the Naval Coast Guard. The Duty Staff Officer immediately had the Royal National Lifeboat Institute send out a lifeboat to the position and also arranged for the army to sweep the sea with searchlights. The crew however had reached shore via dinghy when the life boat arrived and they were taken to the Aldeburgh police station.
From the crew of 426/T:
Returning from operations, they crossed the coast at 800 ft. and two engines cut. Pilot immediately turned out to sea to ditch and effected a successful ditching a mile or so off shore. Ten feet from the water the remaining two engines cut. After boarding the dinghy the crew were carried to shore by the wind and tide. The a/c is believed to have been washed ashore.
The crew are now back at Linton.
1730 AOC landed back at Linton 17.23. 61 Base informed.
1830 Pundits #91, #115 & #140 requested by A.S.4 from dusk to dawn. Stations informed.
Off duty F/L Miller. – On duty HL Spence. P/O.
[Page break]
1915 Night Flying Passed to R.O.C. & Stations.
2100 1664/K. (EB-136) [underlined] Crash [/underlined] (Squadron Letters DH) This a/c on C & L details ground looped on take off at 2040 hrs. Crew are O.K. but proceeded to sick quarters. A/c thought to be cat ac. or [underlined] Cat. “E” [/underlined] Pilot slightly injured in the face.
2105 Pundits Request by A.S.4 cancelled. Stations informed.
2130 1664/K. (Squadron Letters ZU) This x-country a/c has made 2 Darky calls – one answered by Chipping Norden at 2109 hrs & the other by Barford St John at 2115 hrs. appears to be OK and merely verifying his position. Above passed by 92 Group to Croft direct.
2315 Redfinch “X” Darky 62 Base reported giving m/n aircraft a QDM of 157/30 miles to Goole. Advised 92 Gr. for information of Market Harborough
[Underlined] FRIDAY – OCT 22ND – 1943 [/underlined]
0030. Elflake “L” Darky. Croft report a/c calling darky Trying to contact it. Middleton advised
0008 Maple “P” (Whitby) 12 Group request Linton light up for this a/c which is being searchlighted there. 62 Base informed.
0015 Maple “P” 12 Group request cancelled as a/c has secured a fix and is returning to base.
0044 No 30 O.T.U. a/c “L” Wellington Landed at Leeming – Port Engine U/S.
[Page break]
Staying overnight. 93 Gr F.C. informed for transmission to Seighford.
0100 Ident Board changed.
0120 Crash Croft reported aircraft which had entered their circuit had disappeared and shortly thereafter a flash of flame had been seen to the south east. R.O.C. York 9 confirmed this and thought the crash had occurred at Croft.
0130. Crash Definite location of crash not yet determined. Scorton had no knowledge of it. Police in that vicinity being questioned.
0145 Crash Scorton advise they have a general idea of location & were taking action.
0200 1664/H. M.S.G. state they are endeavouring to contact 1664/H, which is considerably overdue from x-country, by W/T.
0205 Crash. Croft state latest information from A.R.P. is that crash occurred at Church House Farm near North Cowton & local fire-tender & ambulance are on the scene.
0210 Crash Scorton have informed Croft that crash occurred west of South Cowton at an intersection of 3 roads called Atley Hill. Crash tender, ambulance and M.O. from both Scorton & Croft en route as location appears to be midway between Stations, approx. 4 miles from each.
[Page break]
0240. 1664/H No W/T contact has been made with this a/c which is now more than 1 hr overdue.
0310 [Underlined] Crash 1664/H. [/underlined] EB 199 Sgt. Simmons (Capt.) Croft have confirmed that this is their aircraft. No explanation of the cause is possible. [Underlined] Six [/underlined] of the crew were [underlined] killed outright [/underlined] and the [underlined] 7th, [/underlined] the Observer, while still alive is very [underlined] badly injured, [/underlined] and was taken to Scorton Sick Quarters. [Underlined] The aircraft is a complete write-off [/underlined] R.A.F. Regiment from Croft is furnishing a guard. Croft is also taking all necessary signal action etc.
0900 Off duty HL Spence P/O.
0900 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
11.00 Blanket Coverage for Movements. E266 covers Ht. Tests. Air to Air. Air to Sea, Local Flying & Bombing. Lancs. Halis & Wells during daylight.
10.00 Crashes of 1664 C.U. All concerned at Group informed.
13.00 Landfall Beacons #2 & #10 arranged.
14.00 Landfall Beacons #10 cancelled and #2 ordered from 23.00-00.01 bearing of 270°T.
14.55 Bullseye Offered 3 Lancs 432 Sq., 3 Hals. 1664, 7 Hals. 1659.
17.00 Bullseye scrubbed. Passed to 62 Base, 1664 Croft and FCLO 11 Gp. & Fighter Command.
17.00 Diversion Bases. Allotments as follows:
[Page break]
[Underlined] Oct 22/1943 [/underlined]
17.00 Diversion Bases 431 – Acklington 12 Gp.
432 – Acklington 12 Gp.
434 – Croft
426 – Scorton 12 Gp.
408 – Silloth – Controlled Oper. By 15 Gp.
All above stations have been warned of number of aircraft to be diverted and are willing to accept them. No particulars have been passed yet.
17.00 Billingham Balloons. Arranged at 15.00 hrs – Close-hauled 16.30-18.00 hrs. And from 23.30-01.30 hrs.
18.00 Y/1664. Claims to have been shot at by coastal battery at 16.50 hrs. Was flying on Air to Sea firing detail at 1500 ft about 1 – 1 1/2 miles from shore opposite Whitby.
When reported to MLO 12 Gp the following answer was received. That a light AA battery had been practicing all day. It is likely they were firing at the time, but as visibility was good they could see him at that distance. So Y/1664 may have seen a flash and assumed that he was the target.
18.45 Y/427 Going to jettison. M.L.S. advised. Also ROC.
18.30 Off duty F.H. Cleland F/Lt. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1905 Night Flying passed to stations & ROC.
1940 Y/427 ROC have no plots of this a/c. Asked FCLO if he could trace it. Says he has been trying to plot it but ROC cannot find any plots and have had none since the a/c left Leeming
20.30 431/S up on R/T P.E. U/S – going to Jett. At Whitby
[Page break]
ROC & FCLO 12 Gp. informed
2033 427/Y (see above) Ident. At 20.27 position 5210N 0243E 1st class Ident. (!)
2035 426/B came up on R/T and was sent out to jett. At Flamborough, 40 miles out. ROC & FCLO 12 Gp. informed.
2057 434/B landed base, and asked for ambulance on R/T. (Mid-upper gunner sick)
2100 4 Gp. Diversion Can we take any of their a/c in our Group. Controller said that in view of weather forecast it wasn’t very likely but if it turns out better we will try and help them.
2230 Tholthorpe – a/c bogged on runway – A/D temp. U/S. They think they can get it off very shortly. Eastmoor teed up to take a/c if necessary.
2235 Weather Met. re 2200 Met. conference: general weather in group will be 1500-2000 ft cloud base, vis [deleted] at worst [/deleted] generally 3000 yds. some stations better. There will be some general rain, mainly slight. Acklington much the same, & Silloth good. Controller gave CFC Scorton for other groups’ use. Linton informed.
2245 428/I sent the following message on Hull at 22.43: “Emergency 5327N 0414E”. Message was weak and Hull passed him a 2nd class fix of 5258N 0300E which 12 Gp. say was ack. but which our W/T say wasn’t ack., and our W/T says the a/c requested a repeat. Checking up with Hull. FCLO informed.
2259 428/I Ident. On Hull at 2254 – 5247N 0225E 3rd showing him as heading towards East Anglia. Also sent “Receiver U/S” 12 Gp FCLO informed and has all
[Page break]
Available A/D’s on East Anglia coast it up. Weather at Coltishall not very good but Docking and Hardwick areas fairly good.
2330 Diversion Controller decided we won’t need Acklington now as other other groups especially 5 Gp. are having trouble with their weather. Informed CFC.
2340 Diversion CFC say 5 Gp. don’t want Acklington but would like Silloth. Controller [deleted] infor [/deleted] said okay & 62 Base instructed not to divert anywhere without consulting Group. Weather appears as if it is going to hold fairly well all over group.
2350 Diversion CFC say 5 Gp in great distress so Controller decided to give them Acklington and said we can take 15 a/c at Skipton & 15 at Dalton. Informed 61 Base [inserted] & Leeming [/inserted] Met. still optimistic about weather.
[Underlined] Saturday Oct 23/43 [/underlined]
0010 428/I crash landed at Snetterton Heath [inserted] at 2335. [/inserted] Badly shot up, rear gunner killed, flight engineer and mid upper gunner wounded, navigator suffering from shock. Rest okay. A/c was shot up by a fighter. Pilot made “damn good landing under circumstances” says 3rd US Wing F/C but a/c is a write off. 12 FCLO informed
0040 a/c to Middleton 12 Gp FCLO say there is an a/c apparently in distress off Whitby and they are going to S/L him to Middleton. Weather there is good. Warned Middleton.
[Page break]
0055 H/619 from Woodhall landed Leeming 0038
S/[deleted] 84 OTU [/deleted] 625 from Kelstern (1 Gp) landed Leeming 0050
CFC informed.
0100 427/E Informed FCLO that this a/c idented on Rulham at 19.34 position 5222N 0315E 2nd. Nothing heard from him since. They can’t give us much help.
0110 a/c to Middleton (see 0040) landed at Pocklington. Middleton informed.
0115 427/E Crash Four Group say a Mk. V Halifax crashed near Newton Kyme Railway Station on the Boston Spa – Tadcaster Road. No. of a/c is DK182. Church Fenton took all crash action. 7 bodies have been removed to Marston Moor.
This is 427/E (see 0100 above) Marston say crew appeared to have been in crash position preparing for a crash landing. Observers of crash say engines appeared duff before the crash.
Time of crash was about 20.37.
0200 Results 12 a/c still outstanding & considered missing.
Landed away: 1 at Snetterton Heath (3rd Div.)
3 at Rufforth.
None were diverted.
0820 H/619 5 Gp. says H/619 is to take off as soon as possible for base. Informed Leeming (“red” at present.)
0830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
1100 H/619 Returning to Woodhall Spa 1100 hrs. via Gainsborough. 5 Group F.C. informed & ok’d.
S/625 Returning to Kelstern 1130 hrs via Gainsborough. 1 Group F.C. informed & ok’d.
[Page break]
1110 W/C Sugget Oxford Snetterton Heath Air I authorized W/C Sugget to take Oxford to Snetterton Heath. M.S.G. informed.
[Deleted] 1200 [/deleted] 1140 Com. a/c Proctor Reserved for W/C Fleming for 1215 hrs. Required all afternoon. Going to M.S.G. 62 Base informed.
1200 Identification of body at Thorney Island. Thorney Island have requested through Air Ministry for someone to go to Thorney Island to identify a body washed ashore, believed to be Sgt. Hayward. Air I had ruled:
1. Journey not to be made in Halifax.
2. Any a/c of Com. Flight may be used.
3. Any Oxford available from another Station
4. If one of above not possible journey to be made by rail.
62 Base informed.
1201 Movement Arranged for Air Firing at R.H.B. and Whitby for Lancs. Wells. & Hals. – also Bombing at Strensall from 1200-1800 hrs. Ref. – E-227.
1300 Diversion In to 6 Gp. From 1 Gp. 3 Jaywalk a/c being sent to 6 Gp for weather reasons. O.K. send to Linton. Told 62 Base & 6 Gp. Met. OK.
1310 Diversion Cancelled by 1 Gp & 62 Base notified.
1420 Middleton crew at Snetterton Heath “We sho would like to fly your boys up to save a long train trip, O.K? Contacted M. StG. Who said, Yes.
[Page break]
1430 Pundits 19, 91, 115 & 145 requested by A.S.4 Dusk to Dawn.
1453 Jaywalk /X Diverted from Blyton (1 Group) E.T.A. 1550 Diverted from Blyton (1 Group) E.T.A. 1550 Told 6 Base.
1510 619/H [indecipherable] 5 Gp say hold m/n a/c until further notice.
1555 Jaywalk X landed Linton Told 1 Gp F/C.
1540 [indecipherable Left Catterick 1550 E.T.A. Topcliffe 1645 Told Base 61.
1600 619/H 5 Gp say O K for their a/c to return to Base. Told Leeming a/b 1625
1710 A.C.M. Ludlow Hewitt landed Topcliffe 1714.
1810 1 Gp diversion [indecipherable] Given O.K. to send 1 Wellington to Linton will advise later if it matures
1830 Off duty SR Wyman F/L
1830 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
19.00 1 Gp Diversion [indecipherable] This a/c landed at Riccall. Linton stood down.
19.00 Night Flying Passed to 12 Gp. ROC.
19.35 Exercise “Rose” 10 Whitleys landed at Middleton
1 Whitley landed at Croft
3 others landed elsewhere and will try to get up tomorrow – A.M.
[Underlined] Sunday, Oct. 24/43. [/underlined]
0900 Off duty F/L Cleland. On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
[Page break]
0910 Ex. ROSE Take off postponed due to weather. A/c intend returning to M.S.G. for paratroops.
0930 Ex. ROSE New take off time 1100 hrs. M.L.O. informed of new arrangement.
Close handling of Billingham balloons from 0900-1200 hrs arranged for.
0945 Ex. ROSE B.L.O. requested to extend time of close hauling Middlesboro balloons to 1400. They will be kept so after 1315 hrs. until we inform him the a/c concerned have all taken off.
1050 Ex. ROSE O/C of this exercise at M.S.G. has cancelled it. Ops at 38 Wing & M.L.O. & B.L.O. 12 Gr. informed. Also R.O.C.
1130. L.F.B. #2 Will be flashing from 2145-2245 on 265°T. Arranged through Ops. 12 Group.
1140 16 Gr. Enquired re use of M.S.G. to land 3 a/c (Warwick, Proctor & 1 other) en route to Thornaby. Met & M.S.G. not happy and 16 Group informed.
1220 419/J & X Diverted to Silloth Fitness of M.S.G. & rest of group necessitates diverting these a/c on return from x countries. Silloth contacted and agreed to take them. C.F.C., 9 Gr. & all concerned informed.
1230 Pundits 115, 91, 150 requested by AS4 dusk to dawn.
[Page break]
1255 V.I.P. A/C/M. Ludlow Hewitt. Left Topcliffe for Elvington F.C.L.O. 12 Group advised. 1330
1300. 4 Hals. For M.S.G. M.S.G. has just received word that 4 new Halifaxes are en route to them (from Southampton [inserted] 1215 hrs. [/inserted]). R.O.C. telling a/c, to us approaching from south.
1330 419/J & X Ref. entry 1220 hrs. “J” landed Silloth at 1300 hrs & “X” at 1322 hrs. M.S.G. informed.
1447 4 Hals for M.S.G. These a/c from East Leigh landed as follows:-
2- at Riccal
1 at Leconfield.
1 at Melbourne
Anson at Snaith.
1500. Ex Rose Whitleys 38 Wing say OK for these a/c to return to base (Stoney Cross). M.S.G. & Croft informed and a/c are taking off immediately. All concerned informed.
1200. Diversion Base. C.F.C. have allotted us Bottesford as provisional weather diversion base. – 61 Base informed.
1615 L.F.B. #2. Request cancelled.
1618 Diversion Base. C.F.C. informed Diversion Base not required.
1650. Albion “J” This a/c overhead at Linton, who do
1700 (or Albain)
[Page break]
not feel happy about landing him. Checked Met. and on their recommendation Conningsby [sic] was selected for diverting him. [Deleted] Aircraft given a QDM to [/deleted] Aircraft was told to stand by for a course to steer for Conningsby [sic] but Linton unable to contact him again. 5 Group F.C. informed. 1715 A/c requested Driffield but 4 Group say no, they are themselves considering diversions to 5 Group.
1720-1740. Scampton & Waddington both U/S. Dunholme and Skellingthorpe possible but in view of the good conditions at Conningsby [sic] it was considered the little distance farther north of these 2 stations did not warrant changes of station. R.O.C. telling him and plots show up from Linton to Middleton. The latter and Leeming put on their contact lights, etc. No further contact was possible by the 3 stations with the aircraft.
1805 Albani “J” R.O.C. state this a/c followed through to Lincoln & was lost around Faldingworth or Wickenby & suggest checking there. F.C.O. 1 Group stated on being checked that Air Commodore Slessor landed at Lindholme at 1724 hrs., and that he understood H.Q. 6 Group had been contacted and informed he was proceeding to York by road. F.C.O. 5 Group informed & Conningsby [sic] stood down.
18.40 Pundits cancelled. Stations informed.
[Page break]
1930. Off duty HL Spence P/O.
1930 On duty SR Wyman F/L.
2300 Prov. Diversion. Told 5 Gp. – Bottesford not req’d
[Underlined] 25 OCTOBER 1943 [/underlined]
Ident. Sigs. Board changed.
0035 FOR [underlined S.F.C.O. [/underlined] Test RIT R.O.C. 0/4 There is a letter which is against this. But under circumstances seems advisable. Controller & R.O.C., suggests or requests a test to be made of R.O.C. post 0.4 (Castleton) on first suitable day. This station has been called upon to make 7 calls to a/c and has not yet received any answer. Referred matter to Base #61 who will arrange test & notify us of time. D.F.C.O. to notify controller IX.
0900 off duty SR Wyman F/L.
0900 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
10.30 Hal. to Shipdham. Permission given by Air I for Halifax of 4311 Sq. to go to Shipdham to pick up bomb carrier & SBC’s.
12.00 Oxford to Hawarden Permission for Linton Oxford to go to Hawarden to pick up Air Comm. Blackthorn(RAAF). Routed Base - East Retford – Hawarden.
12.00 Proctor of Middleton VB 6303. En route Melton Mowbray from Crosby. S/L Harrison was listed as overdue from Pt Allen to M. Mowbray om “HW451”. Trying to check with Station Z to reassure them.
16.50 Diversion from 5 Gp. 11 a/c need to be diverted. Weather reasons. Offered Linton & Eastmoor to them. Particulars later.
17.05 Diversion from 5 Gp. 6 Lancs of 57 Squadon – Base: East Kirkby. RJ. Call Signs { Senate Aggie. Letters of a/c: K, J, S. F, Q, U.
17.30 Em. 4 Gp. K/57 landed Rufforth. F.C. 5 Gp. informed.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Oct 25th 1943 [/underlined]
18.00 Diversion from 5 Gp. All diverted a/c landed OK Linton & Eastmoor. 5 Gp Inf.
18.20 Div. from Linton 343/A & 434/R diverted to Topcliffe. Topcliffe warned.
431/C & 431/R diverted to Topcliffe. Priority asked for R/431 who may be short of petrol.
1830 Off duty F/L Cleland, on duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
19.15 Diversion Tholthorpe vis. improving slightly and they think their a/c can land there alright for the time being.
1945 431 & 434 a/c have all landed at Tholthorpe except two, which landed at Topcliffe. Crews staying over night at Topcliffe.
[Underlined] DFCO’s Note [/underlined] See revised Granite Scheme on map board (extended north to Paitley Bridge)
[Underlined] Tuesday October 26, 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Bd. changed.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
1005 419/J to Boscombe Down (F/L Hewitt) Air I authorized flight to Boscombe Down to have a/c weighted. M.S.G. informed. Weather to be checked as our Met say conditions unfavourable, with little likelihood of clearance until this afternoon.
[Page break]
1245 Liberator 9 R.O.C. reported a Lib [inserted] “stooging” [/inserted] in & around Middleton and Croft. Contacted those stations and advised mortor & money flares if no reply to Darkies on both frequencies received. All action taken but it appears a/c did not wish to land. 12 F.C.L.O. had no “gen” re this a/c which appeared O.K.
1334 1350 Right Close “V” Hethel 2nd U.S. Wing F.C.L.O. 12 Group requested R/T message be passed to m/n aircraft “to return to base” which is Hethel. Leeming Topcliffe & Linton unsuccessful in attempting to contact him. This Liberator now in A.04 near Burn & appears to be heading for his base F.C.L.O. 12 Group informed.
1345 431/Q 62 Base state arrangements have been made for this a/c to take off from Shipdham for return to Tholthorpe by 1500-1600 hrs. Met say this is best time but if Tholthorpe is not fit M.S.G. should be able to land him. 62 Base know this
1425 A.T.A. Hals. At Leeming Leeming report 2 Hals. circling but unable to land. F.C.L.O. 12 Group contacted for fighter to lead them to Ouston.
1440. ditto 12 Group state fighter not available but an Oxford from Ouston is on the way down to lead them to Ouston.
1510. ditto Leeming advise one a/c landed there & one at M.S.G. F.C.L.O. 12 Group informed.
[Page break]
1515 431/Q This a/c not yet airborne. Met state weather deteriorating at M.S.G. and will become worse particularly after 1630 to 1700 hrs. Recommend a/c not to take off from Shipdham if it has not already done so. Informed 62 Base who requested we have Shipdham hold the a/c there overnight. 2nd U.S Div. informed for transmission to Shipdham. (Notes - Improvement in weather at Tholthorpe only temporary say Met.)
[Underlined] Note: [/underlined] F/L Durham suggests that A.T.A. pilots be instructed to check the Met picture before taking off. On Sunday, Oct. 24th, 4 more of these a/c were unable to land at M.S.G. due to weather.
Bomb Demolition Topcliffe advise demolition of unserviceable bombs would be effected north of their Bomb Store Areas during hours 0930 & 1630 on Oct 26th & 27th.
1800 Night Flying Stations & R.O.C. informed there is no night flying in the Group.
1830 Off duty HL Spence P/O.
1830 On duty [Signature]
0001 [underlined] October 27th 1943. [/underlined]
0900 Off duty [Signature]
[Page break]
Oct 27th, 1943.
0900 On Duty [Signature]
1115 L.F.B. No 10. Arranged to be operating on a bearing of 270° T from 21:00 hours to 21:45
1120 WINDOW AT FINNINGLEY. Permission granted by AIR I for X-country a/c from Eastmoor to land at Finningley to pick up ”window” erroneously left on board Wellington of 432 delivered to 93 Gp.
1130 Balloons Arranged through [deleted] Op [/deleted] B.L.O. 12 Gp for Balloons at Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft and Norwich to be at no greater height than 1500 ft from 2030 hrs to 2300 hrs – and for Billingham Balloons to be close hauled from 1600-1800 hrs and again from 2130 to 2359 hours.
11:40 OTU Well’n’s AT M.S.G. Ex. F.C. M.S.G. – News that two Wellington a/c Nos = HF637 and HF681 which landed there yesterday (No knowledge here) because of adverse weather took off 1135 for Wellesbourne Mountford. Everything about the movement was most unsatisfactory – F.C MSG. finally conceded that the
[Page break]
following route was given: viz M.S.G. – Lincoln – Northampton Wellesbourne. This route would take the a/c bang over Grantham Defences! Since a/c had already taken off, could only warn MLS 12 and hope for the best.
1215 Jettisoning Dud 1000 lb. bombs. Permission granted by MLO 12 for 8 Lancaster a/c to jettison 47 Dud 1000 lb bombs at Posn 54.40N 0120E. – fused to explode at 25 ft below surface.
1330 Diversions Requested C.F.C. to provide Diversion Bases in 13 Group for 80 Halifaxes.
1400 Diversions Ex. C.F.C. Following bases allocated: Drem – Charter Hall – Kinloss – Lossiemouth.
1415 Diversions Sqn Allocation and Diversion Gen. passed to stations.
1417 Diversions Ex. F.C. 13. Drem can cope with only 12 aircraft and Charter Hall with only 6.
- much quibbling followed
1420 5 Gp a/c Here. Ex. F.C. 5. All Lancs of 57 Sqn in 6 Gp to return to base.
1421 5 Gp a/c Here. Pass to S/L Kyles. Base 62
[Page break]
1430 5 Gp a/c To F.C. 5. All Lancs 57 Sqn a/bn
[Deleted] 1432 [/deleted] 1507 D’v’n Gen. Final Sqn allocation ref. Diversions (see Form B256) passed to Base 62.
1508 A.T.A. Hal. Ex. F.C. MSG. A.T.A. Hal took off for Long – Latter informed.
1510 JTM/B [Deleted] This [/deleted] Ex: F.C. Base 61. –
AIRCRAFT B1 16 OTU. CS. [underlined] JTM [/underlined] of Up. Heyford passed following message on Topcliffe H/F D/F “Position Y at 1438” – at 1615 finally got through to F.C. 92 with above message.
1600. S/JA130 This Wellington landed at Topcliffe from Binbrook. Later at 1600 took off for Leconfield – Pilot F/O Osborne.
F.C. 4 advised.
1600 [Underlined] OPS [/underlined] Ex SDn Ops Cancelled –
1601 L.F.S.
1602 Balloons.
1603. Diversion Bases } Cancelled with Thanks.
1605 6 Gp a/c All 6 Gp a/c now back at Bases.
1810 Defiant Ferry Command} At Croft from Lossiemouth En route to Desford.
1830 – Off Duty [Signature]
[Page break]
1830. On duty HL Spence P/O.
[Underlined] 28 OCTOBER 1943 – THURSDAY [/underlined]
2359 Ident Board O.K.
0900 off duty S R Wyman F/L. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt
1200 Movement E 20 Bombing at Strensall & Airfiring at Whitby from 1430-1800 by Lancs. & Hal.
1230 Weather Re Eastmoor’s proposed x-countries this afternoon Met. say if vis. at take-off is below 2000 yds. the vis. on return at 1700 hrs. will not be very good. Warned 62 Base.
1530 Spitfire from Dyce landed at Middleton and is proceeding immediately to Benson. He has checked route & weather at Benson & is happy.
1650 Walrus W2704 landed at Eastmoor from Eastly at about 16.30, heading for Sherburn. Pilot is 1st Officer Hayman and is staying over night on account of weather. Informed 41 Gp.
1830 off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
[Underlined] Oct 29/43 [/underlined]
01.00 Ident Board changed
09.00 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L
On duty HL Spence P/O.
1830 [Deleted] Off On [deleted] duty H.L. Spence P/O.
Off duty HL
[Page break]
1830 On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
Comm, Flight: Proctor reserved for S/L Jacobs for 0900 hrs. Nov. 1st all day. Comm. Flight informed 13.40 Oct. 28th.
[Underlined] Saturday October 30, 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Bd changed.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
09.00 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
0850 Darky Middleton have heard an a/c around them and have had a darky call by a “Recorder 5” a/c now north of Middleton & wants to know a course to steer to Middleton who are in R/T contact with him. They gave him course & he finally landed at Middleton in vis. of 1500 yds.
09.04 Darky Halifax BB 431 – Landed Middleton. 148 Squadron – Pilot: Sgt. Bruce. 1 crews, 8 passengers. From Breda, Algiers en route to R.A.F. [deleted word] Clifton.
R.A.F. Clifton (York 2064) & 44 Group informed.
10.15 Movement Serial # E44 Covers Air to Air, Air to Sea Firing, Bombing at Strensall, Fighter Affil. & Height Tests up to 20000’ from 1030-17.30 hrs for Halis, Lancs & Wells.
12.05 Flight Plan Conference Scheduled for 13.00 hrs. Midd. Leeming 62 Base & Air I informed.
12.30 Fortresses 12 Gp F.C. say there was a large abortive Fortress raid. These a/c have been recalled. If any are flying in our area we are to land them.
62 Base, 61 Base, Middleton, Leeming informed.
[Page break]
12.55 CFC re Prov. Petrol Bases Will let us know in 2 hours time. Needed in S of England (not East Anglia)
12.30 Billingham – Close-hauled 16.30-17.30, 23.00-2300 hrs.
Gt Yarmouth } Close-hauled 21.00-22.00 hrs.
Lowestoft }
Norwich}
Balloons
Southwold L.F.B. from 21.00-22.00 hrs }
Dungeness LFB from 21.30-22.30 hrs }
Southend LFB from 21.45-22.45 hrs }
16.30 Cancelled Above arrangements
14.25 Hal. BB431 Left Middleton for RAF Clifton. Landed there 15.55 hrs.
16.30 Liberator I/67 Squadron. From Shipdham (2nd Bomber Div) Pilot Lt. O’Neill. Landed at Wombleton 14.55 hrs. Weather reasons – also see entry of 12.30 hrs.
All afternoon our stations had been hearing “Darky” calls from Americans but were unable to contact them. Cloud base was the main difficulty as none managed to break cloud. Fighter Group 12 were finally persuaded to send two fighters to help land another Liberator near Pocklington. We offered Topcliffe & Leeming if needed. This Lib. landed at Hutton Cranswick O.K.
1830. Off duty F/L. Cleland.
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
SUNDAY – OCT. 31 – 1943.
0100 Ident Board changed.
0900 Off duty H.L. Spence P/O.
[Page break]
Oct 31st 1943.
0900 – On duty [Signature]
1000 Liberator at Wombleton – Weather adverse for safe return to Shipdham Hambleton F/C informed through Base 61. F.C.
1530 Pundits. AS4’s request for pundits No 91 115 140 passed to St’n’s.
16.30 On duty FD Cleland F/L.
17.30 Pundits cancelled.
09.00 Off duty FW Cleland F/L.
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
1200 Lib. at Wombleton 2nd U.S. Div. F. Control have instructed that 67/I is not to take off for return to Shipdham until they advise us. Topcliffe informed.
1250 WELLINGTON NUTT’S CORNER 12 F.C.L.O. Wellington a/c (SGG-A; R/T Yardhouse A) on a Nav. Exercise from Nutt’s corner. Should be near Linton. Tell him to go to Valley – 4/10 2000 viz 3000x Llandedr 5/10 viz 6 MLS not to go to Nutt’s Corner.
Contacted Flying Control Linton & gave above information.
1252 WELLINGTON NUTT’S CORNER Told Tholthorpe to look after same a/c
1255 WELLINGTON NUTT’S CORNER Linton heard this a/c on R/T.
1257 Landed Linton. Told 12 Gp who passed Nutt’s Corner instruction namely that a/c to stay where he was until he heard from Nutt’s Corner.
[Page break]
1330. 67/I – Liberator to Shipdham 2nd. Div. U/S Flying Control instructed this a/c could take off provided his E.T.A. at Shipdham would be 1400 hrs. 61 Base was so informed and a/c took off at 1333 hrs before we were able to get thru to 2nd. US. Wing for O.K. inasmuch as his E.T.A would be 20 minutes after deadline set. 2nd. U.S. Wing advised.
1830 Off duty HL Spence P/O.
1830 – On Duty [Signature]
0001 Nov 2nd. 1943.
0830 – [Deleted] On [/deleted] Off Duty [Signature]
09.10 Tholthorpe Crash Tender The first line crash tender at Tholthorpe will be U/S for two days and they will be unable to take outside crash action 62 Base will co-ordinate.
09.20 On duty FW Cleland F/L
15.40 Diversion from 4 Gp. 3 Halis. from Marston Moor to land at Topcliffe (Weather reasons.)
15.50 Diversion from 4 Gp. Now only 1 left to come. Others landed at Marston. “J” – RT. “Nightjar” or “Shipwake”.
15.55 Diversion from 4 Gp. Cancelled. All landed at base.
18.30 Off duty Cleland & Justason
On duty HL Spence P/O.
[Page break]
1940 Pundits No. 140 Flashing
[Underlined] NOV. 3RD – 1943. [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0135 Aircraft – L or R 62 Base called to say an aircraft using a/c L or R was calling a ground station, whose C/S was Expert, which is the c/s at Gibraltar. Contacted R.O.C. 9 and 10 who said only aircraft [inserted] in this area [/inserted] was a friendly bomber in A82. Spoke to 12 F.C.L.O. who said the only a/c was the one noted above. This a/c L or R was heard making Darky call by R/T stations in all the Bomber Group. The a/c, which was in A82 passed from the 12 Group area over to 9 Gp.
0345 ditto. Linton called to say they thought the aircraft landed. Information gleaned from a garbled message overheard by Eastmoor Darky.
0900 Off duty H.L. Spence. P/O.
0900 – On Duty [Signature]
1000 WELLINGTON Z-1395 A/SGG. Ex. F.C. Linton. Wellington from Nutt’s Corner returning to Base as of 10:15 hours. Linton: RED. Weather at Nutts Corner o.k.
Route etc passed to both MLS 12 and F.C.L.O 9 – and advised the latter that the a/c was a/b at 10.16
[Page break]
1215. L.F.B. #10 On bearing of 270°T from 2030 hours to 21:30 hours.
1215 Balloons. Norwich, Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft – 1500 feet all night, {S.O.R. except during E.A.
1520 Diversion Bases. Request made to C.F.C. for suitable Provisional Weather Diversion Bases to accommodate 117 Hals and Lancs of 8 squadrons
1430 Diversion Bases. Ex. C.F.C. Following Stations Allocated as Provisional Weather Diversion Bases:
Mildenhall – Lakenheath – Downham Market – Waterbeach – Newmarket – Witchford – Mepal – Docking. –
These were accepted by the Controller who allocated Squadrons and advised stations [inserted] of some together [/inserted] with ‘gen on our Bases.
Pundits. – see the above stns were covered by a QDM and Dist from a Pundit except Downham Market F.C.3 gave Lat & Long pos’n of Mildenhall and said to set course from there.
1500. Station advised (Lat & Long Mildenhall pundit given by F.C. 3 as: 52° 15’ 31” N 00° 29’ 53” E
[Page break]
1445 P.F.F. Lanc 7 Sqn. Query Ex. F.C./P.F.F. = ref weather and serviceability of Topcliffe. – advised o.k. Lanc from P.F.F. landed Topcliffe 1554. – Took off again for base 1610. –
Passed to F.C/P.F.F.
1448 E. 314 Blanket coverage with MLS.
1740 G/1659 Ex. F.C. BASE 61. After advising that all their Non-op day flying were finished – found G/1659 still a/bn. Queried for Provisional diversion base.
6 Gp Met advise Eastmoor OK.
1750 – Informed FC Base 62 to stand by at Eastmoor.
1800 G/1659 Landed Topcliffe. Eastmoor stood down.
1830 Off duty [Signature]
18.30 On duty FD Cleland F/L
18.55 Balloons Yarmouth Norwich & Lowestoft } Due to hostile action must be raised to 6500’.
19.00 Y/429 Received II class fix (Ident.) which puts him in East Anglia. Told 12 Group about balloons & asked them to look out for him.
20.15 Balloons Yarmouth, Norwich, Lowestoft now at 1500 ft.
20.30 Diversions CFC say lights are out on Lakenheath, Mildenhall, and Newmarket.
New Diversion bases: Shipdham, Hethel & Hardwick.
[Page break]
21.10 Diversion Bases Hethel & Hardwick now u/s – Hunsden – Horsham now are offered.
21.26 Balloons. BLO 12 called to ask about Billingham Balloons. I asked for them close-hauled immediately until 23.00 hrs. He had not received any requests for them today.
22.05 Searchlight. Searchlight waving at west end of Tholthorpe interfering with landings. FCLO 12 told. 3 mi. SW. Rathokell Station.
01.15 Crash near Coningsby. An aircraft – four-engined bomber crashed and burned out completely at 21.33 hrs. Maps partially burnt show track to Middleton and name “Witham” was written on it. All crew killed. E/428 Crash position: OSC55 – 651701. EW Maplethorpe’s field, Low ground, South Kyme – 5 mi. S.W. of Coningsby. Middleton informed. Southdown informed.
09.00 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
1045 E/428 Crash near Coningsby definitely identified as E/428. Advice received by M.S.G. direct from Coningsby.
1100 a/c away 427/Q Both Church Fenton + Leeming Unfit – check later.
1500 ditto Group Met state Church Fenton still red but may progress to yellow later. Leeming 10/10’s cloud, base 600, viz 2200 with chance of a break in cloud & base. F.C. at Church Fenton do not anticipate
[Page break]
improvement in weather. Also, the a/c is still being worked on S.B.A. still u/s. Other aids packed up when a/c landed last night. Leeming informed a/c would not return today.
1615 419/K M.S.G. instruct m/n aircraft which landed at Leeming yesterday is to stay overnight. Leeming informed.
1652 Anson 501 Marston Moor 62 Base state m/n aircraft took off at 1604 for return to base. 4 Group informed.
1830 Off duty H.L. Spence P/O.
1830 On Duty [Signature]
2000 Dinghy CR.248 Ex. F.C.L.O. 12. Query whether Dinghy, bearing No. C.R. 248 and again U111/330 washed up at Bridlington might belong to an aircraft from 6 Group – last on operation.
- Checked with Stations who are to advise.
0001 – Friday Nov 5th ’43.
0900 – Off duty [Signature]
09.30 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L
10.00 Darky Calls. Croft, Leeming & Skipton report Darky Calls from American aircraft “Rifle” R.V.C.N.M. Reported to 12 Gp who say it has also been heard in Cheshire & North Scotland.
[Page break]
11.00 R/427 At Church Fenton. Weather there not good enough yet to return to Leeming. Pilot will call here when conditions are good enough. Leeming informed.
12.30 Beaufighter JL876 Landed Eastmoor from Catfoss.
13.15 Magister at Linton Requires route to Errol near Perth. ETD 14.00. Told Linton to route via Falkirk but pointed out that weather was not good.
14.00 Proctor from Middleton G/C Swain Going to Lossiemouth. Warned him that QBB is very low en route – 700 ft average. His route, however, hakes him clear of high ground and he will cut out over coast if in difficulty. He is C/O of Lossiemouth and knows the country and he has been warned by met. at Middleton.
16.00 Magister to Errol Took off from Linton. Landed Middleton to check weather. Rerouted from Middleton at 16.09 hrs.
17.30 Dinghy CR248. This was checked with stations and we had no information for 12 Gp. to help them. Suggested the “CR” might be squadron letters.
1830 Off duty F/L Cleland.
On duty H.L. Spence. P/O.
1945 Bomber H6-K 4 Group state this Wellington in V3305 appears to be lost, flying at 3,000 ft.
1950 ditto On enquiry R.O.C. 9 stated the a/c appeared to have straightened himself out & was in V-50 heading out to sea.
[Page break]
2050 F.379 12 Group advise S.O.S. aircraft heading for Wombleton, now in V-40. Had previously warned 61 Base, now advised 62 Base to have Eastmoor on the lookout.
2055 ditto 62 Base have warned Linton – Eastmoor lighting up.
2058 do. R.O.C. state a/c now in A-2963 at 6000 ft. proceeding south. Later plots indicate continuance south & into Leeds area.
2110 do. Informed 61 & 62 Bases to stand down.
Saturday – Nov 6/43
0100 Ident Board changed.
0900 Off duty H.L. Spence P/O.
0900 – On Duty [Signature]
0915 E-7 Blanket coverage on the M.L.S. for Air/Sea = Air/Air = Bombing Strensall – Height Tests - Fighter Affiliation during hours [deleted] darkness [/deleted] daylight today.
1720 [Deleted] Q [/deleted] Z/1659 FD/I. Ex. F.C. Base 61 – I Q/1659 overdue said to have crashed on the Isle of Mann. Knowledge gained by F.C. Topcliffe by phone
[Page break]
call from Jurby. (R.A.F.)
1721 Contact F.C.L.O. 9 Group from whom the following information was learned “Halifax W-1251 passed over Radio Station at Scarlet Point – with one engine on fire. At 14.20 it crashed at Fisher’s Hill – approximately 3 miles NW of Scarlet Point. 7 of crew killed. Of bodies discerned one was identified as KROTZ, P.E. – Flight Engineer of [deleted] Q [/deleted] I/1659.
- Controller informed – (R.A.F. Jurby taking necessary crash actions)
1725 Crash Ex. R.O.C. Crash NE Eastmoor.
1727 Crash Ex. F.C.L.O. 12 Crash 4 Engine a/c in A. 1694. –
Identified as Lanc. DS649. 1679/E. Eastmoor instructed through Base 62 to take all necessary Crash action and to deal with the provision of guard etc.
No information available
1730/1800 Martinet and Hurricane } Ex. F.C. Base 61. These 2 a/c not accounted for from the days AIR to AIR firing exercise. After much futile search
[Page break]
both a/c were discovered to be on their own dispersals!
1830 Off Duty [Signature]
18.30 On duty FD Cleland F/L.
20.30 Crash 1679/E. This aircraft was doing Circuits & Landings at Eastmoor & crashed. See entry 17.25 hrs. Pilot was P/O Davis, R.A. J17508. 6 crew killed including the pilot. Grid Ref. #22-144918.
19.30 I/1659 See entry 17.20 hrs. Crew list passed to 9 Group.
21.20 Well Q Pershore 23 OTU. Landed Croft. Oil trouble. Will return as soon as serviceable. 91 Gp informed.
22.07 Hal Q/428 Reports brake pressure trouble. Requests long runway at Middleton. F/O Walmsley says their long runway is out of wind. Trying to contact Dalton as their runway should be into wind.
22.20 Hal Q/428 Arranged with Leeming for this instead of Dalton.
23.18 Hal Q/428 Landed Topcliffe.
22.20 Well Q Pershore 23 OTU Left for Pershore at 22.20. 91 Gp & MLS informed.
23.00 I/1659 Further details on crash – At 14.20 entered cloud with Port outer on fire. Crashed at VC 7281. An explosion was heard and part of tail unit fell off the aircraft before hitting the ground. Ex F/C Topcliffe.
[Underlined] Sunday. Nov. 7th 1943 [/underlined]
08.45 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L
On duty H.L. Spence. P/O.
[Page break]
0920 E 300 Blanket coverage for Air-Air Air-Sea Firing at R.H.B. & Whitby, Bombing at Strensall, Ht. Tests & Fighter Aff. Locally for Hals & Lancs. from 1000-1800 hrs.
0930 Crashes. 1679/E 1659/I All concerned at Group informed regarding these 2 accidents.
1040. Command Bulls Eye. Col. Wood. F.C. requested offers for Bulls-Eye for this evening, similar to yesterdays but without P.F.F. demonstration. Stations informed. – 4 Lancs. 1679.
1105. Prov. Petrol Diversion Bases. Following consultation with Controller & Met. requested 2 provisional petrol diversion bases, suggesting Bradwell Bay and Stradishall.
1150. ditto Requested additional provisional petrol bases for Hals. – [deleted] 4 or 5 [/deleted] 6 more. C.F.C. confirmed Bradwell Bay and Stradishall OK.
1230 Bulls Eye Called - C-63.
[Underlined] Route: [/underlined] Crewe – Okehampton (Devonshire) Exeter – Bristol – Cambridge – York.
[Underlined] I.R. [/underlined] Bristol & Goole
Times – 1830 hrs at Crewe
Ht. – 13000 ft.
Mixing friendlies & hostiles – a/c to burn downward recognition lights between Exeter & Bridgewater [underlined] over [/underlined]
[Page break]
I.F.F. switched off between Exeter and a point 10 miles beyond Bristol – 62 Base informed. 1410 hrs.
1310 LFB #14 Will be on 350° from 0540-0640 hrs. 0515 0615
Balloons arranged through 11 Gr B.L.O. at the following hts:-
Chelmsford } 0515 0530 hrs to 0645 0630 hrs.
Canterbury } 1500 ft.
Dover }
Thames Est. 2000 ft.
(We will be informed if there is any change.)
Billingham – close-hauled
2200-2330 2130 2300 and 0700-0800 0630 0730 hrs.
1400 L.F.B. 14 Revised time 0515-0615 hrs.
Balloons Revised time 0515-0630 hrs.
Billingham now 2130-2300 & 0630-0730
Prov. Petrol Div. Bases Received bases from C.F.C and allocation made by Controller as follows:-
408 Linton – Feltwell 15
426 Linton - Waterbeach 14
419 M.S.G. – Docking 16
428 M.S.G. Tuddenham 16
427 Leeming – Stradishall 14
429 Leeming – Coltishall 12
431 Tholthorpe – Chedburgh 12
434 Tholthorpe – Bradwell Bay 12
1450 ditto Information on bases passed to Stations.
[Page break]
1700 Div. Bases. Only 2 bases now required. At recommendation of Controller retained Waterbeach & Stradishall, latter allotted to 408 Sqn.
62 Base informed & “gen” passed them. C.F.C. informed.
Pundits Provisional Petrol Diversion Base Pundits requested of 3 Group to be on from 0300 hrs to dawn.
Explosion nr. Tholthorpe 62 Base state Tholthorpe will be exploding a 1,000 lb bomb between 1800 & 2000 hrs. R.O.C. informed.
1730. 1664/K. Croft state this a/c overdue. Checked R.O.C, 12 Gr. & 11 Gr unsuccessfully for word of it.
1820 1664/K Croft advise m/n aircraft landed at Fulbeck, short of petrol. Intends returning at 1930 hrs.
1830 Off duty HL Spence P/O.
1830 – On Duty [Signature]
1930 Balloons Ex. B.L.O. 11. Chelmsford, Canterbury and Thames Estuary Balloons will be at 500 feet from 2230 50 0800 hours Dover Waterborne = 2000’. 22:30 to 08:30 hrs
-Information passed to S/L Kyles.
[Page break]
Nov 7th Cont’d.
2115 Operational Command ops Cancelled.
2120 LFB. Balloons } Cancelled with 11 Group.
2125 Diversion Bases } Cancelled with F.C. 3.
2130 K/1664 Ex. F.C. Croft = K/1664 crashed on take off at Fulbeck. –
Cause: Port Engine cut.
Crew: o.k.
Controller and AIR I informed.
0001 [Underlined] Monday NOV 8 ’43 [/underlined]
0010 FLUCO “U” Reported engine trouble over Eastmoor. Given permission to land – stooged away southward.
0015 FLUCO “U” – Reported to F.C. 4.
0023 FLUCO “U” Landed Marston Moor – Eastmoor stood down F.C.L.O. 12 informed.
Off Duty [Signature]
09.00 On duty FD Cleland F/L.
10.40 Permission granted by Air I for W/C Clark to fly from Croft to Fulbeck to examine K/1664 which crashed there on take-off last night. (Subject to weather conditions)
11.45 Diversion Bases Waterbeach & Stradishall arranged for 408 & 426 Squadron.
Waterbeach – 426 Sqdn. – 13 aircraft.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Monday Nov. 8th 1943 [/underlined]
11.45 Ballooons. Chelmsford. }
Canterbury } 1500 ft from 05.45 -06.45
Thames Estuary }
Dover (Waterborne) – 2000ft from 05.45-06.45.
L.F.B. 12 Dungeness 360°T – 05.45-06.45 hrs.
14 Shoeburyness 350°T 05.45-06.45 hrs.
13.00 MF Sections. Tonight out – N, alternative E or Q
Tonight in – N, alternative H.
16.00 Waterbeach Pundits U/S tonight – Oakington subbing. 62 Base informed.
17.05 Rapide X7338 Landed Topcliffe at 13.26 hrs. 1st Officer Forbes from Feltwell en route Thornaby. Weather reasons. Thornaby informed.
17.20 Rascal Squadrons Crews of 420 Sqdn at Dalton – W/C McIntosh.
Crews of 425 Sqdn at Dishforth – W/C Richer.
Crews of 424 Sqdn at Skipton – W/C McCarthy.
1830 Off duty [deleted] HL Spence [/deleted] F/L Cleland.
On duty HL Spence P/O.
1900 Magister T9888 Lieut. Smith en route from Drem to West Malling, via Acklington, Church Fenton & Wittering landed at Ottertown Hall, near North Allerton. Leeming Station arranged to refuel the a/c & gave him a weather report recommending he stay put or land at Leeming. He took off at 1420 hrs but no further word has been received from him. Drem, West Malling & 12 Gr FCLO contacted. West Malling taking overdue action.
[Page break]
1905 Group Night Flying passed to R.O.C. and Stations.
2210 L.F.B’s & Balloons Requests for Landfall Beacons & control of Balloons with 11 Group cancelled.
[Underlined] TUESDAY – NOV. 9/43. [/underlined]
0020 431 & 434 a/c 62 Base report ground haze at Tholthorpe and may require diversion base for x-countries. Checked with met & Topcliffe. Requested M.S.G. to stand by.
0040 ditto Leeming Cross Countries practically all down & on instructions of Controller arranged for them to stand by for possible diversion from Tholthorpe. M.S.G. stood down.
0100 Ident Board changed.
0900 off duty HL Spence P/O.
0900 – On Duty [Signature]
1000 E-209 Blanket Cover with MLS for AIR/AIR = AIR/SEA Firing and Strensall Bombing Practice.
1025 – Permission refused by AIR I to 429 Sqn request to land at Thurleigh for purpose
[Page break]
of picking up a camera there.
- Passed to F.C. Long.
1525 O/419 A/b at 1505 for Berwick – there to test R.O.C. post NI. (failed to inform F.C.L.O. 12 until 1600 hrs. – when learned that post was not manned i.e. did not keep continuous Darky watch.)
1700 O/419 Ex F.C. M.S.G. O/419 test with ROC NI. Unsuccessful.
[Underlined] DFCO’s N.B. [/underlined] Weather Permitting this test will be carried out tomorrow with one hour’s notice in order to enable all necessary arrangements to be made through F.C.L.O. 12.
1830 – Off Duty [Signature]
18.30 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L
[Underlined] Wednesday Nov 10th 1943 [/underlined]
01.00 Ident Board Changed.
09.00 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
0905 E-15 Blanket cover with M.L.S. for Air-Air Air-Sea Firing at R.H.B. & Whitby. Bombing at Strensal; [sic] and Ht. Tests and Fighter Affil. Exercises locally.
[Page break]
1035 C & L Rufforth a/c. F.C.O. 4 Gr. request permission to do c & l by 2 a/c from Rufforth at M.S.G. Latter say OK. 4 Group informed.
1105 do. R/T c/s of aircraft in entry 1035 “Humphrey” a/c letter B & C. M.S.G. informed.
1110 426/2 a/c Jett. Bombs. M.L.O. 12 Group suggests dropping of 6 (1000 lb.) bombs each by 2 a/c of 426 Sqn. be done off Flamboro at around position 0030E 55N rather than 095° - 85 miles from Flamboro as latter is in the middle of an area in which a search is being made. Passed to 62 Base.
1130. 62 Base. 426 a/c Foulsham Re: a/c delivered by A.T.A. at Foulsham in error. Air I ruled that W/C Sweetman should send a skeleton crew by train this pm, instead of flying crew down, to being a/c to Linton. 62 Base informed.
[Deleted] 1335 [/deleted] 1135 Testing of ROC/N-I. Post. M.S.G. a/c planning test of R/T with m/n Post. ETD 1330. F.C.L.O. & M.L.O. 12 Group informed so that the post will be manned for Pr Darky.
1120 1230. A/c Broadcast of Intercom Talk. Tholthorpe Leeming & MSG. report R/T reception of crew patter from a/c with Intercom. on. Mention made of being over coast, heading for Thirsk, 345° at 1133 hrs.
[Page break]
question of being at Northallerton instead of Thirsk. Rear Gunner taking over controls & instructions given how to fly. Over York. Position 5410N 0130W, steering course 337 for Hexham mentioned at 1226 and that “we may” have to cross over a convoy.”
1330. 1664/B (EB-157) F.C.L.O. 9 Group advised m/n a/c landed at Llandwrog, undercarriage & tail damaged but crew O.K. The a/c broke through cloud and in levelling out hit the water. Pilot, F/S. Thompson, was able to retain control and get down OK. Croft informed.
Testing of ROC/post. MSG. state this test for to-day is cancelled. F.C.L.O. 12 informed.
1530 Met. Cold front is rapidly approaching from West bringing low cloud & rain. Recommend cross-country aircraft to return to bases by 1900 hrs. Informed 62 Base whose a/c are not routed to return before this time.
1620 1664/B Re entry 1330. Further advice received by Croft from Llandwrog. A/c is Cat “B”, crew returning by rail. Belly damaged & tail twisted. Air I, Controller, Engr., Equip., G.I.I. (2), informed.
[Page break]
1625 Test of R/O/C – NI. Post. F.C.L.O. 12 Group suggests this test could be done at night as the post is manned only from dusk to dawn for “darky”. M.S.G. informed.
62 Base 426 a/c Foulsham. Re entry 1130. Now learn authorization given by A.O.C. for flight to Foulsham taking crew to bring back the new a/c left there in error. Flying Control at the Base & Linton were not informed before the a/c took off
1845 [Underlined] SFCO [/underlined] Some confusion resulted from 2 a/c of 426 Sqn. taking off without the movement being passed properly. Reasons – Route was not standard; points & times of crossing the Coast were not given Station Flying Control; Isle of Man was given as a turning point twice with no specific point mentioned. As delay was experienced in getting full information and a/c had taken off, the movement was passed to 12 Group “as was” and corrected later. No harm was experienced but the incident indicated lack of co-operation by the Squadron with Flying Control. S/L Kyles indicated he was checking on the circumstances.
1830 Off duty HL Spence P/O.
On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
[Page break]
1840 Permission requested by W/C Clark of 1664 to go to Llandwrog in Middleton’s Oxford to see about their a/c 1664/B that was damaged there this afternoon. Said we’d phone back in the morning. ETD 1000 hrs. Route to be passed later.
1900 Night Flying passed to stations and ROC.
[Underlined] Thursday November 11, 1943 [/underlined]
0101 Ident. Bd. changed.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
09.00 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
10.00 Permission given by Air I for W/C Clark to go to Llandwrog to see 1664/B.
10.15 Test of ROC. N.I. (Berwick) This test may be arranged in daytime by giving FCLO 12 half an hour’s notice. M.S.G. informed.
10.30 Blanket Coverage E 52. For Lancs & Halis. doing Fighter Affil. Air Firing & Height Tests from 10.00 hrs. to 18.00 today.
11.00 Diversion Bases. Asked for 2 bases on South Coast. Named Ford Tangmere, Beaulieu, Thorney Island, etc. C.F.C will not promise two but will give us at least one after midday met. conference.
12.15 Landfall Beacon. Selsey Bill 360°T from 01.15-02.15 hrs.
Billingham Balloons. Close hauled 17.30-18.30 hrs. & 02.30 hrs to 03.30 hrs.
Diversion Base. Tangmere arranged as emergency petrol div. base. Leeming & Middleton informed.
[Page break]
13.50 Oxford Comm. Flight. For W/C Weir. Arranged for Oxford to be DI’d for him. He will give it Air Test. Told them he was on his way over now.
14.00 Billingham Balloons. Now close-hauled from 17.45-18.45 & 02.45-03.45 hrs.
14.00 Selsey L.F.B. Now operating from 01.30-02.30 hrs.
14.00 Tangmere Pundit. QDM to aerodrome is 255°M 1 3/4 miles. Passed to Leeming & Middleton.
17.50 Night Flying. Passed to MLS 12, Stations
18.00 Off duty FD Cleland F/L
On duty HL Spence P/O.
19.00 Darky Lugger “B” 22 OUT Wellesbourne Skipton report darky call but was unable to contact the a/c. Neither Topcliffe or Leeming heard it. F.C.L.O. 12 also had similar report from Lindholme.
Met. 61 & 62 Bases, Leeming & Croft informed of Group Met’s forecast of low cloud base, rain & possibility of poor viz around 2300 to 2330 hrs. On instructions of Controller recommended all cross countries be on the deck by 2300 hrs.
[Underlined] FRIDAY – NOV 12/43. [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0500 c/s L.F.W. “X” M.L.S. 12 Group reported position (from Hull)
[Page break]
of 5159N 0350W – 3rd class – 2113 hrs. – acknowledged from a/c using callsign L.F.W. “X”. This c/s was used by M.S.G. last month. 6 Group had no “X” aircraft out tonight. The position given was not near the track of any M.S.G. aircraft on tonight’s operations. M.L.O. 12 informed
0900 Off duty P/O Spence. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0935 Movement E18 Blanket coverage for bombing at Strensall, air firing at Whitby, local height tests,
1100 Permission given by SASO for 419/X to go down to Boscombe Down to get weighed.
1340 1659/C crash (BB326) From Topcliffe: This a/c which landed at Halfpenny Green (Bobbington) last night took off for base at 13.12 and crashed at 13.17. a/c now in flames and no other facts as yet known.
1500 1659/C From Topcliffe: Bobbington have informed them that all crew believed killed except possibly the Rear Gunner (P/O Murdock) Crash occurred 1 mile due east of Bobbington. Controller, Eng. & Equip. Officers, G.T.I 2 informed. SASO & Air I not available and P4 not informed till casualties definite. There were eight in the crew.
1630 Oxford T LX675 landed at Topcliffe from Hullavington. Staying overnight & returning in morning.
[Page break]
1720 1659/C From Bobbington: Possibility that a starboard engine cut out after take-off; pilot apparently tried to land again but a/c stalled and went into a small wood, bursting into flames. 6 bodies have been found, one not located and one is okay with [deleted] slight [/deleted] body injuries. Passed to Topcliffe.
1800 IFF 62 Base inform us that F.O.R of 431 Sqdn which took off on an x-country over the west coast at 16.30 hrs. have no IFF. a/c crossed west coast about 17.35. MLS informed.
1815 Bullseye 1 a/c from 1659, Ā is half and [sic] hour late on take off on Bullseye, and 1659/M was about one hour late. Informed MLS and said the latter a/c probably would go straight to Bristol
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
18.30 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
20.20 Fix J/1664. From Hull 5344N 0034E I ack. at 20.02. Passed to Croft.
21.10 Fix J/1664 From Hull. 52.29N 01.51W ② ack. 21.05 Passed Croft.
22.10 Whitley LA 934 From Ashbourne. Landed at Tholthorpe 20.24 P.Engine U/S.
22.45 Proctor at [deleted] Leeming [/deleted] Linton. Reserved for W/C Saunders at 09.15 hrs tomorrow.
[Underlined] Saturday Nov 13th 1943 [/underlined]
01.00 Ident Board changed.
08.30 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L. On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
[Page break]
0905 Blanket Movement E-2. Arranged for Air-Air & Air-Sea Firing at R.H.B. & Whitby; Bombing at Strensall; local F.A. & Ht. Tests from 0930-1730 hrs for Lancs. & Hals.
0910 Possible American Diversion In consultation with Controller offered Middleton, Croft, Leeming, Topcliffe, Linton, Tholthorpe, & Eastmoor, as diversion bases in case Americans are recalled.
1659/C Crash. Topcliffe state 7th body located P/O Murdock the only survivor is in hospital. Has 2 broken ribs & smashed arm. P.4 informed.
1040 Comm. Flt. Proctor. Reserved for S/L Jacobs 1200 hrs.
1105 American Diversion Re entry 0910. C.F.C. advise Americans appear to be able to cope at own stations
1200 Oxford T from Hullavington. 61 Base state this a/c took off for Hullavington. Did not ask for route. (W/C. Pilot)
1430 351/H 231066 100TH GROUP. M/n Fortress from Thorpe Abbott, 3rd U.S. Wing (1st Lt. Love, Capt.) landed at Wombleton 1418 hrs., short of petrol with R/T & W/T u/s. 3rd wing informed.
1605 FORTRESS [deleted] 160 [/deleted] 231153 M St. G reports m/n a/c very dangerously shot up a/d (not the usual); also a school in such a way as to endanger 50-75 schoolchildren. F/C Middleton has full details. Advised S.O.C. Pinetree.
[Page break]
1615 351/H. Wombleton advise the Oil Cooler on S.O.E. (No4) is U/S and a/c not airworthy. Replacement is required. Informed F.C.O. 3rd US. For transmission to Thorpe Abbots. Crew staying overnight.
1645 Met. Group Met. advise against any night x countries in view of N.E Wind & likelihood of rain or sleet & hail. 62 Base warned in view of 3 a/c projected cross country up north & to coast/coast Freezing level 1500 to 15000 ft and a/c would have to fly above 20,000 ft. Met state icing conditions would be particularly severe both ascending and descending.
Original routeing of flight was at normal ht. and in view of our earlier warning re above it was changed to 20,000.
62 Base Met & Flying Control aware of weather picture and despite their cautions to Tholthorpe the 431 Sqn a/c took off on their detail.
1830 Off duty P/O Spence: On duty D.H. Miller F//Lt.
1845 Night Flying All proposed x-countries cancelled due to weather Passed remaining night flying to stations.
1940 Eastmoor’s outer circuit u/s – they will continue their c & l’s nevertheless.
[Page break]
2005 Crash Warwick From 12 Gp: what is believed to have been a Warwick crashed in V32 just off main road between Whitby & Pickering near the village of Sleight. FCLO 12 Gp says Wombleton should take action rather than Thornaby as it is closer (doesn’t know anything about our crash areas) No officer on duty at 61 Base so contacted Wombleton direct and they will send out crash tender (their only one) and an ambulance immediately.
0120 Crash Phone call from F/Lt. Adams at Sleight: crash tender & ambulance arrived at scene of crash at 21:30 (left about 20:30) and found the a/c had burnt out & was scattered over 200 yds. One body identified as S/L Goode has been found and a search party is being organized by F/O McCallun (R.D.F. officer 60 Gp. Danby Beacon) to search for remaining crew. The aircraft is believed to have taken off from Thornaby and the crew is as follows: S/L E.A. Goode, Sgt. Richardson #1377980, and P/O Cooms, W.W. J17250. Wombleton’s M.O. who was at scene of crash says it happened about 18.30 hrs. Crash is being guarded by 52 A.A. Signal Training Unit (Phone no. Whitby 490)
Grid ref. of crash: V335243.
Above gen. passed to FCLO 12 Gp.
[Underlined] Sunday Nov. 14, 1943 [/underlined]
02.50 Crash Wombleton says Thornaby probably taking casualty action. Recovered body now turns out to be Sgt. Richardson, not S/L Goode. Wombleton’s
[Page break]
ambulance broke down and is now at Whitby.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
09.00 On duty. F.D. Cleland F/L.
09.40 Re Crashed Warwick Near Wombleton. Informed SASO & Air I. Thornaby taking casualty action. GTI. Informed.
09.30 Barrage Balloon. Which broke loose & grounded itself at Col. Green’s house, Manor House, Castleton, Husthwaite. BLO at 12 says nearest RAF Station to take action as laid down in AP1975. Passed this information to 61 Base, as Topcliffe if nearest aerodrome.
11.10 A/C calling Topcliffe. 61 Base report and aircraft calling “Goodfriend” and requesting permission to land. They cannot see him. Checking with 12 Gp and getting plots from ROC.
11.25 Anson EG652 Landed Middleton at 11.25. F/L McDonald (pilot) en route Turnhouse to Watchfield. Experiencing icing troubles. Information passed to 50 Gp.
11.30 Oxford at Leeming MP414 When calling Leeming re entry 11.10 and new plots from West, F/L Durham stated that an Oxford landed there at 11.07 hrs. We were not told because it did not concern us – according to him. (From Prestwick to Eastmoor.)
1300 Middleton. U/S. Emergency landings only.
1830 Off duty. FD Cleland F/L On duty HL Spence P/O.
Controller S/L Malkin.
[Underlined] MONDAY – NOV. 15 – 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
[Page break]
0100 Off duty H.L. Spence P/O. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0940 Comm Flight Proctor reserved for S/L Jacobs for 10.30 for all day.
0945 Movement E26 Hal. & Lancs. air firing at Whitby and bombing at Strensall 10.30-1800 hrs.
1000 Comm. Flight Oxford reserved for S/L Gordon & W/C Ferris to go to Coningsby (via Digby) at 1430 today to attend a courts martial.
11.15 429/F S/L Rawson took off from Leeming about 5 minutes ago for Pershore Leeming F/C knew nothing about it and on enquiring were told that Group knew all about it. SASO and G.T.I. 1 & 2 know nothing about it. Referred to 429 Sqdn. adj. who is going to try and find out purpose of flight
1155 Comm Flight (see 10.00 hr. entry) Trip now cancelled. Comm. Flight informed.
1228 Tiger Moth DE663 from Scorton landed at Dalton to refuel on way to Doncaster.
Dominie X7454 landed at Topcliffe at 11.58 on way from Sherburn to Dumfries, on account of weather. Will proceed after lunch, weather permitting.
1230 Middleton is now serviceable.
1235 Baracudas 11 of these a/c landed at Croft on way from Lee-on-Solent to Tain, on account of weather. Will continue on after lunch weather permitting. Tain & Lee-on-Solent informed.
1300 Oxford T1070 landed at Topcliffe from Scorton. Pilot is W/C Warner.
[Page break]
1435 Baracudas at Croft will be staying over night on account of the weather. Tain & Lee-on-Solent informed.
1530 Oxford DE144 landed Topcliffe at 15.35 from Marham. Pilot is F/Lt. Burley.
1555 Middleton now u/s due to strong wind 50° off closest available runway.
1650 Fortress 231062 from Port Abbott landed at Wombleton bringing spares for Fortress that landed there a few days ago.
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty F.D. Cleland F/LT.
2000 Night Flying No night flying in the Group.
[Underlined] Tuesday. Nov 16 1943. [/underlined]
01.00 Ident Board changed.
09.00 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L. On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
0915 Possible U.S. Div. C.F.C. advise of possibility of Americans requiring diversion bases. Offered Eastmoor, Tholthorpe, Linton, Topcliffe Leeming Croft & M.S.G.
0916 Air-Sea Search 16 Gr. F.C. request we have some a/c standing by in case required for air-sea search at around 1300 hrs. We to advise after day’s commitment known.
[Page break]
1000 Air-Sea Search Unable to contact Air-Sea Rescue Officer. Stations asked for offers. (M.S.G. 6. Leeming 6. Tholthorpe 6.)
1010 Blanket Cover [underlined] E-59 [/underlined] Arranged for Air Firing at R.H.B. and Whitby. Bombing at Strensall, F.A. locally & local ht. tests from 1000 hrs to 1730 hrs for Hals & Lancs. Ref:- E59
1050 U.S. Div. C.F.C. have allotted stations mentioned in entry 0915 to 3rd U.S. Div. for possible diversion. Stations concerned informed. 1115 hrs.
1050 Emerg. Weather Diversion On instructions of Controller requested 2 Diversion Bases from C.F.C. for Lancs.
1145 U.S. Divers. 3rd U.S. Div. passed information on Sqn. R/T & W/T call signs. They hope to get their a/c back to own bases. Gen passed to stations by 1240 hrs.
1230 L.F.B. Special Beacon at Beachy Head on 310° from 2145-2245 or 2215-2315 hrs.
Balloons Langley & Weybridge Balloons will be at 1500 ft from 2145-2315 hrs.
1255 Diversion Bases. C.F.C. have reserved Ford & Thorney Island for Provisional Weather Diversion Bases. Met say OK. and Controller has allotted Ford to 408 Sqn & Thorney Island to 426 Sqn.
1300 L.F.B. Balloons Div. Bases. Ops cancelled. 11 Gr. informed L.F.B., Balloons, & Diversion Bases not required.
[Page break]
1400 Comm. Flight Proctor Reserved by S/L Jacobs for 1430 hrs.
1350 M.S.G. A/d. Service Station state a/d u/s because of wind.
1320-1400 S.O.S. Aircraft. S.O.S. from KCH “D” on Docking HF D/F intercepted by Leeming – QDM 240. Transmitted to 16 Group and 12 Group.
Message from Leeming from KCH “D” – (QDM 250) “Aircraft left formation, maybe in distress – 57 00N 04 00E – Magnetic 252 T.O.O. 1505A” (Perhaps should be 1305A) Passed to 12 Group.
M.S.G. reported giving QDY to KCH “D” of 261° at 1325 hrs. Passed to 12 Group.
1400 Beaufort LZ 450 [deleted] JM550 [/deleted] M/n aircraft left Leeming for Northolt. Capt. Simons, at 1006. Had not arrived 1400 hrs.
1500 Darky Leeming heard call, could not make out C/S, from “F” requesting permission to land. M.S.G. also reported
1515 “Badfall F” (23249) Fortress 413 Sqn. (2nd Lt. Deccard) Landed at Skipton. Home Station Snetterton Heath. #3 Engine U/S. Manifold head or pressure trouble. Unable to return to base, staying overnight. 3rd. U.S. Div. informed.
1520 Air Sea Search Tholthorpe Squadrons stood down. Leeming & M.S.G. detailed.
[Page break]
1625 Air Sea Rescue 3 a/c of 419 & 3 a/c of 428; 3 a/c of 427 & 3 a/c of 429 all airborne in air-sea rescue.
2000 A/S Rescue All Group a/c on A/S Rescue now back.
1830 Off duty [Deleted] D [/deleted] H.L. Spence, P/O On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt
20.55 Crash 432/B Lanc II. From 1 Gp: this a/c crashed 1 mile west of Ingham near Ingham village. A/c is still buring. Crash was reported to Ingham at 19.45 who immediately took crash action. 2 crew, Sgt. Calderwood (Wop.) & Sgt. Huggins (MUG) baled out & are at Hemswell sick quarters – both okay. Two bodies unidentified have been found in crash by Ingham MO.
Above passed to 62 Base.
2105 Crash From 1 Group: the two crew that baled out report that SIE caught fire, and following this SOE cut. Soon [deleted] the [/deleted] one port engine packed up and a/c crashed.
21.15 Crash From 1 Group: F/S Bell (nav.) & F/S Powers (RG) both baled out and are apparently okay. Hemswell picking them up. These two report that Sgt. Simmons, the engineer, baled out before they did. This would account for the seven crew of a/c. Dead members of crew are F/S Burgess (pilot) & F/S Mayo (BA)
21.45 Crash From 62 Base: 4 crew at Hemswell are to remain there till the morning when Eastmoor will send down transport to pick them up. Hemswell may organise search for Sgt. Simmons – they will let us know.
[Page break]
2155 Middleton completely u/s due to ice on runways. However they think they can get their A/S Rescue a/c away in the morning if necessary.
Air Sea Rescue From 16 Gp: Can we put up 15 a/c to continue search tomorrow morning? Controller said okay after consulting squadron. Allocation as follows: 1659 – 4 a/c (possibly not till 11 o’clock)
1664 – 4 a/c
419 – 2 a/c
428 – 2 a/c
431 & 434 – 3 a/c between them.
2345 Crash From 1 Gp: search parties for Sgt. Simmons have been instituted by Hemswell & Ingham and police are also searching. 62 Base informed.
[Underlined] Wednesday, Nov. 17. 1943 [/underlined]
0105 Diversion From 5 Gp: possibility they may have to send 2 or 3 of their a/c up to us; what can we offer? Gave them Eastmoor after checking with Met. & 62 Base.
0315 Diversion 5 Gp. now quite happy, no diversion. Informed 62 Base
0615 A/S Rescue From 16 Gp: Areas are as follows:
3 a/c of 43 – Call signs – WCF 50, 51, 52
5440N 0040E 5450N 0040E
5450N 0140E 5440N 0140E
3 a/c of 4 – Call signs WCF 53, 54, 55
5450N 0040E 5500N 0040E
5450N 0140E 5500N 0140E
[Underlined] 3 a/c of 1664 [/underlined] – Call sign WCF 56, 57, 58
5500N 0040E 5510N 0140E
5510N 0040E 5500N 0140E
[Page break]
a/c are to carry out a parallel track search from West to East with 1/4 mile visibility a/c to fly at 300 ft. If an a/c makes a sighting it is to signal other two a/c, one of which is to climb to 1500 ft & get 1st class fix on Sect. J. Sighting a/c is to continue circling dinghy while other two a/c search for HSL’s and lead them to dinghy. There will be two HSL’s at a position 5427N 0113E about 1100 hrs. onwards Call sign of HSL’s: MHB 62 & MHB 64.
The a/c getting the first class fix will sent the message re dinghy to be either in Bomber Code or AP1927, taking care to specify number of crew in dinghy.
There will be 4 Warwicks searching in same longitude south of us.
All a/c are searching for only one dinghy, the one we sighted yesterday. There are no other dinghies out there.
A/c are to be on 500 kcs at all times except for 5 min. at the hour & half past when they will be on Sect. J 385 kc. HSL’s will be on 500 kcs. All the time except the hour & half hour when they will be on their port wave for 5 minutes.
0800 Sgt. Simmons – lost member of 432/B’s crew has not yet been located but search being continued today.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
09.00 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L
09.55 Sgt. Simmons. Dead. Body found 1/2 mile north of Fillingham. 1 Group will phone more particulars later.
[Page break]
10.05 Crash 432B. Lanc II D.S. 847. Informed SASO, Controller, GTI (1), W/C Saunders, W/C Guest and Group Engineer.
12.05 Bullseye. (Command) Asked Conversion Units for offers tonight:-
1679 – nil
432 – 4 Lancs
[Deleted] 1664 – 3 Halis [/deleted] (Scrubbed at 14.30 hrs)
1659 – 6 Hals.
13.55 Sighting Report. 429 R, while on Air to Sea firing, sighted what was believed to be 3 mines at pos’n. 5437N-0061/2 W at 12.10 hrs. Passed to Controller & N.S.O. Southdown.
14.40 432 B. 4 Survivors are returning by road today – all okay. Crash signal has been originated by RAF Hemswell.
14.50 Proctor Comm. Flight. Permission given by Air I for Linton to use Proctor tomorrow at 11.00 hrs to take pilot to Luton to bring back the Tiger Moth.
16.45 Oxford Comm. Flight. Oxford for W/C Weir at 08.00 hrs tomorrow.
16.45 Lancaster Q/Blyton. This a/c now over Isle of Man. Pilot not used to night-flying so it may be necessary to land him at Topcliffe or Leeming. Ex. F/C. 1 Gp.
17.00 Lancaster Q/Blyton Now diverted to Leeming. W/T call sign: SOH
RT call sign: Jaywalk or Immune.
17.30 Lancaster Q/Blyton No diversion. Heading toward base O.K.
17.50 Y/434 Landed Riccal due to weather
18.00 Y/434 Told to return to base when weather OK.
1830 Off duty F.L. Cleland. On duty H.L. Spence.
1906 Y/434 Returned to base.
[Page break]
2130. Air-Sea Rescue Search 16 Group state the search is to continue tomorrow. We are asked to provide 4 aircraft for take off at 0815 hrs.
Details:-
[Underlined] C/S [/underlined] “W.C.F.” [underlined] Nos. [/underlined] 55 to 58 (incl.)
[Underlined] Type of Search: [/underlined] Parallel track search 1/4 mile viz. (1/2 mile between a/c) West to East, creeping south to north.
[Underlined] W/T: [/underlined] Usual (385 & 500 kcs.)
[Underlined] Area [/underlined]
5410N 0015W
5420N 0015W
5410N 0050E
5420N 0050E
[Underlined] No. of A/C [/underlined] 4
[Underlined] T.O. [/underlined] – 1815 hrs.
2200 ASR.S Offers accepted by Controller:-
1659 – Topcliffe – 2 a/c
1664 – Croft – 2 a/c.
2330. A.SR.S. From 16 Group
Details of Surface craft.
R.M.L. 550 C/S MHB-13
R.M.L. 520 C/S MHB-11
In position 5355N 0020E at 0830 hrs.
H.S.L. 2574 c/s MHB. 66
H.S.L. 2572 c/s MHB. 67
In position 5430N 0000E at 0930 hrs.
There will be a south bound and possibly a north bound convoy in the area. Navy are advising the convoys and their balloons will be close hauled between 5340N & 5440N.
[Page break]
[Underlined] THURSDAY – NOV. 18/43 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0900 Off duty H.L. Spence P/O. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0945 Movement E226-32 Hal. & Lancs. air firing at Whitby and bombing at Strensall 0930-1730; local height tests to 16000 ft.
1045 Weather From Met: bases will be fit tonight - no diversions required due to weather.
1110 Petrol Diversion On Controller’s instruction requested 3 emergency diversion bases on south coast area of England. Will phone us back.
1130 A/S Rescue. From 16 Gp: can we put up 8 a/c as stand by for possible A/S Rescue operations around 1400 hrs. today. This is not for the dinghy that we have previously been searching for (looks like another American operation) SASO said to ask 432 & Con. Units: final offers were as follows:
1679 – 4 a/c
1659 – 1 a/c (cancelled)
1664 – 1 a/c (cancelled)
432 – 4 a/c
16 Gp say they would like the whole 10 a/c to stand by and will let us know as soon as possible if they require us or not.
1215 Landfall Beacon at Beachy Head will be on bearing of 360°T from 22.15-2300 and from 23.45-0045
12.20 Balloons Langley & Weybridge at 1500’ 17.45-18.45 & 2200-0200
[Page break]
1225 A/S Rescue Neither of 1659 a/c on search sights of anything Passed to 16 Gp.
1330 Diversions Prov. Petrol Diversions laid on as follows:
419, 428, & 408 to Tangmere
429, 427, & 426 to Thorney Island
431 & 434 to Stanton Harcourt.
Passed to stations. Okayed by Met.
1500 Billingham Balloons will be close hauled from 16.15-1800 and from 23.00 to 01.30. Stations informed.
1505 A/S Rescue 1664 a/c on sea search this morning have nothing to report.
1515 A/S Rescue Reference entry of 11.30:- from 16 Gp:-
[Underlined] Area I [/underlined] 4 a/c Call signs: WCF 85, 86, 87, 88
5455N 0313E 5455N 0400E
5506N 0313E 5506N 0400E
Report of dinghy in pos’n 5500N 0340E
[Underlined] Area II [/underlined] [deleted] 4/ [/deleted] 4 a/c Call sign: WCF 89, 90, 91, 92
5415N 0235E 5427N 0235E
5427N 0322E 5415N 0322E
Report of dinghy in pos’n 5422N 0305E
Aircraft are to carry out a parallel track search with 1/4 mile vis. from west to east. There will be no surface craft but an airborn lifeboat will be sent out to any sighting a/c when it gets a fix.
1725 431/Q took off at 17.22 before Control could stop him. (Controller had instructed them not to let him go as he was too late)
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
[Page break]
Thursday, November 18th 1943
18.30 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
[deleted] 21.2 [/deleted] 18.12 H/419 Gaining height over aerodrome while Control calling H/428 (non-ops.). Told [inserted] H/428 [/inserted] to stand by for oper. takeoff. H/419 thought message to stand by was for him. Upon hearing H/428 told to land, H/419 answered saying he would jettison first. Control there were also mixed up and thought H/419 was an early return. Result was that H/419 thought he had been recalled, jettisoned his bombs & came back & landed at 18.12 hrs.
21.22 K/426 Receiving SOS fixes from Hull and gives height as 19800’, speed 200, heading 310° Posn 5300N 0400E.
21.38 K/426 Appears to be heading toward E. Anglia. Asked 11 Gp to look out for him and light up coastal aerodromes, including Woodbridge. Hardwick is lit up waiting for him.
22.12 K/426 Cancels SOS.
22.15 K/426 Lands at Hardwick. Badly shot up. Two engines U/S. All crew OK.
22.30 Q/431 Calling Southampton. Too weak for bearing.
22.59 Q/431 SOS. Posn 5006N – 01.04E II Pulham.
23.28 Q/431 164° from Ringway.
23.35 Q/431 Ex. 11 Gp – Aircraft believed to be Q/431 ditched at posn. WV2444. Fighter patrolling reported posn. (RD7 plot). At first light ASR boats will be sent out. 11 Gp. handling the rescue work.
[Underlined] Friday. Nov 19th 1943 [/underlined]
01.30 Air Sea Rescue. 16 Gp request 3 aircraft for ASR in morning.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Friday. Nov 19th 1943 [/underlined]
01.30 Air Sea Rescue Topcliffe 1659 C.U. providing 3 aircraft for search for American dinghies
Area 5345N 0050E
5345N 0300E
5350N 0050E
5350N 0300E
Time: Weather permitting – 1st light of day.
Method: Parallel tracks west to east, creeping North at 1/4 mile visibility.
Call Signs: WCF 133, 134 & 135.
Listen on Sect. J at hour & half hour
All other times to 500 KC’s.
Note: 2 HSL’s, call-sign “MHB” 35 & 44 will be south of the area. Also 2 HSL’s 20 mi N of Spurn Head “MHB” 16 & 18.
Wellingtons will be searching south of area
Marauders will be searching north of area.
02.30 Crew of K/426 This aircraft landed at Hardwick badly shot up. Crew are OK. W/C Sweatman suggested that they fly back with another aircraft. Arranged that V/426 at Shipdham bring them back when they return in the morning.
08.00 V/426 At Shipdham. Has been given instructions to pick up crew of K/426 at Hardwick. Passed through USAAF Shipdham.
08.50 F/431 At Woodbridge, believed serviceable. Trying to arrange for F/431 to fly crew of 428/O back from Woodbridge.
*1330 Diversion Gen. Information re. Dunsfold and Tangmere passed to Leem. M. St. G & 62 Base.
[Line through remainder of page]
[Page break]
0900. – On Duty. [Signature]
1000/1100 Aircraft away. F/C at respective Group HQ’s having 6 Group a/c from last nights ops were contact [sic] and instructed that all serviceable 6 Group aircraft were to return to base as soon as possible.
1115 F/431 O/428. Crew of O/428 to return with F/431 to Linton-on-Ouse. Transport to be arranged from Middleton to take crew O/428 back to base.
1150 S/426 U/426 Ex. AIR I. S/426 to land at Waterbeach and bring back crew of C/426.
G/426 to land at Hardwick and pick up crew of K/426. – F.C. Tangmere advised.
1220 427 a/c W/C Turnbull happily ‘[indecipherable]’ into the picture ref his a/c away.
Crew H/427 Snaith returning by train.
1230. 429 a/c Instructions Ex W/C Pattison
Crew V/429 – return by train
Crews X/429 } remain with their
I/429 } aircraft.
Instructions passed.
[Page break]
1240 Bullseye. Ex Col Wood. – to Bases 61, 62 RCAF Croft.
Route: BASE – ANDOVER – FISHGUARD – START POINT – SPALDING – YORK – BASE.
Starting Point = ANDOVER
TOT = 18:50
Infra Reds: Fishguard – Bideford Northampton – Goole.
Heights – Hal – 15000’
Lanc. 18000’
1300 C.F.C. Following two Bases allotted by C.F.C. to be used tonight in a strictly emergency capacity only by a/c of this Gp – Tangmere – Dunsfold.
1310 L.F.B. Beachy Hd. Bearing 310°T
Time – 20:45-21 45
1315 Balloons. Warwick }
Gt Yarmouth }
Lowestoft } 1500 ft.
Langley } Dusk-Dawn
Weybridge } snp En. Act’y
14.30 CFC 6 Gp met unhappy over Dunsfold.
W/C Monk C.F.C. suggests Tangmere should be sufficient to cope with all emergencies – Stations advised
[Page break]
1500 Sea Search Result. 1300- all aircraft 1659 landed – Search carried out from height of 450 ft 1/4 mile visibility between 0947 hours and 1206 hours nothing seen.
Passed to F.C. 16
Participating a/c.
T – 134; W – 135; P – 133
1730 Beaufighter V-8876. F/O Brown.
At Middleton. Ex W Malling. Enroute – Drem.
Staying Night
1810 Diversion into Gp. Ex F.C. 1 Gp. Request Diversion (provisional) Base as of 2000 hrs for 4 Wellingtons
Discussed with Controller and Duty Met – Advised LINTON could cope.
1830 AIR MARSHALL BARRETT. Ex Squires Gate AT Linton (Destination) A/C Dominie.
1830 – Off Duty [Signature]
On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1910 Diversion from 1 Gp. 1 Gp. say they will definitely divert their 4 Well. to Linton if they cannot get them in at Ingham. They will phone us first. ETA at Linton is 20.30. A/c letters: S, C, B, O
[Page break]
W/T callsign: WNB, R/T Callsign: “Perhaps”.
Crews: 6 Officers & 14 other ranks.
2020 Diversion from 1 Gp: their 4 Well. landed at their own base – informed 62 Base.
2030 Weather From Met: till midnight our weather will be as follows – deterioration of vis. generally to 2-3000 yds. cloud base 2000 ft 8/10’s, with general slight precipitation. Tangmere will be okay. Only other parts of England that are as good as we are, - Docking & Cornwall.
2045 Topcliffe Night flying a/c bogged on main runway intersection. They will be using one of the shorter runways for emergency. Asked them to tee up Dalton in case of diversion from other groups.
2220 4 Gp. From CFC: can we help 4 Gp. Controller said okay – gave them the following A/D’s in degree of priority: Croft, Skipton, Dalton and Linton. All stations warned.
2215 Topcliffe 61 Base say a/c circling Topcliffe, - their D/F say an a/c asked for an immediate QDM; QDM was 012° but not passed as a/c did not give call sign. When asked for call sign no more was heard from him.
2240 SOS-429/G On Leeming’s H/F D/F giving SOS – given QDM of 358°. Informed 12 Gp FCLO.
2254 4 Group Say a/c is circling Marston flashing lights. Marson is U/S and they cannot contact a/c so are going to send him to Linton by red tee
[Page break]
at their beacon. Warned 61 Base & asked them to put all Linton’s lights on. FCLO is warning ROC.
2300 429/G (SOS a/c) landed Lindholme at 22.50. Has given darky call over Bircotes who could not land him & sent him to Lindholm where he landed in 400 yds. vis. His SOE was U/S and he couldn’t maintain height.
2325 4 Gp. Div. They have landed most of their a/c so will only require one of our A/D’s to stand by – said Croft. Stood Dalton, Linton & Skipton down.
23.50 4 Gp. Div. Croft stood down by 4 Gp.
0005 Tangmere Contacted Tangmere who said they have an a/c there that crashed into a hangar and went into flames. Fire not yet under control and a/c cannot be identified. All crew believed killed. (This later [deleted] to be [/deleted] was proven not ours)
[Underlined] Saturday November 20, 1943 [/underlined]
0100 434/Y This a/c which is missing was heard from at 20.43 at which time he asked for an ordinary fix. He was told to send call sign which he did. Hull then sent in x signal “Unable to determine your pos’n. You are in line with the D/F stations base line (20.46) They started to give him a bearing but another a/c interfered whom Hull told to wait. Hull then sent the bearing of 178° 1st class again which a/c ack. at 20.46. Hull then told a/c to change freq. to South. which a/c ack. but nothing was heard from him after
[Page break]
South did not hear him at all. Stanmore filter room say the only broad IFF’s received eventually landed.
A very poor fix obtained from the three bearings of Hull 178° (1st) Heston 170° (2nd) & Newcastle 172° (3rd) put the a/c near Brighton.
0110 428/T crash From 11 Gp: this a/c crashed near Canterbury. [Deleted] Three cr [/deleted] Crew baled out, three of which have been found: Sgt Oshaway, F/O Storan, and Sgt. Kirkland. A/c is burnt out and these three are at Canterbury police station. Sgt. Oshaway says he was the 6th to bale out and baled out at 3000 ft. – thinks the pilot F/Sgt. Hawthorne may not have got out. F/O Storan, 2nd to bale out, baled out at 17000 ft. and just made the coast.
0130 431/Q (see entry 22.30 Nov. 18th) 11 Gp. say a mosq was sent out at dawn to search for this a/c and 4 Spitfires were sent out subsequently but nothing was seen and as the position was so close to enemy coast no surface craft were sent out. Passed this to W/C Newsome.
11 Gp. continuing with “ribbon” search all day today
0700 434/Y From Intelligence: they have received a raid report from this a/c [inserted] at Thorney [/inserted]. Checked with Thorney Island who say yes it landed there, and are sorry we weren’t informed.
0800 428/T (the crew that baled out) F/S Hawthorne (pilot) and F/S Smith have been found. All are now at Manston.
[Page break]
0800 A/c away Weather in Group is duff: met. do not think they can take off before noon.
[Underlined] Saturday Nov. 20th 1943 [/underlined]
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
09.00 On duty. F.D. Cleland F/L.
10.00 431/Q Walrus now out looking for dinghy or crew. Passed to W/C Newsome.
10.25 Density Exercise. All conversion units & 432 Squadron asked to take part in this exercise tonight.
11.15 Crew of H/408 At Waddington. P. Inner mag. trouble. Crew have been told to return by rail today. Instructions passed to F/C 5 Gp.
12.18 Offers for Density. [Deleted] 1664 C.U – 4 Hals. [/deleted] Cancelled at 14.50 hrs.
432 Sqdn – 4 Lancs.
12.00 Crew of 429/D At Tangmere. To go to Ford and return with X/429 as 429/D is not serviceable.
14.50 Density Route A. Information passed to 62 Base.
Route #(a). On target 21.05-21.15 hrs.
On target 21.30-31.40 hrs.
15.30 Density Route A. Density exercise cancelled due to 12 Group not approving the route.
16.30 429 X At Ford, now u/s with P.O.E trouble. Staying overnight.
19.00 X-Countries. From Middleton tonight. Middleton have been warned that landing conditions in area they will be flying over are impossible. However, M.S.G. seem quite happy about it.
[Page break]
18.00 Ex. M.S.G. 428/T Manston say one more crew member has been found – W/O Fournier. This leaves one missing still.
18.30 Off duty. F.D. Cleland F/L.
1830 on duty [Signature]
1833 X-Countries Middleton have now cancelled their x-countries.
SUNDAY – 21 NOVEMBER 1943.
0900 off duty L.A. Justason On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0940 Testing of ROC N.I Post at Berwick Middleton are going to send an a/c up to test this post approx. between 11.00 & 11.30. FCLO 12 informed.
1020 a/c away From 62 Base: all 434 a/c to return if serviceable between [deleted] 2 oc [/deleted] 1400 & 1700 this afternoon. Contacted the appropriate Group HQ & found that 424/M was still u/s and 434/J was Cat. AC & would not be ready for 2 weeks. Informed 62 Base
1040 a/c away From Leeming: 429/D crew to come back by train; 429/X – crew to stand by and come back when a/c serviceable.
1045-11.10 Diversion Hudson From 16 Gp: can we land one of their Hudsons from Docking which is at present out to sea. Met give following conditions at Middleton: 2-4000 yds vis. 2-3000 ft. cloud base till at least 1400 hrs. ETA of Hudson at Middleton is 1200 hrs. Call sign NYR/K “ICEPACK”, will be on [deleted] 3380 [/deleted] 3200 kcs. Want Middleton to listen in on [deleted] 3380 [/deleted] 3200 & pass message to them who will answer a/c on [deleted] 3380 [/deleted] 3200. Controller & DSO said okay as it would only be for a short while
[Page break]
Requested 12 Gp. to close-haul Newcastle and Billingham balloons immediately.
11.30 Hudson On advice from DSO, contacted 16 Gp. and asked them to tell Hudson to swing onto Middleton’s freq. 3455 kc. We are listening out on both Middleton’s freq. & on 3200 kcs.
11.50 Testing ROC. Berwick the test has now been cancelled FCLO 12 informed.
1230 Hudson landed Middleton at 12.29, Released balloons with 12 Gp. Informed 16 Gp.
1325 434/Y W/C Harris instructs that this a/c return to base from Thorney Island immediately. Met. say okay. Informed 16 Gp. (Landed Tholthorpe 16.10)
1400 Testing ROC-Berwick 428/U has now decided he will test this post and will take off at 1430. Informed FCLO 12 Gp.
1515 428/T crew The crew that baled out on Friday night are all found but one and Manston want to know if they can discontinue the search being carried out by the Canterbury police for the one missing crew member. Air I says to continue till tomorrow noon and then refer matter to Bomber Command Intelligence.
1630 Testing ROC-Berwick From 12 Gp FCLO – 428/U circled the post for 15 min. but nothing heard by post. Will we check a/c’s R/T. This was done & found to be strength 3. Middleton will check to see whether a/c used 6440 or their LAC. (Later, pilot said he called on both freq. & heard once [inserted] very faintly, [/inserted] “ROC are you receiving me?” Passed to FCLO.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Nov 21st 1943 [/underlined]
17.40 Albermarle From CFC: this a/c now circling Ashbourne (93 Gp) cannot get down – can we take it? After consulting Met. gave them Middleton who will have 2000 yds vis. & 2000 ft. cloud base for the next hour & a half. Middleton all teed up. ac/ has plenty of petrol (5 hours)
1800 Albemarle From 93 Gp: W/T – RVD/S, R/T – Judgement & Allad a/c has now acknowledged diversion & has Middleton’s W/T freq. [deleted letters] 12 Gp. want Middleton to call a/c and tell him in clear that Sheffield balloons are close-hauled. A/c has no code. From Met: if Middleton cannot land a/c they can send him to Acklington which is quite good.
Passed all the above to Middleton.
DSO & Controller approved sending this message in clear.
12 Gp. are having Billingham balloons close hauled.
1830 Signals Leeming F/C says someone whom they thought was Ashbourne signals officer, phoned and wanted them to change their D/F freq. to that of Middleton’s to help the above Albemarle.
1847 Albemarle landed at Middleton at 18.46. 93, 12 & CFC informed.
1850 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt. On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
19.30 No Night Flying in Group.
[Underlined] Nov 22nd 1943 [/underlined]
09.00 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L
0900 On Duty [Signature] F/L
0930 A.M. BARRETT. – By Train from York – yesterday to London – His Domini to follow this morning –
[Page break]
0935 Domini Permission refused to this a/c to fly to White Waltham because of very poor vis there.
1010 Domini Permission granted that this a/c can land at Cranwell where vis is 2000 yds. 9/10 1000’ improving.
1025 Domini airborne – passed to Controller 12 Gp.
1040 S/L Carr-Harris Permission granted by Air I that S/L Carr Harris be flown in Middleton’s Tiger Moth (with responsible pilot, G/C’s discretion) to Dunsfold – for aircraft inspection there.
1130 L.F.B. #2 Bearing 270° - 23.15-0015
Balloons Billingham – close hauled 1600- [deleted] 1730 [/deleted] 1800 and 2300-0100.
1300 C.F.C. Allocation of two Emergency Petrol Bases as follows: Swanton Morley and Docking.
Emergency a/c from 419, 428, 427, 429 to go to Swanton Morley. Remaining Emergencies - Docking
- Stations advised.
1420 Ex C.F.C. Feeler on behalf of 3 Group
[Page break]
C.F.C./3 Gp who request provisional bases for 48 Stirlings. – Air I suggested Eastmoor – Wombleton, Dalton, Skipton and Croft with the proviso that not more than three such should be used – so as to ensure to us an emergency base if reqd.
1800 Met Docking Swanton Morley. Six Group met happy ref both Docking and Swanton Morley giving 5/10 – 3000’ – 3000 yds vis beyond midnight.
1825 Leeming (Duty) Pundit U/S Told Linton to stand-by as a duty Beacon for Leeming.
1830 Off duty L.A. Justason, F/Lt. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1940 Weather From Met: our emergency diversion bases and all A/D’s in East Anglia are getting smoke and fog trouble – present vis. about 1700 yds NLC, likely to deteriorate. In view of fact there are no better bases in that area, Controller decided no action could be taken as yet, unless these diversion bases get unusable.
1950 Crash From Croft: an a/c has crashed 3 miles west of Croft & 2-3 miles NE of Scorton. Both these stations have sent out crash tenders etc. A/c is believed to be 1664/U, one of their night flying a/c which they have not heard from for some time. ROC say crash occurred at 19.25; they reported it to FCLO who did not tell us ROC said it occurred on Croft aerodrome.
[Page break]
1955 Upper Heyford a/c – Linton D/F Received by Linton D/F: from LGX/I to Z6V: 9921 BVJE GCAG AJ – 1858 (decode – 5343N 0102W) Linton gave a/c QDM of 261° at 19.39. Passed to 92 Gp [deleted] RO [/deleted]
2030 Crash 1664/U From Croft: this crash was definitely 1664/U. It occurred at Scotch Corner near Gt. North Road, on Blue Anchor Farm. A/c burnt. 2 crew dead, 2 alive (1 at Scorton & 1 with the Army) 3 not yet accounted for.
2200 A/S Rescue From 16 Gp: can we offer 8-10 a/c to stand by for A/S Rescue first thing in the morning. SASO says ask Con. Units & 432 Sqdn. Offers are as follows: 1659 – 2 a/c
1664 – 1 a/c (cancelled)
1679 – 1 a/c before 11.00, 4 a/c after 1100 hrs.
432 – 4 a/c minimum
2305 Ashbourne a/c Linton D/F From Linton D/D: Message received from RVD/A to 3MY (Ashbourne) 99AC SQWN EKKX – 22.16
2355 Tholthorpe A/c bogged on edge of runway – Eastmoor will be taking their a/c until runway clear.
[Underlined] Tuesday November 23, 1943 [/underlined]
0020 [Deleted] Upper Heyford [/deleted] Ashbourne a/c – Linton D/F From Linton D/F: Message received from RVD/G to 3MY: 9959 FXHM PPKX DGPF AC 22/2330 Passed to [deleted] 92 Gp [/deleted] Ashbourne.
0130 Results 434/C & E, 419/F and 428/D considered lost. Nothing heard from any of these a/c. All stations except Croft stood down. Croft have one x-country still out.
[Page break]
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
09.00 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
10.00 431/X W/C Newsome requested permission to send a/c to collect crew from Woodbridge. Refused by Air I. Message passed to 62 Base.
11.05 1664 U 6 crew dead, one still alive at Northallerton Hospital.
11.10 434 P 434 Z At Docking. One of these aircraft is U/S. Crew wish to return with other aircraft. Passed to 62 Base.
W/C Harris does not feel weather is good enough and also wants full engineer’s report before crew leave aircraft there. Passed to 16 Group.
11.30 Fix on 1659/S 5434N 0157E I at 10.59 ack. from Hull.
11.30 L.F.B. #2 at Flamborough on bearing 270°T from 23.15 hrs – 00.15 hrs.
12.10 Swordfish Fleet Air Arm. Reported crashed near Otley in posn 668662 or E 6565. Reported by Army.
12.30 Swordfish Fleet Air Arm Pilot, Sub-Lt. Ward telephoned Linton & gave this information. Was en route from Inchkip to Sherburne-in-Elmet. Crash landed at 10.30 at Ashfield Farm 1/2 mi NW Otley. Is now at Ashfield House, Otley 481. Aircraft being guarded by army. This information passed to 12 Gp & 4 Gp.
14.10 Prov. Emerg. Diversion Base:- Docking (16 Gp.) Passed to 62 Base.
16.15 Diversions All stations in Group warned that 6 Gp. weather conditions will be best in Command and therefore it is possible we will have large diversions tonight.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Tuesday. Nov. 23rd 1943 [/underlined]
16.45 Seafires from Lee-on Solent 2 Seafires signalled to Leeming at 14.20 hrs have both landed at aerodromes en route due to weather and will be staying overnight. One at Lissett, one at Brough.
17.55 Croft Aerodrome lighting U/S tonight. Electricians are working on it.
18.30 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L
1830 – On Duty. [Signature]
“HUDSON 9912 Goosestream 9912” American Fortress left Prestwick 1541 Enroute to Horton (near Blackpool). This a/c was plotted for 3 hours in the area between Wombleton and Eastmoor. Both airfields were lighted and had R/T contact with the aircraft which could not see the searchlights homing him to Eastmoor. FCLO12 [indecipherable word] to searchlight to Snaith – advised better to use Middleton O.K.’d by F.C.L.O.
Aircraft contact on R/T Wombleton told to fly 328° 27 mi and use Darky – Did so. Landed THORNABY at 20:32
[Page break]
2130 Ex C.F.C.. Query on behalf of 5 Group ref Diversion Bases in 6 Gp.
- 6 Gp met gave O.K. on all our bases as of 2300 hrs.
-Gave the following to C.F.C. MIDDLETON – CROFT – TOPCLIFFE LEEMING – EASTMOOR – THOLTHORPE.
- Later cancelled CROFT due to failure in night lighting. ADDED LINTON as last resort substitute
2200 P/408 – Reported to Linton that on R/T over Docking he was refused permission to land because he was told that Docking was unfit for night landings.
- Checked this with C.F.C. who confirm it to be total error.
2350 Dvn Diversion from 5 Group off
2355 Stations stood down.
0001 Nov 24th WEDNESDAY
0030 Ex 4 Gp – Query ref possible crash near Rufforth – No Gen.
0035 G/426 Ex Base 62 – no news of G/426 since last QDM of 282° at 0024 hrs.
- Fear that the crash might be G/426.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Wednesday Nov 24th [/underlined]
0100 U/408 On interrogation the crew of D/408 reported having heard U/408 calling “DARKY” at position 53° 50’N 00° 32’W at 1733 hours.
0120 Crash (Masham) 1658/A Leeming F/C advised by Masham Police crash near that town. Local fire brigade and Leeming ambulance & tender assisting. Told F.C.L.O. 12 Gp.
0200 426/G Crashed near Duggle[deleted] s [/deleted]by. wop/ag O.K. – 3 of crew O.K. – 1 may be killed. His information confirmed very inadequate knowledge rec’d from F.C.L.O. 12 Gp.
0230 426/G Requested 4 Gp. to send Driffield ambulance to the scene of the crash to look after the crew members and prepared to receive them at the S.S.Q there. #62 informed.
0630 426/G DS770 4 Gp F/C report that Driffield have arranged for guard on this a/c.
The condition of the crew is as follows.
Pilot P/O De Bloeme laceration of face & schock. [sic]
B.A. [deleted] F/L Cleveland [/deleted] F/S Huffman dead
Nav. F/L Cleveland Seriously ill. Fractured skull – lacerations concussion
wop/ag Sgt. McGarrighan O.K.
Mu/ag F/S Martin Seriously ill lacerated face, concussion
R/G F/S Manders. Dead.
thru Church Fenton These aircrew were first taken to a searchlight site O2. Which rendered valuable assistance. Then to a farm house (phone Dugglesby #23)
[Page break]
0508 1658 C.U. Aircraft [deleted] A [/deleted] 1658/Z 4 Group F/C – Ricall reports a Halifax a/c from there crashed in VE48 – Langcliffe Hedge Whernside 2 1/2 miles North east of Kettlewell. Aircraft is burnt out. 3 bodies have so far been recovered (7 in crew) Told Topcliffe and the Sergeant watch-keeper to get Dishforth cracking with ambulance and guard. At 0523, she reported ambulance R/b (road borne) and guard arranged. Good show.
0540 Crash (Masham) JB926 1658/A Leeming F/C reports that aircraft was on a very high hill six miles north of Masham The a/c number was JB 926. Found Pay Book 1570461 Alexander John Winton. Pioneer Corp doing guard duty.
Due to hilly nature of the country ambulance could not proceed to crash – bodies will be collected in the morning. There were 8 in crew. Quite accidentally discovered it was another a/c of 1658 C.U. and four Group now account for all their a/c.
0900 off duty – SR Wyman F/L. On duty D.H. Miller
0930 429/X Leeming would like this a/c to stand by to take off around 11.00 hrs. on instruction from us. However 11 Gp. say the a/c will not be serviceable today as the working party has just arrived. Informed Leeming.
0940 Crash (Masham) JB926 From Leeming: Transport has been sent out this morning to pick up the bodies. No further information has been received re crash.
1045 1658 C.U. Aircraft Z As Dishforth has no M.O. one was not sent out with ambulance. 61 Base are sending one out immediately. No further gen. on this crash yet. From Skipton-in-Craven police – crash occurred at 23.55
[Page break]
09.45 U/408 Re entry 0100 concerning Darky call reported by D/408, a further check reveals that thus was heard by Lissett who called but did not contact aircraft. In an effort to tie up this incident with plots of an aircraft which wandered up and down the coast from Filey to Spurn Head, 12 Gp F.C.L.O. was contacted. 12 Gp had the plots of an a/c which started near Lissett and it would appear that this would be U/408. 12 Gp laid on searchlights but no contact was made with this aircraft and [underlined] plots (RD/F) faded in WB0565. [/underlined] [inserted] approx. 21.30 hrs. [/inserted] 12 Gp sent out Anson. 16 Group advised and had no knowledge of the incident. They will organize search.
1050 419/M Middleton have a strong wind at present and want us to stop this a/c returning from Catfoss. Passed to Catfoss who have now stopped him.
1055 A/S Rescue From 16 Gp: can we supply some a/c to stand by for A/S Rescue? Controller said to ask Con. Units & 432 Sqdn. This search is for 408/U
1130 434/Z & P to return immediately from Docking. Informed 16 Gp.
1145 A/S Rescue 432 Sqdn. have offered 4 a/c for search. Other unites stood down. The following information received from 16 Gp. & 6 Gp ASR Officer passed to 62 Base
[Underlined] Area I [/underlined] 5353N 0010E 5353N 0050E
5405N 0010E 5405N 0050E
[Page break]
[Underlined] Area II [/underlined] 5345N 0010E 5345N 0050E
5357N 0010E 5357N 0050E
Aircraft to search at 1/4 mile vis. (1/2 a mile apart) flying a parallel track W-E creeping N to S.
Call Signs: WCF 54-57, using Sect. J (385 kc) for 5 min. at the hour & half hours. There will be no surface craft in the area due to rough seas. A/c are to work in pairs, one a/c to be responsible for the navigation. Heights of a/c to be 500 ft approx. Smoke floats to be carried & should be dropped at end of each run to assist a good start on next run.
[Underlined] From Met: [/underlined] Weather in area will be squally amounting to nearly gale proportions with high seas. Also there will be some rain.
[Underlined] From 16 Gp. [/underlined] There is a convoy in the above area, which has been warned of our aircraft This convoy sighted the wreckage of a 4 engined bomber at position 5358N 0015E but no dinghy was sighted.
1210 408/P to return to base from Sculthorpe immediately.
1200 434/P at Docking is U/S so crew is returning with 434/Z as per squadron commander’s instructions.
1330 Permission given by SASO for R/408 to take crew down to Waddington to pick up 408/H.
1425 429/V From 93 Gp: this a/c took off from Assington for Leeming at 14.21 without any permission from 6 Gp. or apparently Leeming F/C or Ops. Leeming now enquiring into it (apparently pilot took off without notifying anybody. Told Leeming to tear wide strip off the pilot.)
[Page break]
1450 Permission given by SASO for 434/F to take crew & spare parts down to Shipdham for 434/J. (cancelled)
1535 1659/[deleted] D [/deleted] M From 15 Gp: this a/c (while on x-country) landed at Aldergrove about 14.00 hrs. – Gyro U/S. due to strong winds pilot intends to remain over night.
1540 434/P & Z Re these two a/c at Dorking, W/C Patterson wants both crews to return in either a/c tomorrow if one is serviceable. If neither will be serviceable tomorrow both crews to return by train tonight.
1640 408/U 408/P which landed at Sculthorpe last night is now back at base and says that he heard 408/U calling Darky last night at 17.56 when he (408/P) was 2 min out from the coast and right on track. Pilot sounded in distress.
1700 A/S Search All a/c back from search – no results. Passed to 16 Gp. F/C.
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
18.30 On duty FD Cleland F/L.
20.21 1658/Z See entry 05.08 hrs. From Topcliffe we now have pinpoint of the crash – Sheet 21 – 474938. Evidently an M.O. had not been sent out to the crash, nor an engineering officer. Engineer Officer will go out tomorrow morning.
Bodies found: Sgt. Aitken 1322354 B/A
? Martin ? A/G
Sgt. Robinson 538137 F/E
Sgt Robson 1451671 Nav.
Sgt. Chadwick 1453551 Pilot
Sgt. Stabler 1784108 A/G
Aircraft number DT 578.
[Page break]
21.00 Bullseye. Route now changed due to weather. Base to Cambridge direct then to London. Rest of route unchanged. Passed to Croft.
23.00 408/U. S/L Stanley & S/L Seabourne are going to investigate the reason why 16 Group were not informed by 12 Gp when plots faded at 21.30 hrs last night. No action taken tonight
[Underlined] Thursday. Oct [sic] 25th 1943 [/underlined]
01.00 Intruder Lines. Twice last night we had trouble getting through to York 9 & 10. Long delay caused by having to go through GPO first to make connections.
* Attention:- S/L Stanley & FCO’s.
(Later found out that it was a fault on each line – We couldn’t flash York 9 and York 10 could not flash us and we couldn’t flash them. Reported this to Supervisor at York who is working on the trouble).
* However, the point of this long entry here, is, that in case the girls report trouble to us, we can get good service from the ROC Liason Officer at 12 Gp. He can get us connected at once and also is very willing to test any lines for us if we feel there is a fault anywhere.
17.00 Night Flying finished in Group.
09.00 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
0900 On Duty [Signature]
1030. Diversions Request to C.F.C. for three good bases for 3 Lanc sqns: very likely to be short of petrol on return – and for Provisional
[Page break]
Nov 25th 1943
Petrol Bases for Halifaxes.
1100 U/434 Permission granted by Air I for this a/c to land at Shipdham with crew and repairs for a/c there
1100/1200 A.S.R.S. – assisted in getting call signs and Search Gen to sqns.
0100 S.O.S. Wellington plotted in over Flamborough at 1000ft – flew to Wombleton, gaining height to 6000 ft – proceeded to visit nearly all stations in Group but answered none of the R/T calls made from Stns flew out of Group to South still showing S.O.S.
0130 C.F.C. Provisional Bases as follows:
419-428 to Dunsfold.
427 - Wing. 429 Westcott.
431 – Tangmere
434 – Stanton Harcourt.
432 – Marham.
428 – Swanton Morley
408 – Docking.
- Gen – with exception of Pundits – passed to stations.
[Page break]
Nov 25th ‘43
L.F.B. #2 - 270°T – 0700-Dawn.
LFB. Beachy Hd. 310°T 0500-0600
Balloons – Billingham – Closehauled 2245-0100 0600-0900
Balloons Langley & Weybridge. 1500 ft Dusk-Dawn
1456 ASR. Eight [deleted] Hal [/deleted] aircraft a/b’n on Sea Search
1500 SOS second SOS a/c – a Boston made landfall at Flamborough – Its Bomb Doors were open and showed a torpedo on board – This aircraft turned south and proceeded into one Group.
1600 Marham. Ex. F.C. P.F.F. aircraft landing tonight at Marham are to be briefed to turn right at finish of run – taxi along blue lane to taxi post.
Passes to S/L Kyles.
1640 J/428 At Tangmere. To land at Topcliffe on return for special modification (Ex W/C Miller) – Passed to F.C. Tangmere, who report a/c u/s.
1745 SOS. 3 SOS Lancs. plotted in over Flamborough proceeded west to Leeming – finally landed at Eastmoor. Were 1679 Lancs returning from Sea Search
[Page break]
Nov 25/26 ‘43
1830 ASR Reports = NIL
1830 – Off Duty [Signature]
On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
2230 Cancellation of Lancaster – Whitebait scrubbed.
2345 1658/2 From Topcliffe: the 7th body has been located and will be brought to Topcliffe tomorrow morning. Has not yet been officially identified. 4 Gp. informed.
[Underlined] Friday November 26, 1943 [/underlined]
0015 Leeming taxi accident 427/G & 429/G had taxi accident just before take-off, one of the a/c coming out of dispersal at the wrong time & taxying into the other one taxying along the perimeter track.
0230 419/B At 01.47 MLS passed us the following fix ack. by this a/c from Hull: 5420N 0110W 2nd 0139. This a/c has not yet arrived at base, and upon checking his fix with MLS they tell us Hull does not think this was our a/c but was one of Wymeswold OTU a/c using our call sign by mistake, and which is now using its correct call sign. Matter being looked into by DSO.
0300 419/B Hull say that the message they received from this a/c (see above) was distorted and they were not sure of his call sign. Another fix was requested from Hull by this same a/c using its correct call sign RUW/B and the MLO is satisfied it was not our a/c calling.
0302 429/V had damaged tail wheel on return was sent to Skipton where it landed at 03.14.
[Page break]
0315 Stanton Harcourt 91 Gp. advise us that this station may experience some mist after 0400. Harwell or Enstone will be okay & they say they can divert any of our a/c to one of these stations if they come up at Stanton. Controller says this is the best arrangement and does not think it necessary to send message to 434 [deleted] not [/deleted] giving them another emergency diversion base.
0512 Darky Skipton heard “Edwin E” calling Darky very faintly but could not contact him. No such call sign as “Edwin”. Informed FCLO 12 Gp.
0610 Darky Skipton & Topcliffe still hearing & answering above darky. It is still very faint.
0708 419/O From Finningley Signal officer: 419/O sent message on Finningley’s H/F D/F – “Request landing – petrol low” TOO. 0646, TOR. Finningley 0648. TOR. 6 Gp. 07.10. Told them to send reply: “Land first A/D possible” as no bearing received and it is now getting light. Message was priority “Important”. Finningley, after receiving message sent “Wait 3 min.” but apparently a/c did not come up again. FCLO 12 & 93 Gp FCO informed.
0745 419/O (see above) landed at Wymeswold about 0730
0830 434/L & 431/K & Y at Tangmere are to return as soon as possible on instructions from squadrons. Also 434/G instructed to return. 429/Q will be returning from Westcott as soon as they refuel.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Flying Control Logbook
Description
An account of the resource
A logbook covering the period 7th October to 26th November 1943 (73 pages)
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One handwritten book
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Log book and record book
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
MCothliffKB[Ser#-DoB]-151020-120002
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Anne-Marie Watson
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
1943-11
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
England--Yorkshire
air sea rescue
RAF Tholthorpe
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1612/24525/MCothliffKB[Ser -DoB]-151020-13-01.pdf
b7dec0ab567900caf1926b0c0d8ee57c
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1612/24525/MCothliffKB[Ser -DoB]-151020-13-02.pdf
29223c98c34923dee6a7e4be26213561
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Cothliff, Ken. Tholthorpe Logs
Description
An account of the resource
10 items. The collection contains flying control log books from RAF Tholthorpe.
The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Ken Cothliff and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. Some items have not been published in order to protect the privacy of third parties, to comply with intellectual property regulations, or have been assessed as medium or low priority according to the IBCC Digital Archive collection policy and will therefore be published at a later stage. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal, https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collection-policy.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Cothliff, K
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
[Underlined] LK 963. [/underlined]
[Underlined] CONTROL OFFICER’S LOG [/underlined]
[Underlined] JULY 1ST – 1943 [/underlined]
[Page break]
A.R.P. Controller – Telephone Easingwold 288
Local Police – Helperby 213
Local A.R.P. – Mr. Webster – Main Street Tholthorpe
CLERK OF WORKS EXT. 8 OR 12-1
[Page break]
This log is to be kept daily by the D.F.C.O. It should contain all events of importance. Times of occurrences must in all cases be noted. An effort should be made to write clearly and concisely. As this type of scribbler is the only thing available for log keeping, special care will have to be taken, so that our diary remains neat and tidy.
H.G. Austin F/L.
Dear Diary:- You should have been opened on the day our party of five arrived, namely June 19TH. But you were unobtainable from an Orderly Room which then didn’t exist. Today, July 5TH you were born, thanks to F/O Hancock, the Met. Officer, on the promise of the return of your twin, should we ever get same and remember.
Tholthorpe has grown gradually. The days events since June 19TH have consisted of work, more work & bl-- little sleep. Sunday June 20TH, was a Red letter day, for at 1345 hours an ANSON EG120 was the first aircraft to land. The next few days saw the first four Halifaxes make their appearance. The balance of the time has been industriously spent preparing equipment and offices. In cases where much-needed articles were not obtainable, they have been scrounged, borrowed or built from materials which appeared suddenly on the horizon. Much work remains to be done. Much work will be done. You, Dear Diary, will record from this day, all the main events of R.C.A.F. Tholthorpe, its happenings, its operations and its – Well, you can tell the rest:-
[Page break]
[Underlined] Tuesday – 6TH July 1943. [/underlined]
1415 The first Squadron a/c O 434 (F/L Lytel) took off.
[Underlined] Wednesday 7TH July 1943 [/underlined]
Flying all day. Sgt Bowker & Lac Stubbs (U/T A.F.C.) and Lac Mount A of W. arrived for duty.
[Underlined] Thursday 8TH July 1943. [/underlined]
Some flying.
[Underlined] Friday 9 TH July 1943 [/underlined]
Quiet. LAC Hanley arrived for pre-FCO instruction.
[Underlined] Saturday 10TH July 1943 [/underlined]
Quiet.
[Underlined] Sunday 11TH July 1943 [/underlined]
Six new aircraft arrived during afternoon.
[Underlined] Monday 12TH July 1943 [/underlined]
One new aircraft landed. Some squadron flying also two visiting a/c who were lost.
[Underlined] Tuesday 13TH July 1943. [/underlined]
One new aircraft landed. Local flying.
[Underlined] Wednesday 14TH July 1943 [/underlined]
Quiet day
[Underlined] Thursday 15TH July 1943 [/underlined]
Quiet day
[Underlined] Friday 16TH 1943 [/underlined]
Bags of fighter affiliation
[Underlined] Saturday 17TH July 1943 [/underlined]
Some local flying. Tiger Moth landed on grass. Reported surface O.K.
[Underlined] Sunday 18TH July 1943 [/underlined]
Some local flying. Sgts. Abbott, Tidmarsh and Shacklady arrived for A.F.C. duties post course Watchfield.
[Underlined] Monday 19TH July 1943 [/underlined]
Quiet day.
[Underlined] Tuesday 20TH July 1943. [/underlined]
Two more new aircraft. Some flying.
[Underlined] Wednesday 21st July 1943 [/underlined]
Six aircraft on local flying. Biggest effort so far.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Thursday 22nd July 1943 [/underlined]
Tiger Moth (T7737) allotted to station. F/O Taylor arrived from Linton on attachment.
[Underlined] Friday 23rd July 1943 [/underlined]
Biggest day so far. Seven a/c up on local flying Five new a/c arrived during afternoon.
1758 First a/c off on practice operation. Eleventh off 1810.
1915 Eleventh & last a/c [deleted] off [/deleted] landed. Average time 2 mins 05 secs.
[Underlined] Saturday 24TH July 1943 [/underlined]
Air-to-air firing, x-countries and one new aircraft caused an interesting day. N 434 landed at Pershore with engine trouble.
[Underlined] Sunday 25TH July 1943 [/underlined]
More x-countries. W 434 went to Pershore to take ground crew to repair N & went U/S too.
1425 Report of a crashed aircraft SE of us received from Linton. Later proved to be one of Topcliffe’s. (Crew all killed.)
2252 T 434 off on X country
2255 A 434 off on X country
2257 E 434 off on X country
2315 F 434 started C’s & B’s. First landing at night made at 2325.
2336 F 434 finished C’s & B’s.
0029 T 434 finished X country. Overshot twice
0033 E 434 finished X country. No R/T.
0047 A434 finished X country. Overshot twice. (Bags more grey hairs
[Underlined] Monday 26TH July 1943. [/underlined]
1448 N 434 returned from Pershore.
2253 U434 started C’s & B’s. Flarepath No 24.
2257 D434 started C’s & B’s.
0109 U 434 finished night flying.
0123 D434 finished night flying.
[Underlined] Tuesday 27th July 1943 [/underlined]
1320 W 434 arrived back from Pershore.
2 A/C on X-countrys. 1 on Bombing & 1 on height test (21,000’ easy)
17.45 V. F/O. Hanson landed from Middleton as he could not get his [missing words] after take-off. A/Cr. O.K. so returned immediately [obscured words] Documents CD209-No125. CD0261-No1525 and CD260-No [obscured words]
[Page break]
[Underlined] Wednesday 28TH July 1943 [/underlined]
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch – Runway 28
1315 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Runway 10.
1520 Runway changed to No.24.
1715 All flying finished. Watch closed.
[Underlined] Thursday 29TH July 1943 [/underlined]
0845 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Runway 28.
13:00 F/O Taylor on Watch – Runway 28.
1806 Day flying finished = 4 on Cross Country tonight.
1930 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Gooseneck & glim lamp flarepath laid
2152 T 434 off on night X-country.
2154 D 434 off on night X-country.
2202 E 434 off on night X-country.
2203 S 434 off on night X-country.
[Underlined] Friday 30TH July 1943. [/underlined]
0057 T 434 landed from X-country. Base informed
0108 D 434 landed from X-country. Base informed
0141 S 434 landed from X-country. Base informed
0150 E 434 landed from X-country. Base informed
0900 F/O Taylor on watch. Runway 28 = Wind – Light & Variable.
1315 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Runway 10 = QAN – E’ ly light.
1930 F/O Taylor on watch = Runway 10 Gooseneck & glim flarepath.
2125 A.V.M. Brooks landed in Phoenix & left again for Linton.
2232-2236. D, G, U, & O. off on Bullseye.
2259. E. took off for Bombing at Strensall.
[Underlined] Saturday 31st July 1943. [/underlined]
0023 E returned from Bombing & carried on C & B. till 0109.
0157 G landed after doing one overshoot.
0220 O landed after doing two overshoot.
0230 D not shown up, started chasing base.
0234 2nd class fix on Hull, acknowledged 54°49N. 03°02W.
0248 2nd class fix on Hull acknowledged 54°38N. 02°47W.
0254 2nd class fix on Hull acknowledged 54°27N 02°33W.
0310 An A/C passed over from NW heading SE. Put out a call for Ragman D but received no answer.
0330 Ex=Base= Group working on it.
Ex=Base= Group say R.O.C. plotted him over Linton at 03.00
[Page break]
0420 Base advise D/434 landed at [underlined] Cork [/underlined] Radio U/S No landing time given. = Search light recalled. Flare-path doused. R/T off.
0900 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Runway 16 – QAN SE’ly 10+ mp.h.
1313 D 434 returned from Cork.
1315 F/O Taylor on Watch – Runway 16 – QAN SE’ly. 15+ mph. A flt advise D landed Cork at 03.30.
1830 All day flying finished – Watch Closed.
[Underlined] Sunday 1st August. [/underlined]
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. - #24. Runway = SW ly. S
1300 F/L Austin on Watch.
1530 Runway changed to No. 16 – Varying S by E to SE – gusty.
2000 F/O Taylor on Watch. = Runway 24 = Gooseneck & glim flarepath
2226-2303. P. O. C. & A. took off for night bombing exercise.
2333. O landed O.K. followed by P, C. & A. (Searchlight U/S)
[Underlined] Monday 2nd August. [/underlined]
0006 2 flares seen to the West: probably mortars.
0900 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Runway 24 – S-SW 20-25 MPH. Monthly report for July forwarded to G/C.
1135 Runway changed to No. 28 - QAN – WSW to W’ly.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1600 4 A/C on A/S/Rescue. ETD. 17:00 hrs. E.T.A. 19:38
1705 L/434 off on A/S./R. Landed 20:11
1715 U/434 off on A/S.R. Landed 19:58
1721 O/434 off on A/S/R
1743 G/434 off on A/S/R.
1958 U/434 landed from A/S/R.
2011 L/434 landed from A/S/R.
2139 G/434 landed from A/S/R.
2144 O/434 landed from A/S/R.
F/Lt Austin on Duty.
2221 T/434 off on Night Bombing
2228 V/434 off on Night Bombing
2338 T/434 Landed from Night Bombing
2347 V/434 landed from Night Bombing.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Tuesday August 3rd, 1943. [/underlined]
0900 F/O Taylor on watch. Runway 34. QAN WNW-N-W. 8-10 backing.
1052 W/Co Newsome took off in B. = First 431 A/Cr to go up.
12.45 Changing runway to 28. Wind light mainly W.ly.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch.
8 A/Cr for Bulls-eye tonight. ETD. 22:15. ETA. 01:56.
2000 F/O Taylor on Watch. Wind forecast Easterly No 10 flarepath laid.
2221 D – 1st A/Cr off. QFE = 1011.
2230 7th A/Cr off. S failed to go. = Undercarriage trouble
2245 D – landed. = returned with “Gyro” trouble.
[Underlined] Wednesday 4th August 1943. [/underlined]
0221 F landed from Bullseye.
0226 T landed from Bullseye.
0235 G. did an overshoot; after failing to line-up on first attempt.
0239 U landed from Bullseye.
0242 P did an overshoot.
0245 G did another overshoot.
0250 E landed from Bullseye.
0250 P & G diverted to Linton.
0304 P & G re-diverted to East Moor.
0318 G Landed at East Moor.
0325 P landed at East Moor.
0330 Three a/c are detailed for Air Sea Rescue at 0615 hrs.
0530 Time of takeoff for A.S.R. postponed to 0900 hrs.
0900 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Runway 28 N W’ly under 5 MPH.
0920 F 434 off on A.S.R.
0930 T 434 off on A.S.R. V 434 scrubbed –(mag drop)
1228 T 434 landed from A.S.R.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1316 F 434 landed from. A.S.R.
1330 Runway changed to 10. Wind light but mainly Easterly.
1533. G 434 returned from East Moor = left there 15:11
1656 P 434 returned East Moor left there 16:40
[Underlined] Thursday, 5th August 1943 [/underlined]
0900 F/O Taylor on watch.
1020 Group stand down tonight
1020 Runway 10: E to ESE. 5-10. mph.
[Page break]
[Deleted] Wednesday [/deleted] Tuesday 10TH August 1943 (Continued)
0900 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Runway 10 QAN SE’s – under 5 MPH.
1145 Eight a/c for tonight.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1445 Runway changed to 24. QAN. S – SW. 5-10 mph.
1930 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Runway 28
1950 Scrubbed. – Aircraft unable to be ready in time.
[Underlined] Wednesday 11 August 1943. [/underlined]
0900 F/O Taylor in Watch.
Halifax E-NA 428 Sqdn. (EB210.) (F/S Newton) landed here about 0600 hrs. on 2 motors. ? short of petrol. Crew were taken over to Linton.
10.00 Not required tonight.
Further note re: above Halifax = Linton had given him “Pancake.” After he had landed they heard him very faintly asking where to disperse. Called our exchange operator, who marshalled A/Cr in front of W/O. Linton sent transport over for crew.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch - Runway 34 QAN NW’ly 10+ MP.H.
1526 E/428 left for Middleton St. George.
[Underlined] Thursday 12TH August 1943. [/underlined]
0900 F/Lt Auston on Watch. Runway 28 – W’ly light.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
10 A/Cr for tonight
1500 F/O Stephenson and P/O Lister reported for Flying Control Officer duties.
2000 F/Lt Austin on Watch.
2115 [Underlined] First a/c V434 (F/O Tyler) off on operations. [/underlined] 1st OP.
2128 Tenth & last a/c airborne. (A couple of phews.)
[Underlined] Friday 13TH August 1943. [/underlined]
0046 P 434 returned early. Overload tank U/S.
0305 Runway changed to No. 16 – QAN – SSE’ly 5-10 MPH. Wind strengthening.
0459 Base advise E434 is landing at Boscombe Down short of petrol & engine U/S.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Friday 13TH August (Continued [/underlined]
0515 Runway changed to No. 10 QAN SSE under 5 M.P.H.
0525 E434 landed at Middle Wallop. Short of Petrol – Port outer U/S.
0550 M434 landed at West Malling. Short of Petrol – (O.K.)
0600 R434 landed at Middle Wallop. Short of Petrol – Engine U/S
0615 G434 landed at Great Ashfield. Short of Petrol – (O.K.)
0650 T434 landed at Sherburn-in-Elmet – Short of Petrol – (O.K.)
0739 Ops-Int – inform L434 landed at Ford at 0615.
Three a/c returned to base. All o.k.
(What a night – definitely Friday 13TH).
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. Runway 28.
09:44 T434 landed from Sherburn-in-Elmet = Left there 0920
10:30 Ex. Int. Not required tonight.
12:18 L 434 landed from Ford = left there [deleted] 12:18 [/deleted] 10:51.
13:00 Runway 24. Wind SW-S.SW- 10mph.
15:21 M. landed from West Malling.
1545 Runway 28. Wind WSW-W – 15mph.
1651 G. landed from Great Ashfield.
1842 R landed from Middle Wallop. Left there 17:25.
A/C Wolfe attached from Linton for pre-Flying Control course duties.
[Underlined] Saturday 14TH August 1943 [/underlined]
0900 F/O Stephenson on duty – Runway 28 – QAN – W’ly 10+
0943 Ambulance despatched to D434. Accident occurred. Reported by R/T. Some person with broken ankle.
1005 Stand down tonight.
1047 Spitfire P7613 landed from [deleted] Dalton [/deleted] Rufforth S/L Lashbrook.
1048 W 434 sqd. off on F/A and B exercise.
1055 Workman crossed in front of Spitfire whilst he was touching down on R/W. Report made by Pilot.
1059. P 434 sqd. airborne on air test.
1107 X 434 sqd. airborne F/A and B exercise.
1144 P 434 Sqd. landed from exercise.
1149 W 434 Sqd. landed from exercise.
13.00. On duty Lister P/O. Off duty F/O. Stephenson.
15.25 Linton ‘phoned “Can we take one of their a/c. They have a prang on runway. O.K. Two a/c. V426 & J426 landed here, Linton sent a crew to de-bomb “V”.
[Page break]
1630 F/O Stephenson on duty. P/O Lister off duty.
1653 R 426 sqd Linton landed here debombed.
[Underlined] Sunday 15th August, 1943. [/underlined]
09.00 On duty Lister P/O. Runways and perimeter tracks inspected. O.K.
09.20 Secret and Confidential documents checked. C.D.260. C.D.209 S.D.110. C.D.0261. A.P.3024.
10.10 We are not required to-night. Ex Int.
10.50. We are required for 6 Bullseyes to-night. Ex Int. Further information when available.
13:00 F/O Taylor on Watch.
16.45. Off duty F/O Taylor. On duty Lister P/O.
18.00 Inspected Runways, perimeter tracks and dispersals & found all O.K.
1900 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Runway 28.
2000 Bullseye scrubbed. Possible cross country same route.
2025 Cross country same route as Bullseye. F scrubbed.
2030 Cross country scrubbed.
20.36. Definitely scrubbed. Ex Int. Flarepath called in.
Monday 16th August 1943.
0900 F/O Stephenson on duty.
Wind light and easterly. R/W 10 in use.
0930. Aerodrome inspected. O.K.
1000 Stand down to-night.
1110 Wind light and now S. Westerly R/W 28 in use.
1500 M.U.A. Halifaxes from Topcliffe landed here. Thunder storm over Topcliffe & Dalton. Put in here till it passes.
1640 Guard Room called us for ambulance. Ambulance proceeding to #2 hanger. Will establish the call and accident.
1715 Ambulance reported back. Had picked up airman, who had fallen off ladder, & took him to M.I. Bldg. M.O. attending him.
1812 All three Halifaxes returned to Topcliffe.
[Underlined] Tuesday 17th August, 1943. [/underlined]
09.00 On duty Lister P/O. Runway 10 in use. QAN E-SE.
09.30. Inspected Runways and perimeter tracks, dispersals. All O.K.
[Page break]
09.35 Checked Secret and confidential documents. AP3024. C.D.0261. SD0110. C.D.260.209.
10.50. We are required for 10 aircraft to-night. Ex Int.
1445. Main Briefing 19.00 hrs. Ex Int. C/S. Q3J
16.10. Aircraft over York with R/T on “send”. Any amount of “careless talk.” Position of Royal Ordnance factory 280° from York, making truck parts. York a small town with tremendous marshalling yards. Proceeds with instruction of a pupil on how the aircraft flies, etc. Pilot’s name, apparently is “Cliff.” A conversion unit aircraft. Passed gen on to Linton who have contacted Group.
16.30 Halifax aircraft GV-T passed over here with R/T on transmit heard pilot say to pupil “O.K. She’s all yours now.” S.D.110. gives this aircraft as 1652. Conversion Unit.
1930 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Flarepath laid on No. 10.
19.30 ETD. 21.15. ETA 04:24hrs.
20.50. “W” scrubbed “U” substituted – leak in overload tank.
21.12 “P” 434 First a/c. airborne. 10th & last a/c. airborne “U”. 21.24 hrs. QAN E. R/W. 10.
2124 Tenth & last a/c off on operations. Average time – 1 1/5 minutes
23.09 “Darky” Call received from “Downpit” Yoke. Answered by Linton [deleted] and [/deleted] who gave permission to land. Strength 5. Starboard engine trouble.
23.12. Tripod “X” called Linton for permission to land. Given O.K. as “Downpit” “Y” was at 7,000ft. Instead of circling Linton, “Downpit” [deleted] us [/deleted] circled us. Linton lost touch with “Tripod” X, but eventually managed to land him.
23.31. Unknown aircraft given green to land here. [Underlined] Landed at 23.39. [/underlined]
23.45. Despatched our van to “U”’s dispersal who discovered that the above named aircraft was 434/U who had returned with his electrical system U/S.
2355 A.R.M. Purple.
00.10. A.R.M. Red. [Underlined] Wednesday 18TH August 1943 [/underlined]
0059 A.R.M. White.
0312 Base advise that 6 Group have diverted our a/c to Newmarket (3 Group) on last broadcast.
0442 D434 landed Newmarket
0452 L 434 landed base.
0455 F 434 landed base
0458 C 434 landed Newmarket
0504 S 434 landed Newmarket.
[Page break]
0517 P 434 landed West Wickham.
0630 Contacted Newmarket & instructed C, D & S. aircraft to return.
0715 Contacted West Wickham & instructed P 434 to return.
0800 Nothing heard of G (Sgt Johnston), M (F/O Colquhoun) or T (F/S Piper).
0828 D434 landed from Newmarket. = Left there 07:28
0830 On Watch F/O Taylor & F/O Stephenson.
0847 P-434 landed from West Wickham.
0858 C-434 landed from Newmarket. Left there 07:39
0905 Base – QDM. 011° to S-434 at 0853.
0920 S-434 landed from Newmarket. Left there 08:00
0940 Standown To night.
1000 Runway 28. QAN. SW-Wly 5-10 mph.
[Underlined] Thursday 19th August, 1943. [/underlined]
09.00 On duty Lister P/O.
0935 Inspected Runways and Perimeter tracks. Picked up two bricks dropped by contractors.
09.40 Runway in use – No. 24. QAN [deleted] NE- [/deleted] SW’ly 5-10
10.50. We are required for 12 aircraft to-night. Ex Int.
1300 F/Lt Auston on Watch.
16.45 On duty Lister P/O.
16.56 Ops scrubbed. Ex Int.
17.22 Master II A/B for Digby. G/C McNab aboard. Signalled. S/Ldr Bartlett, pilot.
18.40. Office locked up. Off duty Lister P/O.
Friday 20th August 1943
0900 F/O Stephenson F/O Taylor on duty. Runway 16.QAN SE. 10.
0915 Met forecast of winds increasing to 35 M.P.H.
1012 Possible Bulls Eye to-night.
1420 Bulls Eye – 6 a/c 434 sqd. – 2300-0500 A/C to marshal for take off.
1530 Tunnels & Flare paths on 16-34 now serviceable.
1545 R/W 24 in use Wind S. Westerly.
1625 Bulls eyes scrubbed.
[Page break]
Drem lights on Runways 16-34 and respective funnels now in operation.
[Underlined] Saturday 21st August 1943. [/underlined]
0900 F/L Austin & P/O Lister on Watch Runway 16 –
1010 Stand down tonight.
Note:- A notebook with local F.C. instructions is now in the small drawer. All Control officers will read & initial each order. This book should be consulted when first signing on Watch in case new instructions have been made.
Note 2:- A Suggestion book is also available. Officers are encouraged to write in this book any suggestion that will improve our office or its operation.
1415 Runway changed to No. 24 QAN – SW’ly – 5-15MPH.
[Underlined] Sunday 22nd August 1943 [/underlined]
0900 F/O Taylor, F/O Stephenson on duty. Q.A.N southerly 5-10 R/W 16 in use.
1015 12 A/Cr for tonight. Briefing 18:00 hrs.
1045 Runway changed to 24. QAN. WSW. 5-10.
1800. Take-off time 21:10 – ETA. 0235 C/S DM8.
2000. Runway 28. = with goosenecks 1st 6. & 12th.
2110 =2129 12 A/C 434 airborne on “Ops”. L replaced A. Mag Drop. D replaced N. inter-com u/s.
2200. A/Cr circling us. Heard Linton give their T. pancake. Contacted then & this A/Cr proved to be theirs, & they called him home.
23:52. Fix on D 434. Hull. 1st class 5235N 0038E 23:36.
[Underlined] Monday 23rd August 1943 [/underlined]
0001 Another Fix D434. Hull 2nd class. Ack. 52.08N 0003W. 23:39.
Fix on D 434 Hull. 3rd class 52°36N 0115E. 23:57
[Page break]
0010 Base request all lights turned on a/c about 20 mls N.W. – S.O.S.
All we have are on.
0020 Int. – D for Dog – [indecipherable] U/S.
0053 D 434. Landed OK = with load.
0101 O 434 landed OK. = [Deleted] Did [/deleted] Asked for a rt-handed circuit. = No Nav lights.
0202 U/434 1st A/Cr up on R/T.
0239 C/434 landed, All but V & P now safely back.
0245 C/434 called for help, bomb container dropped on Runway.
0255 A.F.C. reports Incendiaries on Runway; advised Int, who are passing this on to Armament Officer.
0249 QDY to V/434
0259 V/434 up on R/T. Had to stand-by till Runway clear.
0315 V/434 given Pancake. Did one overshoot due to u/c trouble.
0327 V/434 landed OK. – Turned him back runway to his own dispersal.
0430 Nothing from P 434. = Flare-path doused.
0900 On duty Lister P/O. Runway 28 QAN SWly.
10.00. Inspected Runways and Perimeter tracks, dispersals. O.K.
10.05. We are required for to-night – perhaps 11 aircraft. Ex Int.
1300 F/L Austin on Watch. Runway 24.
1549 Third a/c landed from Leeming. (AL/K JD164, AL/X JB967 & AL/O JD273 borrowed)
1632 Main briefing 1800 hrs.
1655 Runway changed to 28.
18.28 Be prepared for take-off at 20.00 hrs.
18.55. Runways Perimeter Tracks and Dispersals inspected.
2024 First a/c off on operations.
2047 Twelfth & last a/c off on operations. X, U, O, and S scrubbed
2217 L 434 returned early – artificial horizon U/S.
2309 K 434 returned early – Severe icing – Unable to climb.
2326 K 434 returned early – Intercomm U/S
2331 D 434 returned early – Engine trouble.
[Underlined] Tuesday 24TH August 1943 [/underlined]
0020 Phoned Base to determine if any further word had been received on X’ 434 – (Fix at 2250 hrs.) Nothing heard.
[Page break]
0042 Fix on X’434 now identified as having been obtained by K’434.
0054 X’434 returned early (From where or who got the fix I don’t [sic] know.)
0119 Base informed C434 landed Coltishall at 2310 with engine trouble
0419 Fifth & last a/c landed. V434 (S/L McLernon) missing.
0515 Visibility 1500 yds. Arranged with base to land V at Linton should it come.
0530 Flarepath doused.
[Deleted] Wednesday 25th August 1943. [/deleted]
0900 F/O Stephenson & F/O Taylor on duty.
[Deleted] 0 [/deleted] R/W 28 in use. Q.A.N. very light.
0920 Runways etc inspected.
1015 Standown to-night.
1130 O/431 while taxying towards runway, went off track near No 2 hanger, over a tree stump & damaged undercarriage. Resident engineer checking on stump.
1430 R/W 10 in use now. QAN Light Easterly.
1552 431 Sqd. A. landed with 3 motors. No R/T Green light given.
[Underlined] Wednesday 25th August, 1943. [/underlined]
09.00 On Duty Lister P/O Runway 10. QAN. E-ly. Changed to R.16.
1010 Not required tonight.
10.20 Inspected Runways & Perimeter Tracks. Perimeter tracks getting stony.
1035 Phoned base re a Spitfire which flew northerly after flying low over our aerodrome during rainstorm.
[Deleted] 1055 We are required to-night [/deleted]
Thursday 26th August 1943.
0900 F/O Stephenson & F/O Taylor on duty
0910 R/W in use Wind Northerly very light
[Page break]
0930 R/Ws & Perimeter Track inspected
1055 We are required to-night.
1130 Runway changed to 16, QAN SSE. -5-10
1135 Ops cancelled.
1147 X/AL returned to Leeming.
1200 SD.229 Copy No 1069. received from Cypher Officer.
[Underlined] Friday 27th August 1943 [/underlined] CIV
0900 F/L Austin & P/O Lister on Watch – Runway 28.
09.25. Inspected Runways, Dispersals & Perimeter tracks O.K.
10.15 We are required to-night. Ex Int. 10/A/C.
1020 Linton base phoned to see if we could take six Lancasters for C’s & B’s this morning. Otiss A, E, F, G, S and T.
19.45. Inspected Runways, Perimeter tracks & Dispersals. All O.K.
2030 Runway 28 laid.
20.45 No.5. drem-light u/s. Stbd side. 28 R/W.
20.54 First aircraft off on ops.
21.10 Last a/c. off on ops. Average take off time:- 1 min 6 secs per aircraft.
21.25 Phoned Linton re u/s Fire Tender. Unable to take any Crash Action.
23.36. Fix on W/434. 52°41”N. 01°29”E. E.T.A. 00.40.
[Underlined] Saturday 28th August, 1942. [/underlined]
00.54. W/434 returned early.
0513 – First a/c landed from ops.
0538 – Last a/c landed. X434 (SGT THOULD) missing.
0830 On Watch F/O Taylor.
0851 D/434 landed from Ford. No warning. – Raining, viz about 1500 yds. (Left there 0730)
0930 Phoned Clerk of Works re u/s Drem light. #28. Fire laddie reports MT section sending u/s Fire Tender to Linton, trying to get a replacement.
1013 B/434 landed from Ford. No warning. Still raining, viz about 1500 yds. Rushed out 4 money flares, contacted base, to have Linton beacon & contact strip available. (Left Ford 08:44)
1023 Not required tonight.
1045 No 28 Drem now all OK.
1212 Capt. Francis A.T.A. landed in Anson. After conferring with Met. took off for Sherburn 12.54
1600 Switch Board now in operation; 2 PBX lines. 1 lie line to base. Extensions 1 to G/C. 3- F/C. 6 Int. 7 Met. 8 O/C 434.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Note:- [//underlined] Effective 0900 hours 29TH Aug 43 the Control officers & staff will observe a 24-hour watch. The hours of duty shall be from 0830-1300 hours; 1300-1900 hours; 1900-0830 hours Whenever possible the hours of duty for staff personnel will observe similar times but variation may be permitted when there is little flying.
[Underlined] Sunday 29th August, 1943. [/underlined]
09.00 Lister P/O. On duty Runway No. 28.
10.00. Stand Down to-night.
11.10 L/434 has large cut in tyre. Passed to 434 Eng. O. and asked him to ring Silverstone
1225 Silverstone advise Engineer two engines on L need checking.
1236 Money flares sent out to assist K434 landing.
1247 K434 landed from Tangmere.
14.45. Runway 24 in use.
[Underlined] Monday 20th August, 1943. [/underlined]
0830 On Watch F/O Taylor. F/O Stephenson.
Runway 28. QAN. WSW. 15-20 mph, veering Wly 15-20. Gusty.
0945 Contacted S.L.E. & S.L.A. re Accommodation for Duty Crew. 9 men reported here from 431 sqdn for week Aug 30 – Sept 5.
1000 Required for tonight. – 9 A/Cr.
1040 Contacted Silverstone for F/L Thomson, instructing L/434 to return just as soon as possible.
1500 Briefing 2100 hrs.
2000 Flarepath & taxying track laid for Runway 28.
2115 Funnel lights 28 & 10 u/s. Reported to Works & Bricks.
2200 Funel [sic] lights now OK.
2343 Everything in readiness for take off.
2348 K/434 off on operations.
2357 O/434 7th A/Cr. off on operations.
2358 A.F.C. reports D. taxied into tail end of U.; U apparently had not moved from point where he was marshalled. – Nobody hurt.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Tuesday 31st August 1943. [/underlined]
0100 D piled up on top of U. Will not be removed till morning. Now 130 yards from main runway. Trying to debomb U. Cannot do D. Base have been kept informed of this.
0135 An A/Cr flew down our goose-neck flare patch. Heard Linton giving Pancake to their E, so phoned them about this one. After another run at our flarepath ACP gave him a Rad & he headed for Linton.
0420 Ex Base. N/434 has identified on MF/DF.
0431 A/434 first A/Cr. landed safely.
0500 Ex Base. O/434 landed at Ford. [Inserted] 04.25 Flt. Engineer Wounded.
0545 Nothing heard from K/434. Quite light now so gathering up flarepath equip.
0640 Ex Group. re O/434 at Ford. Badly shot up with flak. Holes in wings. F/E not seriously wounded. Pilot says engines are ropey & doubts that he will be able to return today.
0645 Ford phoned “O/434 did attack primary target. Hit by cannon shell & flak. F/E not seriously wounded, but in hospital for observation.”
09.00 On duty Lister P/O. Runway 28.
10.15 We are required to-night.
10.37 Ordered 434/B to return to dispersal on authority of Group & Sqdn. Eng. Crew are to take 431/T. instead to Coltishall & Middle Wallop.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch.
1400 Armament Officer reports a 2000 lb bomb has fallen off a trolley on the perimeter. It is to be treated as “live”. [Deleted] D [/deleted] M 434 being moved. Guards being posted to block traffic from perimeter track.
1500 Bomb now moved to firing point. O.K. for traffic.
1503 Briefing 1800 hours.
1641 L434 landed from [deleted] Middle Wallop [/deleted] Silverstone.
16.55 “O”/434 at Ford unable to return for a few days. F/O German requires instructions for return to base. Contacted C.O. 434.
17.12 W/Cdr. Harris instructs F/O German will be picked up tomorrow.
17.18 Called Ford and passed on gen to F/O German. “O”/434 classified as cat. B. Squadron Eng. O. informed.
1830 Middle Wallop called Halifax E for Edward left 1830.
1913 E434 returned from Middle Wallop. (Left there 1754).
1930 Flarepath laid on Runway 28- Wind calm.
[Page break]
20.19 “S.” First a/c. off on ops.
20.22 “N.” made a false take-off. Stopped in centre of runway. “F” took off afterwards.
20.33 4th and last a/c (“N”) off on ops. (W. scrubbed P. outer u/s.)
2155 A.R.M. Purple. 2200 A.R.M. RED. 2219 A.R.M. WHITE.
[Underlined] Wednesday 1st September 1943. [/underlined]
0310 Runway changed to No. 10 – QAN – ESE’ly 3-5 M.P.H.
0421 F 434 landed at Barford St. John.
0426 First a/c landed from operations.
0440 Last a/c landed from operations.
0441 Asked Base if we could assist in landing other aircraft. Told O.K. to stand down. Flarepath doused. (Happy day).
0600 Phoned Barford St. John o.k. for F 434 to return as soon as possible. They report a/c short of fuel & an oil leak but will let us know when F is ready.
0830 F/O Stephenson & F/O Taylor On Duty.
0900 Runway 10. QAN. S.E.ly. light.
0950 6 Group Stand down.
1000 434 2 A/Cr on Bulls-eye.
1015 Barford – Phoned. F/434 will be leaving shortly.
1108 Barford – Phoned F/434 left 10:55
1147 TRUSTME A ABLE [deleted] asking [/deleted] asked to standby while we light money flares on touchdown end of R.W 10. Viz about 1400 yds.
1240 A/431 landed OK. = chance light put on edge of drome, to be used as a funnel. A/Cr told to land directly over it.
1254 M/431 landed OK; after several stabs at it. No R/T.
14.20 Tannoyed:- “All windows must be left open at 3 o’clock. Explosion.” F/O Stephenson
1525 Bulls eye – scrubbed.
1545 Trench dug across entrance to S Sugars dispersal will not be filled to-night – To [sic] much water in trench.
[Underlined] Thursday 2nd September, 1943. [/underlined]
09.00 On duty Lister P/O. & F/Lt Austin. Runway No. 28.
0944 Four a/c on gardening.
1000 Command Bullseye tonight. (434 offer 3 a/c. – 431 offer nil)
[Page break]
1225 W/T Callsign for 434 Sqdn. 5AV.
14.30 Ex Base – One of Topcliffe’s aircraft dropped a bit of his engine between here and East Moor. In case it is picked up return to Topcliff. [sic]
15.37. Contractors Lorry crossed R. in U. in front of “N”/434. Sgt. Snelgrave in a/c. Very near collision narrowly averted only through pilot taking off on grass at side of runway. Rang contractors and threatened police action on any future transgressors for trespass. Driver not traced
16.30 Briefing 18.00. ETD. 20.00. ETA. 23.25.
20.00 1st aircraft N/434 off on operations.
20.24 4th and last aircraft off on operations. R/434.
21.50 A.F.C. reported a red glow in the sky – checked up with base – Eastmoor have a burning Lanc. No injured.
22.20. Fix on “N”. 53°54”N. 01°50”E.
23.24. First aircraft back off operations. N/434.
[Inserted] Boob! [/inserted] [Underlined] Friday 3rd September, 1943. [/underlined]
00.10 Fourth and last aircraft landed safely.
00.15. Contacted base, offered our assistance. Stood down. Phew?!
00.20 Flarepath lifted. Much jubilation amongst the bodies.
0830 On Duty F/O Taylor & F/O Stephenson. Runway 28. Calm, becoming L & V.
1000 Not required for tonight.
1130 Not accepted for Bullseye.
11:30 F/O Tyler left in Oxford for Coltishall.
13.13 M/434 stuck in mud off perimeter track, near wood. S/L Thomson informed.
1445 M/434 now clear of the mud.
1607 C/434 returned from Coltishall.
1750 Phoned Guard Room to chase civilians off the airfield (mushroom pickers).
1820 Base phoned re possible diversion.
1835 We are [underlined] not [/underlined] required for diversion.
[Underlined] Saturday 4TH September 1943 [/underlined]
0900 F/L Austin & P/O Lister on Watch – Runway 10 – QAN – light E’ly.
1000 Stand down tonight.
1045 Runway changed to 16. QAN SE’ly – 10-15 MPH.
1048 Gale Warning – SE to S’ly gales 40 miles per hour within next 6 hours in districts on W & SW coasts, N. Ireland & north of Scotland.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Sunday 5th September. [/underlined]
0830 On duty F/O Taylor & F/O Stephenson.
0900 Runway 16. QAN. SE-ly 15-20 mph.
1000 We are required tonight. 10 A/Cr.
1115 Main briefing 1800 hours. – now 17.30 hrs.
1520 SD 300 (#603) received from Base Cypher Officer. CD209. = 125 returned 123 received.
1600 431 Sqdn have 3 A/C. C & L’s tonight 20:00-23:00. A/Cr. D. B. & O.
1715 Runway 24 now in use. QAN S-W. 10-15
1830 Runway 28 QAN. S-Wly less than 10. Flare-path laid.
1918 R/434 1st A/Cr off on ops.
1931 E/434 9th A/Cr off on ops T/434 scrubbed. Petrol leak.
2021 O/431 commenced night flying, followed by B & D.
2209 Ragman E called.
2212 Told to Jetison. [sic]
2213 Ragman E says he must land.
2214 Q.F.E. passed to Ragman E. Pancaking.
2219 Ragman E landed. O.K. with bomb load.
2300 A.C.P. reports 431 A/C coming in to right of flare path. They are not coming down centre of funnel. Result overshoots.
2315 TRUST ME B. called cannot taxi, low brake pressure
2324 TRUST ME O landed. 431 sqd now finished night flying. Another bad landing for O. B/431 now in dispersal at end on No 16 runway.
[Underlined] Monday 6th September 1943. [/underlined]
0215 FIX on L/434. 2nd class Southampton 50.37N. 0040W
0234 R/434 1st A/Cr back landed OK.
0331 L/434 8th A/Cr landed OK.
03.40 Ex Base. W/434 landed MARKET HARBOROUGH at 03.00. P.O. U/S. All our A/Cr accounted for, phoned Group. 18 group A/Cr still stooging so we’re still to keep lighted up.
0405 Flare-path doused. R/T watch closed.
08.30 On Watch Lister P/O. Runway 24 in use. QAN SSWly – 15-25.
09.30 Inspected Runways, Dispersals and Perimeter tracks. E/431 Pile of bricks too near edge of track to dispersal. Informed C.O.W. & requested movement of same.
10.25 Ex Group:- W/434 at Market Harborough has a Glycol leak in Port Outer. Requests permission to run up. If O.K. he will return but this may mean on three engines only. Informed Sqdn. Engineer not in at moment
[Page break]
10.45 We are required to-night for 8 aircraft. Ex Base.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch.
1550 Possible diversion of our a/c to Ford tonight.
19.00 Inspected Runways and Perimeter tracks. Removed sundry obstacles. O.K.
1924 First a/c off on operations. (Runway 24 used for first time).
1935 Eighth & last a/c off on operations.
2021 D431 off on night bombing.
2023. O 431 off on night bombing.
2150 Bomber Command expect Intruder activity between 0300 hrs & dawn.
2155 G434 overhead with radio trouble. Sent to jettison.
2206 Base inform E434 landed FORD (Flight Engineer ill) at 2125.
2217 O431 landed from night bombing.
2227 D431 landed from night bombing.
2246 G434 landed from operations.
2249 T434 overhead with hydraulic trouble. Could not get the undercarriage down. Asked for instructions. Told to standby until Runway changed to 28. (Wind S’W 6 M.P.H.) Message Rogered. Decided to have only Drem lighting, Angles of Glide & Chance light as T looked like it would have to crash-land. Reserve tender and ambulance ordered to standby.
2340 Chance light (and angle of glide) refused to operate. T informed. Said he was coming in anyway.
2345 T informs that wheels have come down o.k when he throttled back. Coming in without A’s of Glide.
2347 T434 landed o.k. (Baby remained unborn).
2350 Runway changed to 28.
[Underlined] Tuesday 7TH September 1943 [/underlined]
[Underlined] NOTE:- [/underlined] Control officers are [underlined] not [/underlined] reading the local instruction book when coming on duty. [Underlined] This is to be done. [/underlined] It is recommended that all instructions that have been initialled as understood be carried out. Particular reference is made to No’s 4, 8, and 15.
[Page break]
0320 A434 landed Ford
0351. S434 landed Ford
0357 C 434 landed West Malling.
Nothing heard of F434 (Sgt Tovey) or R434 (Sgt Olmstead).
0700 Group say they have notified 11 Group to tell all 6 Group a/c to return as soon as possible.
0830 On Watch F/O Taylor & F/O Stephenson.
0900 Following Sec Docs around. SD300, 229, CD 0110, 209, 0261, 260. AP3024
0930 Runway changed to 24. QAM. [sic] SSW. 10+
0930 R/W’s perimeter track, Night lights and premises inspected.
0950 Chance-light now serviceable.
1000 Stand down to-night.
1030 S/434 returned from Ford. (left there 0913)
1103 A/434 returned from Ford. (left there 0955).
1240 E/434 returned from Ford.
1305 Phone call from West Malling finally came through but results nil, as F.C.O. there had just come on duty. He thought C/434 would not be returning today but knew no details. Is getting gen & will phone back.
1535 Reported to Group Flying Control an A/Cr flying with transmitter on. – one of crew Jock. Talked about Bomb-sight, new TR, that Darky was still 6440, weather approaching front, nice down South at Port Wreath & Red Ruth, stand by to land at 15.28.
1545 C/434 leaving West Malling for Tholthorpe.
1906 C/434 landed from West Malling. (Left there 17:55).
Wednesday 8th September 1943
0830 Flt Lt Austin & F/O Stephenson on duty.
0835 Secret Documents checked.
0855 R/W 28 in use. Winds light, Westerly 5-10 mph.
0945 We are required to-night. 7 A/C
1008 Crew for Air to Air firing Robin Hood Bay to Flamborough
1645 Diversion drome if Weather bad is Coltishall.
1740 Operations scrubbed.
2000 Flarepath laid on Runway 28.
2143 P431 off on night bombing.
[Page break]
[Page break]
2225 A431 off on night bombing. (D431 scrubbed. Engine U/S).
2240 || A landed with air speed indicator U/S. Overshot on landing and on attempting to swing undercarriage collapsed. Runway 28 blocked. //
2318 Flarepath being changed to 16 (Wind very light).
[Underlined] Thursday 9th September 1943 [/underlined]
0022 P431 landed from night bombing.
0040 || Darky call Music M (?) (27 O.T.U. Waddington) shouting short of petrol. Phoned Linton to put on all lights. They had not heard the call. A/C landed at Linton O.K. (eight minutes petrol left).
0830 On Watch F/O Taylor. QAN L & V. QBA. 300 yds. – SD’s ckd.
0930 Viz now 1300 yds. Wind E ly light. Runway 16. No 10 U/S.
0950 Required tonight. 7 A/Cr.
1030 Wind NE.ly 5-10. Runway 06.
|| 1113 Signaled [sic] Station “Z”. Runway 10/28 U.S. TRN. CRASHED AIRCRAFT.
1321. Workman replacing turf on 10-28 runway.
1810 Both gates on Tholthorpe-Raskelf road closed. 3 red glims on each.
1830 Called guardroom to place police on gates, but they haven’t the men.
1900 Arranged with Linton to take any local A/Cr if they should return before Ops take off.
1954 V/434 off on X-country.
20:10 Met advise weather will be bad by 2200 hrs. Contacted S/L Hockey.
20:20 Asked Linton to recall V/434.
2022 Scrubbed 431 night flying on instructions from W/Co Newsome.
2027 A.CP reports crashed A/Cr now removed from Runway. [Inserted] Signal sent to Station Z. [/inserted] 10 now S.
2109 Operations Scrubbed.
2230 All A/Cr safely tucked in dispersals.
2351 V/434 landed from X-Country. Base was never able to contact him.
[Underlined] Friday 10th September 1943. [/underlined]
0845 On Watch F/L Austin F/O Stephenson S Doc. checked.
0900 QAN Easterly 15-25 mph R/W 10 in use.
[Page break]
0900 R/W’s & Perimeter Track inspected. Also premises.
0940 We are not required to-night.
[Underlined] Saturday 11th September [/underlined]
0845 On Watch F/O Taylor. SD ckd.
0900 Runway 10. QAN. E ly 10-15.
0952 Not required tonight.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch.
[Underlined] Sunday 12th September [/underlined]
0845 On Watch F/O Stephenson S.D. chd.
0900 Runway 10 QAN ELY 10-20.
0945 Not required to-night
1515 Ragman G. could not get wheels up making circuit with wheels down.
1535 Ragman G. landed wheels O-K. now.
[Underlined] Monday 13th September. [/underlined]
0830 On Watch F/O Taylor. SD. Ckd.
0900 Runway 10. Calm, Met Ely 5-15.
0945 Stand-down tonight.
1000 East Moor phoned, if weather OK will we take 1 Lanc on C’s & B’s? Yes.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch.
[Underlined] Tuesday 14th September [/underlined]
0830. On Watch F/O Stephenson S D. ckd.
0830 QAN Light Easterly backing to South. R/W 10 in use.
0920 R/W & perimeter [deleted] ckd [/deleted] inspected.
0935 Eastmoor asked is we could be ready to take two Lancasters in case their drome was U/S. (O.K.).
0952 Stand down tonight.
1610 R.W. 28 in use. QAN Wstly 5-10.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Wednesday September 15, 1943. [/underlined]
0845 On Watch F/O Taylor. SD ckd.
0900 No 28 Runway QAN. WNW 5-10.
1010 Required for 12 A/Cr tonight. 434. – Briefing 17:30
1010 Possible 5 or 6 431’s on Bulls eyes.
1240 D/431 at Dispersal asked on R/T if we had heard an A/Cr calling. Kiwi in distress. We had not. S/434 on landing called on R/T, “as A/Cr went down & cloud of smoke came up.” Contacted Base. – They are working on the crash.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch – Runway 24 QAN SW’ly 10+
1320 Base informs of two crashes. One was Q of Topcliffe near Rufforth (Six of crew baled out; pilot killed). The other as yet unidentified was at A 0385. Six of crew have baled out.
1605 Briefing Bullseye 1800 hrs at 431 Nav Hut.
1740 Bullseye for 431 scrubbed.
1924 B431 off on night X-country. Runway 24 in use.
1926 P 431 off on night X-country.
1927 V 431 off on night X-country.
1950 M 431 off on night X country.
2025 L 434 1st A/Cr off on ops. (With A/Comm, McEwan)
2032 P 434 7th A/Cr. Last of 1st wave off.
2041 C 434 8th A/Cr 1st of 2nd wave off
2049 M 434 12th A/Cr. – Last off.
2120 Phone to Flare path now OK.
Today we received AMCO’s A23/42, A24/42. A25/42. from Base Cypher Off.
2205 Ex Base: V/434 QDM 351 at 2152.
2225 M/431 landed from X-country.
2236 P/431 landed from X-country.
2244 V/431 landed from X-country.
2303 B/431 landed from X-Country.
2305 Ex Base. V/434 QDM 274 at 2305.
2339 V434 returned early (Starboard outer U/S – jettisoned 2000 lber.)
[Underlined] Thursday September 16TH 1943 [/underlined]
0253 P 434 1st A/Cr up on R/T.
[Page break]
0258 ex Base. W/434 landed at Tangmere 0240, because of low cloud base, returning at daylight.
0308 N/434 ran off perimeter track in front of watch office. Crash tender & big ambulance managed to get clear. Small ambulance slightly dented. No-one hurt. Starboard outer prop. damaged. Met. Office damaged by Ambulance backing in to it.
0340 M/434 last A/Cr landed. All safely accounted for.
0430 Tangmere phoned. They have not the facilities to get W/434 off at first light, but will have him ready to return in forenoon.
0830 F/O Stephenson on duty. R.W. 24 in use QAN S.W. 10-15
0930 Sec. Doc. ckd. Runways & Perimeter checked.
0950 We are required to-night. 9 A/C.
1045 434. W departed Tangmere 10.20
1137 W 434 landed here.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch.
1430. [Underlined] Note [/underlined] Contacted Station electrician. Effective from Monday 20TH September there will be a Duty Electrician for Flare Path duties. The F.C.O. on duty Monday morning will see that he is instructed in his duties as per 6G/FWS/DO-13 Sept 43.
1520 Briefing 1730 hours.
1540 Changing runway to 28 & Lighting money flares. Vis-poor-rain.
1601 Last of our a/c landed o.k.
1930 Flarepath laid on Runway 28. Vis – under 2000 yds raining
1932 First a/c off on ops.
1951 Eighth & last a/c off on ops. (Swung violently. Vis less than 1000 yds. G scrubbed visibility too poor).
2230 Base inform aircraft are now definitely diverted to Bassingbourn.
2313 A.R.M. Purple. 2324 A.R.M. White.
[Underlined] Friday September 17th 1943 [/underlined]
0435 Base notified that A, C, M, P, T and X 434 had landed at Bassingbourn. L434 was heading in that direction after last fix.
[Page break]
0455 Base inform L 434 landed at Bassingbourn.
0523 Base inform N 434 landed at Thurleigh.
0525 Contacted Bassingbourn. Informed their F.C. to keep a/c there until we phone them. They also say they would notify Thurleigh re N.
0900 On Watch F/O Taylor. Runway 10. QAN. SSE.8. SD ckd.
NOTE. When our crews return Base want us to enquire as to what they think of Bassingbourn Flying Control Facilities, re further diversions
0945 Not required tonight.
1100 431 Sqdn. offer 6 + 2 for Bulls-eye tonight.
1150 S/L Hockey phoned from Bassingbourn. A/Cr will be leaving there shortly. He will bring along full details about A/434.
1200 Runway changed to 28. Wind light, now W of S. – becoming W ly 5-10 mph.
1600. Bullseye Briefing 18:15 in Nav. Hut. 8 A/Cr.
1745 434 Squadron B. G. R & V scrubbed. (F/Lt Linnell)
1830 Met Forecast NW-ly wind 10-15. Runway 34 for take-off.
2000 Phoned Group for permission for 434 to send a Halifax to Bassingbourn tomorrow morning
2115 Group given permission for Halifax to go to Bassingbourn in the morning.
2120 Bullseye scrubbed. Marshalled A/Cr will be returned to dispersals in the morning.
[Underlined] 18th September, 1943. [/underlined]
08.30 On duty Lister P/O. Runway 28. QAN. N.W. light.
09.20 Runway inspection completed.
1010 Stand down tonight.
1300 F/L Austin on Watch.
1350 Runway changed to 10. N’ by E less than 10.
1852 D431 off on night X-country and bombing.
1910 C431 off on night X-country and bombing.
19.25. M/431 off on night X-country and Bombing.
19.33. V/1933. [sic] off on night X-country and Bombing.
19.45. Runway Flarepath laid on #28. QAN N by E. 2 mph.
2207 C/431 Landed from XC & Bombing.
22.40 Aircraft in our circuit flashing on ident. lights series of unintelligible signals. A.C.P. gave a green.
22.55. Mystery aircraft landed – no R/T. Taxied up flarepath and thence
[Page break]
towards 431 Dispersals. AFC’s telephone & R/T “dead”. Could not find out a thing. Borrowed a van from M.T. and sent Cpl. Adams to check up on identity of aircraft and reason for cause of AFC’s silence.
23.15. A/C. in question is D/431 who swung very badly through over-correction on landing. Ripped up telephone wires through his swing off the runway. Pilot reported to watch-office; said he had no difficulty in getting back onto R/W. Apparently this swing is a common fault in this a/c. Wind dead calm at the time of the “incident.” Pilot:- F/S. Hamby.
23.22 V/431 Landed. No R/T. TR1196 went U/S in the air, but O.K. for ground test.
23.41 M/431 Landed in approved fashion.
2350. Contacted base, offered our help which was declined & so = Good-night.
[Underlined] Sunday 19th September, 1943. [/underlined]
0845 On Watch F/O Taylor & F/O Stephenson. S.D. ckd.
0900 Runway 28. QAN. L & V. becoming SW-WSW – 10.
1000 Command Stand-down.
1307 T/434 returned from Bassingbourn.
1415 Runway changed to 24. QAN SW-ly 10-15.
Tonight’s flying 434 3 A/Cr on X-country. 431 2 A/C on C & B.
1900 Runway 28 for night flying.
1920 T/434 off on X-country
1923 W/434 off on X-country
1955 X/434 off on X-country
2004 B/431 & E/431 commenced C’s & B’s.
2144 431 finished C’s & L’s.
2214 T/434 landed from X-Country, with P.O. U/S.
2238 A/Cr landed. W/434 given pancake, but I think this one if [indecipherable] C. as W/434 still flying around.
2319 Viz terrible arranged with Base for X & W/434 to go to Topcliffe
2329 X/434 landed here, Viz had improved, & we had been unable to raise him on R/T to divert him.
2330 Base advise W/434 landed at Linton. 23:10. Crew bus sent over, as their bus had already left for here for C’s crew.
2359 Flare path doused. R/T watch closed. (Phew!)
[Page break]
[Underlined] Monday September 20th 1943 [/underlined]
08.30 On duty Lister Runway #28. QAN. W-NNW.
09.30 Inspected aerodrome, runways and dispersals. Checked SD’s. D261. 229. C.O’s 23, 24, 28. AP3024. 110. 260. C.D.209.
09.45 Stand-Down to-night.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch.
1408 Six a/c 431 on Bullseye tonight.2 a/c 434 Sqdn. M/434 V/434.
1424 Briefing at 1800 hrs. 1434 – Changed to 1545 hours in Main briefing room
1706 Flarepath telephone now serviceable
18.20 Inspected aerodrome runways & perimeter tracks. Grass requires cutting on & around signals area.
1928 First a/c off on Bullseye. QFE 1009.1
1941 Seventh & last a/c off on Bullseye. E431 scrubbed.
2358 D 431 landed from Bullseye.
[Underlined] Tuesday 21st September 1943 [/underlined]
0120 Seventh & last a/c landed o.k.
0845 On Watch F/O Taylor. SD ckd.
0900 Runway 28. QAN W’ly -10.
0945 Runway 34 QAN NWly. 13 miles. (Telephone tested OK).
1015 Stand-down tonight.
1045 Command Bulls-eye. 431 will have some A/Cr on it.
1500 434 have 5 A/Cr on X-Country tonight. 19.30-23.10
1450 Two crews proceeding to Linton by bus to go in OXFORD to BASSINGBORNE to fly 434 A back to base. (first thing to-morrow morning) (Inf. passed to Linton).
1900 Runway 28. – Wind N ly less than 5.
1932 M/434 first A/Cr off on X-Country. – F & P.
1938 X/434 4th A/Cr off on X-Country. QFE 1013.
1947 M/434 landed, did a ground loop but OK & taxied away.
1955 First 431 A/Cr off on Bulls-eye. C. -then B, E, P, N.
2015 M/434 all ok again & took off on X-Country.
2017 Q/431 6th & last A/Cr off on Bulls-eye.
2021 E/431 called on R/T. Goon & D.R. compass U/S. Instructed him to carry on, as per S/L Pleasance.
2020 Strensall bombing range called re 431 Bombing Schedule. Advised A/Cr. B, E, Q, P; 2 from 2330 till 2359, other 2 from 2359 till 0030.
2215 Ex Base. All Bulls-eye A/Cr being recalled immediately.
[Page break]
23.28 Q/431 proceeding to Range for practice bombing.
23.43 E/431 1st A/Cr landed OK.
[Underlined] Wednesday 22nd September 1943 [/underlined]
0032 Q/431 tenth & last A/Cr landed OK.
Not required by base so Flare-path doused, R/T off.
08.30 On duty Lister P/O. Runway 28. QAN W’ly.
09.05 Aerodrome Runways & Dispersals inspected & found O.K. Secret docs checked.
10.20 Operating to-night. 12 a/c. Briefing 1700 hrs.
1414 A434 returned from Bassingbourn.
17.30 Aerodrome, Runways, Dispersals inspected. Perimeter tracks on both sides of 28 very stony.
1851 First a/c off on operations (Runway 28).
1922 Twelfth & last a/c off on ops. [Underlined] Thursday 23rd. Sept. ’43 [/underlined]
00.20 434/P. Landed from ops. First aircraft. Shot up badly.
00.49 434/N. Landed – no R/T. Given a green by ACP after flashing S.O.S.
00.59 434/L. Landed on 3 engines; bogged near D/434 dispersal. Priority.
01.05. 434/F landed with only 15 mins petrol. Priority landing
01.11 434/K landed with only 20 mins petrol. – ditto - .
03.30 Base passed on to no ex Group “Stand Down.” Flare path lifted.
[Underlined] G/434 Missing. [/underlined]
0845 On Duty F/O Taylor & F/O Stephenson. SD ckd.
F/O Boyd reported for temporary duty.
0900 Runway 28. QAN. W-WSW 15-25. Very Gusty.
1030 Phoned Clerk of Works to have perimeter swept of stones. He will get to work on it this morning.
1040 Required tonight.
1400 431 have 8 on X-Country. ETD 1500. E.T.A. 1932.
1514/1547 431 Sqdn. G, F, P, Q, V, off on X-Country.
2044 Air Raid Warning Purple. Lights doused.
1852 F/434 off on Ops.
1903 W/434, 10th A/Cr off on ops. Drem taxi lights now Serviceable.
2017 All 5 – 431 A/Cr landed OK.
2110 ARM. White.
2216. 434 R landed back. Rear turret u/s. Used perimeter track lighting and a/c made a successful run to his dispersal. 1st a/c on Drem taxi lights.
[Page break]
2237 R/T went dead – Found aerial wire broken – tied ends together. OK again.
2320 Ex Base. If we have trouble with visibility (smoke haze) Dalton standing by.,
[Underlined] Friday 24th September 1943 [/underlined]
0158 B/434 1st A/Cr Landed.
0230 M/434 7th A/Cr. Landed – Taxi track OK. A/Cr all back in dispersal. W/434 landed at Hartford Bridge & K/434 landed at Cranfield.
0330 Flarepath doused. R/T watch closed.
0830 On Duty F/O Boyd. P/O Lister.
Runway in use No. 28. QAN. W’ly.
09.30 Runways, dispersals & perimeter tracks inspected. Stone clearing needed. Checked secret documents.
10.15 Stand-down to-night.
11.15 Changed to 24. QAN. SW ly.
12.05 W/434 airborne at 11.56. from Hartford Bridge.
12.55 K/434 at Cranfield will be airborne about 13.30 for Base. ASI now serviceable. Take-off delayed because F700 for DI not completed.
1320 434/W landed from Hartford Bridge.
1420 Runway changed to No [circled] 28 [/circled]. QAN Wly
1445 434/K airborne at 1415 from Cranfield. Landed 15.49.
15.15 Changed to #34. QAN. NW.
1615 Changed to # 28 QAN W’ly
17.30 Volunteered to take 2 of East Moor’s Lancs for Cs & B’s from 20.00 to 23.00 hrs. They have an early return & take-off for ops. to-night
20.16. Night flying commenced with 1679/R. landing here from E.M. for C & B.
22.43. 1679/R. Returned to Eastmoor. Flare-path lifted. R/T watch closed.
[Underlined] Saturday 25th September [/underlined]
0830 F/O Stephenson and F/O Taylor on duty R/W 28 in use QAN Westerly 5-10 Secret Doc. checked. R/W’s and field inspected.
1040 We are required to-night. 12 a/c. 434 sqdn
Bulls-eye. 431 sqdn. 8 A/Cr.
1130 Runway changed to 34. QAN NWly 10-15.
1129 C/431 landed on 3 engines. He had signalled base that one engine was u/s but the message just reached us as he was making his final approach.
[Page break]
Briefings 434 – 17:00 hrs. 431 17:15 in Nav. Hut.
1750 431 take off. 1840. RW 34 434 Marshaling [sic] R./W 28 take off.
1844/1849. 431 Sqdn. M, N, P, Q, R, & V. off on Bullseye.
1944 Q/431 landed OK. Asked permission to do a tr. hand circuit
20.15 Sgt Francis and Sgt Scott reported from Watchfield for A.C.P. duties. S/L Kyle informed.
2040. Operations scrubbed. Group recalling 431 Bullseye on original ETA.
2140 || 6 lights of drem system R/w 28 U/S.
2316 M/431 landed. 1st a/c.
[Underlined] Sunday Sept 26th 1943. [/underlined]
0017 P/431 last bulls-eye A/Cr. landed. OK. Flare-path doused.
08.30 On duty Lister P/O. & F/O. Boyd. R/W. 34. QAN. NNW. Checked Secret documents.
09.30 Inspected Aerodrome, R/Ways and dispersals. All a/c back in their dispersals by 10.30.
10.45 Operating 12 a/c to-night.
10.57. Main briefing 17.00.
1721 Ops scrubbed informed by Base.
1815 R/T Watch closed.
[Underlined] Monday Sept 27th 1943. [/underlined]
0830 On Duty F/O Taylor & F/O Stephenson. RW. 34. QAN NWly 10-15
1000 Required tonight. 14 A/Cr.
1250 Runway changed to 28. QAN. W-Sw ly. Light.
1450 As per N.O.P. Instructions Ambulance now standing by at Sick Quarters.
1725 R/W changed to 24 QAN WSW 18 MPH.
1845 Runway 28 laid for take-off. Wind. SW.-ly – light.
1921-1936. 14 a/c 434 off on Ops.
Drem on No 24 now U/S. Electricians can’t find the fault.
2100 W/434 returning to base Engine trouble.
2115 Linton advised we will send W/434 to them wind is more favourable to their long runway.
2155 W/434 landed Linton.
2235 K/434 up on R/T. 3 engines Diverted to Linton.
[Page break]
2240 All a/c diverted to diversion bases.
2255 K/434 landed Linton.
2322 O/434 returning early will be diverted to Linton.
[Underlined] Tuesday September 28 1943 [/underlined]
0015 Crash near [deleted] L [/deleted] Newton (Base) will inform us if it is our D/434. A.O.C. instructs us to keep watch till all a/c accounted for
0045 D/434 landed Thornaby 2355. One motor u/s.
0052 Totem poles on R/W 16-34 serviceable.
Changed to this Runway as Wind SE ly - SSE ly. 15-20.
0420 A, C, M, T, & V landed at Ridgewell; B at Snetterton Heath, N, at Cranfield, P, at Chelveston, // F, R, & Z still not accounted for. Flare-path doused & R/T watch closed.
08.30 On Duty Lister P/O. F/O. Boyd. R/W. 34. NW 23-25.
09.00 Aerodrome inspected. O.K. Secret documents checked.
10.30. Standdown. Command Bulls-eye to-night.
12.30 A/C at Thornaby & Snetterton Heath Serviceable. Instructed them to await further instructions. D at Thornaby & B at Snetterton
12.50 S/L Hockey phoned from Ridgewell. Instructed him and other crews to standby for weather improvement.
1330 434/D ordered back from Thornaby
1337 434/P ordered back from Chelveston.
1345 Advised group to Contact Ridgewell and order our a/c back.
1529 434/W landed from ops via Linton
1634 B/426 landed with A/M. Edwards & AVM Brooks aboard. Linton informed.
18.15. D/434 Unable to return until 30/9/43. due to overheating of Stbd. Outer engine cause [sic] by U/S thermostat. Being replaced.
18.20 P/434 Landed from Chelveston.
18.53 B/426. with Air Marshall Edwards & A.V.M. Brooks aboard airborne for Linton. ACP reports he thought bomb doors were open so gave a “red,” a/c took no notice. Landed at Linton at 18.57.
1900 Flarepath laid No 34 Runway.
20.10 M/434 Hydraulic trouble scrubbed & returned to dispersal.
20.15. N/431 First a/c off on [deleted] ops [/deleted] Bulls-eye.
20.25 F/431 Last a/c off on Bulls-eye. 7th & last a/c.
[Page break]
21.00 #34 Runway Flare-path, funnel & totem poles completely u/s. Phoned electrical standby section for action.
21.09 Linton agreed to take our a/c if necessity arises.
22.15. Lights now O.K. We land our own aircraft – weather permitting.
23.15 Bulls-eye aircraft recalled by base. Runway being changed to #28. QAN W-ly 8-9 mph. Backing to S.W. and increasing.
[Underlined] Wednesday 29th September, 1943. [/underlined]
00.01 B/431. First a/c to land from Bulls-eye. #28. Swung a trifle off R/W.
00.20. B/C message received ex base E/431 “returning on 3 engines.”
00.59 431/Q 6th & last a/c Landed. 431/N. Landed at Linton, persisted in using the wrong R/T call-sign for us. Instructed base to send him back but N got bogged in Linton aerodrome. Bad show.
01.30 Base gave permission to stand down. Flare-path lifted.
0830 On Watch F/O Stephenson & F/O Taylor. Runway 28. QAN Calm & a light Sly.
1045 Required tonight 7. A/Cr.
L.A.C. Simmons posted to Watchfield W.E.F. 1/10/43. Phoned S/L Kyles. He will try to send us a body to replace him.
1330 Briefing 1600 hrs.
1410 Message from Ridgewell. V/434 not yet serviceable, probably not today but they will advise us when to send crew for it.
1713 434/N landed from Cranfield.
1818=1822. 7 A/Cr 434 off on ops. A. B. C. L. M. P. T. = Runway 28.
1931 C/434 returned & landed OK on 3 engines.
2115 Flare path and totems. 16 – 34 U/S.
2239 Power failure here.
2246 Power serviceable.
[Underlined] Thursday 30th September 1943. [/underlined]
0200 No word from T & L/434/ Flare path doused, R/T watch closed.
0830 On Watch F/O Boyd, P/O Lister Docs Checked OK.
Runway 28 QAN light & variable.
0930 Runway changed 24 QAN S’ly 10 MPH
10.05. Operating 7 [deleted] 8 [/deleted] aircraft to-night. Briefing 16.00.
10.55. Changed to #28. QAN. Wly. 10-12.
12.55. Ops scrubbed.
[Page break]
12.36. Q/431 1st a/c. off on X Country.
1330 Runway changed to 24 QAN. SSW/10
18.16. M/431 Last a/c back-off Cross Country.
Friday Oct 1/43.
0830 F/O Taylor on duty. F/O Stephenson on duty.
0830 R/W 16 in use. QAN [deleted] S [/deleted] Light & Variable
0900 S.D. checked.
1000 Runway 24. Wind SSW. – freshening.
1030. We are required to-night 434 8 a/c 431. 6 a/c.
1048 Briefing 434 – 1600 hrs. 431 – 1645 hrs.
Note [Boxed] New R/T and W/T call signs are in effect today – They vary every 9 days. Control officers will take careful watch that the correct callsigns are listed during the appropriate periods. [/boxed]
1350. Operations cancelled.
1420 V434 landed from Ridgewell
1450 Operations are on again.
1520 Confidential Doc. C.D. 0250 (9) #834 and C.D. 0250 (11) #852 received by us from Base.
1615 Operations Cancelled.
[Underlined] Saturday October 2nd 1943. [/underlined]
08.30. On duty Lister P/O. F/O Taylor. R/W/ 28. QAN. Wly. light.
09.15. Inspected Runways, Perimeter Tracks & Dispersals. Checked Secret docs.
10.50. Operating to-night. 4 a/c 431 8 for 434.
Three Crash crew in hospital leaving only 4 men, LAC Bacon i/c Fire Party notified. F/Lt. Hudson president fire committee.
12.10. Briefing 1600 to-day. (431 Sqdn.).
1400 T.F.N. = We have no reserve crash tender. Informed Base. They will have to look after all requirements off the drome.
1901. Q/431 First a/c off on ops.
19.12. C/431 Twelfth & last a/c. off on ops.
19.13. Crash Tender from Linton reported for duty.
2145 ARM. Purple. – Goose-necks doused.
22.06 ARM. White.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Sunday 3rd October, 1943. [/underlined]
00.46. 434/V Landed early from Gardening.
02.44. 431/D. 1st aircraft back off ops.
03.23. 431/Q 11th & last aircraft to land off ops. A message was received from Base that he had asked for an emergency landing at Linton, his hydraulic pressure being u/s. He was told by [deleted] W/T [/deleted] Base to land here on 28 as R/W was clear and all ready waiting for him. Q/431 landed swerving violently off R/W and back on again, finishing up at the end of #28 where he was left red lights marking him as an obstruction. Base informed and gave us stand-down.
03.33 U/431. Diverted and landed at Peterhead in distress – short of petrol.
All aircraft safely accounted for.
Flare path doused.
0830 F/L Austin and F/O Stephenson on duty.
0830 R/W 24 in use. QAN. SW.ly Light.
S.D. checked.
1005 We are required to-night. 8 a/c 431 8 a/c 434
1110 Briefing 434 1530 431 1600 hrs.
1555 U434 returned from Peterhead.
1841 First a/c off on operations (431 first wave)
1918 Sixteenth and last off on operations (434 second wave)
[Inserted] 1935 Pilots escape hatch found after take off undamaged #1 HANGER [/inserted]
2051 O431 returned early. (Rear turret U/S)
2108 S431 returned early (Port outer U/S)
2213 V431 returned early (Navigator error)
2221 M431 returned early (Trimming faulty)
[Underlined] Monday 4th October 1943 [/underlined]
0100 First a/c landed from operations.
0138 Y429 (F/S Hingston – Skipton) landed following green from A.C.P. – A/C had no R/T. Mistook here for Skipton.
0222 Last a/c landed from operations. V434 (F/O German) and R431 (W/O Reynoldson) missing.
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. F/O Taylor. #24 QAN SW. 20-35.
[Page break]
09.30. Inspected Aerodrome & Runways. a/c now returning to dispersals. Checked Secret documents.
1000 East end runway 28 = section of concrete cracked & dropped about an inch. Runway 24 at intersection 16 = water always seeping up through concrete. Reported these to Resident Engineer so he can keep a watch on them.
1020 Required tonight 431 – 8, 434 – 8. Briefing 434 – [deleted] 15:30 [/deleted] 16:15 431 – 16:15.
[Underlined] NOTE [/underlined] In future A.T.A. will use R/T when delivering new 4 engined A/C. Here they will use FISHZONE & ABUSH.
1115 Y/429 took off to return to Skipton. (Base advised – Skipton advised).
17.45. A/434. 1st a/c. airborne on ops.
18.12 F/431 13th and last a/c. airborne on ops.
P/434 Q/431. N/431. Scrubbed. Too late to take off.
[Underlined] TUESDAY 5TH OCTOBER 1943. [/underlined]
IIII 00.30. 28 Lighting U/S. a/c. diverted to Linton. 434/A. /B. 431/E. 431/O. N/434.
01.05. 434/D/M. Landed at Harwell. S/434. On Darky at Harwell. Ex Base.
01.08. 431/A. On R/T. to Linton.
01.31. A/431 Landed here. Runway having been changed to #24.
01.35. V/431 Landed here Port Outer engine u/s. F/431 landed here 01.51.
01.30. All lights in Watch Office extinguished, worked by torch light!!
01.40. Lights on again.
01.45. S/434 Landed at Morton-in-Marsh as 01.05.
02.30. No news from W/434. Base stood us down. Flarepath doused.
Quite a rest cure.
03.00. Off Watch Lister P/O. & F/O A. S. Taylor.
0845 F/O Stephenson F/L Austin on duty.
0900 We are to call 6 Group for permission to recall a/c.
0900 RW 24 in use. QAN SWly 10-15
0930 S.D. Checked.
1045 We are required to-night. 431 8 a/c 434 6 a/c
1135 Briefing for both Squadrons 1515 hours.
1145 Base advise W434 ditched [deleted] 10 [/deleted] 1 mile from the French coast. Too close to send out A.S.R. Sending broadcast on International frequency.
1218 B434 returned from Linton.
1224 N434 returned from Linton.
1248 A434 returned from Linton
1305 E431 returned from Linton
1332 S434 returned from Moreton-in Marsh.
[Page break]
1405 Broadcast from Base. Linton having a large effort to-night. Due to low cloud may be forced to use intruder routes. A/C are being briefed to have Nav. lights on. Suggest we also brief crews to this effect.
1434 O431 landed from Linton
1656 Operations scrubbed.
1707 D434 landed from Hanwell.
1738 D4311 landed from Middle Wallop.
2020 Group have authorized 434 sqd. to use a Halifax for a cross country flight, and to stop at Harewell and leave parts for M434 a/c.
[Underlined] Wednesday 6th October, 1943. [/underlined]
08.30 On Watch Lister & F/O Taylor. Runway #24. QAN.
09.15. Aerodrome, Runways, dispersals & Perimeter tracks inspected. O.K.
09.30. Secret docs. Checked.
10.08. Operating approx 18 a/c. to-night.
14.30 Runway #28. QAN. Less than 5 mph.
16.28. Scrubbed.
[underlined] Thursday 7th October 1943. [/underlined]
0830 On Watch F/O Stephenson S.D. checked.
0845 RW 34 in use. Q.A.N. WNWly 5-10.
0915 RW 28 in use now.
1000 We are not required to-night.
1045 Telephone U/S.
1100 431 advise they will have 10 a/c on X-country from 1500-2200. Briefing 1330 hours.
1500 First 431 a/c off on X country.
1507 Moth landed breaking telephone wires.
Note:- Group Captain Gordon authorizes that the Moth be grounded until the G.P.O. lines are serviceable to the flarepaths.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Thursday 7TH October 1943 (Continued [/underlined]
1534 Eleventh & last 431 a/c off on X-country E.T.A. 2143
1730 Flarepath telephone now serviceable.
1928 F434 off on night-cross country. Taxied out to No 10 first. O434 bogged when perimeter track caved as he came out of dispersal (Perimeter track blocked)
1933. U434 off on night-cross country.
1935 K434 off on night-cross country.
2115 A.R.M. Purple.
2120 First 431 a/c landed from X-country.
2135 A.R.M. White.
2200 Report of 80 enemy aircraft off east coast.
2219 All lights on airfield [deleted] blew [/deleted] went out. Called electrician
2229 Lights on again. (Fault at substation)
2251 Last 431 a/c landed from X-country.
2315 U434 landed from X country.
2347 F434 landed from x country.
2357 K434 landed from X country.
2359 O434 now clear of the perimeter track.
[Underlined] Friday 8TH October 1943 [/underlined]
0001 Standing by for assistance to Linton a/c if needed
0200 Base advise Linton vis has shut down. We will be required to take some a/c if our weather is o.k.
0300 Weather here = No cloud, vis 2 miles. Changed to Runway 10.
0325 Base advise sending K408, C 426, R426, T426 and O426.
0336 K408 landed.
0339 C 426 landed.
0350 R 426 landed. Vis closed down as he came in.
0351 T426 diverted to Eastmoor.
0352 O 426 diverted to Eastmoor.
0405 Report that R426 is bogged at end of 10 Runway.
[Underlined] Note [/underlined] There was no duty crew available for dispersing the aircraft. The A Flight 434 crew were not available at their Hut. They had dispersed K434 so that it was bogged down and protruding over the perimeter. We were not informed of this.
[Page break]
There was no intelligence staff on duty to open the briefing room for visiting crews. 3 site Picket Post failed to answer the telephone when we tried to contact the Duty Engineer. On sending a messenger to 3 site no one there knew where anybody was. The same situation existed at 2 site.
08.30 On Watch Linton P/O. F/O. Taylor. Runway #16. QAN. [Deleted] None [/deleted] 5. mph. Visibility about 5-10 yds. Secret docs. checked.
1015 Required 431/7, 434/11
10.55. Gale Warning received from Met. covering Scotland to a point West of Tholthorpe to Northern Ireland.
Bad hole where A/Cr. ran off taxi track at end of 34 Runway, cable for taxi track disrupted. Clerk of Works & Elect Engineer informed. [Underlined] (Fuses removed from switch). [/underlined]
1500 Briefing 21:00 hrs.
17.15 Commenced marshalling on either side of Runway 10 for T.O.
2243 K/431 1st A/Cr. off on Ops.
2313 K/434 19th & last A/Cr off on Ops. A/434 scrubbed. S.O. U/S.
[Underlined] Saturday 9th October 1943. [/underlined]
0205 A/Cr definitely being diverted via W/T. to SHIPDHAM
0500 Ex Base. F/434 landed at Chedburgh 0352.
0537 Ex Base. “Shipdham advise they have landed 14 of our A/Cr.” ?14.
0630 Received letters but not times at Shipdham. 434/B,D,K,O,P,S,T,U, 431/E,D,G,N,O,P,Q.
0645 Received landing times from Base.
0730 434/C = F/O Small; 431/C = F/S Chalmers & 431/K Sgt Ryan still unheard from.
0830. On Watch Lister. Runway #10. QAN. L. & V.
09.20. Telegraphed “Immediate” to Shipdham that none of our a/c is [indecipherable] for base TFN. Bad weather. Our phone call was cut in half so am uncertain whether message was understood.
0930. Aerodrome, Runways, Perimeter tracks & dispersals inspected. Trolley a/c. Starters in showers at marshalling points. Instructions given for removal. Holes in side of #34 not filled in – reported to Mr. Jess.
10.00. Stand down to-night.
11.31. Tiger Moth P/O. Livesy from Lossiemouth via Acklington. for Leicester. landed here through bad weather. York aerodrome telephoned, to which he had signalled first. Detaining him for weather improvement.
[Page break]
P/O. Livesy reported he saw a Taylor Cub trying to land in a field near the railway line somewhere roughly near Philmour Junction. Passed to base who are investigating. Rough area is 100° 3 miles from Dalton & 356° 7 miles from Tholthorpe.
12.10. Base phoned that we are to inform them for onward transmission when our a/c may return.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch.
1529 F/434 returned from Chedburgh. } Weather poor.
1648 D 434 returned from Shipdham } – vis about 2000 yds.
1655 O 434 returned from Shipdham }
1658 T 434 returned from Shipdham }
1707 U 435 returned from Shipdham }
1709 Spitfire MB 257 (Sub-Lieut Blackburn) landed. Signal sent to Christ Church & Church Fenton.
1712 K 434 given priority landing. Starboard outer U/S. From Shipdham. }
1720 Q 431 returned from Shipdham }
1726 N 431 returned from Shipdham }
1735 O 431 returned from Shipdham }
1740 B 434 returned from Shipdham }
1743 P 434 returned from Shipdham }
18.55. Five aircraft left at Shipdham. Not returning to-day. All U/S. No flying in 6 Group to-night.
Sunday 10TH October 1943.
0900 F/Lt Austin on Watch – S.D’s checked. Runways & taxi track checked.
1015 Command stand down tonight.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1420 Base report a Defiant flying about with no R/T. Land him if he comes around here. – (QBA 1500, QBB 500)
1425 Base report. “Defiant has landed OK. somewhere.”
14.38 Hurricane BD 715 F/O KIRSCH landed due to weather. Signalled Church Fenton Fairlop.
Monday 11th October 1943.
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. S.D.s ckd. – Runways & taxi tracks, etc.
0945 Crossley Crash tender going to Linton for a welding repair job, back by 1500 hrs. 2nd tender standing by – Base informed.
[Page break]
0950 Not required tonight.
NOTE [Underlined] Bomber Code CD 0250. W.E.F. 10 Oct, Daily change at 1600 hrs G.M.T. [/underlined]
1240 Permission granted from Group for a 434 Halifax to go to Harwell.
1300. Off Watch F/O Taylor. On Watch Lister P/O. R/W #28. QAN. Wly.
13.35. Instructed Shipdham to send D/431 back immediately & S/434 when ready. No further a/c are serviceable. Weather down there is poor.
1507 First 434 a/c off on X country. ETA – 2157 +.
1618 Sixth & last 434 a/c off on X country.
1512-1554 Four a/c of 431 off on X country. ETA 1931.
1630 Aerodrome Serviceability signal sent to Station Z.
16.00. Asked base to contact all 434 a/c. on X country by W/T instructing all a/c to be back at base not later than 22.00 hrs.
This message also passed by R/T to 434/U. prior to take off.
Weather deteriorating rapidly after 22.00hrs.
17.00. Crossley Crash Tender back in commission again. Base informed.
17.10. Base informed all 434 a/c. have acknowledged W/T. signal except A & O. Message still being sent to them.
17.31. M/434 Returned from Harwell.
17.44. K/434 Returned from Harwell.
19.00. S/Ldr. Stanley visited Watch Office & inspected aerodrome.
1942 S/431 landed from X-country – Runway 28 in use.
1956 A/431 landed from X-country.
2012 O/431 landed from X-country = Went off runway but came back OK.
2058 T/434 landed from X-country
2133 O/434 landed from X-country
2147 U/434 landed from X-country
2154 A/434 landed from X-country
2158 F/434 landed from X-country
2215 D/434 landed from X-country
All A/Cr down. Flare path doused.
2255 Base inform us to keep a listening watch for one of Topcliffe’s a/c – R/T – Thickhead or Ratcliffe B. which is lost. One hour overdue on a X-country.
2358 A/c has crashed. Crew bailed out. (Stood down).
[Page break]
[Underlined] Tuesday 12th October, 1943. [/underlined]
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Runway #10. QAN. Sly.
09.15. Inspected the aerodrome etc. Large a/c. hole on edge of #34 not yet filled in. Phoned C.O.W. who promised to fill in to-day.
09.45. Command Stand Down.
10.00. Yesterday V/434. Went A/S/F. off Whitby. On approaching the coast he was fired on by a Convoy. Checked up this morning with S/L Kyles re of not being told of passing Convoys. Base had omitted to pass on the gen to us so in future it is advisable to check up with base first re-convoys to make sure we get this information.
10.30. Picked up Darky call from ARDWELL W William. Answered him but reception was too bad to get anything on him. He was immediately afterwards answered by Hat-badge & Blue Sea who gave him QDM 090 3 mins. These two stations are St. Davids & Talbenny in [underlined] Wales. [/underlined] Later heard Ardwell N Nan given pancake. Freak skip-distance responsible for this reception. He was also answered by Linton.
1300 F/Lt Austin on Watch
Contacted Shipdham to tell them to hold S 434 & D 431 there until we call. Weather here too poor for return. Both a/c are serviceable.
18.00. TR.1196. Receiver U/S. Wireless Mechanic summoned to investigate trouble
18.40. No night flying in the group to-night. R/T Watch closed.
[Underlined] Wednesday 13TH October 1943. [/underlined]
0900 F/Lt Austin on Watch. Runways inspected. No. 10 in use.
1000 Stand down tonight.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1500 Group are advising Shipdham that our A/Cr are not to return today, weather conditions are not improving.
1915 Command broadcast, via Group. “Italy has declared War on Germany”
[Underlined] Thursday 14th October 1943. [/underlined]
0830 F/O Taylor – on Watch – Runway 28. – QAN. Wly 5. SD ckd.
0900 Advised Shipdham – S/434 & D/431 are to return this morning.
0930 Advised Middleton a 431 A/Cr is taking crews to bring back 2 A/Cr from there this A.M.
[Page break]
1000 Not required tonight.
1130 S/434 returned from Shipdham.
1205 D/431 returned from Shipdham.
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. off watch F/O. Taylor. QAN. L & V. #28.
16.20. S/Ldr Kyles phoned:- We may have to land 20 USA aircraft (Fortresses?) here. If we can [indecipherable] them by dusk Tholthorpe will be used. If not, one of the other stations in the clutch
17.56. Diversion cancelled. Flarepath laid on Runway #10.
18.10. M/431. 1st a/c. off on X Country. } [Underlined] All a/c are to be recalled at 20.00 hrs. Ex W/Cdr. Newson. [/underlined]
18.30 S/431 6th & last a/c off on X Country. }
18.28. M/434 landed Middleton St. George. 2 engines cut.
18.46. B/431 Landed of X Country - early return. G. u/s.
1930 On Watch F/O Taylor. Off Watch P/O Lister. = Runway No 10. in use.
1957 Instructed Base to send message to 431 A/C. “Return to Base by 21:30 hrs”.
2053 R/434 landed from X-Country – touched down on grass – vis. on approach poor.
2125 A/431 landed from X-Country, vis. terrible (ugh!).
Contacted Base. = Sending A/Cr to Linton to make use of Contact Strip & O. Circle.
2126 B/434 - “Proceed to Linton”. Landed there 21:38.
2127 O/431 on R/T. – Can see flare-path – so gave him Pancake. W/Co Newson prefers trying to land his A/Cr here rather than send them to Linton.
2135 S/431 up on R/T. Given turn 2.
2142 O/431 landed OK. S/431 not acknowledged “Pancake”. V/434 now on R/T so given “Pancake.”
2151 V/434 landed OK.
2200 O/431 now in front of Watch Office. Had turned wrong way off runway, had taxied this far OK so instructed him to carry on, getting a green to cross runway.
2210 M/431 landed OK, having lost drome once & returning on Leeming Beam.
2211 O/431 at last in dispersal, having traveled [sic] 3/4 of taxi track.
2214 M/431 called on R/T. “I appear to have bogged at end of Runway.” S/L Higgins went out & taxied him clear. = Reached dispersal OK.
2221 S/431 landed at Middleton St. George. = As S had disappeared after receiving turn 2, (21.35) had base chasing after him. At one time reported near Eastmoor. Later R.O.C. plotted him at Middleton. Before Base could instruct M. St. G. to send him home he had landed there. (Many silent thanks)
2247 C/431 on R/T. at 8000’. Instructed to break cloud at Leeming Beam.
[Page break]
2315 C/431 again on R/T saying he was going to land at Leeming. Instructed to try here first. = Base advise all stations in Group closing in quickly. Leeming still OK.
2318 Instructed C/431 to Proceed to Leeming. Acknowledged.
2327 C/431. “I can see flarepath, may I land now.” OK.
2336 C/431 landed safely. How? I dunno. Viz about 1000 yards, cloud 700 ft.
2359 Flarepath doused. R/T watch closed. All “Help” gone to mess.
[Underlined] Friday 15th October, 1943. [/underlined]
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Runway #28 QAN Wly. Fog.
09.30. Aerodrome, Runways, Perimeter Tracks & dispersals Inspected. Secret docs
09.45. Stand down to-night.
11.05. Base informs that a Halifax Caprice or Gremlin “L” is lost. If any base in 6 Group can contact him he is to proceed to Acklington. No joy on R/T.
11.20. Acklington closed in. Now to go to [indecipherable] Still unable to contact.
11.40. Halifax landed safely at Leeming.
13.00. Off watch Lister P/O. On Duty Austin F/L.
1438 Contacted Middleton, re M/434 & S/431 returning. Weather conditions there now QBB 600 QBA 700 yds. FC & Met will not let them take off. - today.
1640 B 434 returned from Linton.
16.55. A/c. at Middleton not returning to-day. Weather deteriorating
1800 Oxford landed from Northolt. Signalled.
[Underlined] Saturday 16 October 1943 [/underlined]
0900 F/Lt Austin on Watch. Runway 10.
S. D’s checked.
1000 Stand down
1005 Runway changed to 16. QAN SE’ly. 10-15MPH.
1021 M434 returned from Middleton St. George.
1118 Runway changed to 10. QAN – SE’ly 15 QBA. rotten.
1123 S/431 returned from Middleton St. George.
1215 Runway changed to 16. QAN. SE’ly 15 QBA – better.
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
1600 Runway changed to 10. QAN. ESE.ly – A Pilot reported it was hard to line-up on 16 due to sun on smoke on X-wind leg.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Sunday – 17th October 1943. [/underlined]
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch – Runway 10. – QAN ESE – 6. = Runways & taxi track ckd. S.Ds ckd.
10.50 K/431 called on R/T for Clearance to take-off on Air-test. Raining. Viz 1800 yds so scrubbed detail on S/L Pleasance OK.
1103 Stand down tonight.
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. F/O Taylor off Watch. R/W #10. QAN 0.
16.00. Runway #24 in use.
16.10. [Underlined] R/T call signs for 431 & 434 Sqdns. are now ISLAND and CLIMAX respectively. These call signs will [deleted word] be permanent. [/underlined]
[Underlined] Monday 18th October, 1943 [/underlined]
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Runway #10. QAN. E ly.
09.30. Inspected Runways, perimeter tracks & dispersals. Secret docs O.K.
10.34. Training only.
13.00. Off Watch Lister P/O. On Watch S/L Austin.
1448 First a/c of 434 off on X-country.
1501 First a/c of 431 off on X-Country.
1518 Third & last a/c of 434 off.
1548 Eighth & last a/c of 431 off.
1641 Q431 returned early. (IFF U/S).
1743 C431 returned early (ST. OUTER U/S).
1847 K 431 returned early.
19.30. On Watch Lister P/O. [Deleted] F/Lt. [/deleted] S/L Austin off watch. Runway. #10. QAN. E ly.
20.35. N/431 First a/c of 431 Sqdn. to land from X Ctry.
21.04. F/431 Landed turned right instead of left & parked on E/434 dispersal. (F/O. Christinson new pilot here & not used to ‘drome yet.)
21.18. D/431 5th & last 431 a/c to land from X Ctry.
21.16. V/434 1st a/c of 434 Sqdn to land from X-Ctry.
21.39. P/434. 3rd & last a/c of 434 to land from X Ctry.
21.40. Standing-by to assist Linton should they require us.
N.B. S.F.C.O. Please consult “Suggestion Book.”
23.50. All Lintons a/c safely accounted for. Flare path doused. R/T watch closed.
Off watch Lister P/O.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Tuesday 19TH October 1943 [/underlined]
0830 F/Lt Austin on Watch.
0900 F/O Stephenson on duty.
0900 Perimeter track & Runways inspected. R/W 16 in use. QAN. SE’ly light.
0930 S.D. checked.
0945 S/L Higgins (431) phoned asking who had given permission for Q431 to return to base from X-country.
1000 Contacted Base re above. Permission was given by Base at 1605 for Q to return. They will let us know who authorised the return. No message was passed to us at any time.
1032 We are required tonight.
1045 Re permission for Q431. – Q426 was on a Gee exercise. When the message was received the call sign used was that which 426 Sqdn had been using up till yesterday. The message was passed by Base D/F as originating from Q426. So the aircraft was instructed to return. Definitely finger trouble at D/F.
1230 Gale Warning. SE veering SW. Gusts to 70 mph within 6 hrs area west of line Mersey to Portland Bill. Gale SE veering S.W. Gusts to 50 M.P.H. within 6 hrs all other areas Br. Isles.
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
1525 Ops Scrubbed.
[Underlined] Wednesday 20th October 1943 [/underlined]
0830 F/O Taylor on Watch – Runway 16 – QAN. SE-ly 10-15. SDs ckd. Phoned Clerk of Works. Sending someone to fix stove so it won’t smoke.
1000 Not required for Ops tonight.
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O. Taylor.
13.39. F/434 1st a/c of 434 Sqdn. airborne on bombing & X Country.
13.50. A/434 Developed tail wheel lock on perimeter track; xc & bombing scrubbed.
14.20. K/434 substituted for “A”. Pilot F/O. Clinkskill. XCtry Exercise only.
14.45. K/434 third & last a/c off on X Country.
[Page break]
15.00. || Darky call from “Byplay” H Harry received and answered. Informed us he was not sure of his position. Called him to watch out for flares. Acknowledged. He said he was over a town with two aerodromes and was going to land at [/underlined] one of them. Thanked us for assistance rendered. [/underlined]
16.00. Anson a/c. landed on #34, went off runway and perimeter tracks and bogged. Efforts being made to clear runway. No a/c to land until clear. Cleared at 16.20.
17:15 Group asking what A/Cr we have flying, as there has been a crash near Middleton about 1500 hrs.
17.42. W/C Newson gave permission for N & E to return to-night if they are serviceable & if they get “flimsies.” Weather O.K.
18.00. Base called re above crash. One of Crofts aircraft and a total write-off. Crew all killed.
18.09. A.F.C. reports A. of A.I. on starboard side of R/W #16 u/s. Spirit level smashed. Reported to C.O.W. Will try to fix to-night.
18.30. N/431 Took off from Shipdham at 17.45. E/431. Still u/s.
18.54. N/431 Returned from Shipdham.
18.58. A/431. Landed safely.
19.15. W/C. Newson states E/431. ready to return 21/10/43 – weather permitting, & is to return as soon as possible.
19.30. Stood-Down. R/T watch closed. Flare path lifted.
Off Watch Lister P/O.
[Underlined] Thursday 21st October, 1943. [/underlined]
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. R/W #16. QAN. SSEly. 15-20 mph.
09.30. Inspected Runways, dispersals & Perimeter Tracks. Large pile of rubble on island near wood. Men on Perimeter track S end of R/W 28. Otherwise O.K. Secrets docs. checked.
09.50. Not required for ops. to-night.
10.50. Angle of approach indicator now serviceable on R/W #16.
12.40. Base QFE. 996.
1245 S/L Austin on Watch.
1423 K431 off on X country
1439 M 434 off on X country.
1443 N 431 last off on X country. Airborne are B, F, M, O & D.
1451 U434 off on X country. R434 returned with Port Inner U/S
[Page break]
[Underlined] Thursday 21st October 1943 (Cont). [/underlined]
1452 E 431 returned from Shipdham.
1700 F/O Stephenson on duty.
1800 R/W 10 in use.
19.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Off watch F/O Stephenson.
19.45. Laid 2 M. Flares on 1st flare position.
20.20. Flare on 1st position put on 2nd position.
20.16. B/431 Finally landed after doing two overshoots. Off X Country.
20.31. U/434 Second and last aircraft of 434 landed off X Country.
20.38. D/431. 7th and last a/c. of 431 Sqdn to land safely off cross country after three hairy overshoots and one refusal to land due to an aircraft not clear of runway. Bags of practice required. S/Ldr. Higgins & S/Ldr Austin both present.
20.44. Contacted Base, no longer required. R/T watch closed, orders given for lifting of flarepath.
[Underlined] Friday 22nd October 1943. [/underlined]
0830 S/L Austin F/O Stephenson on duty. RW16 in use.
0930 R/W’s perimeter Track and Sec Doc checked.
0940 R/W 10 in use. Vis 400 yds R/W16 [deleted] in [/deleted] Sun on mist.
1000 We are required to-night.
1030 Main briefing 1400 hours both squadrons.
1115 Runway changed to 28. QAN S’W 10+ sometimes.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1716 D/434 off on operations R/W. 28 in use.
1729 E/434 Last 434 a/c airborne (14 a/c)
1730 Q/431 1st a/c 431 off on ops. (12 a/c)
1741 C/431 Last a/c airborne Tholthorpe operations.
1822 Provisional Diversion Bases 431 Acklington 434 Croft.
2000 S/L. Austin & F/O Stephenson on Watch.
Runway changed to No. 10. QAN SE - 4MPH.
2030 431/S upon R/T Sent to Sea (Whitby) to Jettison load.
[Page break]
2039 434/V Landed Early return
2045 431/C Landed (Three Engines}.
2051 431/M Landed
2135 431/S. Landed Three Engines.
2219 431/O Landed.
2225 431/O reports he is bogged at end of Runway Organized Duty Flight, Bowser & 431 to assist a/c. Asked Base to have Linton stand by in case of any other early returns.
2333 R/W 16 in use. Changing now.
2336. 431/A, K, diverted to Eastmoor.
2338 431/B diverted to Eastmoor.
2341 434/D diverted to Eastmoor.
2346 A 431 landed at Eastmoor.
2349 Runway 16 now O.K. Recalled B431 & D434.
2355 First a/c landed M434.
2358 K431 landed at Linton.
Saturday 23rd October 1943.
0001 E 434 landed. SOS procedure. Given priority landing Had no R/T. (Identity of a/c unknown till 0100).
0010 S 434 given priority landing (3 engines).
0015 N431 landed. No R/T. No permission.
0022 R431 landed Eastmoor.
0032 B 431 landed at Eastmoor.
0028 D431 given priority landing. (3 engines) Ran off runway.
0029 Diverted B & D 434 to Eastmoor. (Recalled them when D431 announced he was o.k.).
0038 O434 unable to get undercarriage down. W/C Newson took over R/T and checked with Pilot on what had been done.
0050 Switched on Runway 10 & told O434 to land on Runway. Ambulance & two fire tenders all ready.
0055 O434 landed on wheels. All O.K.
0200 Nothing heard of F434 (S/L Thomson), A434 (F/L Bryan)
[Page break]
N434 (Sgt Fry) T434 (F/S Nadeau) or E431 (Sgt Skinner). (The most trouble in the shortest time was never experienced by so few in front of so many people)
0400 Watch closed.
Note:- 431 a/c will be refuelled & ready to take off at 0930 hours this morning.
0830 On Watch. F/O Taylor. Runway 28 QAN. L & V or SSW. 5-10.
Runways & Taxi track ckd. Lots of holes in soft ground. Particularly at E. end of 28 where A/Cr bogged last night. 3 A.A.I. U/S = Phoned Mr. Rocket.
0940 Not required for tonight. – SD’s ckd.
11:02 K/431 landed from Linton = East Moor having vis. troubles so it will be a little while before they let our A/Cr. off.
1213 A/431 landed from East Moor. B & R returning after lunch.
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O. Taylor. R/W 28 in use.
14.00. Work commenced on filling bog-hole on R/W. 28.
14.13. B/431 Returned from East Moor.
14.45. U/434 Returned from East Moor.
16.00. Bog-hole now filled. Completion of hardening & re-surfacing to-morrow
17.36. R/431 Returned from East Moor.
[Underlined] Sunday 24th October, 1943. [/underlined]
08.30. On Watch – Lister P/O. R/W. #10 QAN. S ly to E’ly. Checked Secret Documents.
10.15. Not required to-night.
11.00. Inspected runways, dispersals & perimeter tracks. Grass surfaces badly cut up and water logged. Notice to be inserted in S.R.O’s.
1300 On Watch F/O Stephenson
Monday 25th October 1943
0830 On Watch F/O Stephenson
0830 R/W 28 in use. QAN SWly 5-10.
0900 Sec. Doc checked.
0930 R/W and Perimeter Track checked.
1020 Signal AFI sent to Station Z re perimeter track work.
[Page break]
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor. QAN. L & V. Runway 28.
1500 Bags of X-Countrys = 431/A, C, F, H, S, K, P, R, S, T, = 434/A, L, O, R, S, Y. V/431 to Shipdham.
1613 H/431 returned from x-country early – 3 engines.
1630. All G.P.O. flare-path phones tested O.K.
1800 Viz getting poor. 1500yds. = Strensall phoned that it’s too hazy there for 434 to do bombing. Told them to send A/Cr home as soon as they come up on R/T.
1814 Contacted Shipdham. V/431 staying there overnight.
R/434 tried to land but had to overshoot. Sent him to Topcliffe.
1824 Instructed A/434 to proceed to Topcliffe.
1828 Instructed C/434 to proceed to Topcliffe.
1839. A/434 landed here in error for Topcliffe.
1848 L/434 took a try at landing, overshot, sent to Topcliffe.
1853 O/434 landed here. C/431 landed at Topcliffe at 18.40
1858 P/431 landed here. – R/434 landed at Topcliffe.
1933. All remaining A/Cr landed here OK. – Viz down to 700 yards, but just a thin smoke layer. A/Cr could see lights from above OK.
[Underlined] Tuesday 26TH October 1943 [/underlined]
0900 S/L Austin on Watch – No runway selected – Vis 30 yards. Runways & perimeter tracks inspected by A.F.C. – S.D’s checked.
1300 S/L Austin on Watch – Contacted Shipdham to have V431 return by 1600 hours.
1530 Base inform weather in 6 Group deteriorating rapidly & that they have told V431 to remain overnight.
[Underlined] Wednesday 27TH October 1943. [/underlined]
0900 S/L Austin on Watch – Runways & perimeter tracks inspected S.D’s checked.
1000 We are required for tonight.
1030 Briefing both Squadrons at 1430 hours.
1035 T1196 and TR9 both U/S. Reported to Signals officer.
1235 T1196 temporarily now Serviceable.
1300 F/O Stephenson on duty. RW/W 10 in use.
1350 RW 16 in use.
1430 R/W 10 in use. Oxford landed on R/W 10. Expect sun bad on 16
[Page break]
1515 R/W 28 in use.
1603 Operations scrubbed.
[Underlined] Thursday 28th October, 1943. [/underlined]
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Runway #10 QAN. SSEly.
09.50. Stand Down to-night.
10.25. Electricians will be working on #28 funnels for a week. Funnel will be serviceable each night at 18.00 hrs. & before on 1/2 hrs. prior notice.
1300 On watch F/O Maher: Off watch F/O Lister
[Underlined] FRIDAY, 29TH OCTOBER, 1943 [/underlined]
0930 Docs. checked: Airfield inspected
1000 Not operating to-night.
1300 On Watch F/O Stephenson off watch F/O Maher
1700 On Watch F/O Maher off Watch F/O Stephenson
[Underlined] Saturday 30th October 1943. [/underlined]
0830 On Watch F/O Stephenson off Watch F/O Maher R/W 10 in use. Wind light Vis 1000 yds.
0900 Sec. Doc. checked. R/W & Perimeter Track checked.
1020 We are required to-night
1255 Broadcast from Base – Formation of Fortresses heading this way. Will likely call for instructions to their bases but are to be discouraged as their bases have closed in. Base desires these a/c to be landed at Eastmoor as much as possible so as not to congest Linton & Tholthorpe.
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O Stephenson
13.30 Changed to #16.
16.05. Operations scrubbed. Flarepath lifted.
[Page break]
16.45. We now have an outer circle which operates. Getting On nicely!
[Underlined] Sunday 31st October, 1943. [/underlined]
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Runway #16. QAN SSEly.
09.30. Inspected aerodrome, runways, perimeter tracks & dispersals. Checked S.D’s.
09.40. Not required to-night.
1300 On duty F/O Maher.
[Underlined] MONDAY, 1ST NOVEMBER, 1943 [/underlined]
0900 On duty F/O Maher; runway in use No 10. Docs. checked. Airfield inspected
1010 Signalled AS4, Mk II lighting now complete.
1255 Wellington flying very low, circled twice and then disappeared in cloud to the south; contacted Linton who advised he had just landed there.
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
[Underlined] Tuesday 2nd [circled] 31 [/circled] November 1943. [/underlined]
0900 S/L Austin on Watch. Runway No. 10. S. D’s checked.
0901 Crosley fire tender U/S for two days. Notified base we would be unable to take outside crash action.
1045 Command Stand-down.
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Runway #10. QAN NWly.
[Underlined] Wednesday 3rd November, 1943. [/underlined]
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Runway 16.
09.15. Inspected aerodrome Runways etc. Checked S. D’s.
09.50. Required to-night.
10.50. Briefing 14.30.
1300 On duty F/O Maher: off P/O Lister.
1317 Runway changed to 10.
1402. Requested Service Police to furnish 4 guards on perimeter touch from 1615 onwards.
1630-1701 15 a/c /431 and 14 a/c 434 airborne on operations
S/L Stanley advises that P/O PYLE, post-course from Watchfield [deleted] just [/deleted] to-night.
[Page break]
[Underlined] WEDNESDAY, 3RD NOVEMBER, 1943 [/underlined]
19.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O Maher. Runway #10 QAN. L. & V.
20.27. S/431. Returned early. unable to maintain speed above 16,000 ft.
20.33. N/431 Returned early. Rear Turret guns u/s.
21.15. F/431. IFF u/s. Returning to Base. Completed operation O.K.
21.10. TR9. u/s. Receiving O.K. T’mitter u/s.
21.39 434/V. First a/c to return from operations.
21.54. W/408 Landed here – no R/T. apparently in error for Linton.
22.44. 431/D Landed and bogged himself on entrance to dispersal. A.F.C. instructed to mark with red lights.
22.24. 434/B. Landed on 3 engines. Given a priority landing. All O.K.
22.34. 434/N. Landed at Linton in error.
Not bad for such a large effort to be so trouble free – for a change.
23.31. 431/F. Last aircraft to land safely from ops.
AVM Burkes and Mr. Patterson of Newfoundland Airways present for take-off and return.
[Underlined] Thursday, 4th November, 1943 [/underlined]
00.40. Still now news of 434/E. Base O.K.’d our stand-down. Flarepath lifted, and all to bed.
0900 On duty F/O Maher: off P/O Lister.
Runway in use No 10. Docs checked: F/O Taylor reported back form leave.
1020 Contractors given permission to work on No 10 runway: Runway changed to No 16.
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
[Underlined] Friday, 5th November, 1943. [/underlined]
0900 On Watch F/O Taylor & P/O Pyle – Runway 16. QAN SE. 10-15. QBA. 1400 yds.
Runways & Perimeter ckd – Phoned MT for Sweeper to work on Taxi track. Sec. Docs ckd,
1000 Training Only.
13.00. ON Watch. Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O. Taylor. Runway #16.
15.15. Station engineer reports portion (abt 1/3) of perimeter track [inserted] near the wood [/inserted] completely u/s. for at least two days. All aircraft (M, N, R, & P of 434) when taxying will have to [inserted] use [/inserted] perimeter track on North side only.
Saturday 6th November, 1943.
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Runway #28 QAN. Wly. J W Pyle P/O.
0930 Runways, perimeter & dispersals checked
[Page break]
431 A
1000 Training only
1015 Docs. checked
10.18. || S/L. Orchard desires that in future all operational crew lists passed to Base by Teleprinter show the number of operational trips each captain of A/C has to his credit. Sqdn. Adjts. instructed.
1120 Runway changed to 34. QAN NW. 22 mph.
1150 Starboard A.A.I. knocked over by 434 “L” on take-off on 34 runway
1157 Station engineer informed of A.A.I.
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
1400 Both A.A.I’s on 34 now Serviceable. = One missing on 06 runway, being repaired.
1611 New A/C LK993 re-directed to Leeming at request of W/C Newsom.
|| 1619 If A/C LK995 arrives it is also to go to Leeming.
1620 When V-M & C return from X-country, they are to be instructed on R/T to do 3 extra circuits & landings (per S/L Higgins).
20.15. 434/V Landed at Topcliffe short of petrol, after receiving Pancake here.
20.45. 431/V DK 264 Crashed on grass at intersection on 34 & 28 runways. Crash action initiated. (Informed Ambulance, M.O. & Squadron C.O.). Several aircraft overhead at time. N/434 short of petrol, sent immediately to Linton. O. B. P. E. of 431 Sqdn. & D/434. Diverted to Linton. Contact with Base maintained at all times. Base advised that V/434 was to remain at Topcliff. [sic] Crew of V remaining overnight at Topcliff [sic] to bring aircraft back sometime to-morrow – we hope.
|| Station Z signalled= “Runways 28/10 & 34/16 u/s. Crashed A/Cr.)
2330. Station Engineer, with crew, started moving A/Cr. = Complete write-off.
[Underlined] SUNDAY, 7th NOVEMBER 1943 [/underlined]
0900 S/L Austin on Watch. Inspected scene of crash. Runway 28 is about 65 yards clear. Set out Caravan on Runway 28 to bring back a/c from Linton & Topcliffe.
0950 Training only tonight.
1130 Docs. checked
1155 Required tonight.
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
1725 Crashed A/C now moved back approx. 150 yds. clear of runway
STATION Z. Signalled Runways S. – Base informed.
[Page break]
[Underlined] SUNDAY, 7th NOVEMBER 1943 [/underlined]
1820 Operations scrubbed
1930 S/L Austin on Watch. Runway 28 lit.
1935 We are to open watch at 0600 hours for Lancasters from Linton just in case we are needed.
[Underlined] MONDAY 8th NOVEMBER 1943 [/underlined]
0830 On watch F/O Taylor – Runway 10 QAN E’ly 4-5
0845 On watch P/O Pyle – runways & perimeter checked
0920 Docs. checked
1000 Training only, but standing by for 2 hours.
1100 Phoned Clerk of Works. re Perimeter track Sweeping – He will “get cracking on it”
1208 Halifaxes definitely not required.
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O Taylor.
15.45 Marshalling will commence for take-off on Runway 28
17.45. Station electrician reports Sodium lighting on #28 serviceable.
19.30. On Watch F/O Taylor & P/O Pyle.
2000. Night flying F, M, D, N, Y/434 – X-C 20:15 = 0100. C, D, T, R/431 X-C. 21:30-01:10.
We are to be standing by as at 0600 in case Lintons Lancs need us.
2019. M/434 1st A/Cr off on X-C.
2048 F/434 last A/C off on X-C
2130 R/431 1st A/C off on X-C
2150 D/431 last A/C off on X-C
2207 R/431 returned with hydraulic leak
2220 Linton report ops. scrubbed – we will not be needed to stand-by.
2316 O/431 back from Linton with both crews – B/431 U/S at Linton
[Underlined] TUESDAY, 9TH NOVEMBER 1943 [/underlined]
0011 M/434 1st A/C back from X-C
0059 Y/434 last A/C from 434 Sqdn. back from X-C
0139 C/431 back from X-C – port outer engine u/s
0238 D/431 last A/C back from X-C – flarepath doused, R/T Watch closed
08.30. On Watch Lister Runway #10. QAN Light. S.D’s Checked.
09.50. Inspected runways, dispersals, perimeter tracks. Number of glim lamps picked up.
10.00. Not required to-night.
1600 Runway changed to 28
[Page break]
[Underlined] Wednesday 10TH November 1943 [/underlined]
0800 S/L Austin on Watch. Runway 10 in use.
Tracks & Runways inspected. SD’s checked.
1009 Stood down tonight.
1045 Runway changed to 28. Vis poor. (Pilot reported that he could see sodium lighting on his approach.)
1300 ON Watch F/O Taylor. Runway changed to 24. QAN. S-Wly 10-15. gusty.
1550 431 A/C U, T, A, Q, O recalled from X-Country due to weather becoming duff
1652 All A/C on X-C have now acknowledged recall signal
1747 Last X-country a/c landed o.k.
[Underlined] Thursday 11th November 1943 [/underlined]
0900 On Watch F/O Taylor & P/O Pyle. – Runway 28. – QAN W ly light becoming 15-20.
Tracks & Runways Inspected. S-D ckd.
1020 Training only tonight.
13.00. On Watch Linton P/O. Runway #28 QAN: Light Wly. – Nwly.
13.30. A/C.1. John definitely returning here to resume Flarepath duties.
1557 434/Y Sgt. Stanley landed without calling for permission on R/T
17.15. TR1196 u/s. Radio Mechanic’s services sent for. Power u/s.
17.38. Trouble eliminated and all now O.K.
17.40. Last a/c Landed so completing day flying.
17.50. Flare path doused. R/T watch closed.
Friday 12th November, 1943.
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Runway [deleted] 28 [/deleted] 34. QAN NWly.
09.15. Runways & dispersals inspected.
09.30. Documents checked.
10.00. Not required to-night.
11.15. Squadron flight commanders informed of gale warning being in force. Flights were told last night.
1145 Oxford MP414 ready to leave – duty crew could not be contacted at fire hut
1300 S/L Austin on Watch – JW Pyle P/O. on watch
1614 Runway changed to 28. QAN. – WNW – 15MPH.
19.30. On Watch Lister Off Watch S/L Austin. Runway #28.
19.55. F/431 Landed at Topcliff. [sic] Before he landed there he was given a QDM of 150° 8 miles. Acknowledged but did not comply.
20.15. F/S. Johnson called from Topcliff [sis] to say that the reason he did not land at base was that the oil pressure
[Page break]
in the Port Outer engine dropped below 45lbs □” and was also falling in two other engines as well.
20.24. [Boxed] “Judgement” M. Darky Call worked by Topcliff [sic] landed here. Whitley a/c. Landed O.K. [Deleted] lost both engines stopped [/deleted] one engine completely u/s. He managed to taxy to [deleted] the end of the [/deleted] intersection of 20 & 34 runways but unable to get clear. Sent duty crew & tractor to pull him clear. [/boxed]
21.25. Runway cleared. Whitley crashed at Ashbourne. ‘Phoned their F.C.O.
21.32. R/431 First a/c to land from X/C.
21.45 N/431. Fourth and last a/c to land from X/C.
23.00 Flare path lifted, R/T watch closed.
Saturday 13TH November 1943
0900 S/L Austin & P/O Pyle on Watch – Runway 28.
Perimeter & runways checked. SD’s checked.
[Underlined] Note [/underlined] [Boxed] Effective Nov 15TH, 1943 a twenty-four hour watch will be kept by this Flying Control Establishment. When no flying takes place from this station there need only be an officer, an R/T operator, airman of the watch and a watchkeeper on duty. [/boxed]
1000 Training only
1240 Signal sent to Station Z “Flying Control Facilities available on 24 hour basis WEF 0900 hours 15 Nov.”
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
18:25 Snow Warning. = “Snow Probable during next 24 hrs, in most parts of Br. Isles, amounts moderate over high ground, & mainly slight elsewhere.”
1924 H/431 landed from X-Country.
1938 P/431 landed from X-country
[Underlined] Sunday 14th November [/underlined]
0900 On Watch F/O Taylor & P/O Pyle. = Runway 34. Wind NWly. 20-50mph. Perimeter & Runways ckd. – still there – S.D ckd.
0945. Training only tonight.
13.00. On Watch Lister Off Watch F/O. Taylor.
[Underlined] Monday 15th November, 1943 [/underlined]
08.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Runway #28. QAN. Light NWly.
09.30. Aerodrome inspected. Documents checked.
[Page break]
0950. Training only to-night.
1145 Runway changed to 34 QAN NW’ly 10-15 mph.
1450 Topcliffe informs us that 431/F is now serviceable – “C” will take crew there to bring F back
1645 431/F back from Topcliffe
19.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Off duty F/O. Taylor.
[Underlined] Tuesday 16th November, 1943. [/underlined]
08.30. Quiet Watch. Off duty Lister On duty F/O Taylor.
Runway 34. QAN. NWly – 10-20 mph. – S.D ckd. Runways & Per. Inspected.
1000 Training only
1130. From Base: We are provisional diversion base for 15. U.S.A.A.F. A/Cr. for between 1400-1600 hrs
1300 On duty S/L Austin & P/O Pyle
1440 Frost warning late tonight – min. air temperature 30°-31° F
1510 Air sea rescue crews not required
1547 Not required for U.S.A.A.F. diversions
1930 434/N is bogged at corner of taxi track & #28 runway – action taken.
1945 On Watch F/O Taylor. =
20.10 Crew has bogged near AFC Caravan. Phoned MT for something to pull it out. Tractor couldn’t
2217 M/434 – 3rd A/Cr landed OK. = When F/434 first called up it was raining quite heavily. Instructed him to fly in a northerly direction into the clear until shower had passed, to avoid icing = landed safely an hour later.
2224 M/434 now stuck off taxi track.
2245 M/434 back in dispersal.
[Underlined] Wednesday 17th November, 1943. [/underlined]
0625 Base advise – Require 3 A/Cr of 434 Sqdn for A/S/R. – take off approx. 0830hrs. Phones out of order so sent a written message to W/Co Harris by M/T driver.
0815 Daylight Caravan out on Runway 28 – QAN – L & V.
0845 On duty S/L Austin & P/O Pyle
0945 Docs. checked
1000 Training only 1001-1026 N, J & O 434 off on A.S. Rescue.
1215 Runway changed to 34.
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch S/L. Austin. Runway #34.
16.00. Frost warning to-night. Min Temp. 30°.Passed to M.T. & Flights.
1445-1456 – N, J, O 434 landed from A.S.R.
1335-1403 – A, C, Y, R 434 & H, J, R, & O 431 off on A.S.R.
[Page break]
1707-1906 – All a/c [deleted] off [/deleted] landed from A.S.R.
1823-1835 – A, D, K, L & T 431 off on night X-country.
20.45. Taxy track across #28 R/W u/s. Glims laid. Electricians informed.
20.31 434/F first a/c off on night flying.
2114 434/N bogged in front of dispersal
2119 434/X off on night flying
2136 434/F landed from night flying.
2215 434/X landed from night flying
2316 431/A landed from night flying – S/I engine u/s – landed O.K.
2338 431/U last A/C landed from night flying – trouble with u/c at first but landed O.K.
[Underlined] Thursday 18 TH November 1943 [/underlined]
0830 Runways & perimeter inspected.
On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch S/L. Austin. P/O Pyle. Runway #34. Documents checked.
10.00. Required to-night.
13.00. On Watch F/O. Taylor. Off Watch Lister P/O.
16.30. 431/K First a/c. off on ops.
16.54. 434/M First a/c. of 434 Sq. off on ops.
17.22. 431/Q. Thirty-first & last a/c. off on ops.
19.40. L/431. Returned early. Sent to jettison as he had not done so.
19.45. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O Taylor.
20.07. B/431. Returned, had jettisoned, asked for permission to do Right Hand circuit.
20.55. B/431. Bogged on Perimeter track. Impossible to move – no a/c can pass. S/L Hudson has organised a crane – may be [deleted] done [/deleted] cleared in 2 hrs.
22.00. B/431 Back on dispersal.
23.45. P/434 First a/c back off ops.
Friday 19th November. 1943.
00.15. U/431 Landed short of petrol. Z/434 Stood-by.
00.21. K/431 Landed short of petrol. C/434 Stood-by.
00.41. R/434 Landed Linton short of petrol. Was not certain he was over the right aerodrome but said “so short am landing anyway.”
00.38 1/2. T/431 Landed short of petrol. Priority
00.56. L/434. Bogged on corner of #28 and perimeter track.
03.40. The following aircraft have landed away (short of petrol etc.) F. E & J of 431. G. E. R. M. of 434.
[Page break]
No news of A/434. U/434. M/431. No further news received of Q/431 who was ditching at 23.28 (app.) One fix and 1 QDM only received.
08.30. Off Watch Lister P/O. On Watch F/O Taylor.
Runway 34. QAN – NW – 5-10. = L/434 still obstructing No 28. = Clerk of works phoned re Taxi track lighting around 28 loop being very dim, & AAI’s on 34 runway.
1000 We are required tonight. SD’s ckd.
1045 Ex Base. F/431 should be leaving Woodbridge any time now. They are bringing a 428 Sqdn crew back here with them. Leeming to arrange transport from here.
11:37 W/Co Newson: When F/431 comes on R/T advise him to take crew of 428 to Leeming.
12:16 Call from Stanton Harcourt. E/431 left 12:09, G/434 left 12:11, M/434 Glycol leak.
12:41 G/434 landed from Stanton Harcourt.
1300 S/L Austin & P/O. Pyle on Watch
1311 E/431 landed from Stanton Harcourt.
1410 E/434 landed from Little Harwood
1430 F/431 landed from Woodbridge. 1506 J 431 landed from Little Harwood
1621 First a/c off on operations. Runway 34 – zero wind – 28 blocked.
1655 Twentieth & last a/c off on ops. Z434 & L431 scrubbed.
1656 Ordered flarepath changed to 28 as L434 was cleared.
1746 Flarepath caravan finally arrived in position.
2000 F/O Taylor on Watch.
2004 T/431 landed OK. (Had completed detail) (Nav. error, would have been too late on Δ)
2030 Arrangements with Base re weather: Unless Group suggest diversion A/Cr come back here. If raining then, we have no more than 4 overhead at 1 time. Send extras to Linton or East Moor alternately. These stations to help with transport.
2205 N/431 first A/Cr up on R/T.
2215. J/434 landed West Malling 21:25. – flak damage. – Crew OK.
2334 R/431 landed = No news from D, X, Y, of 434.
Saturday November 20th
0030 Still no news. Flare path doused. (Tractor & Trailer Bogged at 28.)
0754 Just heard Y/434 landed Thorney Island. 22:39.
0900 S/L Austin on Watch. Runway 28. Calm. SD’s checked.
0956 Training only tonight.
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch S/L Austin. R/W #28. Calm.
13.42. Instructed M & Y/434 to return to base.
13.50. M.T. contacted re perimeter track being swept.
15.30. M/434 unable to return to-day – bad weather down at S. Harcourt.
1655. Base inform: “Body picked up in the sea by A.S.R off Newhaven. M.U. A/G.” Further details may be had from F./C. 11 Group.
[Page break]
1930 Off watch P/O Lister – On watch P/O Pyle
2000 QBA 600 yds. QBB – 2000 10/10ths. – Widespread fog persisting through the night at base & our diversion stations till later tomorrow
[Underlined] SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21st, 1943 [/underlined]
0830 Quiet watch – Doc’s checked – Runway 28. Calm
On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch P/O. Pyle.
09.25. Aerodrome, dispersals & perimeter tracks inspected. S/431 is an obstruction at the entrance to North side Hangar.
09.45. Our diverted aircraft may, if serviceable return today between 14.00 & 17.00.
10.10. No operations in command to-night – but we are to stand-by for a big effort to-morrow night.
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
1436 Y/434 took off from Thorney Island.
1614 Y/434 landed OK, after a bit if trouble finding the drome in poor viz.
1700. Orderly room phoned – LAC Strangeland is posted to 50 Group Pool for A.F.C Course WEF DEC 18
19.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O. Taylor.
[Underlined] Monday November 22nd 1943. [/underlined]
08.00. Quiet Watch. Runway #28
08.30. Off Watch Lister P/O. On Watch F/O Taylor. QAN. W ly light. SD ckd.
09:55 We are required for tonight = Briefing 1400 hrs. = changed to 13:30 hrs.
12:24 434/M returned from Stanton Harcourt.
12.45 S/L Austin & P/O Pyle on watch
1636 P/434 1st A/Cr. off on ops. = Runway 28. QAN – W ly 5.
1709 K/434 24th A/Cr off. - V/434 scrubbed – Internal Glycol leak.
1822 W/434 returned early. (A.S.I. u/s).
1918 A/431 returned early. Used up all oxygen in first hour.
2014 L/431 returned early. – on 3 engines.
2342 U/431 first A/Cr landed OK from ops.
2352 W/431 landed on 3 engines, burst a tyre & stopped near intersection of 28 & 34 runways. Appeared to be an obstruction. Seven aircraft overhead so sent them to East Moor. 434/F, G, O, K. 431/D. E. F.
[Underlined] Tuesday November 23rd 1943. [/underlined]
0010. W/431 found to be more than 100 yards from runway so started landing A/C again. K/434 came back from E. Moor.
[Page break]
0019 L/434 called up short of petrol so given priority landing. B/431 landed at East Moor without calling Base. X/431 landed at Woodbridge on 3 Engines; P/434 & Z/434 landed at Docking.
0018 Y of 429 Squadron (P/O Kingston) landed on a Darky call from Linton.
0130 No news from C & E/434, lights doused, flare-path party stood down.
0200 N/431 which had gone off taxi track near end of 24 runway, now in dispersal.
0900 S/L Austin & P/O Pyle on Watch. Runways & perimeter inspected. SD’s checked. Runway 28 in use.
1000 Training only.
1203 Runway changed to 16. QAN S’ly to S by E 9+ M.P.H.
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch S/L Austin. R/W. #16.
14.11 All a/c at Eastmoor returned safely. Two or three overshoots. G. F. O./434. And B D E F/431.
1810 Flarepath lights No. 16 u/s Clerk of Works informed
1930 S/L Austin on Watch & P/O. Pyle.
2000 Switchboard u/s. Reported to Signals.
2205 Asked Flarepath to be switched to 28 with reserve on 24 as wind is expected to veer and decrease in intensity.
2220 Switchboard serviceable. (Cable broken).
2300 Possible diversion now remote. Standing by for Linton (just in case).
[Underlined] Wednesday November 24TH, 1943 [/underlined]
0030 Flarepath & lights doused.
09.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch S/L Austin. R/W #24.
09.30. Runways Perimeter tracks & dispersals inspected by Sgt. Shacklady. Documents checked.
10.05. Training Only To-night.
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
1335. Shipdham Phoned – G/431 S. – send a crew for it; take 48 spark plugs, spanners & 4 accumulators. Passed to Stat. Eng. Office.
1500 Runway changed to 28. = QAN. W ly-WSWly. 20-30 mph.
Night flying tonight. 434 doing Bombing. 431 – 3 possible X-C’s.
1800 Night flying scrubbed.
1925 Contacted Docking. Z/434 should be ready for take-off in about an hour
[Page break]
19.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O. Taylor.
21.30. Z/434 not coming to-night but will be ready for take off by 09.00 tomorrow.
[Underlined] Thursday 25th November, 1943. [/underlined]
08.00 Quiet Watch.
09.00 Off Watch Lister P/O. On Watch F/O Taylor.
Runway 28. QAN W-WNW – 15-20. Runways etc inspected. SD’s ckd.
1000 Required tonight.
1300 On Watch S/L Austin & P/O Pyle
1930 On Watch F/O Taylor.
2325 L/434 first A/Cr off on ops – Runway 28.
2359 L/431 last A/Cr off on ops – 26 in All – 13 each Sqdn.
[Underlined] Friday 26th November 1943. [/underlined]
0337 Q/434 landed – early return – trouble with rear turret.
0401 S/431 landed – early return
0624 V/434 1st A/Cr up on R/T. – landed 0629.
0803 W/434 landed, after having trouble with hydraulics.
L/434, K & Y/431 landed. Tangmere, G/434 landed at Breighton.
0850 G/434 airborne from Breighton, returning to Base.
0901 G/434 landed from Breighton
On Watch P/O Pyle
1015 We are required tonight – Runways & perimeter inspected R. 28 in use S.D’s checked
1201 434/L landed here form Tangmere
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch P/O. Pyle.
13.10. K/431. Returned from Tangmere.
13.15. Y/431 Returned from Tangmere.
16.45. K/434 1st a/c off on ops.
17.20. H/431 17th and last a/c off on ops. N/431 too late for take off.
18.40. Provisional diversion of 30 aircraft from Nos. 5 & 8 Gps (P.F.F.). All available transport to stand by.)
1930 S/L Austin on Watch & P/O Pyle.
2026 K434 landed early from ops – P/outer u/s.
2315 Base inform us that 14 Lancasters of 467 Sqdn. Waddington (R/T “Pandrop”) are to be diverted here at approx. 0130 hrs. – A/C letters C, D, E, G, J, S, K, L, M, O, P, R, A, B.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Saturday 27 November 1943 [/underlined]
0012 V434 first a/c down from ops.
0020 Base inform they are sending over two of 467 a/c.
0036 G467 landed (P/O Coulson)
0041 1/2 D467 landed. (F/L Symonds.)
0100 K467 landed. (P/O Whitford).
0110 I 103 landed (Four other a/c landed between these times). (F/S Campbell)
0116 R431 asked for priority landing by W/T.
0150 H 106 landed (F/O Lee)
0152 1/2 J 106 landed (F/O Jardine)
0156 1/2 F 106 landed. (P/O Holbourn)
0200 All a/c of both 434 & 431 reported down.
G434 at Bourne; R 431 at Eastmoor; Y434, N434; D431, H431and P431 at Thorney Island. Rest at base.
0230 Still standing by for any diversion.
0300 Base o’k’ed standing down.
0610 Sgt. Bell reports Lancasters refuelled – 350 gallons each – J, H, D, G, F, K
0800 S.D’s checked – Group report weather at our diversion A/D’s ‘grim’ – [deleted] no [/deleted] crews standing by
09.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch P/O. Pyle. R/W. #10.
10.15. Not required to-night.
13.00 On Watch F/O Taylor.
1500 re 431/L. at Tangmere. = New S. = A crew are leaving here to arrive there Sunday evening to fly A/Cr back. Monday morning. = Base informed.
19.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O. Taylor.
Sunday 28th November, 1943.
Quiet Watch. Very quiet.
07.30. Diverted Lancasters to standby for take off on confirmation at 10.00.
09.00. Off Watch Lister P/O. On Watch F/O Taylor Runway 24 SSW-WSW – 10. SD ckd.
09.45 Training Only.
10:37 I/103 Sqdn left for Elsham Wolds. – landed there OK.
11:30 Changed to Runway 28. QAN. Light W ly.
11.04 P/431 took off from Thorney Island.
11.10 N/434 took off from Thorney Island. W & D/431 will be leaving shortly.
1227 P/431 landed from Thorney Island
[Page break]
1231 G/434 landed from Bourne
1234 N/434 landed from Thorney Island
1235 H/431 left Thorney Island with 2 of D’s crew – D/431 not leaving yet.
1300 S/L Austin & P/O Pyle on Watch.
1730 Lancasters D, G, K/467 Sqdn. & F, J/106 Sqdn. left for Waddington & Metheringham
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch.
2006-2031. = A, K. S. N. T./431 & A. C. O. U./434 off on X-C’s. R/434 off for Thorney Island.
[Deleted] 0010 )/434 [/deleted] [Underlined] Monday November 29th 1943. [/underlined]
0010 O/434 landed from X-Country.
0033 S/431 on return from X country landed off runway, far to the right. Holding up 4 others while investigating position.
0044 S/431 back on runway taxying to end. – clear at 0046.
0055 S/431 called up. he was on taxi track, out of brake pressure & had to shut off motors. Had K & N/431 turn left & parked them in front of watch office.
0129 Had U & R/434 turn left, taxi all the way round & across the main runway
0142 U/434 bow bogged, so R/434 left on taxi behind him – Bags of Red lights. Everything at least landed OK.
0300 Taxi track now all clear. A/Cr in dispersals.
0845 F/O Taylor off watch S/L Austin & P/O Pyle on watch Runway 24 QAN SW’ly gusty
[Deleted] 0900 [/deleted] 0945 Runway changed to 28 – S.D’s checked
0955 Training only
13.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch S/L. Austin P/O Pyle.
13.15. Ex Base:- Any Lossiemouth a/c to be landed here if seen as weather up north has clamped.
15.45. [Boxed] Darky call from “Dear Friend” E; [inserted] 360th Bomb Sqdn. [/inserted] lost. Got him to fire Verey light & he was located over Marston Moor. Requested QDM for Molesworth & Northampton; told to land. Rogered. Boston aircraft. [/boxed]
16.20. Stbd. A of I. on #28 u/s. C.O.W. informed.
17.30. Above now serviceable.
17.37. L/434 Off on bombing and C Country.
19.04 C/431 last A/C off on X country
1930 Off watch P/O Lister – on watch S/L Austin & P/O Pyle
2213 434/L bogged about 100 yds. from his dispersal at intersection of taxi & perimeter track on west side of 34 Runway – bowser & crew organized – S/L Holman informed
2257 431/C last A/C to land from X-country.
[Page break]
2325 Duty crew report 434/L now clear & being towed to dispersal
[Underlined] TUESDAY – NOVEMBER 30th 1943 [/underlined]
0800 Quiet watch
09.00. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch P/O. Pyle. R/W. 28. NWly.
10.00 Runways, dispersals & Perimeter tracks inspected. Portions of P.T. require sweeping.
10.10. Re ops. Standing by.
10.20. Training only.
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
1454 Barracuda Royal Navy BV734 – Lt Walker – landed for refueling [sic] – Proceeding to EAST HAVEN dept. 15.30
1743 G/434 off on X-Country
18.11 H/106 Sqdn Lancaster left for home base – Metheringham -Signalled – P2.
18.20 E/434 off on X-Country.
1900 Runway changed to [deleted] W [/deleted] 28. Wind WNWly 5-10 mph.
19.30. On Watch Lister P/O. Off Watch F/O Taylor. R/W. 28. QAN. S.
21.36. G/434 Landed from Cross Country.
22.19. E/434 Landed from Cross Country.
[Underlined] Wednesday December 1st 1943. [/underlined]
08.00. Quiet Watch.
09.00. Off Watch Lister P/O. On Watch F/O Taylor.
Runway 28 – QAN – WNW – 5-15 mph. – S.D’s ckd.
0945 Required tonight.
13.00 Off watch F/O Taylor – On watch S/L Austin & P/O Pyle
14.00. Lister signing off at Tholthorpe for the last time. Best of luck and good wishes. Wombleton (?!*) here I come!!
1600 Operations temporarily postponed. Aircraft are to marshall & be ready for night take off.
1625 All a/c so instructed
2245 Operations cancelled.
[Underlined] Thursday – December 2nd – 1943 [/underlined]
0830 Runway 24. QAN = SSE to SW – 15-30mph. = SD’s ckd.
0900 Off watch F/O Taylor – on watch S/L Austin & P/O Pyle
0910 Runway changed to No. 28 – QAN W’ly
0950 Sgt. Rutherford is to be cleared today and to proceed to No. 41 Base Marston Moor tomorrow on attachment
0955 We are required tonight
[Page break]
[Underlined] Saturday 4TH December 1943 (Cont.). [/underlined]
0135 R431 overhead. Too heavy to land so is circling base.
0200 Runway changed to 06 – QAN NNE’ly 10+ MPH.
0234 U434 returned early. (Captain ill.)
0243 R434 returned early. (Port outer u/s.).
0249 R431 landed o.k. (Port outer u/s.)
0253 M434 returned early. (Couldnt [sic] climb over 12,000 – Icing.)
0307 H431 returned early. (overload tank would not feed).
0330 Back on Runway 10 again. QAN E’/y 4MPH.
0738 F434 first a/c landed from ops.
0804 X429 (F/O Keenan) Leeming landed by mistake.
0827 L431 last a/c landed/
0830 Base inform C434 landed Newmarket 0737; T431 landed Newmarket 0752; N434 at Dunsfold 0700; Y431 landed Lakenheath 0754.
0855 Base inform Sgt McQueen & crew of V434 have been picked up in Channel. Believe all crew are safe.
0913 G434 landed from ops. (9 1/2 hours airborne).
0915. On Watch F/O Taylor.
1010 Training only
1030 Runway 28. QAN. L & V.
10.47 429/X returned to Leeming
1100 Ex Base. ASR picked up 7 crew of 434/V 3 miles S of Beachy. Now being looked after in Newhaven Police Station. All OK.
1050 C/434 landed from Newmarket
1120 T/431 landed from Newmarket
1234 Y/431 landed from Lakenheath.
1515 434/N (Dunsfold) will not be serviceable so crew is [deleted word] returning via Middleton (428-P) A/C
1620 431/D at Thorney Island remaining there till evening sue to engine trouble
1635 431/D left Thorney Island
1723 P/428 Sqdn landed here. Middleton closed in so they are to spend the night here.
1810 D/431 landed OK from Thorney Island; ran off the end of runway, swung around & came back onto taxi track. Later ran out of brake pressure, Duty crew working on it
2100 D/431 now put in dispersal
2122 K/431 landed safely from X-Country after 2 dummy runs. Vis about 1200 yards.
[Page break]
[Underlined] SUNDAY – 5th DECEMBER 1943 [/underlined]
0900 Off watch F/O Taylor On watch S/L Austin & P/O Pyle
0915 Doc’s checked – Runway 28 QAN light NW’ly
1000 Not required tonight
1024 P428 returned to Middleton (phoned).
1230 Weekly training figures passed to Base.
1300 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1448 H 431 1st of 3 a/c airborne on XC’s.
1523 P, K, 434 airborne on A.A.F.
1625 Lanc circled aerodrome with wheels down and flashed letter. ACP gave green but Lanc evidently proceeded to Linton.
1715 S/431 landed okay from AAF – vis. 2000x
1930 K431 last of 3 X countries to return to base.
Vis:- 144 Yds. On watch P/O Pyle
[Underlined] MONDAY – 6th DECEMBER 1943 [/underlined]
0800 Quiet watch
0830 Runway 28 QAN light W’ly S.D.’s checked
0900 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0930 Contacted Thorney Isle re Y434. Advised them not to let Y434 take-off this morning or until we again contact flying control.
0935 Stand down tonight.
1100 N 434 at Dunsfold S/O engine change and possibly P/O change. Ground crew despatched. “LK970”
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
1722 Y 434 landed from Thorney Isle. Vis 1800 yds Good landing.
1930 Aerodrome red.
[Underlined] Tuesday 7 Dec, 1943 [/underlined]
0700 Quiet night.
0820 Doc’s checked.
0900 S/L Austin on Watch – Runway 28.
0920 Five cows found grazing on Runway 28.
0950 Training only.
[Page break]
Dunfold [sic] at 0830 hrs Dec 10. Route base, Fleet, Dunsfold.
1717 Base okay flight P434. Route & times to be passed before take-off.
1721 Group advise 1717 entry cancelled. Dunsfolds [sic] u/s for 4 engine a/c to land. S/L Hockey notified.
1800 S/L. Linnell in Oxford returned from Dalton, etc.
1900 F/O Taylor off watch, F/L Gant on watch.
2330 Quiet.
Friday Dec 10, 1943.
0730 Quiet night.
0840 On Watch F/O Taylor. = Runway 10. QAN. L & V – mainly N.E.ly. SD ckd. 431’s departure delayed as Croft’s weather duff.
1015 Not required tonight.
1145 431 now standing by to leave for Croft at 13:30 hrs.
1200 A crew from 1664 Con. Unit. Dishforth should be coming over this afternoon to pick up EB205. = old 431/S. = St. Eng. has keys & log books
1300 Off watch F/O Taylor – on watch P/O Pyle
1344 B431 first a/c of Squadron to take off on transfer to Croft.
1357 R431 eleventh off. Airborne are B, A, D, E, F, H, W, K, T, Y& R. Several a/c violated the low flying rule by coming within twenty feet of the tower. Unable to make out letters of a/c to take disciplinary action.
1500 Pilot & navigator left for Dunsfold today to bring back 434/N tomorrow
1521 431/L off & 431/U & S off
1930 On Watch F/O Taylor.
Saturday December 11th 1943.
0900 Off watch F/O Taylor – on watch P/O Pyle – Runway 10 QAN light [deleted] N [/deleted] NNW’ly – no tractor available to move caravan
0920 Runway now 28
1112 U/434 – 15th A/C off – airborne are O, P, R, U, W, X, Y, Z, D, E, F, H, K, L, & M
1215 Runway changed to 06
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
1403 C 434 last a/c airborne for Croft. [Underlined] So a chapter in
[Page break]
the history of Tholthorpe is completed. The next begins with the arrival of 420 and 425 Squadrons.
1930 Off watch S/L Austin – on watch P/O Pyle
[Underlined] SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12th, 1943 [/underlined]
0800 Quiet watch
0830 Runway 10 QAN NE’ly light – S.D.’s checked
0900 S/L Austin on Watch.
|| 1151 First a/c LW405 of 425 Squadron landed from Linton
|| 1157 a/c LW391 of 425 Squadron landed from Linton
|| 1219 a/c LW 395 of 425 Squadron landed from Linton
|| 1220 a/c LW 396 of 425 Squadron landed from Linton
|| 1246. a/c LW381 of 425 Squadron landed from Linton
(And so the Second Chapter has begun).
1300 ON Watch. F/O Taylor.
[Deleted] 1545 [/deleted]
1417 Halifax LK.734 delivered for 431 Sqdn. Pilot could not take it on to Croft.
1543. A/Cr. LW375 for 425 Sqdn Landed from Linton.
1625 Whitley BZ 6825 from Ashbourne brought a Crew for LA943.
1719 Whitley LA934 left for Ashbourne.
1930 S/L Austin on Watch – Runway 10 in use.
[Underlined] Monday 13TH December 1943 [/underlined]
0830 Runway 28. QAN light & variable – S.D’s checked.
0900 ON Watch F/O Taylor. Runways & perimeter inspected.
10:35 G/C Bradshaw arrived from Linton on a Proctor. Later going to Middleton or Leeming.
12:20 431 sqdn sending a crew this afternoon to pick up LK734
1300 P/O Pyle on watch
1449 G/C Bradshaw left in Proctor for Middleton
1547 AL/F landed with crew to take back LK 734 which has been authorized by signal to be transferred from 431 Sqdn. to 429 at Leeming.
1630 LK 734 left for Leeming
[Underlined] TUESDAY, 14th DECEMBER, 1943 [/underlined]
0900 On watch P/O Pyle – Runway 28 QAN light variable – very foggy
0930 S.D.’s checked
1300 On watch S/L Austin
[Page break]
1930 On watch P/O Pyle
[Underlined] WEDNESDAY, 15th DECEMBER, 1943 [/underlined]
0800 Quiet watch – dense fog throughout the night
0830 S.D.’s checked – Runway 28. QAN light & variable – persistent fog
0900 Off watch P/O Pyle S/L Austin on Watch.
0950 Training only.
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
1930 S/L Austin on Watch.
[underlined] Thursday 16TH December 1943 [/underlined]
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. = Runway 10 – Calm – E-ly if any.: Rwys & Perimeter OK. SD’s ckd
1300 On watch P/O Pyle
1700 Linton A/C operating – returning about 2330 – Provisional diversion bases south
2000 On Watch F/O Taylor. We are to be prepared to land some of Linton’s A/Cr. = Runway 10. QAN. SEly – 9. QBB 1500’.
2341 M/426 sqdn given Pancake, but did not appear. = (Landed at Linton)
2354 D/408 Sqdn landed.
23.59 G/408 Sqdn landed.
[underlined] Friday 17th December 1943. [/underlined]
0004 B/408 Sqdn landed.
0018. S/408 Sqdn given Pancake on right hand circuit; couldn’t see our runway so returned to Linton.
0100 Base report a Crash in our area. = Ref. 064944 = Yearsley. = Two survivors in a Public House there; and 5 casualties: M.O. & ambulance sent; F.A.F. Regiment arranging guard.
0900 P/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0905 Runway 16 in use.
1000 Bomber Command stand down tonight
1317 F/L Gant off watch. P/O Pyle on watch
1730 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2350 Quiet and foggy.
Saturday Dec 18, 1943.
0700 Quiet night.
0800 Doc’s checked.
0810 Runway 16.
0900 F/L Gant off watch. P/O Pyle on watch.
[Page break]
Tuesday 21 Dec 1943.
0100 Linton circuit clear.
0700 Quiet night.
0830 Doc’s checked.
0900 F/L Gant off watch. P/O Pyle on watch
0910 Runway 16 QAN SE’ly 20
1000 Training only
1300 P/O Pyle off Watch F/O Taylor on Watch.
1327 LW388 landed from Linton – A.T.A. = for 420 Sqdn.
[Underlined] NOTE [/underlined] Clerk of Works = Thursday & Friday will be putting duct under taxi track for new Watch Office. 1/2 of track will be up each day, but will be cemented in for use at night if necessary.
[Underlined] Wednesday 22nd December 1943. [/underlined]
0900 On Watch F/O Taylor. Off Watch P/O Pyle. RW28. QAN W ly. 15-20.
1108 W/Co Richer took off in Oxford for Croft, returning after lunch = Advised their base
1118 S/434 F/S Gardner left for Croft. Base informed.
1300 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1335 3°’s frost warning tonight.
1708 Last of 5 new Halifaxs landed.
1930 F/L Gant off watch. F/O Taylor on Watch.
[Underlined] Thursday 23rd December 1943. [/underlined]
0900 F/L Gant on watch.
0905 Runway 24 in use.
1005 6 Group operating tonight.
1132 Heard darky call on TR9. Answered but heard other 6 group stations answering so did not bother further.
1300 F/L Gant off watch.
1511 New Halifax LW 396 for 420 Sqdn. from Hawarden – snag S.I. oil leak
1540 Eastmoor informed that our spare crash tender is u/s (cylinder block) – parts have been wired for but it will be u/s for about 2 weeks
1551 New Halifax LW 414 for 425 Sqdn. from Hawarden
1620 Memorandum from S. and O. suggests that reveille be announced over the tannoy system at 0645. Agreed by telephone to begin this system at the beginning of the week.
[Page break]
1755 We are required to stand-by for landing 20 A/C. ETD approx. midnite – ETA [underlined] 0730 [/underlined]
1930 P/O Pyle off watch F/L Gant on watch.
2100 Standing by for provisional diversion.
Friday 24 of Dec 1943.
0035 Base advise Linton and Eastmoor scrubbed, we still are standing by for provisional diversion.
0630 Diversion cancelled.
0730 Doc’s checked.
0900 F/L Gant off watch. – P/O Pyle on Watch.
0910 Runway 24 – QAN light & variable at first – later W’ly
1015 A few A/C in Command on special targets – 431 ‘Gardening’
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch = P/O Pyle off Watch.
1400 Runway 34. – QAN NWly. 7mph.
1600 S/L Stanley, 6 Group, phoned “A Merry Xmas to all the Staff”.
[Underlined] Saturday, December 25th 1943. [/underlined]
[Underlined] Merry Christmas [/underlined]
0930. F/O Taylor appeared – Runway 24 – S’D’s ckd.
1000 Stand-down tonight.
2330 Very quiet.
Sunday December 26, 1943.
0900 F/L Gant on watch.
0905 Runway 24. QAN light SWly.
0910 Secret doc’s checked.
0940 Command stand down tonight.
1020. State of Station crash tenders:- is at present, 1 from Middleton St. George being repaired here. Should be serviceable in 48 hrs. Our own stand by will be u/s until further notice.
1300 F/L Gant off watch.
1541 LW 418 New Halifax from Linton 420 Sqdn.
1548 LW 387 New Halifax from Linton 425 Sqdn.
[Page break]
[Underlined] MONDAY – 27th DECEMBER, 1943 [/underlined]
0800 Quiet watch
0900 Runway 24 QAN WSW light – SD’s checked
1300 ON Watch. F/O Taylor.
1545 From S/L Kyles = As of 1/Jan 44. Captains names must be passed with all details of movements.
1930 On watch P/O Pyle Runway 34
2200 Runway changed to 24 QAN SW – 5-10
[Underlined] TUESDAY – 28th DECEMBER 1943 [/underlined]
0800 Quiet watch – Llandrwog called to ask us if we could take an aircraft – advised no – heavy ground fog
0900. On Watch F/O Taylor. Runway 10 – QAN. Light E.ly. SD’s ckd.
1000 No ops in Command tonight.
1300 P/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1400 Runway 24 in use.
1605 Frost warning tonight. 4°.
1630 Flare path laid 24 runway.
1930 F/L Gant off watch F/O Taylor on Watch.
Wednesday – 29th December.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0905 Runway 24 in use.
0910 Doc. checked.
0950 Halies and Lancs working in group tonight.
1300 On watch P/O Pyle
1515 Runway changed to #28
1700 Runway 24 in use.
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1955 Base advise to stand by to land East Moor a/c if necessary. Sick quarters advised.
2310 Base advise East Moor runway now clear and we are not to land their aircraft.
[Underlined] Thursday 30 Dec 1943 [/underlined]
0730 Quiet night.
0815 Doc’s checked.
0830 F/L Gant off watch. F/O Pyle on watch
[Page break]
1000 No operations in Group tonight – 1 & 3 Group ‘Gardening’
1010 Runway changed to No. 34 QAN NW 18
1040 Runway changed to No. 28 QAN W 16
1130. Runways & perimeter inspected 1253-LW429 new a/c for 425 landed.
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
1443 LW393 new a/c for 420 Squadron landed.
1449 LW397 new a/c for 425 Squadron landed.
1503 LW417 new a/c for 425 Squadron landed.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
[Underlined] FRIDAY, 31st DECEMBER, 1943 [/underlined]
0800 Quiet watch
0815 Doc’s checked
0900 S/L Austin on Watch. Runway 28. Perimeter checked.
1300 F/L Gant on watch.
1930 F/L Gant off watch. S/L Austin on Watch.
[Underlined] SATURDAY 1ST JANUARY 1943. ? [/underlined]
0800 Quiet Watch. SD’s checked.
0900 S/L Austin off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1015 Taxi track, runways and dispersals inspected.
1020 Linton operating tonight.
1300 P/O Pyle on watch
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2330 Quiet.
[Underlined] Sunday 2nd January 1944. [/underlined]
0015 Linton taking off.
08.30 Doc’s checked.
0840 All Linton’s a/c accounted for except one, on which they have a QDM.
0900 F/L Gant off watch. P/O Pyle on Watch.
1000 Runways & perimeter track inspected
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
1446 Fire tender dispatched to SHQ to put out a fire. (Very slow getting away.) (Adjutant informs it is only a test call).
[Page break]
0930 Runways & perimeter inspected
1300. On Watch F/O Taylor. Off Watch P/O Pyle.
1420 [Underlined] NOTE [/underlined] Signal to Station Z. “Runway QDM 101 U/S for Operational landings TFN Taxi track under repair”. Base informed
1930 S/L Austin on Watch –
[Underlined] Sunday 19 December 43 [/underlined]
0830 Quiet. Doc’s checked. Runway 16.
0930 QAN – Swly – 5-15mph. T & No’s changed to 24; cannot move caravan.
0945 Nothing in Command tonight.
1010 Crash Wagon U/S. Reserve in use. Base informed.
1127 G & B/408 Sqdn returned to Linton = D/408 left at 11:42.
[Underlined] NOTE [/underlined] If LK738 is delivered here, phone Leeming right away so they can pick it up
1219 LW380 – New A/Cr for 420 delivered from Linton.
1300 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1358 D 434 departed for Croft. Croft notified.
1545 New a/c being delivered from Linton reported wheels would not lock down. Advised to put 30° or 40° of flap and slow down to 140 MPH.
1548 Pilot advises wheels locked down. Given pancake
1930 F.L Gant off watch. F/O Taylor on watch
2330 Quiet.
Monday 20 Dec, 1943
0730 Quiet night.
0800 Doc’s checked
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant [deleted] off [/deleted] on watch.
0905 Runway 24 in use. Qan WSW – SW 20-25.
1010 Linton operating tonight.
1300 On watch P/O Pyle
1439 New Halifax LW426 for 420 Sqdn. landed
1630 Our standby Crossley Crash Tender has been lent to Eastmoor
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2000 Standing by for Linton a/c. Flare path layed on runway 24. [Deleted word] Duty crew standing by.
2330 Quiet.
[Page break]
[Underlined] MONDAY – 3RD JANUARY 1944 [/underlined]
0615 Asked to stand-by & light up for any Eastmoor A/C who may wish to land here QBB about 1700. Crash crew ordered to stand-by – sick quarters asked to have ambulance stand-by. Call signs “Island” or “Landfall” QFE 1009 (-4)
0730 Darky call “Ringboard R-2 Robert” – answered by Linton & Eastmoor
0750 “Ringboard” R2 Robert landed OK at Eastmoor
0810 All Eastmoor A/C accounted for but 2
0830 No longer required
0845 S.D.’s checked
0900 S/L Austin on Watch. Runway 28 – QAN – NW’ly – light.
0930 Runways & perimeter checked.
0950 Command stand down tonight.
1300 S/L Austin off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1517 W/C Richer 425 B airborne on C & B. 1st a/c of 425 to take-off from this base.
1915 Practice Intruder Plotting scheme from Group.
1930 S/L Austin on Watch.
2115 [Underlined] Snow Warning [/underlined] – Small amounts of snow expected within the next 24 hours within 30 miles of the east coast of Gr Britain, north of [deleted] a line [/deleted] Felixstow [sic] and excluding Edinburgh. Met is warning Station Commander, Squadrons, M.T. and S.A.O.
[Underlined] Tuesday 4TH January 1944. [/underlined]
0830 S.D’s checked. Runway 34.
0900 S/L Austin off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0925 Runways & perimeter inspected.
0940 Notified clerk of works re lights on runways & per.
1010 Gardening in Group tonight.
1110 Base advise Linton and East Moor beams u/s TFN.
1300 F/L Gant off watch. P/O Pyle on watch
1400 Frost warning tonight
[Page break]
1425 LW 421 Halifax from Linton
1437 LW 425 Halifax from Linton
1506 LW 431 Halifax from Linton
1530 Missing SD 229 Supplement No.1069 returned by F/L Allen
1548 [Deleted word] – 420 B W/C McIntosh circuits & bumps
1600 M.T. Section advised to warn all drivers re obedience to runway traffic lights.
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
[Underlined] WEDNESDAY, 5th JANUARY 1944 [/underlined]
0900 P/O Pyle on watch Runway 28 QAN S’ly 8 Runway 24-06 obstructed para
0910 S/Docs. checked
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
1350 Runway changed to 24 QAN SW’ly 10+ mph.
1735 Provisional diversion of 20 a/c from 1 Group. E.T.A. roughly 0830 hours in the morning.
2315 Asked by base to light up for A/C in this vicinity – Crash crew & ambulance warned –
2330 Aircraft landed at Eastmoor
[Underlined] THURSDAY, 6th JANUARY 1944 [/underlined]
0020 Asked again to light up for A/C – standing by
0045 A/C headed off in a NW’ly direction – apparently O.K.
0700 Base informs we are not required for diversion.
0750 Asked to light up for A/C which may be sent from Linton or Eastmoor
0900 S/L Austin on Watch. S.D’s checked. Runway 24.
1000 Runway 28 in use.
1300 S/L Austin off Watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1700 Day caravan on 24 – night 28.
1930 F/L Gant off watch. S/L Austin on Watch.
2005 Base gave authority to Stand down for tonight
Friday 7TH January 1944.
0100 Closed watch.
0900 F/L Gant on watch.
0925 Runway perimeters and dispersals inspected.
0930 SD’s checked.
Runway 28 in use.
[Page break]
1000 Group stand down tonight.
1025 Runway 34 in use.
1229 B420 W/C McIntosh C & B from 1142-1229.
1300 F/L Gant off watch. P/O Pyle on watch.
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2300 Flare path laid on runway 28. Vis and ceiling deteriorating. QBA 1200. QBB 1500.
2359 Quiet.
Saturday 8 Jan 1944.
0700 Quiet night.
0835 Doc’s. checked.
0900 Runway 24 QAN 10 SW P/O Pyle on Watch.
1000 Runways, perimeter track & dispersals inspected
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
1655 Operations in Group cancelled.
1930 On Watch F/O Taylor
Sunday 9th January 1944.
0800 Quiet Night – S.D’s checked.
0900 S/L Austin on Watch. Runway 28.
1300 F/L Gant on watch.
1930 F/L Gant off watch.
2000 S/L Austin on Watch.
2015 Snow Warning –
Monday 10TH January 1944
0800 Quiet night.
0900 S/L Austin off watch F/L Gant on watch.
0905 Runway 34 in use.
0908 Secret Doc’s checked.
0935 Runways, perimeter and dispersals inspected.
0937 No operations in 6 Group tonight.
1005 A country routes passed to base
1015 Checked with CTD’s office re – frost on a/c scheduled for flying.
1030 Base notified x-countries delayed due to frost on wings.
[Page break]
1050 Crash tender u/s – pump frozen - should be ready shortly.
1116 Crash tender now okay.
1117 Base notified x countries delayed until further notice.
1300 F/L Gant off watch, F/O Taylor on Watch.
1730 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2330 Everything Quiet.
Tuesday Jan 11, 1944
0730 Quiet night.
0815 Doc’s checked.
0900 F/L Gant off watch. On Watch F/O Taylor.
0915 Runway 16 – QAN. – light SW ly. shortly becoming 15 mph.
1000 No Ops in Command tonight.
1100 Broadcast = U.S.A.A.F. have a force of over 700 heavy bombers out at present, = due back between 1400-1500 hrs. Weather poor everywhere so all stations to be on the look-out to land any if necessary. Group 1400 forecast 1000-2500 yds, 4-7/10 at 2000 10/10 at 10,0
1200. [Underlined] Met. [/underlined] = Snow possible in next 24 hrs in E & N. Eng. – N of a line Morecombe to Flamb amounts mainly small, moderate on high ground. Thawing generally by this evening
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch.
[Underlined] Wednesday January 12 -1944 [/underlined]
0730 Quiet night – Doc’s checked.
0900 S/L Austin on Watch.
1300 [Deleted] F [/deleted] S/L Austin off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1930 F/L Gant off watch.
2230 S/L Austin on Watch.
[Underlined] Thursday January 13TH 1944. [/underlined]
0800 Quiet night – Doc’s checked.
0900 S/L Austin off watch F/L Gant on watch.
0940 Bomber Command stand down tonight with possibility of a few PFF in wx improves
1212 Looma V called darky. Very clear. Answered numerous times but no contact could be made. Base notified
[Page break]
1300 F/L Gant off watch/ F/O Taylor on Watch
1930 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2330 Very quiet.
[Underlined] Friday Jan 14, 1944 [/underlined]
0730 Very quiet night.
0900 F/L Gant off watch. – F/O Taylor on Watch
Doc’s checked. = Runway = 28. QAN W-WSWly – 15.
0950 Runway 24 QAN. – WSWly – Swly. – 15-25. = Taxi approach a little awkward
1000 Lancasters working tonight.
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
1400 Runway changed to 28.
1930. F/O Taylor on Watch.
2220 Flare-path ready in case required by Linton.
2359 Not used at all – Stood down.
[Underlined] Saturday January 15 1944. [/underlined]
0800 Sec. Doc’s checked.
0813 Ex Base – Basic QFE 1029. – passed to Met.
0900 S/L Austin on Watch.
1300 F/L Gant on watch.
1930 S/L Austin on Watch – Vis 10 yds. Quiet watch.
[Underlined] Sunday January 16TH 1944. [/underlined]
0825 Basic QFE – 1039 – Passed to Met.
0830 Doc’s checked.
0900 F/L Gant on watch.
1010 Runways and taxi track inspected.
1013 Command stand down tonight.
1300 F/L Gant off watch/ F/O Taylor on Watch.
1515 Base request the Oxford be ready for W/C Jacobs for a trip to Ireland in the morning. Advised Station Engineer who will have it ready.
1930 F/L Gant on watch.
2330 Very quiet.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Monday Jan 17, 1944 [/underlined]
0730 Quiet night.
0800 Basic QFE 1026.
0815 Doc’s checked.
0900 F/L Gant off watch. F/O Taylor on Watch.
1005 Nothing in Command tonight.
11:45 Clerk of works attending to hole at edge of taxi track this afternoon, with rubble.
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
[Underlined] Tuesday Jan 18th 1944. [/underlined]
0805. Basic Q.FE – 1021. Passed to Met.
0900 S/L Austin on Watch. Runway No. 10.
1300 F/L Gant on watch.
1700 Night caravan on 28.
1930 S/L Austin on Watch.
| Se. D’s received
SD214 – No 671
SD 264 – No 445
S.P. 02443 – No 4877
S.P. 02440(2) – No. 5869
S.P. 02442 No 6156
[Underlined] Wednesday Jan 19TH 1944 [/underlined]
0800 S.D’s checked.
0827 Basic QFE 1014 – Met informed.
Note: All officers to read & initial Note 2-1944 in Instruction & Order Book.
0900 F/L Gant on watch.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch = Taxi track inspected. = Up again at end of 28 so that N.F.E. cannot get onto hard standing.
15:55 Bulls-eye scrubbed.
16:15 All night flying Scrubbed.
1930 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant [deleted] of [/deleted] on watch.
2330 Very quiet
Thursday Jan 20th 1944.
0730 Quiet night
0800 Basic QFE 1027. Met informed.
0900 On Watch F/O Taylor. – Runway 24 – QAN: light SWly becoming 15-20mph
1010 Linton & Eastmoor will be working tonight.
1130. Command Bulls-eye tonight. – We are not offering any a/cr.
[Page break]
1300 On watch P/O Pyle
1930 On Watch F/O Taylor.
2100 Linton aircraft landing at Base – E.T.A. 23:15 = We are standing by.
[Underlined] NOTE. [/underlined] Taxi track lighting in dire need of cleaning.
Friday 21st Day of January.
0035. Base have just advised only 1 a/cr to hear from so we’re stood-down.
0800. S.D’s ckd, - Basic QFE 1018, - Passed to Met.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0940 Runways & perimeter inspected.
1030 420 x countries using Bomber code for 20 day, 12 now.
1110 Operations in group tonight.
1300 On watch P/O Pyle
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2215 C countries all back. C & B finished for night.
2220 Base advise we are to stand by for return.
2340 Wx deteriorating. Light rain.
Saturday Jan 22, 1944.
0055 Base advise all base a/c are diverted. But we are still to stand by in case of emergency.
0255 Base advise a number of a/c are coming in over North Sea. We are to stand by and land any a/c we can.
0400 Base advise to stand down.
0730 Base request a/c from 420 and 425 for sea search. ETD 0930.
0740 Base advised no a/c available from 420.
0745 Base advised 3 a/c available from 425.
0750 Base advised 425 a/c can not be airborne by 0930.
0805 Basic QFE figure 1002. Passed to Met.
0830 S.D. Checked.
0900 On watch P/O Pyle – Runway 24 QAN WSW 30 gusty
1100 Local flying details cancelled – weather duff
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
[Page break]
13:45 Runway 28 = QAN Wly 15 – gusty.
17:42. Last A/Cr landed OK. = Night flying scrubbed.
2340 Asked to listen out for an A/C in area Linton-Eastmoor-Marston Moor – call sign “Bundalk K” – no sign of A/C in this vicinity
2345 Asked if we can offer 3 A/C for sea search tomorrow morning at 0930 – contacted W/C Richer – advised Base that 3 A/C can be offered by [underlined] 1030 [/underlined], weather permitting
[Underlined] SUNDAY – JANUARY 23, 1944 [/underlined]
0012 Group have advised that we will not be required for sea search – also we may cease listening watch for “Bundalk K” – W/C Richer advised re above cancellation
0815 Basic QFE 989 – Passed to Met.
0830 S.D’s checked
0900 On Watch F/O Taylor. = Night Caravan on Runway 28 = QAN. Wly – 10-15.
1015 Nothing operating in 6 group tonight.
1025 E425 returned from Eastmoor.
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
1520 Runway changed to 24. QAN SW’ly 20MPH. (At least it was when we changed)
1705 Runway changed to 28. QAN W’ly 20MPH.
1915 Perimeter track form Control office to Wood is in need of lights cleaning. No 2. Port flarepath glim on R.28 shining wrong way.
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch.
2012 U/425 off on X-Country.
2021 B/420 off on X-Country = 22:00 hrs – Called. “Completed first part of detail, setting course on 2nd.
2024. R/420 off on X-Country D/420 Scrubbed – engines U/S.
2030 W/420 off on X-Country
2117 Q/420 airborne = Finished at 2154 – P.I. cut on circuit.
2130 Base report a crash near Cranfield, only identification – one tag – McGorsser. J26422 = Contacted both Sqdns. = not theirs. advised base.
- 425 Sqdn would like 7 flimsies by noon tomorrow if possible.
2330 N/420 – Bogged at take-off point of 28 runway, & will be there till morning. Changing to 34 runway.
2345 Ready on 34 Runway QAN WNW – 5-10.
[Page break]
24th January, 1944 – Monday.
0043 B/420 landed from X-Country.
0137 W/420 landed from X-Country.
0139 R/420 landed from X-Country.
0800 Basic QFE. 1010. S.D’s ckd.
0850 Southerly Gale to 40 mph, expected this area – 6 to 12 hrs.
0900 S/L Austin on Watch. Runway 16.
1300 P/O Pyle on watch
1330 Informed Mr. Rocket re taxi & runway lights – work will be started at 1400 hrs today.
1419 Mitchell A/C in this area – asked to give him a call – no reply
1440 Base report A/C [deleted] landed OK [/deleted] headed south of here.
1645 SE Gale becoming severe on E coast of B.I. from Hornsea to Cape Ross
1830 All A/C marshalled ready for take-off – Runway 24
1930 S/L Austin on Watch.
2030 Reported interference to Group. Interference on 1194 sounded like 2-way German aircraft & ground transmissions.
2045 All night flying scrubbed by 6 Group.
Tuesday 25TH January 1944
0810 Basic QFE 984. Met informed. S.D.’s checked.
0835 | Aerodrome put U/S. QAN – W’ly 25MPH gusting to 40. N420 still bogged on edge of Runway 28. Base informed.
| Signal AF 1. Sent to Station Z. “Runway 28-10 U/S TFN. Temporary obstruction. No landing of aircraft if wind from West or East.”
0900 P/O Pyle on watch
1022. Goodwood Lancs & Halifaxes tonight.
1130 Runway 24 QAN WSW 30 MPH – 425/E A/B on local flying
1200 N/420 now clear – signal to Ops. Station Z “Runway 28-10 now S – obstruction removed – Runway QDM 101 still U/S for operational landings – cannot use taxi track”
1242 425/E finished 4 C & B – last landing bounced twice & tipped badly to port – returned to dispersal.
[Page break]
1250 Ambulance returned to sick quarters.
1300 425/E bogged off perimeter track near Ruskelf road.
1300 F/O Taylor on watch.
1330 Runway changed to 28. Wind WSW 40 but veering to Wly.
1335 425 offering 8 for Bulls-eye tonight.
1343 Bulls-eye cancelled
14:30 E/425 now clear of perimeter track =
16:47 O/425 landed OK on 34 after doing 2 overshoots on 28.
17:30 61 Base phoned. W/425 landed at Dishforth at 16:31 = Damaged oleo-leg & Bomb doors won’t close. = A/Cr u/s till tomorrow = should crew remain overnight.
1800 F/425 airborne on X-Country.
1815 = 1900 – A/Cr out of brake pressure all over taxi track & runway.
2347 F/425 called on R/T & given pancake
2355 U/425 given turn 2 on R/T but A.F.C. reports only one A/C in circuit – asked F his height (2000’) and he said he was coming in to pancake – no A/C approaching this circuit
[Underlined] Wednesday 26th January 1944 [/underlined]
0001 Told F/425 to identify A/D by outer circle position switching on & off but he landed elsewhere
0016 F/425 landed at Dishforth at 0006 – Asked Base to inform him to return if S
0045 61 Base advised to have crew of F/425 remain overnight at Dishforth and return in the morning – A/C was short of petrol
0156 420/C last A/C to land from X/C
0815 Basic QFE 1009
0830 SD’s checked
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. – Runway 24: QAN SW light backing & increasing. Phoned Clerk of Works re Totems & lights on 34, & taxi track = A man has been on TT all yesterday.
[Underlined] NOTE. [/underlined] Starboard A.A.I. on 16 runway in shop for repair – if runway required for night flying borrow one from another runway.
12:45 D/420 given 3 tries at landing, no go, so sent to LEEMING.
1300 S/L Austin on Watch.
1301 D420 landed at Leeming.
1930 F/O Taylor on.
[Page break]
Thursday – January 27 – 1944
0830 Basic QFE = 1002. Passed to Met – S.D’s checked.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0930 Aerodrome, dispersals, taxi track inspected.
0950 Lanc’s and Halies marking in group tonight
1300 P/O Pyle on watch
1500 4 copies of A.P. 3024 received from Base complete with amend 1 copy sent to G/C Gordon, 1 LO 420 O.C. & 1 to 425 O.C.
[Symbol] 1845 Runway 28 inspected – 2nd Port glim [inserted] shining [/inserted] wrong way – port totem pole out of alignment.
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2029 B425 landed Linton – mistook aerodrome for Thol
2255 Last a/c down from x countries.
2315 Runway 24 in use.
Friday Jan 28, 1944
0050 Standing by for Lintons return.
0800 Basic QFE 1026. Passed to Met.
0815 S.D’s checked.
0830 Runway 24 QAN SW’ly 9 P/O Pyle on watch
[Symbol] 0900 Mr Rocket informed re above notation
0945 Workmen filling hole at edge of 28 Runway
1000 Lancasters & Halifaxes working in Group tonight.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1859 V/420 first A/C off on X/C
2019 P/420 last A/C off on X/C – A/B are V, W, O, S, H, B, G, P, K, on X/C
2249 J/425 last of 6 A/C (425) returned from X/C
Saturday – January 29, 1944
0031 Runway changed – No. 28
[Inserted] 0130 420/W last A/C from X/C – 8 A/C averaged [deleted] over [/deleted] 2 min. each on [missing word] [/inserted]
0715 Runway changed – No. 24 QAN SW 18
0755 Basic QFE 1033
0800 S.D.’s checked
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. = Runway 24 QAN. – SW ly. 5-15
Fire tender out of gas & none on station. – Advised base. Equip Officer says petrol tanker on its way now.
[Page break]
0950 Command Stand-down
1030 Now have 10 galons [sic] in Crash tender – got it out of u/s tender – Advised base.
11:35 Darky call on TR9 = AMBUSH “A”. – asked directions to Valley = acknowledged directions from somebody else = Advised
11:11 Whitley T4236 – F/O Matthews landed from Honeybourne & returned at 11:25.
1300 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1435 Group Oxford V3602, G/C Jones, landed. Deplaned W/C Jacobs.
1445 V3602 airborne.
1500 Oxford 6098 W/C Jacobs airborne.
1820 P420 final landing. Flying completed.
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch.
Sunday = 30th January – 1944.
0815 Base QFE. = 1017. Passed to Met. = SD’s ckd.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0948 Lancs and Hali III operating tonight.
1300 P/O Pyle on watch
1605 Received from Base CD 0250(15) and Appendix I SD0110(1)
1730 R/420 first A/C off on practice operation
1734 A/420 fifth A/C off on practice operation
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2133 T420 over base 13000ft on 3 engines says detail incomplete. Advised he could complete detail. Told to do so. Base notified.
2240 V 420 landed. Hydraulics u/s
2324 T 420 landed on 3 engines.
Monday, Jan 31, 1944
0044 R 420 called saying he had 5 min petrol – requested landing.
0049 R420 mistook another aerodrome for Tholthorpe. Requests that we turn on our contact strip again. We immediately contacted East Moor and Linton in case R420 was circling either base by mistake. A/C advised to land at nearest aerodrome – switch to button D
[Page break]
and call darky.
0055 R420 crash landed at Rufforth. A/C B category, crew safe. Made wheels up landing as motors cut.
0257 U 420 landed from cross country. Last a/c to return.
0500 All quiet.
0800 Basic QFE 1025. Met advised.
0830 S.D’s checked.
0900 On watch P/O Pyle – Runway 28 QAN light SE
0930 Runways & perimeter inspected
1200 Vehicles still persist in crossing runway against traffic lights – arranged with guard room to have 2 S.P.’s on duty for an hour this afternoon to report all offenders.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1600 425 have 8 A/Cr on night X-Country; Take-off 21:00 hrs. Briefing 19:00 hrs. 17:30 = 8 A/Cr marshalled for 28 Runway. = order. D. J. C. G. N. Q. O. R.
1900 Drem. – 2nd Port fitting on 10 and 28 flare-paths still u/s.
Night flying scrubbed, A/Cr returning to Dispersals.
[Underlined] TUESDAY – 1ST FEBRUARY 1944
0820 Basic QFE 1004 – Passed to Met.
0830 S.D.’s checked
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch = Runway 24. = QAN – SWly 10-20mph.
1000 Nothing in Command tonight.
1038 W/C McIntosh took off in B, landed at 10:47 after 1 overshoot, scrubbed other details.
1300 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch/ F/L Gant off watch.
2100 N/425 first A/Cr. off on X-Country = followed by D, S, O, Q, F; & G at 21:30 G= reported I.F.F. u/s. received permission from Base for him to proceed. H/425 scrubbed – it taxied over the W/Co’s car & damaged bomb doors. etc.
2205 T/425 airborne, replacing H. Runway 24 in use.
[Underlined] Wednesday – 2nd February 1944. [/underlined]
0020 1196 went dead, - Outer circle, funnel & taxi track off, lights in phone exchange off = Exchange cannot contact duty electrician at stand by plant. Guard room sent runner – I sent our van. Base informed.
[Page break]
0100 Lights now On again. – Base advised.
0120 O/425 1st A/Cr. landed from X-Country
0301 T/425 9th & last A/Cr. landed from X-Country.
NOTE. The R.O.C. plotted an A/Cr flying low in the Leeds area; then S.W of Harrogate at about 200ft, heading for high ground. Red flares were set off. A/Cr. climbed & flew away in opposite direction. Approached Tholthorpe, circled & landed at 02:05. = F/425 landed at 02:06 by our board so it must have been him. Group anxious to have the pilots report on the amount of help he received from the flares, so it can be passed on to 12 group & on to the R.O.C.
0800 S D’s checked. – Basic QFE 1012 – Passed to Met.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0945 3 sqn’s of 6 group standing by for gardening tonight. No bombing from group.
0950 Aerodrome inspected.
1300 P/O Pyle on watch
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2028 K420 finished C & B’s.
2201Base advise a/c has crashed SW of here. Asked if we could see same. Could not locate.
2205 Base advise location E 9185. We offered crash tender as we are not flying at present. Not needed as Dishforth have despatched one.
2350 Everything quiet.
Thursday Feb 3, 1944
0730 Quiet night.
0750 S D’s checked.
0800 Basic QFE 999
0900 On watch P/O Pyle – Runway 28 QAN WSW 30
0915 Runways, perimeter & dispersals [deleted] ch [/deleted] inspected
0958 Nothing in 6 group tonight – possible gardening in 1 & 3 Groups
1150 Calls signs (W/T) for tonight’s bullseye 420 UDG, 425 -JVA
1240 420/J bogged at junction of taxi track and 28 runway
1335 420/J now clear – P/O Pyle off. F/O Taylor on Watch.
1530 S/L Kyles phoned about a letter from 6 Group re R/T irregularities, on 29/1/44 at 15:10 hrs. Wants a report as soon as we get the letter.
[Page break]
1843 H/420
1849 AFC reports Sodium Tunnel lights U/S = Also outer circle.
1851 Mr Rocket going out to check Sodium lights.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
2000 Outer circle & sodium lights now O.K.
2027 420/V first A/C off on Bulls-eye
2044 420/J ninth & last A/C of 420 off – average time 2 mins.
2046 425/F first of 425 A/C off on exercise
2112 425/G last A/C off – average time for 425 – 2 1/2 mins.
[Underlined] FRIDAY – FEBRUARY 4th 1944 [/underlined]
0140 425/W first A/C “pancaked” from Bullseye exercise
0152 420/S bogged blocking perimeter near 24 Runway
0241 425/U 21st & last A/C to land – average landing times approx. 3 mins.
0700 425 Sqdn report all A/C now in dispersals
0800 Basic QFE 1008
0815 S.D’s checked
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. Runway 28. QAN. W’N. 25-20mph. – increasing to 35.
0955 No ops in 6 group. – Gardening in Command, & Special [inserted] Command [/inserted] Bullseye for non-op. A/Cr.
[Underlined] 1040 [/underlined] Snow Warning: Snow expected during next 24 hrs in this area. Amounts, except on hillsides, small.
11:30. Tonight’s Bullseye. 420 – 11. A/Cr. 425 – 10 A/Cr.
11:30 Day caravan has blown off hard standing, breaking phone point. Sergeants working on it now – 28 runway.
1200 Runway 34 – night caravan because of high wind – NWly over 30 mph.
1300 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1615 Bulls eye scrubbed. No yellow flares as wind too strong towards camp.
1740 A/C are to take off 1830, proceed to Sywell, return to base. Operational take off & landing exercise.
1830 1st a/c airborne on exercise
1847 Last a/c airborne on exercise.
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch.
[Underlined] 2000 [/underlined] Port A.A.I. is u/s, replaced by one from 06 runway. U/S one now in N.F. shed.
2036 S/420 landed from exercise.
2118 G/420 15th & last A/Cr landed from exercise.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Saturday, February 5th 1944 [/underlined]
0800 S.D’s ckd Basic QFE 1021 – Passed to Met.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0930 Aerodrome, dispersals, taxi tracks inspected.
0935 No operations from base tonight. Some mining in Group.
1005 425 420 refuse bulls eye for tonight.
1020 Bulls eye cancelled.
1300 F/L Gant off watch. P/O Pyle on watch
1615 420/A engine pouring smoke badly in dispersal – crash tender sent
1630 Crash tender returned – 420/A O.K.
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2345 Very quiet.
Sunday Feb 6, 1944.
0730 Quiet night.
0800 Basic key QFE 1036. Met advised.
0820 S.D’s checked.
0900 P/O Pyle on watch – Runway 28 QAN light QBA 500
0930 Runways, perimeter & dispersals inspected
1015 Command stand-down tonight
1300 On Watch F/O Taylor.
1930 On Watch P/O Pyle
[Underlined] MONDAY, 7th FEB. 1944 [/underlined]
0810 Basic QFE 1010 – met. advised
0815 S.D’s checked
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. = Runway 24 QAN. SWly. 20-35 gusty.
0940 No operations tonight.
1100 Runway 28. QAN. W ly 10-20.
1300 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1545 A 425 airborne on x country.
1702 V420 sent msge “starboard engine u/s instructions” [Deleted] It [/deleted] Told to return to base.
1752 M.T. notified crash tender will only do 15-18 MPH. When flying finished tonight MT will give crash tender DI
[Page break]
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch.
[Underlined] 2045 [/underlined] U/420 in turning at take-off point on 28 runway damaged Port A.A.I. replacing it with one off34 runway. Concrete Base now U/S.
2125 O/420 landed at Riccall at [deleted] 20:50 [/deleted] 21:14. Refueling [sic] & will return later.
2230 O/420. Compasses u/s. Staying overnight at Riccall.
2315 Q/420 bogged near dispersal. One wheel in our french drain.
2355 T/420 landed OK. Last A/Cr. from X-Country.
[Underlined] Tuesday. 8th February 1944 [/underlined]
0050 Q/420 now clear of taxi track.
0800 SD’s ckd. – Basic QFE = 1016. Passed to Met.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0940 Aerodrome, runways & dispersals checked.
0945 Command stand down tonight.
1010 Requested S. P. for intersection of old perimeter and 34. Sun bad.
1030 Group bull’s eye tonight. 420 10/ a/c.
1359 New Halifax LW591 for 425 Sqdn. landed – to go to Linton
1540 Runway changed to No. 28
1630 Port A.A.I. blown over when 425/D took off (No. 28 Runway)
1704 425/T (F/S Landry) made bumpy landing with S/O engine u/s touched down approx. 600 yds. down runway just past intersection of taxi strip & runway – swung to port landing on one wheel – corrected it to starboard on one wheel & swung off runway to starboard [inserted] Stbd. Wing touching [inserted] – gunned motors – undercarriage collapsed – ended up facing east with both outer engines torn out – position approx.. 135 yds. clear of 28 runway & about 120 yds. clear of 34 runway. Winds 10-12 m.p.h. W.N..W.
1800 P/420 first A/C off on Bullseye exercise
1809 E/420 last of 10 A/C off.
1811 Halifax LW590 from Linton – dispersed near R. & I. hangar
1845 Port A.A.I. on runway 28 now O.K.
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2231 J 425 1st 425 a/c back from x country
2302 J 420 1st 420 a/c back from bullseye.
[Page break]
2318 R 425 last 425 a/c back from x country
2339 O 420 last 420 a/c back from bull’s eye.
Wednesday Feb 9, 1944
0730 Quiet night.
0800 Basic QFE 1020. Passed to met.
0810 S D’s checked.
0900 P/O Pyle on watch – Runway 28 QAN light S’ly.
1005 No operations tonight – Bullseye scrubbed
1100 Works department will be starting work tomorrow on tarmac on west side of 16 runway.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
[Underlined] THURSDAY – FEBRUARY 10, 1944 [/underlined]
0800 S.D.’s checked
0810 Basic QFE 1015 – Passed to met.
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. Runway 34. – QAN NNW-ly 20-30mph.
1000 Training only tonight.
1107 Church Fenton enquired if we had any Mustangs circle us or land here during past 15 minutes. – Had not seen or heard any.
1300 F/L Gant on watch. F/O Taylor off watch.
1715 All night flying scrubbed.
19:30 F/O Taylor on Watch.
Friday – 11th February, 1944.
0808 S.D’s ckd. Basic QFE 1016
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0925 Runways, dispersals, taxi track inspected.
0950 No operations from Linton base. 8 a/c 428 only operations in 6 group.
1020 Combined command bull’s eye tonight. 10 a/c 420. 10 a/c 425.
1300 P/O Pyle on watch
1731 R/425 on X/C – E, F & N/425 also off on X/C
1930 Runway changed to no. 28
P/o Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
[Page break]
2110 E 425 first x country to return.
2115 Base advise that at 2010 they broadcast a msge to our a/c to proceed direct to Birmingham and carry on exercise from there. Intruder activity on south coast. Should shorten ETA by approx. 45 min.
2302 K420 landed. Was completely lost. Hit by [missing word] Returned to base
2345 Vis dropping, 1500 YDS. Contacted base for possible diversion.
2357 Base advise Leeming and Middleton standing by for diversion. Vis at present 1000 yds.
Saturday Feb 12, 1944.
0128 R420 landed. Last a/c to land with stream
0140 O 425 unreported. No a/c flying in group at present
0210 O 425 crashed near Droitwich, nr Birmingham
0236 Base advise 8 bodies of O425 at Hanbury mortuary, Nr Droitwich.
0800 Everything quiet
0805 Basic QFE 1015. Met advised.
0825 S.D.’s checked.
0900 P/O Pyle on watch – Runway 28 QAN light NW’ly.
1000 No operations tonight
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1732-1829. 8 A/Cr of 420 & 5 A/Cr of 425 off on X-Country.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
2112 E/420 first a/c returned from x-c
2304 S/425 last of 14 a/c to return from a/c
SUNDAY FEB. 13, 1944
0810 Basic QFE 1025 – Passed to Met.
0815 S.D’s checked.
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. Runway 28 = QAN light
0945 Goodwood effort tonight. =420 Sqdn 12 A/Cr.
Briefing at 13:30 hrs.
1300 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
[Page break]
1320 Definite diversion base for tonight Sculthorpe.
1409 Base advise data on Sculthorpe as “1 runway 2000 yds 2 at 1400 yds. Complete II dum.” Our a/c are to use the Foulsham Beacon. 240° at 4 miles. Flashing I U.
1555 Operations scrubbed.
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch.
[Underlined] Monday 14th February 1944 [/underlined]
0800 Basic QFE. 1025 Passed to met. SD’s ckd.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0945 Aerodrome, dispersals, taxi track inspected.
0950 No operations in command tonight.
1300 P/O Pyle on watch
1525 Runway changed to No. 10 – QAN light NE
1615 420 & 425 Sqdn. X/C details scrubbed.
1810 Asked to stand-by to land A/C in this area – probably Marston Moor – vis. about 4 miles QBB 1500
1825 No call received from A/C – Runway changed to No. 28
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2100 No flying in base.
2200 Very foggy. Also quiet.
[Circled] Tuesday Feb 15, 1944 [/circled]
0730 Quiet night.
0800 Basic QFE 1016. Passed to met.
0815 S.D.’s checked.
0900 F/L Gant off watch. P/O Pyle on watch
1000 Goodwood effort tonight – 420 Sqdn. 12 A/C
1045 Runway changed to 10
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1705 Phoned Millfield that Hurricane KX199 F/L JOBB & Thunderbolt I 6343 Lt Almond staying overnight.
[Underlined] 1729=1754. 12 A/Cr. of 420 squadron Airborne on their 1st operation. [/underlined]
1855. In case of early returns, if unable to land at Base to be diverted to Binbrook. QDM. 148 – 64 miles.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
[Page break]
2045 420/G landed early from Ops. – S/O u/s
2145 All our A/C being diverted to Hethel on return.
[Underlined] WEDNESDAY – FEB. 16th 1944 [/underlined]
0015 T/420 called on R/T at 6000’ At 0022 he was given pancake but he did [deleted] an [/deleted] two overshoots and lost the circuit despite goose-necks and money flares. At 0037 he was told to climb to 1000’ and home again. At 0043 he was given pancake again and was passed QBB – 1500’. “T” reported he could not see the flarepath – vis. had deteriorated considerably since 2400 hrs. due to rain. At 0047 he was asked how much petrol he had left and reported 95 gallons in each side. Was told to take his time and try once more but he lost the circuit – could not contact him again on R/T.
0156 T/420 crashed [inserted] at 0050 [/inserted]. Ref. Sheet 22 966973 – 1 mile from the Raskelf Q site – our ambulance to be despatched – [deleted word]
0220 T/420 mistook railroad lights at Pillmoor junction for aerodrome and came in on poor vis. 5 of crew at scene of crash – one at Q site – Position of crash [deleted] ed [/deleted] passed to Tollerton fire section and Easingwold police. Guarding of A/C to be handled by Topcliffe. Q site was switched off at 0040.
0240 Base report all other 420 A/C except “F” landed O.K. – no time or aerodromes given. Base also report that two ambulances from Dishforth may take crew to York Hospital depending on M.O.’s advice. [Underlined] Note: [/underlined] see that 420 adjutant is informed of all details so that he may take all necessary signals action
0320 Base report 2 of crew killed – names not yet available – 5 injured
0330 All [indecipherable] at Middleton & Leeming O.K.
0430 The following are in the Northallerton hospital – F/O Damgaard, F/O Taylor, F/S Masur, Sgt Fletcher & Sgt Harvey – the body of Sgt. Downey has been brought here, body of WO2 Whale is pinned under the A/C. Easingwold police give position of crash as [underlined] “961928” [/underlined]. (This position confirmed later by M.O.)
0545 NW Railway District Control inform that no guard is at crash
0553 Advice from 61 Base if that Dishforth is now sending out a guard
[Page break]
0645 Dishforth are going to handle the raising of the crashed A/C to remove the body pinned beneath it – their guard has at last arrived at the scene!
0815 No further word on F/420 or landing times
Basic QFE 1020 – Passed to met.
0830 Base reports F/420 landed O.K.
0845 F/O Taylor on Watch. Base report all out A/Cr landed at Hethel.
Runway 10. Light Wind – Viz 400 yards. – SD’s ckd.
1000 Runway 24. QAN. NWly. 5-15.mph. – Viz improving.
1005 Ops tonight. = 8 A/C 425. = 420 5 plus as many as get back from Hethel.
1045 425’s 5 A/C for ASR Search not required.
1215 W/O Walker phoned from Hethel. “Require a mechanic as Throttle Control to S.I. severed.” Very poor connection & could not get any word on other A/Cr there. = No engineering officers contacted to pass this gen. too.
1300 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1303 Flying Control Millfield contacted re Thunderbolt and Hurricane taking off for Millfield. They give okay.
1330 CTO contacted re W 420. Entry 1215.
1500 Operations in Command scrubbed.
1615 S/L Beall on X Country. TO 1750 ETA 2234.
1705 Group advise all a/c at Hethel remaining over night.
1808 N/420 off on X-country
1930F/O Taylor on Watch.
[Underlined] 2100. [/underlined] Note. = Port totem pole on upwind end of 34 flare-path U/S.
[Underlined] 2200 [/underlined] The Telephone engineers advise that the flight-planning loud-speaker system in the Ops room is now completed – but they have removed a fuse, otherwise if anybody tampers with the keys it is liable to put the station PBX switch-board u/s. – Pass this to Signals Officer in morning, for onward transmission to Base S.O. as none could be contacted tonight.
2305 N/420 landed OK from X-Country.
Thursday – Feb 17th 1944
0730 SD’s ckd.
0817 Basic QFE. 1014. – Passed to Met. Runway 06, QAN. NE’ly – 10-15 mph.
[Page break]
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0910 On inquiry from base our a/c have been told by 6 group to remain at Hethel TFN.
0955 Operations tonight in 6 group.
1000 F/O Laing, L.N. P/O McLure, H.G. and P/O Lawrence W.G. reported to Flying Control for instruction.
1300 P/O Pyle on watch
Note: Hethel phoned at 1230 re E/420 – probably cat. AC – Stbd. wing tanks holed – at least one wing change
1600 Operations scrubbed
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1935 1196 dead. Signals officer informed. Electrics Cpl reported. Could not fix. Signals advise they cannot fix until morning.
2340 Everything quiet.
Friday Feb 18, 1944.
0750 Quiet night.
0755 S.D.’s checked.
0800 Basic QFE 1038. Passed to met.
0825 Base advise 6 Group Flying Control have just issued a warning for all stations to stand by for their respective returning a/c.
0900 F/L Gant off watch. P/O Pyle on watch
0930 Runway 10 QAN NE’ly light
0945 TR1196 now serviceable
1000 Goodwood tonight
1140 Group have advised that a/c at Hethel are to remain there T.F.N. 420/[deleted] T [/deleted] W – no throttle – severed by flak E/420 needs a wing change, 40 or 50 flak holes – Q/420 starter u/s but they may be able to fix it.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch. & P/O McLure
425 Briefing – 21:00 hrs in 425 Briefing Room. = 420 Briefing 20:30 M.B Room
[Page break]
1430. Group have instructed our A/Cr to return this afternoon
1510 Runway changed to 28. QAN. NWly – 5-10, viz deteriorating.
1555 Runway changed to 10 QAN. NE-ENE. 5-10. Viz 4-8 miles now.
1635 Ops scrubbed. 425’s X-Country’s scrubbed.
1640 J & V/420 returned from Hethel. These are the only ones to get away before it started snowing again. Rest tomorrow maybe
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
[Underlined] SATURDAY – 19th FEB. 1944 [/underlined]
0824 Basic QFE 1025 – Passed to met.
0830 S.D.’s checked
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch. & P/O McLure.
Runway 28. = Wind light & variable. = At present NW ly.
0950 Required tonight. = 425 10 A/Cr. – 420 7 A/Cr +.
425 Briefing 14:45 if early take-off.
1230 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1255 Hethel advise more of 420 a/c now u/s and want 12 sets of plugs, 2 fitters, 1 electrician and 1 set of tools to make serviceable. F/L Raherge advised.
1333 Base advise F 420 airborne at 1320 at Hethel for Tholthorpe.
1426 F420 returned from Hethel
1820 W/O Dupuis remaining over night at Hethel.
1825 Provisional diversion for both sqn’s tonight “Lakenheath.” Mk II lighting contact strip, 1 runway 2000, 1400, 1 1300 Pundit 025° 12 miles. Sat. of Mildenhall.
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch. & P/O McLure.
[Underlined] 2330 [/underlined] Chance light U/S. Fitters have been working on it for three hours but still no joy. Will have to be taken to M/T in morning.
Sunday. – 20th February, 1944.
0000 1/2 N/420 airborne on Ops. – followed by R. V, G.
0005 F/420 bogged on [inserted] NE [/inserted] corner of taxi track so no more A/Cr can taxi past him. Endeavouring to bring 425 A/Cr along inner taxi-track onto runway in use.
0037 1/2 D/425 managed to get off – Why the delay?
0040 G/425 airborne. = Remainder too late
[Page break]
0130 425 report a Photo flash on edge of taxi track near U’s dispersal. Contacted armoury.
0200 Investigation finds that F/420 taxied between 2 blues on outside of bend in taxi track, & got bogged, blocking taxi track. 425 A/Cr had started following 420 A/Cr & one of them was in such a position as to block the entrance to the inner taxi track. Their a/c could not be moved forward until three others in front of him had moved.
0240 H/420 bogged on [inserted] outer [/inserted] taxi track between 34 Runway & R & I Hangar. Bust a taxi light.
0300 H/420 is an obstruction to 34 runway. Will have to be debombed
0512 Changing to Runway 06, QAN. N’E. 14 mph. F/S [deleted] Reinholt [/deleted]
0705 BM/O landed. = Skipton A/Cr. 433 Sqdn. F/S Reinelt, landed on pancake from Skipton; being refueled [sic] to return p.d.q.
0718-0740 G. R. V, 420 & D & G/425 landed Safely.
0750 N/420 landed at Coltishall at 0711 = refueling [sic] & returning.
0800 Basic QFE = 1025. passed to Met.
0815 A flight 420 report all bogged A/Cr back in dispersals ie. F & H.
0830 Our Van u/s. – at 06 runway. =
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1010 Operations in 6 group tonight.
1012 Contacted Clerk of works office re filling in bog holes near 28 and 43 runways.
1205 Combined Command bull’s eye tonight. 425 offer 4.
1230 New Halifax LW632 landed from Kirkbride P/O Pyle on watch
1425 425 Cancel bull’s eye
1435 Definite diversion Harwell, runways 2000 yds 1400 & 1300. Mark I drem, contact strip SBA 9 & F DF and sandra.
1515 Q 420 returned from Hethel.
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1948 S420 returned from Hethel
2115 Enquired from base as to diversion. They now advise Harwell has become a provisional petrol diversion. QDM 018° 6 miles of Harwell pundit.
[Page break]
2213 C 425 1st a/c to return from x country.
2254 U 425 last a/c to return from x country.
2340 D 425 first a/c off on operations.
[Underlined] Monday 21st February 1944 [/underlined]
0020 J425 fourteenth & last a/c off on ops. V.420 scrubbed (Bomb gear circuit failure).
0146 N425 returned early. (starboard outer u/s.) Aircraft after landing did a slight ground loop at end of runway 06 crashing into a parked van belonging to the station duty electrician who was inspecting a totem pole which had gone u/s. The van was parked in the entrance to the unused dispersal point just east of the runway and about 6 feet clear of the perimeter track. The rear end of the van was crushed by the starboard wheel but the aircraft suffered no apparent damage.
0200 Runway 10 in use.
0350 F 420 early return. Given permission to pancake. Landed at Linton in error. Returning to base. Oxygen trouble.
0404 F420 landed from Linton.
0407 Change to Runway 06.
0721 E 425 1st a/c to return from ops.
0800 Basic QFE 1041. Passed to met.
0840 Group advise D V 425 R420 landed at Harwell.
0847 S.D’s checked.
0900 F/L Gant off watch – P/O Pyle on watch
Runway 06 QAN 10-15 N’E
1015 No ops. from 6 Group – 10 A/C from Middleton gardening – also gardening from 1, 3 & 4 Groups.
1300 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1309 R/420 W/O Walker returned from Harwell.
1310 LW645 new Halifax delivered for 420 Sqdn.
1455 P/420 returned from Hethel.
1708 G/434 left for Croft. = Had been in M.A.P. hangar since Sqdn left
1639 V/425 returned from Harwell. = Injured Navigator taken to [missing word] Brought a Leeming crew with them. Leeming sending transport
[Page break]
1804 C/425 airborne on X-C, 18.09. P/425 airborne. 18:24 A/425.
1822 D/425 returned from Harwell.
1837 A/420 returned from Hethel.
1827. V/420 off on X-C. 18:50 N/420 off on X-C.
1900 Mr Rockett reports taxi lights u/s, on outside of perimeter track from 24 runway round to 420 B flight dispersals; cables cut somewhere
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
1950 Blue glims out on perimeter track from 24 runway to dispersals
1953 425/R landed early – reported flaps would not come down – no replacement
2125 Funnel on 06 runway u/s – could not contact Clerk of Works. Fuse gone but replacement still leaves funnel u/s
2148 Electrician reporting immediately.
2155 Reported to Base earlier this evening that crew of 425/D (F/L Bryson) heard a J-jig call up on R/T while they were in the circuit at Harwell – they thought call sign was “Hillguard” – Base checked up with Group who report that the only J who landed there was Peach-pudding at 0715 – no R/T log record of “Hillguard J”.
[Underlined] TUESDAY – 22ND FEB. 1944 [/underlined]
0030 Mr. Rocket reported with electrician to work on 06 funnel
0100 N/420 landed – last of 5 A/C from X-C – lead-in & main funnel O.K.
0800 S.D’s checked
0820 Basic QFE 1022 – Passed to met.
0900 S/L Austin on Watch –
1050 Runway changed to 06 – QAN – NNE’ly.
1230 S/L Austin off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1515 Diversion bases for tonight 420 Hartford Bridge. 425 Graves End Provisional./ D420 returned from Hethel.
1740 Operations scrubbed. Notification from J.C. Group.
1745 [Underlined] A.V.M. Brooks [/underlined] visited Tholthorpe watch office from 1720 to 1745.
[Page break]
1831 Wellington BZ/K departed for Gamston after landing at 1734 and deplaning Hill F/L, new signals leader for 420 sqn.
1930 F/L Gant off watch. S/L Austin on Watch.
2300 || Inspection of aerodrome lighting made. Following faults found & [underlined] reported to Mr. Rockett, [/underlined] Resident Engineer.
Port totem Runway 34 U/S. Runway lights need cleaning. Starboard totem Runway 06 U/S. Left outer-bar light U/S. 8TH starboard flare and both outer bar lights U/S Runway 10. Left outer bar Runway 24. U/S. No angle of approach. Port totem no 28 needs turning in to runway.
[Underlined] Perimeter Track [/underlined]
Amber shields now installed on outer edge from 06 to 16 runways on West side. Excellent.
Outer lighting from 16 all around to wood U/S. Old perimeter lighting very poor 34 end has blue shields removed but lighting poor.
[Underlined] Wednesday 23rd Feb 1944. [/underlined]
0730 S.D’s checked.
0805 Basic QFE 1015 – Passed to Met.
0830 Perimeter & runways inspected.
[Underlined] Note [/underlined] – Three dispersals and track past wood may be used for parking if first swept.
0900 S/L Austin off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1008 Command standown tonight.
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1401 [Deleted] F/O Ward [/deleted] H/420 1st A/C off on X-C
1421 K/420 11th A/C off on XC
1710 14 A/C are A/B on X-C’s with incorrect resin lights. As no signal had arrived in conjunction with signal Y 783 bringing into force [deleted] new [/deleted] reserve set of recognition signals, contacted Base on the 21st & was informed that outfit colours unchanged till 25th. Telephoned Base intelligence this afternoon to confirm that postagram had
[Page break]
1710 (cont’d)
had been forwarded to us. Checked with orderly room. Signal had arrived but had been marked for the adjutant. Runner brought it to F.C. at about 1600 hours.
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1959 S/420 first a/c to return from x country.
2049 K/420 last 420 a/c to return from x country.
2234 K/426 landed here instead of Linton, cutting off T425, to whom we had given pancake
2240 CTO advises V420 who turned off 06 runway before reaching end and bogged, would not be able to be cleared immediately as jacks had to be put under port wheel before moving.
2257 V 425 landed and all motors cut at intersection of 16 & 24 runways. B flight 425 arranging to tow off. Had landed on 3 motors
2259 N 425 in circuit – told to stand by until runway cleared.
2314 N 425 given pancake
2318 N 425 advises P/I u/s. Told to make right [deleted] had [/deleted] hand circuit.
2327 N 425 landed. Told to taxi clear on runway on 16 and cut all motors. B flight arranging to tow to dispersal to take precautions on possibility of bogging.
2345 All a/c with exception of V 420 in dispersals.
Thursday Feb 24, 1944.
0005 K/426 airborne for Linton.
0750 S.D checked.
0805 Basic QFE 1025. Passed to met.
0830 P/O Pyle on watch
0900 Runway 10 QAN NE’ly light.
1000 Goodwood tonight – also Gardening from 6 Group
[Time obscured] S/L Austin on Watch.
[Page break]
1530 Received from Base new SD.229 (Copy no. 147) & S.D.300 (Copy No. 587) – old copies to be picked up in [deleted] a [/deleted] two days time
1800 First a/c off on operations.
1841 Twenty-second & last a/c off on ops. A420 (oil leak) & U425 (burst tyre) scrubbed.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
2110 Informed by W/C MacIntosh that 420 A/C have definitely been diverted to Wing – S/L Kyle’s notified
2151 425/C returned early – had not jettisoned – ambulance standing by
2159 420/Q landed – ‘detail completed’.
2220 425/C bogged near end of 24 Runway – tractor & crew organized
2237 425/Q early return
2240 All taxi lighting north of 28 runway is u/s – electrician now working on it – flights warned.
2315 Vis. beginning to deteriorate – goose-necks & moneys laid out
2318 425/C now clear & being towed to dispersal
2340 [Underlined] All [/underlined] taxi track now u/s – warned flights to have crews ready to lead a/c into dispersals north of 28-10 runway
2355 Taxi tracks now O.K.
[Underlined] FRIDAY 25th FEBRUARY, 1944 [/underlined]
0030 Taxi track on north half of aerodrome is definitely u/s – laying emergency taxi track with all available glims from north end of 28 as far as possible west towards 10 runway
0100 Changing onto 28 runway – 425 A & B flights notified – glim lamps being laid on perimeter track north of 10 runway up to 24 r’way.
0218 B/425 first A/C landed from ops.
0245 D/425 landed at Breighton – returning as soon as refuelled
0400 K/420 at Dunsfold, 420 U, F, H, J, O, R, P, B, V, W at Wing, S/425 at Dunsfold, T/425 at Tangmere, A, E, F/425 at Little Horwood
0430 D/425 landed from Breighton – C/420 only A/C still outstanding
0730 SD’s checked
0815 Basic QFE 1032 – Passed to met.
0900 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1005 Goodwood effort tonight.
[Page break]
1010 Base advise all serviceable a/c both sqn’s ordered to return to base. W/420 hydr. u/s E 425 P/i u/s. CTO advised.
1045 Runway 34 in use.
1200 J 420 landed from Wing
1203 U 420 landed from Wing
1230 F/L Gant off watch. S/L Austin on Watch.
1320 P 420 landed from Wing
1328 B 420 landed from Wing
1329 V 420 landed from Wing
1333 O 420 landed from Wing
1430 A 425 landed from Little Horwood.
1513 F425 landed from Little Horwood.
1520 Base advise W/420 needs petrol filler cap & new starter motor for S/i. CTO informed.
1545 Definite diversions for tonight’s operations both sqn’s. Wing. Runways 2000 – 1450 – 1150. SBA. Mark II lighting, HF/DF, Sandra, pundit 172° 4 1/2 miles. Flashing X R.
1548 K 420 landed from Dunsfold
1615 T 425 landed from Tangmere
1631 F420 landed from Wing
1641 H420 landed from Wing
1702 S425 landed from Dunsfold
2009 R420 landed from Wing.
On Watch S/L Austin.
2120 1/2 First a/c off on operations.
2141 Twelfth and last a/c off on ops – 420 – (7) 425 (5)
P425 scrubbed (-two port engines oiled).
2359 Switching to Runway 28 – QAN – NW’ly 2-5MPH.
[Underlined] Saturday 26TH February 1944 [/underlined]
0520 P420 returned from operations
0530 Base inform that Q425 landed Abingdon and that 425 B, D and G; 420 B, J, N and A landed at Wing. V420 landed at Westcott.
[Page break]
0800 No news of either U420 or U425.
0810 Basic QFE. 999. Passed to met.
0900 S/L Austin off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1018 Command stand down tonight.
1020 Base admin 6 group have issued orders for all 425 & 420 a/c that are not airborne by 1130 are to await further orders. 420 & 425 CO’s advised, int, Stn. Nav.
1225 All a/c away from base have been instructed to be standing by at 1930 ready to take if wx okay. Otherwise they will be ready for 0800 hrs take tomorrow morning.
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1530 Contacted Little Horwood to have S/L McLennan’s crew standing by at 0930 tomorrow to be picked up by A/C from here.
1600 All A/C away from Base stood down till tomorrow morning
1830 Changing to No. 34 Runway – QAN N’W 20-25
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2330 Everything quiet. No flying in group.
Sunday Feb 27, 1944.
0400 Slight snow and sleet.
0700 Checked with MT for snow removal apparatus to be ready.
0800 Basic QFE 1001. Passed to met.
0900 F/L Gant off watch. P/O Pyle on watch
Runway 06 QAN NNE 24
1000 Stand down tonight
1030 Duty crew & fire crew clearing snow from taxi & r’way lights
1115 N/420 ran into A/420 – the port elevator & outer hinge of N is u/s the stbd. inner airscrew of A was damaged & will need a new airscrew – B/425 has the stbd. wing tip damaged & needs new wing tip – C.T.O. has been informed
1230 message from Base – N420 had Brake failure in dispersal. (Reason for above entry)
[Page break]
1440 [Underlined] NOTE [/underlined] Station Admin. Officer to be notified of all taxing accidents
1510 Recalling B, T, O, V/420 – S/L McKenna’s instructions
1515 N/425 crew returning by transport – A/C/ u/s u/c & flaps
1520 A/420 left Wing at 1510
1605 A/420 landed from Wing
1700 V/420 (Sgt. Hardy) X/C A.C caught fire at Aberystwyth (N. Wales) (Grid Ref. VO 0185) and crashed at approx.. 1510 hrs. The Engineer and W.O.P. have been rescued but fate of rest of crew is uncertain.
1810 Ex – Castell Maur – re V/420 W.O.P. & Engineer slightly injured – crash took place at Cross Inn – 2 crew were known to have baled out – probably W.O.P. & Eng.
2330 Nothing doing. F/L Gant on Watch.
March 1, Wednesday, 1944.
0745 S.D’s checked.
0805 Basic QFE 1004. Passed to met.
0830 Runway 28, QAN WNW.
0845 P/O Pyle on watch – Runways, perimeter & dispersals checked – trailing aerial on 24 runway.
0930 Duty crew found in bed – told to report to F.C.O. at 0900 hours daily in future.
1000 Working tonight
[Inserted] 1015 Checked with Base cypher officer re sheets for March beacon letters (S.D. 264) – apparently sent to Eastmoor in error [/inserted]
1100 A.F.C. reports numerous vehicles ignoring traffic lights & crossing runway in use – guard room will supply S.P. to check all offenders
1145 Ex Aberporth re V/420 – a/c crashed on or near Hafodmawr farm- control had snapped and A/C went into a spin. nearest salvage unit – 78 M.U. Bynea
1230 S/L Austin on Watch
1415 Snow Warning – Snow probable during next 24 hours in Scotland & N. England north of a line Derby – Humber. Amount moderate on high ground But mainly slight in NE England.
[Page break]
1655 Linton Pundit U/S. Will not be available for tonight.
1800 Runway changed to 24. QAN SW’ly 10+.
1900 Runway changed to 28. Met forecast wind of 20MPH WNW for takeoff.
1930 On watch P/O Pyle
2145 Flights report icing not serious – clearing with brushes – 420 using de-icing fluid.
2315 T/420 first A/C off on operations
2347 P/420 last A/C off on Ops. 8 of 420 and 11 of 425 airborne
K/420 had P/I oil pressure too low, S/420 – icing – scrubbed.
[Underlined] MARCH 2 – THURSDAY – 1944 [/underlined]
0326 Three early returns – R/420, J/425, W/425
0340 Base & then 12 Group ask which of our A/C went out to sea off Flamboro Head & then returned – intelligence to let us know as soon as possible
0630 Early returns interrogated and no A/C was out to sea in this area – Base & Group informed by Intelligence
0810 Basic QFE 1008 – Passed to met.
0828 V/425 last A/C to land from Ops. Other than early returns only 3 A/C returned to Base (C, V, F/425) All others landed south
0900 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1005 Stand down tonight.
1159 O 425 landed from Ford
1205 G 425 landed from Middle Wallop.
1207 S 425 landed from Thorney Island.
1230 S/L Austin on Watch
1246 F420 landed from Westcott
1248 D425 landed from Thorney Island.
1329 R425 landed from Thorney Island.
1515 Group report T425 bogged – no towing equipment; P, Q and T 420 o.k. but no fueling [sic] facilities; D420 P/I U/S mag drop, G420 P/I U/S oil leak; J420 flak damage and hydraulics u/s.
1624 E425 landed from Little Horwood.
[Page break]
1757 B 425 landed at Linton. One engine packed up, shut off red flare and landed at Linton.
1807 Base J.C.O. advises a/c of 425 and 420 are calling DF hut for information (QFE, QDM etc) and not giving squadron callsigns. In such cases information to be refused as more than one a/c of same letter may be calling for same information causing confusion.
1942 Base advise Q 425 returning to base due to one engine u/s.
1945 S/L Austin on Watch.
2000 Flarepath report a crash NE of us. A425 had been given Pancake. Believe it might be our aircraft.
Note:- at 1955 hours, A425 came over R/T asking me to switch on the flarepath so he could identify the aerodrome. The outer circle was switched on & off until the aerodrome was identified. He acknowledged the assistance. At 1955 1/2 I asked him if he was having any trouble. He replied that his starboard outer engine was now feathered. We instructed him to Pancake 28 which he acknowledged.
Base 62 was immediately informed to get a definite plot. The medical officer, Engineering officer, F/L Bryson O/C night flying were notified. Linton’s ambulance & firetender; our ambulance & possibly Wombleton’s equipment were despatched. Eastmoor have sent ambulance & firetender.
2015 Phoned Easingwold Police & found crash was in approximate area of Crayke. (east of Easingwold.) Informed base.
2045 Q425 landed from X country with starboard outer feathered. Despatched our tender to crash scene.
2130 Definitely report crashed a/c A/425. Six killed, one badly injured taken to St. Monica’s Hospital Easingwold.
[Page break]
2145 Base inform crash is in our area. Contacted R.A.F. Regiment to organise a guard.
2159 Easingwold Police inform that Sgt Bertrand R164538 was one of those killed.
2230 Sick Quarters reported eight people were in craft. Killed – Sgt Bertrand pilot; Sgt Goudreau, bomb aimer; Sgt Bousquet, W/OP; Sgt Dix, Engineer Sgt Trudel, M/Upper; Sgt Cole Rear Gunner and Sgt. Hay Spare gunner.
Injured – Sgt. Houle – navigator.
March 3rd – Friday 1944
0810 Basic QFE – 1007 – Met informed.
0900 S/L Austin off Watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0940 Aerodrome, dispersals and runways inspected.
0948 Command stand down tonight.
0950 Runway 34 in use.
1022 Crash tender u/s. N 425 waiting to take-off. Informed S/L MacLarnen. He advises to let N425 take-off with out crash crew.
1030 Informed S/L Kyles re crash tender situation He advises to declare aerodrome u/s until we have a serviceable crash tender.
1200 Aerodrome still u/s. No crash tender.
1230 Crash tender now serviceable.
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1400 Cpl. Seib posted to 50 Gp. Pool – Base advised to supply relief advised later by S/L Kyles that they cannot supply a relief
1600 Keen frost warning tonight Min. air temp. 27 – ground 21
1745 New crash tender arrived from Linton but M.T. Section refuses to accept it – mechanically bad – S/L Kyle informed
2023 W 420 landed on 2 1/2 motors. Made nice approach and landing but ran off the end of runway. B flight tractor and bowser sent to assist.
2037 34 runway u/s. Changing to 28. Met report QAN 6 NW
[Page break]
2132 Base enquire names of J 425 crew. They are under impression J 425 has crashed.
2142 Base advise the a/c that crashed has been identified as one from 4 group.
2150 Runway 34 now in use.
2348 S 425 1st a/c back from Bull’s eye.
Saturday March 4, 1944.
0025 K 420 last a/c back from Bull’s eye.
0800 Basic QFE 1017. Passed to met.
0815 S.D.’s checked.
0830 Runway 34 QAN NW, P/O Pyle on watch
1000 Not working tonight
1110 Gale warning NW to W within next 12 hrs. 40 m.p.h.
1230 S/L Austin on Watch.
1340 Snow Warning – Moderate amounts expected in our area within next 24 hours.
1600 Met warn of rapid deterioration of weather in next few minutes.
1608 V434 landed from Croft. Weather poor.
1611 G425 landed OK.
1615 F 425 landed OK. Vis poor
1620 Asked base for diversions. They suggest Eastmoor.
1632 C425 diverted to Eastmoor.
1633 R425 diverted to Eastmoor.
1635 Gimcrack H calling darky. Contacted & diverted to Eastmoor.
1639 Hard frost warning probable tonight. 26°/27°.
1642 Base inform Eastmoor closed down and are diverting C and R 425 to Downham Market.
1646 Q425 diverted to Downham Market by R/T.
1715 Runway changed to 28.
C425 landed Pocklington.
1830 Base inform that J from Eastmoor may be diverted here. Vis 10 miles.
1840 Base inform J pranged on landing at Eastmoor.
[Page break]
1850 Group inform that no aircraft is to return to bases tonight.
1855 Base inform Q & R 425 landed at Downham Market.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
1955 Informed M.T. to have 4 trucks ready for snow ploughs and three trucks available for [deleted word] carting sand.
SUNDAY – MARCH 5th, 1944
0810 Basic QFE 1030 – Met advised
0815 SD’s checked
0900 S/L Austin on Watch. Runway 28.
1000 Phoned SHQ for 20 men to sand runways
1030 Ice melting rapidly on runways.
1053 V434 left for Croft.
1110 Sanding of runway 28 for 600 yards completed.
1130 C 425 landed from Pocklington.
1230 S/L Austin off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1535 Group request report from pilots on last 3-4 Mar Bull’s eye re illuminated target over London
1930 S/L Austin on Watch.
MONDAY 6TH MARCH 1944.
0806 Basic QFE – 1036 – Met informed.
0815 S.D.’s checked.
0900 S/L Austin off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0945 Taxi track, dispersals inspected.
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1820 K/420 1st A/C off on Ops.
1854 J/425 last A/C off – airborne are 4 A/C from 420 and 9 A/C from 425
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2256 B 425 1st a/c back from operations.
2327 T 425 last a/c to return to base.
2350 N420 landed at Thorny [sic] Isle at 2322.
[Page break]
Tuesday. March 7, 1944.
0750 S D.’s checked.
0804 Basic QFE 1033. Passed to met.
0830 Base advise all a/c away from base have been ordered to stand by, but group doubt very much if wx will improve enough for return.
0845 P/O Pyle on watch
1000 Advised Base to have R/425 return from Downham Market as soon as he is serviceable (oil cooler)
1005 Working tonight
1105 Runway changed to 06 – QAN NE
1208 New A/C V/420 (LW692) [deleted] lef [/deleted] landed from Linton
1210 425/R left Downham Market at 1145
1230 S/L Austin on Watch.
1235 R425 landed from Downham Market.
1603 N420 landed from Thorney Island.
1831 C425 first a/c off on ops.
1848 O420 last of 18 a/c. off on ops (420 – 6 a/c; 425 – 12 a/c).
[Inserted] 1930 P/O Pyle on watch [/inserted]
2129 C420 landed from X-country.
[Underlined] WEDNESDAY – MARCH 8, 1944 [/underlined]
0018 All our A/C returned safely – O/425 landed at Thorney Island
0045 P/405 landed here – short of petrol – hydraulics u/s on landing – returning to Linton later in the day.
0730 S.D.’s checked
0820 Basic QFE 1047
0830 Flights warned re 2 1000 lb. hang ups on 420 O & D
Note: 425/ C-J-Q-U-T & 420/W returned with full bomb load
0900 Runway 10 QAN light & variable – mainly easterly
0915 S/L Austin on Watch – Runway 28.
1230 F/L Gant on watch.
1510 P408 airborne for Linton
1525 Our emergency diversion base for tonight Thorny [sic] Island.
1625 Ops scrubbed.
[Page break]
1648 O 425 returned from Thorney Island.
1905 Bomb removed from point SE of new watch tower.
1930 F/L Gant off watch. S/L Austin on Watch.
2015 F425 landed from X country.
[Underlined] THURSDAY 9TH MARCH 44 [/underlined]
0200 S.D’s checked.
0205 Met report a herd of sheep on aerodrome near their instruments. (Girl very frightened). Informed guardhouse.
0815. QFE Basic – 1038 – met informed.
0900 S/L Austin off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0950 Halifaxs in 6 group working tonight.
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1418 Emergency diversion for both squadrons – Thorney Island
1445 The jettisoning area up to 1800 hrs. 11th Mar. – 40 miles from the coast south of lat. 5400N.
1630 LAC Macleod (R/T Op.) posted – S/L Kyle’s advised re replacement
1643 Ops. scrubbed
1915 Vis. deteriorating – advised Base who are diverting them to Prestwick
1930 Changing runways to No. 28
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1935 Base advise E 420 cannot be contacted. Have not contacted A, K 425. Central Flying Control debating whether to divert a/c to Prestwick or Silloth.
1938 Base advise A 425 landed at Skipton 1933.
2003 Base advise E420 K425 still not contacted. Last time of contact with E420 35 minutes ago at which time he was advised to stand by for message.
2010 Base advise K425 diverted to Prestwick. Still no contact with E 420.
2100 Pos of K 425 as 53° 40’N 04° 40’W.
2106 Base advise E 420 acknowledged diversion. Sent msge they would call back.
2119 Base advise E 420 requested pos. Prestwick at 2100.
[Page break]
2308 Base advise 420E 425K on R/T at Prestwick.
2335 Base advise E 420 landed at Prestwick 2257. K425 landed 2326 at Prestwick.
Friday March 10, 1944.
0745 Quiet night.
0750 S.D.’s checked.
0805 Basic QFE 1029. Met informed.
0845 P/O Pyle on watch – Runway 28 WNW light
1000 Ops. tonight
1230 Ops. scrubbed – Command Bullseye instead
1230 S/L Austin on Watch
1614 E420 landed from Prestwick.
1644 A 425 landed from Skipton.
1917 O 425 off on Bullseye Exercise
1918 W 425 off on Bullseye Exercise (Swung very badly).
1920 H 420 off on Bullseye Exercise
1921 A 420 off on Bullseye Exercise.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
1934 O/420 off on Bullseye Exercise
[Underlined] SATURDAY – MARCH 11th 1944 [/underlined]
0008 H/420 returned from Bullseye
0034 O/420 last a/c landed form Bullseye
0730 S.D.’s checked.
0800 Basic QFE 1020 – met. advised
0845 P/O Pyle off Watch. F/O Taylor on Watch.
Runway 28. Perimeter & Rwys checked.
0930 W/O. Palmer, Sgt. McKinnon, Sgt. Newby, Sgt. Duffy, Sgt. Kennedy, reported to watch office. – Pilots for temporary control Duties.
1010 Not required tonight. Gardening in Group.
1030 Asked Base to get some Gen on K/425 which had to return to Prestwick. F/L. Lomas was through on G.P.O. but could not contact anybody who knew anything about it.
11.25 Runway changed 34. QAN. WNW-NWly – 18mph.
12:30 Note for 425. OK for their A/C. A. O. L. T, to bomb smoke-floats anywhere off coast, at least 30 miles out to avoid convoy routes. Base suggest 40 miles off Flamboro Head.
[Page break]
1230 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
18:30 Off Watch F/L Gant On Watch F/O Taylor.
18:35 V/420 off on X-Country.
2152 U/425 landed from X-Country. Had trouble finding drome. Flicked lights off & on but still no go, so came in on QDM’s.
22.55 Base advise D/433 – Skipton c/s Pease pudding, floating around the Group, may start calling for help.
23.09 V/420 landed from X-Country. = also had trouble locating drome.
[Underlined] SUNDAY. MARCH 12th 1944. [/underlined]
0830 Basic QFE = 1016. SD’s checked.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0905 Group stand down tonight.
1045 Local Bullseye tonight. [Deleted] 4 [/deleted] 3 a/c 425, 9 a/c 420.
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1250 E/420 landed from X/C – S/O engine trouble
1318 S/420 landed from Westcott
1420 Bullseye cancelled.
1430 K/425 left Prestwick at [deleted letters] 1301 but had to return (1335) due to engine trouble. Prestwick F.C. will let us know state of serviceability in the morning
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2330 Quiet.
Monday 13 March 1944
0730 Quiet night.
0800 Basic QFE 1003 Met informed.
0805 S.D’s checked.
0900 P/O Pyle on watch
1020 Operations tonight- 420-8 A/C 425-7 A/C
1100 Extreme emergency aerodrome for both squadrons – Hartford Bridge Runways 2000, 1400, 1400x Mk II Drem, S.B.A. Sandra Pundit GP 064° [deleted] 6 1/2 [/deleted] 1 1/2 mls.
1230 Runway changed to 34
12:30 Off Watch P/O Pyle, on Watch F/O Taylor.
13:10 Base inquired, Could we take 5 Dishforth A/Cr for C’s & L’s. = Answer “No Not with this strong cross wind.”
[Page break]
1435 New Halifax MZ503 delivered for 420 Sqdn.
15.49 K/425 returned from Prestwick. (Diverted there March 9/44)
16.52 G/420 returned from FORD. (Landed there March 1/44)
16:55 Ex Base. S/L Kyles: Croft have just had a sleet shower, so warn Sqdns to be on guard re ice on A/Cr. Contacted Met. Sqdns have been warned of the possibility & will be told again if things look bad.
17:10 The sleet shower has passed with no ill effects.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
2225 R/425 1st A/C off on operations
2250 Q/425 last A/C off on operations – 420-8 A/C, 425 7 A/C
[Underlined] TUESDAY – 14th MARCH, 1944. [/underlined]
0023 R/425 returned early with A.S.I. & other instruments u/s. At the time the wind was westerly at 14 m.p.h. so told him to land on 28 runway instead of No. 34.
0038 C/425 last of 4 A/C to land from X/C – also landed on 28 – his two port engines caught fire but went out when he cut ignition – tractor towed him clear of runway.
0221 D/425 returned early – hydraulics u/s – undercarriage had been down since T.O. – landed O.K. on 34 with 30° flap.
0243 Y/420 landed at Hartford Bridge – short of petrol – advised by Group to remain there till morning
0341 All our A/C landed safely – 14 at Base and 1 away
0500 S.D.’s checked
0800 Ex Hartford Bridge – Y/420 will be leaving about 0900 hrs.
0815 Basic QFE 1010 – met informed
0900 Off Watch. P/O Pyle. On Watch F/O Taylor.
Runway 34. QAN NWly. 15-20 mph.
0950 Not required tonight = Group Bulls-eye.
1131 Y/420 landed from Hartford Bridge.
1230 Off Duty F/O Taylor. F/L Gant on watch.
1930 Off Duty F/L Gant on Duty F/O Taylor.
2015 A number of reports have come in about flares having been seen, do they mean Scrub. Flares away to the west. Contacted Base. = They are from Army Manoeuvres
2050 H/420 first A/Cr airborne on Bulls-eye.
2103. Request for ambulance. 2 airmen injured by explosion of an oxygen bottle, near [deleted] B [/deleted] /420 B flight dispersal, - Ambulance dispatched – M.O. advised.
[Page break]
2108. N/425 – 10th A/Cr. airborne on Bulls-eye. J & R/425 taxied down runway & clear.
2122 V/425 airborne, replacing R,
2229 V/425 landed on 3 engines.
2253 P/420 landed OK. (oxygen, & engine trouble, and intruders)
2300 Runway changed to 28. QAN 5-10. NWly – WNWly.
2343 O/425 landed OK. = compasses u/s.
[Underlined] WEDNESDAY – 15th MARCH – 1944 [/underlined]
0044 G/425 landed from Bulls-eye; C/420; H/420; T/425
0215-0224 U; N; A; F landed from Bulls-eye & bombing detail.
0813 Basic QFE. 1013. Met informed.
0955 6 group goodwood Lancs Hali III’s
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1600 Diversion bases if A/C have less than 350 gals. Petrol when crossing English coast – 420 Tangmere, 425 Ford
1800 Runway in use No. 24
1930 F/L Gant on watch.
2145 T425 called on R/T. Was asked if he had completed detail. Not jettisoned. Told to fly locally for 25 min. to bring gas down to safe landing weight.
2152 Asked reason for 425T Reported aileron control not functioning properly. Was asked if he could land safely. Reported “everything under control”.
2213 T 425 given pancake, runway 28.
2217 T 425 landed okay. Back on 34.
Thursday March 16, 1944.
0220 Runway 23 in use.
0254 Base advise Q425 sent in Q code “short [indecipherable] has broken down.
0255 Base admin fix on “C” 420 as 50° 25 0001W at 0234. “C” 420 not airborne. Probably G420.
0305 “C” 420 (base advise) sent message “on 3 motors special equipment u/s.
[Page break]
0315 Base advise C 420 msge “Navigator killed, S/I u/s Feltwell – Ford – SPEQ – Instructions.
0320 Msge from DSO 6 Group to C420 – land at Ford.
0328 Base advise Q 425 called Mayday near Hixon at 0300
0340 Base advise Q 425 crashed near Hixon: no details as yet.
0350 Base advise S420 crash landed at Friston. Pilot injured, navigator killed. Base believe this a/c to be “C” 420.
0405 F/O Tracey Nav. Q425 called from Bromsgrove, crew bailed out. Was first out of a/c, uninjured.
0425 F/O Hogan W ag Q425 called from Bromsgrove, 3rd out of a/c uninjured.
0430 4 a/c 420 returned to base. 6 a/c 420 landed at Tangmere. 2 a/c 425 returned to base, 7 a/c 425 landed at Ford.
0745 No word of Q420, F 425.
0800 Basic QFE 1019 Passed to met.
0900 P/O Pyle on watch
0920 Ex S/L Kyles – F.C.O. is to check daily flying times passed to Base
0945 Ex Halfpenny Green – all members of Q/425 accounted form but exact whereabouts of P/O Bush unknown
1030 All Q/425 crew O.K. except for a couple of slight injuries – Halfpenny Green arranging to have them return
1155 W/420 returned from Tangmere
1215 O/420 returned from Tangmere
1230 G/420 (at Frishon) is a total write-off – Navigator killed – pilot wounded and in hospital – rest of crew O.K. & returning by rail
1227 Y420 returned from Tangmere
1230 P/O Pyle off Watch. F/O Taylor on Watch.
1231 R/420 returned from Tangmere.
1238 J/425 returned from Ford.
1242 B/420 returned from Tangmere
1248 N/425 returned from Ford.
[Page break]
1327 S/425 landed from Ford.
1437 D/425 landed from Ford.
1454 F/425 landed from Ford.
17:33 E/425 landed from Ford.
18:09 A/425 landed from Ford.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
1950 Broadcast from Base – stations to have intruder systems ready for possible use
2030 Ex Base - we can forget about intruder warning!
[Underlined] FRIDAY – MAR 17, 1944. [/underlined]
0800 S.D.’s checked
0805 Basic QFE 1025 – passed to Met.
0830 Off Watch P/O Pyle. On Watch F/O Taylor.
0945 Not required tonight.
1230 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
1448 CTO reports new petrol installation near 425 A flight a definite obstruction and should be marked by red obstruction light at night. Agreed to do this nightly.
1930 Off Watch F/L Gant on Watch F/O Taylor.
[Underlined] SATURDAY – MARCH 18 – 1944. [/underlined]
0215 Base – Light up Drome. Wombleton A/Cr = Fighead or Jimcrack J wandering about.
0225 Base = Group have had several fixes on this A/Cr. but he seems to be lost & wandering aimlessly. If he comes near land him.
0320 A/Cr landed OK at Church Fenton. All lights doused.
0800 Basic QFE 1018. SD’s checked.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0945 Runways, perimeter checked.
0955 Command Goodwood tonight.
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1400 Inspected perimeter track & found incendiary rack at entrance to 34 r’way – armament section notified to check up on drivers responsible
1515 Runway changed to No. 24
[Page break]
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
2020 O 425 early return. Had not completed detail. Told to do so. Base informed. Sick crew member on board.
2114 O425 landed. Bomb aimer nose bleed.
2125 Starboard totem end 24 knocked over, still [deleted words] alight. Duty electrician informed.
2220 Base advise air raid warning purple.
2230 Air raid warning white.
2325 Base advise our a/c are definitely diverted. We are to stand by for diversion from Middleton and Croft.
Sunday, March 19, 1944.
0023 Base advise we can stand down re Croft and Middleton a/c.
0200 J 420 returned to base.
0230 Base advise A, D, E, K, R, T, W, Y. 420 at Thorpe Abbotts. A, B, D, N, R, W, 425 at Thorpe Abbots. G at Little Snoring, S 425 at Shipdham.
0720 Thorpe Abbott advise W425 port wing flak damaged, 425 N 420 F taxied into each other. 2 motors on N out, tail section on F damaged.
0800 Basic QFE 1013. Met advised.
0900 P/O Pyle on watch
0915 Runway 28 QAN W’ly 15-20.
0920 All serviceable A/C returning to Base as soon as possible – W/425 also damaged prop. – taxied into vehicle – driver killed
1000 Not working tonight
1230 P/O Pyle off Watch. F/O Taylor on Watch.
12.47 F/O Wilmot phoned from Thorpe Abbott. re A/425 Mag trouble; PI cut out when switch tested. = F/L Loomis informed.
15.00 W/O Rutherglen left his bag near the perimeter track in from of watch office at Thorpe Abbott. Phoned them to have one of our crews pick it up. A message from T.A. for Engineering Officer relayed to F/L. Loomis.
[Page break]
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
2100 E/425 at Horham out of hydraulic fluid – not procurable there – advised C.T.O. who is sending some down tomorrow – Horham asked to let us know if there is a break in the line so we can send spare parts
2208 Air Raid Warning RED
2230 All Clear
2312 H/425 landed from X-C P/O Wells reports that he saw A/C shot down in vicinity of E. Anglia (5235N 0019E) at 2206 – reported to Base
[Underlined] MONDAY – MARCH 20, 1944 [/underlined]
0035 X/420 landed from X/C
0730 S.D.’s checked
0810 Basic QFE 1025 – Met. informed
0900 Off Duty. P/O Pyle. On Duty F/O Taylor.
Runway 28. = Runways & T. Track inspected. Places at beginning of 28 where new macadam put over bad spots is sinking again. Surface of 28 scaling in a few spots. Resident engineer informed
1015 We are not required tonight.
1125 Thorpe Abbott phoned. “Can P/O Renaud & crew fly back with F/O Wilmot?” O/C 425 instructs “Yes” but in any event they must be back by tomorrow noon.
1230 S/L Austin on Watch.
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch.
[Underlined] TUESDAY – MARCH 21 – 1944 [/underlined]
0800 Basic QFE 1021 – Passed to Met. S.D.’s checked.
0900 S/L Austin on Watch.
1015 Not required tonight. Everybody else working.
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1345 Advised Horham that hydraulic fluid for 425/E would reach there tomorrow morning
1400 Ex Thorpe Abbots:- A,D,/425 & W/420 will probably be returning tomorrow – W/425 probably a week – N, [deleted] W [/deleted]/425 & F/420 - ?
1604 S425 landed from Thorpe Abbotts.
1918 V420 off on night X-country
1920 X 420 off on night X-country.
1930 S/L Austin on Watch.
2305 V420 landed from night X country
2340 X420 landed from night X country
[Page break]
[Underlined] Wednesday 22nd March 1944 [/underlined]
0805 Basic QFE 1021. Passed to Met.
0900 P/O Pyle on watch
1030 We are working tonight – Goodwood – 425 14 A/C, 420 – 12 A/C
1110 Thorpe Abbotts advise that A, D/425 are serviceable – B/425 leaving here with crews to bring them back – T. Abbotts will advise us then any other of our A/C are serviceable
1140 B/425 will not be going to Thorpe Abbotts till this afternoon
1230 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1250 Contacted Horham. (messages passed via 2 switchboard operators) E/425 tried to leave this AM when another minor snag developed. Hope to come this afternoon.
1415 Y/425. F/L BRYSON left for Thorpe Abbotts.
1515 Runway changed to 10, to facilitate marshalling. QAN L&V.
1636 E/425 returned from Horham.
1734 L, & V. 420 airborne on X-Country.
1757 Y/425 returned from Thorpe Abbotts.
1807 A/425 returned from Thorpe Abbotts.
1845-1922. 10-420 & 14-425 Airborne on operations. X replaced P/425.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
2251 L/420 landed from X/C – U/420 landed 2227 – used emergency u/c release
2320 Runway changed to No. 28
[Underlined] THURSDAY 23RD MARCH 1944 [/underlined]
0051 J/425 first A/C to return form operations
0140 K/425 last A/C to land here – J/420 at Foulsham, O/425 at Leeming no report from G/425
0810 Base QFE 1024 Met. informed
0815 S.D.’s checked
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch Runway 28. QAN. SE 3mph but viz terrible. R & TT Inspected.
1000 Not required tonight.
1100 J/420 airborne from Foulsham.
1204 J/420 landed OK. (first called 11:37 = viz 1400 yards = used 38 yellows).
1230 S/L Austin on Watch.
1247 Proctor HM301 – (W/C Williams) landed. Signalled Northolt & Catterick
1531 O425 returned from Leeming.
1537 Phoned Group to authorize crew from 420 Sqdn. to bring back D425 from Thorpe Abbotts. OK’ed by S/L McKernon & W/C McIntosh. W420 still u/s.
[Page break]
1645 Base advise W420 left T. Abootts at 1634. (Most confusing).
1740 W420 landed from T. Abbotts.
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch.
2200 Base = A/Cr. from 4 Group may be diverted to 6 Group. If so they will be sent to 61 Base if possible; otherwise 62 Base. E.T.A. 0035=0100 hrs.
2212. We are not required for this diversion; Leeming & Skipton laid on provisionally.
[Underlined] FRIDAY MARCH 24th 1944 [/underlined
0812. Basic Q.F.E. 1027. Passed to Met:
0900 S/L Austin on Watch.
0935 Signalled Station Z re Proctor (Vega Gull) landing at 1247 yesterday. Overdue message HW274 had been initiated. Checked with teleprinter message sent at 1301 – Left Linton at 1406
1010 Goodwood tonight – 425-14 = 420-12.
1230 S/L Austin off watch – P/O Pyle on watch
1330 Q/425 airborne for Thorpe Abbotts to bring back D/425
1530 Emergency petrol diversion base for both squadrons – “Coltishall”
1650 Runway changed to 10
1842 First a/c off on operations.
1918 Twenty-fifth & last a/c off on operations. E/425 scrubbed.
1936 O420 off on Bullseye exercise.
1941 P 420 off on Bullseye exercise.
2000 S/L Austin [deleted] off [/deleted] on Watch.
2011 K/425 landed from ops. Shot off 2 Red Flares (?). After landing called up that red lights on undercarriage were on and that horn was blowing. Told to switch engines off.
2012 Flarepath told to change to Runway 24. as X-country had to get off.
2025 Long runway clear. Runway changing to No. 28.
2053 V420 overhead from ops. Power failed on T1196 and flarepath & funnel of 28. Electrician called.
2118 All lights & 1196 on – Fuse had blown. Recalled V420 from Linton to which he had been sent.
2123 E 425 X-country scrubbed as engines were overheating owing to long delay in getting lights on.
[Page break]
2124 Base inform that V420’s R/T is poor & cannot contact him very well. Had done one overshoot. Did not want to have him return
2125 V420 landed OK at Linton.
2145 Pilot of V420 reports hydraulics u/s.
2236 Y425 early returned.
2304 R425 early returned.
[Underlined] Saturday 25 March 1944 [/underlined]
0018 P420 landed from Bullseye exercise
0038 O/420 landed from Bullseye exercise.
0405 Base inform T 425 has landed Coleby Grange at 0325.
0445 Base inform B, D, K, S & Y landed Coltishall. No times available. No report on W 420, V425 or C 425.
0805 Basic QFE 1024 – Passed to Met.
0900 S/L Austin off watch – P/O Pyle on watch
0930 Runways & perimeter inspected – stbd. A.A.I. on 06 u/s – apparently run over by A/C taxying clear of 24 r’way.
1000 Not required tonight – Hal. II & V & Stirlings working – inexperienced Hal. III & Lancs. crews may be put on tonight at C.O.’s discretion.
1030 420 offering 2 for target and 4 for A.S.R.
425 offering 3 for target and 1 for A.S.R.
1050 Sea search cancelled
1155 Coltishall advise that all our A/C will be returning as soon as refuled [sic].
1230 P/O Pyle off Watch. F/O Taylor on Watch.
1400 Colby Grange phoned. T/425 taking off right away. No Flaps.
1443 B & D/420 landed from Coltishall.
Briefing = 420 – 15:30. 425. 16:30.
1510 T/425 landed from Coleby Grange (No trouble though flaps u/s)
1516 Y/420 landed from Coltishall.
1538 K/420 landed from Coltishall.
1627 S/420 landed from Coltishall.
1729 H/425 off on a X-Country.
1731 J/425 bogged on intersection of 28 & inner taxi track. (!XXX! the runway for tonight)
[Page break]
1742 V/420 returned from Linton – landed him on 24 runway
1756/7. O & N/420 off on X-Countrys.
1907-09 A & X/420 & L/425 off on operations!
[Deleted 200 [/deleted] 1930 F/O Taylor off watch – P/O Pyle on watch
2000 Runway changed to 24 to accommodate U/420 (C & B) – much against his wishes!
2003 U/420 decided to scrub detail as it would be too late before he got started to get in any ‘dusk’ landings
2115 J/425 now de-bogged but crews have no means of [underlined] towing [/underlined] it clear [inserted] (bracket on tail wheel broken) [/inserted] (?) – must be taxied – contacted S/L McLernan.
2116 A.F.C. reports A/C parked on 34 runway
2152 Landed N/420 on r’way 24 –
2157 J/425 now taxied clear
2202 H/425 landed on 24 r’way
2203 N/420 bogged near R & I hangar – went off perimeter track – flight organising tractor – Engineering officer notified
2207 O/425 landed 24 runway
2230 Now on 28 runway
2250 N/425 now clear!
2350 Q/425 landed from X/C – did not receive our R/T
[Underlined] SUNDAY – MARCH 26 – 1944 [/underlined]
0027 L/425 landed from ops.
0046 A/420 landed from ops.
0057 X/420 landed from ops.
0730 SD’s checked
0805 Basic QFE 1020 – informed met
0900 F/O Taylor on Watch – Runway 28 QAN. L & V. – R & TT Inspected.
Mr Jess phoned as filling in holes where A/Cr bogged last night. Has no men today (Sunday), so will get cracking tomorrow morning.
1020 Goodwood effort tonight.
1230 S/L Austin on Watch.
1530 Runway changed to 34.
1930 F/O Taylor on Watch.
2000 U/425 first aircraft airborne on operations.
[Page break]
2026 P/425 = 23rd A/Cr off on Ops. = This A/Cr swung badly to starboard on first take-off run: Came round back of line-up for second try.
[Underlined] Note [/underlined] Port totem pole on 34 runway (downwind end) shining wrong way.
2030 Runway changed to 28. QAN [underlined] L & V [/underlined]
2143 Y/425 landed from X-Country.
2219 N/420 returned early.
2227. Call from R.T.O. at WARMINSTER (phone 236) Sgt. Cameron, crew member of X/425 sqdn. baled out at 6000’ at about 21:30 hrs. 1st one out & doesn’t know about rest of the crew. R.T.O. trying to round up information about rest of crew. G/C; Base, etc informed.
2230 Y/420 sqdn on R/T; has not completed detail & will call again when light enough to land.
Crew of X/425. SGT. HALL, W/O GROVER NAV, SGT NEWTON, SGT PORTER, SGT SIMPSON SGT. CAMERON, SGT. EVANS, & Cpl REID – R129385 – testing RADAR SPECIAL EQUIPMENT
2319 Y/420 landed OK.
2336 Royal Victoria Hospital, Westbury, Wilts. Phone Westbury 181 – Cpl. Reid, OK. but badly shaken up, keeping him overnight. = 3rd man out at about 6000 ft. at about 21:30 hrs. Police endeavouring to find other crew members.
[Underlined] MONDAY – MARCH – 27th 1944. [/underlined]
0025. Base: “X/425 crashed at 2053 hrs – Position 51:23N; 02:18W, 5 miles south of Colerne, 3 baled out but did not survive; 2 did not bale out; A/Cr caught fire on ground.”
0057 L/425 first A/Cr landed from operations.
0115 Base, re X/425 = 5 bodies in A/Cr.; 3 of which are identified as W/O Grover, Sgt Newton & Sgt. Evans, = Sgt Cameron & Cpl Reid are OK. Reid going back to A/Cr to try to identify other two bodies. Sgt Simpson still missing. Warminster police checking up. – Crashed at BRADFORD-ON-AVON, 5 miles South of Colerne. = Went into a spin, so pilot ordered crew to bale out.
0153 U/420 landed OK. 23rd A/Cr All accounted for. D/425 22nd A/Cr called that he thought he’d dropped incendiaries on runway. U/420 sent round again but as he could not get wheels & flaps up, told to pancake immediately. - When he had landed, told to use landing light & taxi round obstructions. Proved to be containers only. Armament people informed.
[Page break]
0230 Base request we “Light up” 426 A/Cr lost & short of fuel. Called “Pitchtent A” but no reply.
0250 Incendiaries observed burning near a 425 A/Cr. Sent fire crew & informed Armament Officer. Could read the Squadron letters on A/Cr by light from fire.
0255 Ground crew put incendiaries out. – A fitter badly hurt, dragged by bowser getting away from A/Cr. = Removed to hospital
[Underlined] Note [/underlined] → First Aid Kit from Q/425 used on this chap.
0310 Base advise we may douse lights again.
0815 Basic QFE = 1023. Passed to Met. – S.D’s checked.
0820 Crew list. Numbers etc of X/425 given to 6 Group. – Colerne handling crash.
- Sgt Cameron at 225 MU. – Phone No. WARMINSTER 456,
0900 S/L Austin on Watch.
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1518 5 A/C of 420 & 2 A/C of 425 airborne on Exercise “Eric”
1700 Runway changed to 10
1837 R/425 last A/C to land from “Eric” exercise.
1930 S/L Austin on Watch.
2330 Standing by to land any of Linton’s a/c returning from X-country. Vis – poor, about 1500 yds.
[Underlined] Tuesday 28TH March 1944 [/underlined]
0039 Last of Linton a/c landed at Topcliffe. Our vis had increased to 3500 + yds.
0800 QFE Basic 1011 – met informed – Sec. Docs. checked.
0900 P/O Pyle on watch
0930 Runway 28.
1045 Trying all morning to get our van replaced without success - !!@
1130 Dalton supplying 2 fighters for 1400 hours.
1145 Port totem pole on 34 runway now O.K.
1150 Secured van from Engineering officer – r’ways & perimeter inspected
1230 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1415 Runway 10. QAN E ly. 0-10 mph. viz 2500 yds smoke haze.
1419-1437 L/420. Airborne – asked to report visibility from air. Not so hot. – Dalton not letting fighters come so told L to land. Squadrons scrubbed all other details.
[Page break]
19:17 Group called – A Topcliffe Halifax stooging up and down Leeming beam, at present going S. Plots show him near us. Try & get him in.
19:25 Neither seen nor heard this A/Cr. = contacted base, Plots now show him south of Marston Moor. – He may come north again.
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
2000 Topcliffe Halifax landed safely at Ashbourne
[Underlined] WEDNESDAY 29th MARCH 1944 [/underlined]
0730 S.D.’s checked
0810 Basic QFE 1012 – Met informed
0820 Men working on east end of 28 runway this morning
0830 F/O Taylor on Watch. Runway 06, QAN NE ly 5-15 mph.
0900 F/420 & W/425 at Thorpe Abbotts are now Serviceable.
1000 Required tonight, 1700 hrs scrubbed.
2038 O/425 airborne on X-Country.
NOTE Stbd A.A.I moved from 24 runway to 06 runway.
[Underlined] THURSDAY – 30th MARCH – 1944 [/underlined]
0138 O/425 landed from X-Country.
0526 Group – Light up & keep look out for a lost hurricane.
0547 Group – A/Cr now clear of our section.
0806 Basic QFE = 1007 Met informed. SD’s checked.
Workmen on 28 end of main runway.
0900 F/O Taylor off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
0930 Aerodrome and dispersals checked
0940 O 420 F/S Gray proceeding to Thorpe Abbotts to deplane crew for F 420. F/S Brisson for W 425
0955 Goodwood effort tonight.
1230 P/O Pyle on watch
1500 Emergency petrol diversion bases – 420 Thorney Island, 425 Middle Wallop. Tangmere and Ford may be used in extreme emergency
1620 Runway changed to 06
1625-32 420/F & 425/W returned from Thorpe Abbotts
1640 Frost warning tonight -27°-28°
1930 P/O Pyle off watch. F/L Gant on watch.
[Page break]
2218 14 a/c 420 sq and 12 a/c 425 sq. airborne on operations. No none starters.
2225 Runway 28 in use.
2310 X420 off on night X-country. (Bombs & Full Overload).
2315 Y425 early returned.
2350 R 420 early return – had not jettisoned – flying locally to reduce gas.
2356 R420 reports hydraulics completely u/s. has wheels down.
Friday, March 31, 1944.
0002 R420 given pancake.
0006 R420 landed.
0109 U420 returned early.
0350 X420 landed from X-country.
0805 Base advise C420 called darky in 5 group short of petrol – last word was that crew were baling out.
0807 Basic QFE 1015. Passed to met.
0830 P/O Pyle on watch – Runway 28 Wind NW’ly less than 10 mph.
0900 K/420 landed at Tangmere 0530
0915 Ex: Cranwell – A/C crashed near Cranwell (presumably C420) – crew O.K.
0954 U/425 landed from Boscombe Down. D & Q/425 landed from Middle Wallop
1010 S/425 landed from Middle Wallop
1025 J/420 landed from Thorney Island
1108 H/425 landed from Middle Wallop
1115 C/420 landed in a field 4 1/2 miles from Cranwell – crew returning by rail – A/C probably cat. A/C [Inserted] Note: Pilots advises he force-landed at [underlined] 0628 hrs [/underlined] [/inserted]
1148 N, V, Y [inserted] 420 [/inserted] returned from Ford & Thorney Island
1150 Command Bullseye tonight – 420 3 A/C 425 2 A/C
1215 E/420 returned from Thorney Island.
1230 F/O Taylor on Watch.
1330 K/420 returned from Tangmere.
1340 Runway now 34 QAN. NWly –
1509 L/425 returned from Ford.
[Page break]
1917 F, U, O/420 & U/H /425 airborne on Bullseye Exercise
1930 P/O Pyle on watch
Over
To
New
Log
Book -
[Page break]
[Underlined] Aircraft landing away [/underlined]
L 434. – Silverstone – returned
E 434. – Middle Wallop – returned.
C 434 – Coltishall – returned.
O 434 – Ford. Not on strength now.
F 434 Barford St. John. returned
[Table of aircraft landing away]
[Page break]
[Table of aircraft landing away]
[Page break]
[Table of aircraft landing away]
[Page break]
[Table of aircraft landing away]
[Page break]
Linton Beacon.
To Linton QDM 237° 3 mi.
To Eastmoor QDM 110 4 3/4 mi.
To Tholthorpe QDM 315 3 mi.
420 OILLESS
425 HILLGUARD
THOLTHORPE FISHZONE
LINTON DOGBARK
EASTMOOR SINGER
TOPCLIFFE GOODFRIEND
DALTON HOLDTIGHT
DISHFORTH MARTEX
WOMBLETON CHICKEN LEG
LEEMING MUSTWE
CROFT
SKIPTON BRIARWOOD
MIDDLETON
[Page break]
[Blank Page]
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Control Officer's log book
Description
An account of the resource
A log kept at Tholthorpe to record events and times of importance. It commences July 6th 1943 and ends 30th March 1944.
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
143 handwritten pages
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Log book and record book
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
MCothliffKB[Ser#-DoB]-151020-13
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-07
1943-08
1943-09
1943-10
1943-11
1943-12
1944-01
1944-02
1944-03
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Anne-Marie Watson
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1944
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
England--Yorkshire
RAF Tholthorpe
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1612/24511/MCothliffKB[Ser -DoB]-151020-120001.pdf
302e36edb251ce2a6686924c2c34e678
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Cothliff, Ken. Tholthorpe Logs
Description
An account of the resource
10 items. The collection contains flying control log books from RAF Tholthorpe.
The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Ken Cothliff and catalogued by Nigel Huckins.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. Some items have not been published in order to protect the privacy of third parties, to comply with intellectual property regulations, or have been assessed as medium or low priority according to the IBCC Digital Archive collection policy and will therefore be published at a later stage. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal, https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/collection-policy.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Cothliff, K
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
[Underlined] S.O. Book 129. [/underlined]
Code 28-69-0.
FLYING CONTROL
LOG BOOK
[Government Logo]
From August 29th to October 6th
43 43
[Page break]
[Blank page]
[Page break]
[Underlined] Sunday – August 29/43 (cont’d) [/underlined]
0900 On Duty [Underlined] SR Wyman F/L. [/underlined]
0915 a/c at Ford and Tangmere Checked with stations re. aircraft at m/n stations and Met. who say things seem O.K. for a morning take-off.
1030 a/c at Ford and Tangmere 6 Gp Met. say weather deteriorating, if off by 11.00 O.K. Otherwise hold them. Advised Stns & 11 Gp F/C. Rushing them up for an early take-off.
1118 Provisional Diversion To C.F.C. requested Pershore as emergency diversion base for 6 Gardening Wellingtons. They will confirm. O.K.’d
[Underlined] Pundit - Diffords QDM-011° dis.-5 1/2 mis. [/underlined]
1135 434/L. Now at Silverstone (92 Gp.) with a cut tire. Told E.O. Linton who will contact Silverstone.
1213 419, 427 428 a/c Checking with 11 F.C. & 6 Met. – final decision send them home. 428/D landed back. Why aren’t we told these things? Told Ford to send back both 427 crews. K/434 at Base. Not advised.
1230 Balloons Yeovil & Plymouth Balloons at 1500’ and 6500’ – Dusk to Dawn. On B’ham
1340 Landfall Beacon Y.3284 This landfall beacon will be exposed on 045° from 2345-0045hrs.
1830 Off duty S.R. Wyman F/Lt. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1840 Cancelled Pershore, L F Beacon, and balloons.
1820 Oxford K/DF471 Took off from Leeming at 13.21 for Ford but has not been heard from since. 12 Gp. FCLO and 11 Gp FCLO informed. Overdue action taken by Ford. ROC 9 are trying to trace his plots.
[Page break]
2030 Overdue Oxford ROC do not keep records of Oxfords in some groups so find it impossible to trace Oxford on way to Ford. They report an unconfirmed crash in QZ.20 and RAF 9 Gp. Are going to report any facts they can get re this crash.
[Underlined] Monday August 30. 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident. Bd. changed
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt. on duty P. [indecipherable] F/O.
0930 Overdue Oxford 9 Fighter Gp. are trying to get information for us on reported crash in Q.Z. 20.
1005 Overdue Oxford. Leeming advise route of Oxford. K. Base – York – Bedford – Reading – Ford. Sgt. Henry (Pilot) & three maintenance men. Advised R.O.C. 9.
1215. Permission granted by Air I. for 408 Sq. to send Lanc. to East Wreatham with crew to pick-up Halifax.
1220 Passed route to Linton for Oxford going to Banff. Linton – Stirling – Montrose – Banff.
1245 Balloons. Arranged with B.L.O. 12 Gp. To have balloons at following heights & towns.
Billingham. Close hauled 23.30 – 0100 0330 – 0600
Norwich } 1500’ 23.59 - 0430
Gt. Yarmouth }
Lowestoft }
[Page break]
1440. Oxford DF 471 Fighter Command. 9 Gp. report Oxford DF 471 crashed at Three Counties Stone, Dent, Yorks. a/c burnt – 4 killed. Time of crash 1500 on Aug. 29th.
1415 New route passed to Linton for Oxford going to Banff as follows.
Linton – Selkirk – N. Berwick – Earls Ferry – Montrose – Banff.
Advised MLS 12.
1500 Permission granted by Air I. to take Halifax of 434 Sqd. To Middle Wallop with spare parts & crew to pick up Hal. E of 434 Sqd.
1530 Flight of Hal. T of 434 Sqd. to Middle Wallop – cancelled.
1600. Passed following trip to Topcliffe. JS7 - L 5220N – 0505W 1st class at 1540 acknowledged from Hull.
1830 Advised F.C.L.O. 13 Gp. Anson 9753 F/Lt. Harding en route from Wyton to Montrose landed at Linton with engine trouble. Please advise F.C.L.O. if a/c wishes to take off.
Off duty [indecipherable] F/O.
1830 on duty [underlined] SR Wyman F/L. [/underlined]
[Page break]
S.F.C.O. if sufficiently [underlined] important [/underlined] X-C’s Due to unserviceability of a/c and a lag in the passing of x-c routes from Station Navigation Officers to Station F|/C’s, aircraft are taking off on training flights without proper clearance for flights being obtained.
2354. Army Manoeuvres From R.O.C. 9 – Army manoeuvres in our area – Red – Yellow and Green Vereys. Told the inquisitive stations – all those in Group.
2355 Taxying accident [underlined] 434 [/underlined] Squadron a/c marshalled 4 on one side – 5 on other. In the former row 4 ran up on the back of 3. Reason (Pilot) – “The brakes didn’t hold when I revved up.”
[Underlined] 31st August 1943 – Tuesday. [/underlined]
0025 Crashes in York R.O.C. area From R.O.C. (9) – 2 aircraft crashed (collided) in A24 nr Goole. Leaconfields’
- 1 aircraft exploded in mid-air A55 (myth)
- 1 aircraft exploded in mid-air Holme. Holmes’ crew okay
0130 Possible Diversion From C.F.C. – “Have you 2 aerodromes for 5 Group in case of an emergency. Yes! met picture cast iron. Offered 1 station in Topcliffe; one in Linton. Consulted D.F.C.O’s & Controller who said O.K.
0445 432/Z Landed Hardiwick – short of Petrol. Returning as soon as refuelled.
0400/0430 U/428 → This a/c “stooged” between Leeming, Middleton and Croft. Finally landed Scorton.
0510 Possible Diversion F/C 5Gp – we do not require your bases now. Told C.F.C.
0500 Group Diversion 432/L crashed on landing. Diverted a/c to Topcliffe
0640 434/O A/c u/s today shot up with “flak”. Flt Eng lightly wounded. Told W/C Harris via F/C Tholthorpe
[Page break]
0900 off duty SR Wyman F/L. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0949 Lockheed V.I.P. Took off from Topcliffe at 0946 for Hendon ETA 11.46. Passed to 12G Topcliffe phoning him out.
1010 Movements 12 Gp. E212 Air-firing Robin Hd. Bay 10.30-18.00 Hal. Lancs. & Well. Bombing Strensall 11.00-17.30
1030 Permission granted by Air I for Oxford to take skeleton crew down to East Writham to pick up one of 408’s a/c
1110 Permission granted by Air I for a/c of 431 to take crew for 434 a/c now serviceable at Middle Wallop and one at Coltishall.
1200 QDM 211° passed to a/c XQ9/T at 11.42 by Topcliffe H/F D/F Callsign belongs to Elsham; passed to 1 Gp F/C. It is the operational callsign for today of 103 sqdn – but 1 Gp, say Elsham has nothing flying today.
1220 Diversions Requested diversion bases for 45 Hal. & 10 Lancs. (provisional petrol) [deleted] see [/deleted] around Harwell area. Our met. say this will be okay for return tonight.
13.55 Special L/F Beacon will be exposed from 02.15-03.15 true bearing 310°
1345 Com. Flight Oxford requisitioned for S/L Harris to go down to East Wretham (see 10.30 above)
1400 Balloons Requested Newhaven [inserted] Shoreham, [/inserted] Sheffield, Langley & Weybridge at reduced heights from 02.15-04.15
1430 Balloons Newhaven, Weybridge, Shoreham, Langley and London will be at 1500 ft 0215-0415 Sheffield will be at 500ft. from 0215-dawn.
[Page break]
1500 Diversions (Note SFCO) CFC now inform us that 4 Gp. went through direct to 91 Group and got all the best stations for diversion bases without going through CFC. As a result only mediocre stations were available to us. CFC apologised profusely. After much discussion the diversions were allotted as follows:
419/16 Upper Heyford
428/14 Hartford Bridge
427/12 Dunsfold
434/8 Westcott
426/12 Silverstone
Stations informed. Met. are quite happy about these diversion bases.
1600 Diversions (Note SFCO) Phoned 92 Gp. re diversions & find that 4 Gp. have already booked Upper Heyford for 22 of their a/c unknown to CFC. At this late time we now have to find another aerodrome.
1615 Diversions Informed SASO of above entries and he tore a strip off CFC.
1620 Diversion Arranged with CFC for Finmere (92 Gp.) to replace Upper Heyford. Okay with Met. Station informed.
1700 Balloons Billingham will be grounded from 19.30-2100 and from 0315-0515.
1800/1830 New Diversion Bases Met unhappy of probable conditions on ETA at allocated Diversion Bases.
C.F.C. advised – who allot following as available Bury St. Edmunds, Bradwell Bay, West Malling, Hunsden, Hardwick.
[Page break]
Diversion Bases Allocation of Sqdns to new Dvn Bases as follows –
419 Sqn – Bury St. Edmund. 128° 5 1/4 mi
428 Sqn – Bradwell Bay. 005° 5 mi
427 Sqn – West Malling. 028° 2 1/2 mi
428 Sqn – Hardwick. 137° 4 1/2 mi
434 Sqn – Hunsden 168° 5 1/2 mi
Stations advised of rearrangement in Provisional Diversion
1830 On Duty – [signature] F/L.
1915 C.F.C. advised by F/L Miller of Squadron allotment with Nos to the new Prov’n’l Petrol Bases.
1925 F/L Miller off duty –
1935 2000 and 2015 } Particulars covering Provisional Petrol Diversions passed to F.C. 2nd and 4th U.S.A.W. and to F.C.L.O. 11 Group.
2025 M.L.S. 11 Gp. advised that because of reallocation of Provisional Diversion Bases some of the aircraft according to J Forms, after landfall Beachy Hd – may proceed up coast East instead of West (Track) of London in order to take advantage of shortest route to Diversion Bases. – Names of these Diversion Bases Passed.
2030. F.C. 92. Advised that their bases would not be required because of adverse weather expected there on ETA. Stood Down with thanks.
[Page break]
2205 X-Raids airraid message Purple. Stations advised.
Early Returns Numbers of aircraft of 6, 4 and 5 Groups returning – M.L.O. concerned. Uncertain as to X-Raids.
2218 X Raids Now all friendly a/c. Stations advised.
2225 Scorton C.F.C. Acting on advice from SASO and Controller 6. – arranged with C.F.C. and F.C.L.O. 12 for provisional use of Scorton to relieve landing congestion on E.T.A. because of anticipated adverse weather conditions, and shortage of petrol.
2330 4 Group Early Returns S/L Bateson phoned – greatly disturbed with 22 early returns and more expected!
No of Early returns high from 5 and 6 Groups as well.
Further queries on early returns from M.L.O. 12. & C.F.C.
2359 No 2 USAW. Put F.C. No 2 USA Wing into picture ref. 426 early returns F.C.L.O. 11 informed of early returns from squadrons detailed to use provisional Bases in 11 Group.
[Page break]
Wednesday, Sept 1st 1943.
0100 Ident Bd Corrected.
0145/0155 1664 A/C Overdue by an hour.
Weather. 10/10 – 2000-3000’. Slight rain. R.O.C. plots on Halifaxes near Whitby and one near Middleton. Sandra lights requested from Middleton.
0215 Diversion 427 Sqn Decision by Air I in consultation with met.. Leeming and 427 Sqdn cmdr, to divert 427 sqdn definitely to West Malling. Diversion signals sent out [inserted] on group [indecipherable] B’cast [/inserted] at 02.20-02.30.
0220 Ref Def Dvn. F.C.L.O. 11. Advised Diversion to West Malling Definite. Remainder still Provisional.
0245 Ref Dvns C.F.C., No 2 and No 4 US Wings informed on Diversions.
0400 G/419 Stbd Eng u/s. Passed to F.C. Middleton. R.O.C. informed.
0420 419?/Hal. ROC plot Halifax at 4000’ ft in Z85 flying NW into Durham area. Cloud base 3000;.
Middleton F.C. and FCLO 12 advised. Latter requested to render any necessary aid.
0435 419?/Hal see 0400 entry – ROC. plot a/c flying south at 3000 - circling in Z81
[Page break]
Halifax Plot Z.81 passed to F.C.L.O. 12 and F.C. Leeming (nearest which it is)
0448 B/419 Group Freqy – “Petrol Low – Engine Trouble – Proceeding to Middleton” T.O.O. 0434 – F.C. Middleton advised.
0448 G/419 Overhead MSG – 3 Engines.
0510 No 2 USAW. One a/c landed Hardwick.
Hardwick stood down with Thanks.
0515 No 4 USAW. One a/c landed Bury St Edmund. Bury stood down with Thanks.
0520 MAYDAY. F.C.L.O. reported a/c calling “Mayday” near Middleton and asking for Sandra. – Middleton F.C. informed at once.
0525 MAYDAY. MSG. F/C report crew of Mayday a/c Intercom on transmit. Heard them say [deleted] say [/deleted] they saw the Sandras
0532 B/419 Mayday landed Middleton
0600 Diversion Other 10 a/c of 427 sqn diverted definitely to West Malling & landed there safely – one missing.
0600 – see 6 Gp a/c away from base instructed to await instruction to take off on return - based on weather conditions.
0900 Off Duty [signature] F/L
[Page break]
0900 on duty SR Wyman F/L.
0920 a/c at West Malling 419 and 427 a/c at m/n a/d told to take off at about 1000 hrs. Consulted [deleted] stations [/deleted] & met. re. this matter and told Leeming ops that done.
0940 Bombing & Air Firing To MLS. 12 – {Strensall} Bombing (Robin Hood Bay) Air firing. Hals, Lancs. Wells. 1000-1800 hrs.
1040 ↘ Liberator 12 Gp. Lib in 4 and 6 Gp area. Get him down if possible all Bases warned. Contact with R.O.C, 4 Gp & stations could give no helpful “gen”. Not landed in 6 Gp.
1112 ↘ X-C Croft Checked with F/C at m/n station. Told them to see Sqdn. Commander re. weather before sending a/c on X/C. He had taken off and then they checked. Told them to query and call back. How do they get along with Met anyhow?
1125 Group Diversion S/L Kyles Linton – Any place for 2 a/c – Met. say Linton – a/c finally landed O.K at Base. Held R/426 at Hartford Bridge. 4 Gp. ready to help out.
1210 X-C-Croft Sqdn Comm bore out Group contention and recalled a/c on W/T. Making plans for Middleton to take him, otherwise will go to Leeming.
1228 405/ a/c Landed Linton.
1235 [Underlined] Liberator [/underlined] Landed Mildenhall.
1305 [underlined] Diversions [/underlined] Group “bad”, consulted met, who say 3 Gp. only cast iron stations in British Isles. But may get a/c down at 1 and 5 Gp stations. Told S/L Swann Topcliffe & F/C Croft that Feltwell was the best station according to Met. Checking with 3 Gp F/C to confirm.
[Underlined] 3 Gp. [/underlined] OK by them.
[Page break]
1340 1659 a/c [Deleted] A [/deleted] C diverted to Feltwell. Passed “gen” to 3 Gp & C.F.C. A landed at Base.
1664/ a/c landed at Croft.
1630 1659/C landed Feltwell 1449. Told Base Topcliffe.
18.30 off duty SR Wyman F/L. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
Thursday September 2, 1943
0100 Ident. Bd. changed.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty [signature] F/O
0950 427 a/c Arranged to have 427 a/c return from W. Malling.
1000 MLS 12. Passed to MLS 12. Bombing. – Air Firing – Local Ht. Test. by Hal. Lancs. Well. between 0930-2000
1035 Bulls Eye. Topcliffe Base advise. 1659 have 8 a/c for Command Bulls Eye.
1050 Bulls Eye. Ex. Linton – Eastman have no a/c for Bulls Eye.
1051. 1659/C. Ex. Topcliffe. 1659/C landed from Feltwell at 1045.
1105 Bulls. Eye. Ex. Linton – 431 Sqd. have no a/c for Bulls. Eye.
1115. Passed route to Linton for Oxford going to Coltishall. Linton – Spalding – Coltishall.
[Page break]
1135. Diversions Central 2/C. advise Pershore O.K. for provisional petrol diversions base for 12 Wellingtons.
1136. 426/S. Linton advise 426/S landed back from Bury St. Edmunds at 1116.
1200 426/R. Linton advise 426/R landed back from Hartford Bridge at 1159.
1210 Leeming S.B.A. Leeming report S.B.A. Serviceable.
1240. 427/S 427/N Leeming advise 427/S landed from W. Malling at 1230. 427/N landed from W. Malling at 1232.
1300. Balloons and Landfall Beacon. Balloons at Manchester – Crew and Bristol Channel area will be at 500 ft except in the case of hostiles, between the hrs. of 1900-2100 and 2330-0200. Plymouth will be at 6500 ft. and Yeovil at 1500 ft. at the same times, except in case of hostiles.
Landfall beacon No. 2 will be on from 23.00-2359 on bearing of 280°T.
1535. S/L Harris of 408 Sqd. requested permission for F/O Scheafer (R.C.A.F. Historical Soc.) to participate in training flights. Permission granted by A.O.C.
[Page break]
1550 Passed to Skipton information re Pershore – Pundit Q.D.M. 011° 5 1/2 miles Runways & Sandra lights.
1650 Billingham, Hull & Humber balloons at 1500 ft. except between 23.45-0045 when Billingham will be close hauled. Passed to Middleton.
1715 Arranged with F.C.L.O. 12 Gp. to have landfall beacon no. 2 on from 22.30-2359. Passed to stations.
1750 Priority call from F.C.L.O. 9 Gp. re Lancaster. Crossed coast at Rhyl flying at 3000’ on three engines showing broad I.F.F. Last position 8 miles S.E. of Preston flying N.E. over Pennines. Apparently not 6 Gp. a/c.
1830 Off duty – [Signature] F/O.
1830 on duty SR Wyman F/L.
1830/1840 1679/V Lanc “stooging” around Linton. Eastmoor. An object dropped from the a/c according to 12 Gp. Contacted Linton & Eastmoor F/C, was m/n a/c now on R/T. Bomb doors opened
1915 Pundits AS4 requests for Pundits 1, 91, 115 and 140 passed to stations. Time – Dusk to Dawn.
1931 Balloons Billingham close-hauled 2000-2100 hrs. Told Balloon Officer 12 Gp. O.K. by him. In meantime M StG, contacted site.
[Page break]
1950 Diversion Passed “gen” to 91 Gp F/C re. 432 Sqdn.
2118 Lanc/1679 [underlined] DS635 [/underlined] Crashed on aerodrome – flames – Crew believed to be O.K. Told S.A.S.O. & Controller [inserted] GT12 [/inserted]. This a/c was under the captaincy of F/L McNeil was doing visual [inserted] spelled wrong [/inserted] landings. One motor cut & a/c could not get off again. One engine u/s, came in to land, overshot, and landed in field. a/c burnt out.
[Underlined] Friday – 3 September 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board Checked.
0130 Pershore Stood down with thanks via 91 Gp.
Ops all a/c returned.
0250 Pundits Cancelled by A.S.4 told stations.
0254 C/1659 [underlined] W1240 [/underlined] Last Bull’s eye a/c at Group – u/c collapsed. Crew O.K
0332 19 O.T.U./ a/c Landed at Leeming after circling Topcliffe and Skipton. Lossiemouth F/C was advised.
432/ Y&B Landed at Moreton-in-Marsh and Predannack respectively.
0900 off duty SR Wyman F/L. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1000 Movements to MLS Airfiring Robin Hd. Hal, Lancs, & Well. 1000-18.30
Bombing Strensall Hal, Lancs, & Well. 1000-18.00
1000/1030 Crashes 1679 & 1659 crashes reported to Air 1, G.T.I, Eng. and Equip. Officers.
1100 Lossiemouth Wellington Took off from Leeming without being routed by Group. 12 & 13 Gp enquired why we had not notified them of the movement. Leeming say they though [sic] a/c did not need routing.
[Page break]
11.30 Com. Flight Permission given by Air I for 434 to use Oxford to take down 2 ground crew & equip. for 434 a/c at Coltishall.
1300 Topcliffe [underlined] VIP [/underlined] Lockheed Hudson LA628 will be taking off from Topcliffe for Hendon at 13.15. Route: Lindholme Syerston, Hendon. ETA. 14.30. MLS informed.
1340 Topcliffe [underlined] VIP [/underlined] took off at 13.30. MLS informed.
Bullseye Command C48 (stage 3)
Route: Base, Spalding, Douglas, Alscott, Porthcawl, Newark, base.
IR targets will be at Douglas, Alscott, & Newark. Spalding, (starting point) will be marked by 3 searchlights intersecting at 18000 ft.
Time at Spalding 21.15
Height 16000 feet.
Some night fighters mostly around Alscott and South Wales. Also a few searchlights mostly at beginning of route and in South Wales.
There will be about 70 a/c from all groups.
Above gen. passed to 1664, 408 and 429 Sqdns.
1500 LFB #2 at 265° True from 0400-0500
1430 Diversions (weather) Met, say weather in Group will be good enough till dawn – no diversion bases required.
1530 Balloons Sheffield at 500 ft all night.
Shoreham & Newhaven at 1500 ft 2100-21.45 & 22.30-2359
Langley & Weybridge at 1500 ft 2045-21.30 & 22.30-0030
Stations informed.
1545 Diversion Provisional petrol diversion laid on for 426 sqdn.
[Page break]
will be Lissett. Pundit: QDM 110° 3 miles (Sheffield’s pundit)
1645 Anson from West Freugh landed at Leeming – couldn’t contact his base by W/T. Will be taking off for West Freugh about 1700 hrs. West Freugh informed by phone.
1800 432/B will be returning tomorrow first thing from Predannack. Told them to check weather first.
1800 Diversions From CFC: how many a/c can we take tonight in our Group? After consulting Controller we gave them following: Middleton
Croft
Leeming
Skipton
Dalton
Linton
Eastmoor
Tholthorpe
1830 On Duty – [Signature] F/L
1900 Ref Dvns Following offer passed to and approved by C.F.C.
Middleton, 20. a/c.
Croft. 20. a/c.
Leeming. 20. a/c.
Topcliffe 20. a/c.
Linton 15. a/c 20 Emgy only
Eastmoor 15. a/c 20 Emgy only,
Total [underlined] 110 [/underlined] a/c 120 Emgy only
1905 Pundits AS4’s request for 115, 1, 140, and 91 passed to Stations. – added 155 at 1955 hrs.
[Page break]
21.15 Prov’nl Diversions Ex. C.F.C. – following 6 Group Stns allocated to 5 Group.
Middleton – 20 a/c
Croft – 20 a/c
Leeming – 20 a/c
Topcliffe – 20 a/c.
22:00 Ref Prov’nl Dv’ns Ex. 5 Group. F.C. Nothing definite as yet – still studying weather problem not worried over petrol.
22:15 6 GP Met. Northern bases expected to be ok up to 0600 hrs when at least 50% of all 6 Gp bases will likely to have mist.
Met happy over reception of provisional Allocation – Controllers advised.
0001 Saturday Sept 4th ‘43
[Underlined] 0120 [/underlined] Ref Prov’nl Dvns Ex. F.C. 1 Gp. – C.F.C. advised them they might use Linton and Eastmoor as provisional bases for 20 a/c each!
6 Group met happy over Eastmoor but unable to guarantee Linton beyond 0500 hrs. – F.C. I advised.
0245 Diversion Definite Ex F.C.5. Definite Diversion
49 Sqn, 12 Lancs to Middleton
9 Sqn, 13 Lancs to Leeming.
[Page break]
0300/0330 Ref Def. Dvn. -Ex F.C. 1 Gp. [Deleted] 12 [/deleted] Diversion semi definite for 19 Lancs of 12 Sqn. to Linton and Eastmoor.
-Ex F.C. 5 additional definite
Diversions from
57 Sqdn. 13 Lancs to Topcliffe
619 Sqdn. Lancs to Croft.
-Ok by 6 Gp met providing arrival in this area is before 0445-0500., as no particular base remains guaranteed free from mist after 0500 hrs.
- Ok by 5 & 6 Gp Controllers.
0400 – 5 Group Lancs already in 6 Group area.
1 Group Lancs to be taken to their Base (Wickenby)
0530 38 Lancs 5 Gp landed at Stns in 6 Gp. – Expn of 5 Gp thanks expressed to all concerned.
0630 [Underlined] ROC [/underlined] Lanc ROC plot Lanc flying in wide circle Linton area. Linton advised.
0635 Lancs now near Topcliffe – F.C. Topcliffe & Leeming advised – Middleton informed.
0640 Lanc passed over Leeming at 3000 ft flying North.
0645/0650 Lanc North of Croft at 4000’ – Passed to F.C.L.O. 12.
[Page break]
0830 Rep S/49 Ex M.L.O. 12. This a/c ditched last night off Tynemouth. All [deleted] at [/deleted] crew were rescued (alive) Later three of the crew died.
- MLO 12 advising 5 Group.
0835 Return of 5 Gp a/c. Ex 5 Gp. “O.K. for anyone to return by 0900 hours”. F,C, Stations advised.
0855 9 Sqn 8 a/c a/b for base. – passed to F.C. 5.
0900 Off Duty [Signature] F/L
0900 on duty SR Wyman F/L.
0935 Bombing Air Firing Halifax, Lancaster and Wellington a/c will be Bombing Strensall and Air Firing Robin Hood Bay 1000 to 2000 hrs. Normal Height.
1150 E/434 Air I refuses permission to 434/E to go to Pocklington to pick up radiator after an A/F detail. Told Linton.
1350 LFB #2 on a bearing of 280° from 2345 to 0045 hours. Confirmed with Ops. 12 Gp.
1521 [Underlined] NOTE [/underlined] On MONDAY A/M. HAVE S.D. 300 changed. New one in Ops Room safe.
1539 T. Moth Air I refuses permission for a Sergeant Palmer at 1664 C.U. to take the m/n a/c to Wellesbourne – Mountford to collect personal equipment.
[Page break]
1600 Prov. Weather Diversion Base From C.F.C. OK for Swanton Morley. 9 Wels. 0015-0045.
1615 Swanton Morley I Drem – Contact – S.B.A. – H.F. D/F.
Pundit QDM. 305 dis 3. F/C 2 to be advised.
Passed to Skipton F/C.
1720 Diversion Int Group 3 U.S. Bomber Wing want to send 4 Marauders to M. St. G. between 1900 and 2000 hrs. Story is – these a/c have been on an A.S.R. “do” and not being used to night landings want to get down somewhere. O.K. by Middleton & Controller + Air I
1740 Re above a/c did not take off; because A.S.R. search not required. Told Middleton and Controller + Air I
1808 Pundits A.S.4’s requests for Pundits 1, 91, 115 and 140 passed to stations concerned.
1830 off duty SR Wyman F/L. D.H. Miller F/Lt. on duty.
20.55 QDM 7LR/N on a/c from Finningley given but a/c could not answer challenge, saying he had wrong card. Passed to 93 Gp. who say they have N/7LR flying.
21.45 Diversions Met. say base will have good weather on return with good vis. and wind gusty at 15-20 mph. On controller’s instructions from Swanton Morley stood down with thanks.
Sunday September 5, 1943
0030 Lights on sea U/432 = 5414N 0234E 2044 hrs. 2500 ft. white lights believed from sea level flashing dots
0100 Ident. Bd. changed.
[Page break]
0050 Lights on sea W/432 – 5408N 0050E 19.46 2000 ft. flashing reddish lights on sea level about 5 miles off starboard beam. Also 5419N 0319E 20.22 2000 ft. White light flashing irregularly on sea level about 8 miles off port bow. K/432 – 5416N 0255E 2019 hrs. 2500 ft, Appeared to be a flame float about 1 mile off starboard beam.
0100 Lights on sea passed to F.C. 12 Gp.
0105 Lights on sea V/432 – [deleted] 5253 [/deleted] 5352N 0030E – 2325 hrs 2000’. Seen on starboard beam, white light flashing irregularly and up to eleven white lights surrounding it. Passed to 12 Gp.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0900 On duty [Signature] F/O.
0930 MILS 12. Passed to M.L.S. 12 Air Sea Firing (Whitby) Bombing (Strensall) and local ht, tests. Hals. Wells. And Lancs.
1045. Diversion Bases. Requested diversion bases from Central Flying Control.
1230 Diversion Bases. Received diversion bases from Central Flying Control. Harwell – Middle Wallop – Boscombe Down – Colerne.
1435 Diversion Bases. Passed information re diversion bases to stations.
1440 Diversion Bases. Confirmed diversion bases with Central Flying Control as follows.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Definite [/underlined]
Harwell – 16 a/c of 428 Sqd
M. Wallop – 14 a/c of 419 Sqd
Boscombe D. – 12/ a/c of 427 Sqd.
Colerne – 10 a/c of 434 5 a/c of 426.
[Underlined] Provisional [/underlined] [Deleted] 9 a/c [/deleted]
Colerne – 9 a/c of 432 Sqd.
1455 Diversion Bases On advice of Air I. diversion bases now become provisional instead of definite. Advised – Central Flying Control.
1600 Balloons Arranged to have balloons flying at following hts. and times
Billingham at 500 ft. 1830-1930
0200-0400 [deleted] 0310-0510 [/deleted]
Langley & } at 1500 ft. 1930-0500
Weybridge }
Yeovil at 1500 ft 22.40-0040
Bristol Channel } at 500 ft. 2015-2215
Area }
Except in the case of enemy activity.
Landmark Beacon no. 18 on from 2330-0030 on bearing 045° T.
1800. Amended note re balloons.
Bristol, Whitechurch & Weston will be controlled & fly at 500 ft. between 2359 + 0100 and between 0200 + 0300
Special landfall beacon at Beachy Hd. will be vertical at 10000 ft between 2100-2200 and on a bearing 350° T between 0100-0200. Passed to stations.
[Page break]
1830 Flying Control 4 Gp. advise report reached them from Rufforth via Helmsby Police that a Lancaster crashed at Rudland Moor at 1500 hrs. Position is 1 1/2 miles west of Low Mill Tarndale. Sheet 22 135150. 8 crew all killed.
Linton have one Lanc outstanding which took off at 1457 for Cambridge. This movement was not passed to Group although a route (Base – Peterboro – Cambridge – Peterboro – Base) was authorised. Helmsby Police cannot give us a/c number but will let us know further particulars. [Inserted] This a/c now one from Rufforth our Lanc is O.K. [/inserted]
1830 off duty [Signature] F/O on duty SR Wyman F/L
1950 [Underlined] Re Crash [/underlined] Topcliffe told to take action re crash entry 1830 hrs.
2025 [Underlined] Re Crash [/underlined] S/L Swann called to say he had sent all fire-tenders out to crash. Had previously told watch-keeper to collect bodies. entry 1950. Army on Guard.
2000 N/F passed MLS 12, ROC & C/S to Stns.
2010/15 Diversions Passed “Gen” to [deleted] stations [/deleted] Groups concerned.
2155 Pundits Statins notified Pundits required by AS4. Dusk to Dawn.
[Page break]
2325 FOR G.F.C.O. Taxi Accident 419/A 428/U Due to extensive work on perimeter track, the a/c at M. St. G. have been forced to marshal on one of the runways which cuts the long one. This necessitates the a/c being marshalled in 2 lines. In this incident to night the a/c 428/U scraped the wing tip of 419/A when the 428 line was moving up for take-off. Says F/L Tame “Finger trouble.”
[Underlined] MONDAY – 6 SEPT. 1943. [/underlined]
0225 427/X 5HT [underlined] 467 [/underlined] On H/F D/F Abingdon - ”Petrol low.” Being homed and will land. Told station.
0215 Re crash S/L Swann says – All bodies collected. Due to road conditions unable to bring them in. 2 men & ambulance waiting until first light when “bods” will be brought to Topcliffe.
0230 Re 0225 A/c of 467 Sqdn. not 427. Told Leeming
0445 Anson S1 m/n a/c landed Leeming. W/T U/S. Petrol low. Told 9 Group F/C who will advise Jurby. The a/c’s base.
0500 Aircraft on Ops. 3 a/c missing from Operations.
0900 off duty SR Wyman F/L. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0905 Movements MLS – E207 Hal. Well. & Lancs. airfiring Robin Hd. 0930-18.30
Hal. Well. & Lancs. bombing Strensall 1000-1800
1035 434/W Market HRB. (92 Gp PCO) Crew want to know if they can return to base – a/c has coolant leak. Asked base Linton to refer to sqdn. who say okay but crew must watch temp of eng. & come back on 3 engines if necessary.
[Page break]
1055 Diversions CFC On instructions from Air I, requested the following airfields as definite diversion bases for 48 Hal and 5 Lancs: Dunsfold, Tangmere, Ford & Hartford Bridge. They will phone back later. Met. say okay.
1145 Diversions From CFC: the following diversion A/D’s allotted to us:
Tangmere 16/419
Dunsfold 14/428
West Malling 10/427
Ford 8/434 & 5/426.
All okay by Met.
1250 Air to Air firing 12 Gp. Controller refused permission for 431 a/c to do air to air firing over base. Told base Linton.
1515 Balloons & L F Beacon All 11 Gp. balloons will fly at 1500 ft. from 19.30-05.30 S.O.R. except Dover which will be at 2500 ft. Special land fall beacon will be exposed from Selsey Bill from 0250-035 nearing of true north.
1500 434/W Permission given by SASO for 434/V to go down to Market Harborough with spare parts & ground crew to repair coolant leak.
1650 Billingham balloons will be grounded from 18.40 till 2000.
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1830 On Duty [Signature] F/L
2015 FCLO Informed F.L.C.O.M. that 48 Hal and 5 Lancs airborne [deleted] on [/deleted] Confirmed with F.C.L.O. 11 that Diversion of these
[Page break]
aircraft to Tangmere, Ford, Dunsfold and West Malling is Definite. F.C.L.O. 11 already happily in the picture
2145 Enemy Intruder Warning Ex. Southdown – German Intruder activity expected on large scale over this country tonight particularly at time of return of our Bomber aircraft. It was suggested by S’one that a Broadcast be sent to operational aircraft in flight, approx. one hour before E.T.A., warning them of Intruders and advising Nav Lights be doused.
2150 Stations and all concerned advised of Intruder [deleted] s [/deleted] message.
2215 Aid to others S.A.S.O. advised that flying Control – Stations, be [deleted] advised [/deleted] warned to be prepared to render immediate aid to any a/c sent this way to avoid Enemy action.
2225 G/434 M.L.S. 12 advised that G/434 was sent to Jettison. Should be x-ing coast at Flamborough
[Page break]
23:45 Ref – Recall X-Country Base Linton and Croft advised by AIR One to recall their Cross Countries in order to avoid any Intruders on E.T.A.
2330/2345 Dvn Bases Ex C.F.C. – A feeler – desirous of substituting Diversion Bases farther inland – S.A.S.O. discussed case with C.F.C. warning that if change were necessary we were to have sound bases possibly in Southern area 91 Gp – and that [inserted] names of [/inserted] such bases must be carried on our flimsies.
0001 Tuesday. Sept 7th 1943.
0025 Prov’n’l Substitute Bases (in event of Heavy E.A. on South Coast) Ex C.F.C. Provisional Substitution offer as follows
Harwell,
Stanton Harcourt
Westcott, Tring –
Boscombe Down and Hurn.
- SASO and Air I consider that should C.F.C. and No 11 Group in their discretion consider rediversion necessary they may do so as follows:
419 Sqn to Harwell.
[Page break]
428 Sqn Boscombe Down
427 Sqn Westcott.
426 and 434 Sqn- Wing.
* 0040/0050 Substn Dvn. Provisional particulars passed to F.C. 91, 92 & FCL 10
* 0035 E/427. Emergency fix and message (stating port Engine u/s and landing at West Malling) passed to F.C.L.O. 11.
0100 E/427 Ex F.C.L.O. 11. E/427 landed safely at West Malling. – Leeming advised.
0115 Enemy Activity Ex S’Dn Int → 6 Gp sent – Intruders already over Kent and East Anglia area.
0137 FCLO 11 Advised of early returns
0200 R/427 Early returns – 1st Class fix position passed to F.C.L.O. 11 (a/c may land W. Malling) – Leeming informed.
0235 Ref W Malling Ex. F.C.L.O. 11. Weather at West Malling fogging up - Bomber Stream crossing French coast and making land fall Eng. Coast farther East than laid on because of heavier West winds. – [Inserted] F C L O 11 [/inserted] Suggests remaining 6/427
[Page break]
be diverted to Manston whose weather is o.k. (11 & 6 Gp met). Discussion with Controller 6. F.C.L.O. 11 and C.F.C. Manston decided upon.
0250 Leeming advised.
0320 Enemy Activity First Host 6 plot on Boards. – N.B. Jerry “petered out” in this area.
0429 R/428 Emergency Bearing of 148° Southampton passed to F.C.L.O. 11. Assistance requested
0430/0503 R/428 The emergency bearing of 148° passed to F.C.L.O. 11. Tied up with plot on aircraft wandering uncertainly just off the French Coast Since the aircraft was apparently lost, it was suggested a fighter be sent to lead him in. At 04:33 R/428 obtained an acknowledged 1st class fix on Southampton which was passed at once to F.C.L.O. 11, and was found to tie up with the slot of the wandering aircraft and identify him as S.O.S. R/428.
A fighter was dispatched at once to lead him in
[Page break]
R/428. The aircraft continued to obtain a number of 1st Class fixes all of which were acknowledged by the a/c and passed at once to the F.C.L.O. 11, who was making every effort to direct the aircraft to FORD. At 04:41 R/428 sent Ditching Signal from 7000 ft. – but due to the prompt aid rendered by the F.C.L.O. the aircraft was able to maintain a direct track to the Eng. Coast and landed safely at FORD. – 0456.
- All concerned were kept informed.
- Appreciation expressed to F.C.L.O. 11.
0600 Return of a/c away. Ex Duty forecaster 6 – o.k. for any 6 Gp a/c away to return directly. F.C.L.O. informed. (427 about to take off from Manston)
0700 Ex. Manston. 427/A. Airborne for Leeming at 0656. Leeming advised.
0730 Ex. Manston – 427/D airborne for Leeming at 0733. Leeming advised.
[Page break]
0840 41 a/c landed away Advised Control 2.C. Following diversion ‘dromes were used last night. Tangmere 15 a/c. Ford 8 a/c. Manston 5 a/c. West Malling 3 a/c. Dunsfold 10 a/c.
0900 off duty L.A. JUSTASON F/L: on duty SR Wyman F/L
[Underlined] N.B. DFCO’s [/underlined] – Because Liaison officers of Nos 9, 10, 11 and 12 Groups have confirmed by phone S.A.S.O. 6’s request that [deleted] it [/deleted] Balloon Information in answer to required heights and times reach this HQ by 1600 hours: thus ensuring this information be on hand in time for Briefings.
Air Firing Hals. Lancs. Bomb. Strenall. AIF Whitby. 0930-1900
Bombing Normal Ht. Ref: E233. – MLS 12 Gp.
1115 Oxford to Gransden S.A.S.O. (W.C. Weir) gives permission for F/L Cook in an Oxford to Gransden Lodge.
1135 Reservation of Oxford Permission to use Oxford for a pilot to be chosen by Base Commander Linton to-morrow. Linton – to someplace. Told Linton Base (DWK)
1325 408/F DS.732 Crashed at 1300 hrs. Crash action taken by Linton. Told Controller; 4 Gp. F/C; Posn VE9980 – S/E| of aerodrome. Also Air I - GTI.1 – Equip Officer. P4 – Eng Off. Air I to tell S.A.S.O.
a/c caught fire – R/G – Sgt. Ogsdon killed – remainder O.K.
[Page break]
[Underlined] N.B. D.F.C.O’s [/underlined] Note and fill in form in back of this log book at the end of the NIGHT WATCH. Not clear but you know what I mean.
1540 TRANSMITTER on R/T. a/c heard on Tholthorpe R/T – Pancaked at 1528? R/T on transmit – Discussion included W/T frequencies new R/T set; bomb sight and weather.
Contacted stations re. above & notified Sig Security Officer. Also 4 Group F/C.
1610. Bomb on Leeming Q Ops. Leeming report an a/c will drop a bomb on their Q site (Sheet #21 Ref.803060) from Ht of 500’ at 1645 hrs this p.m. Told R.O.C. York.
Re entry 1540 M. St. G. & Leeming says “Our a/c not guilty.”
1830 Of
1830 Off duty S.R. Wyman [deleted] D.H. Miller [/deleted] F/Lt. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt
[Underlined] Wednesday Sept. 8, 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Bd. changed
0410 X-countries all back to Croft.
0340 93 Group enquired about a missing a/c – have either Middleton or Topcliffe heard anything on their D/F. Middleton reported that they had a 7LQ/N [deleted] w [/deleted] up on D/F after midnight but this was not 93 Gps. a/c: Topcliffe report nothing.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0900 On duty [Signature] F/O.
0930 Permissions granted by S.A.S.O. for W/C Swetman to go to Prestwick in Lanc, and for W/C Clayton to
[Page break]
take Air/M. Edwards to Hendon. F.C.L.O. 11 Advised re Hendon.
1130 Requested 4 prov. weather diversion bases in N part of East Anglia.
1230 Central Flying Control have allotted as prov. diversion bases Coltishall – Dorking – Swanton Morley [deleted] Hardwick [/deleted] – Shipdam.
1240 427/R landed from W. Malling at 1148.
1300 Langley & Weybridge Balloons Arranged with 11 Gp Langley & Weybridge balloons will fly at 1500 ft. from 1930-2359
Beachy Hd, L.F.B. Landfall Beacon at Beachy Hd – will be on a bearing of 310° T. from 2230-2330. Passed to Skipton.
On duty P/O Spence.
1435 Flamborough L.F.B. #2 Requested of F.C.L.O. 12 - LFB. 2 at 280°T from 0345-0445 hrs.
1430 Billingham Balloons Billingham Balloons – B.L.O. 12 advise will be close hauled 2100-2215 hrs + 0400-0600 hrs.
1500 Harwich Balloons Overriding Control 2230 to 0100 hrs requested & confirmed by B.L.O. #11.
1500 LFB. Clacton on Sea. Special Beacon on 328°T from 2300-2359. Requested of & confirmed by FCLO. #11.
1500 L.FB #2 F.C.L.O. 12 – confirmed entry 1435 hrs.
[Page break]
1500 Beachy Hd. L.F.B. Cancelled request for Beacon at Beachy Head as per entry 1300. – balloons retained.
1615 Weather Div. Bases. Stations advised of provisional diversion bases in case of poor weather as follows
419 } Swanton Morley
428 } Middleton – Shipham
427 Leeming – Docking
426 Linton – Coltishall
434 Tholthorpe – Coltishall
1730. Div. for Other Grs. Offered C.F.C. to take care of Lancs. from No 5 Gr. up to 20 a/c per station at Middleton, Leeming & Topcliffe in case diversion was necessary, because of our own main operations.
1745 Div. for Other Grs. C.F.C. advise diversion bases not required.
1750 AC/M [Deleted] EDWARDS W/C CLAYTON. [/deleted] Joubert Oxford. Advised R.O.C. & F.C.L.O. 12 Gr of departure from Topcliffe at 1726 hrs for Heston via Doncaster + Oakham; to arrive at 1900 hrs. On duty Wyman F/L
1925/1940 Passing N/F. Gen passed to MLS 12 Gp. R.O.C. York 9 and 10., 4 main stns in Group.
1900. Pundits A.S.4. requested Pundits 155, 115, 1, 140, 91 Dusk to dawn. Stations informed.
1915 AC/M Joubert Landed Heston 1912. Told R.O.C. & P/O Spence.
2015 LFB #2 Cancelled with 12 Gp.
[Page break]
2240 434/A. Returning from X-C landed overshot u/c collapsed.
2245 Bombing Strensall Much ground mist Strensall Bombing Range 428/U and 1664 a/c are not to try & Bomb if target is obscured.
Advised by M. StG. To tell them BAR when they called for Bombing permission. Done.
9th September 1943. THURSDAY
0112 Ops All a/c returned.
0200 Checked Ident Board.
0230 1 Gp & 4 Gp Diversions m/n groups put out feelers for small arrangements but after 1 1/2 hrs. managed to put their x-c aircraft down om their own groups.
0900 off duty SR Wyman F/L On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1025 – 1040 Halifax ROC report Hal. Plotted between Croft & Middleton (sound plots) All stations “red”. Contacted Middleton who say they had “Esell B” on R/T. They were expecting Hal. from Gravely. Told Middleton to send him to Ouston or Acklington if they can’t land him (weather at Middleton 500 yds. vis,) 8 Gp. F/C say it is Graveley’s a/c and it took off from Dumfries. Crew did not contact Middleton or us before taking off.
1100 Diversions (Provisional) Arranged with CFC for following diversion bases for 52 of our a/c after consultation with met: Manston – 428/15
West Malling – 419/15
Bradwell – 427/10
Tangmere – 434/7 & 426/5
[Page break]
1110 Halifax (see 10.25 above) landed at Middleton in 500 yds. vis. after circling for about half an hour. Has now taken off again for Gravely.
1115 Movements E65 Air firing Robin Hd. Bay & 5 miles off Scarboro 11.45-18.30 Bombing Strensall 12.30-18.00.
1215 408 a/c to Baginton Permission given to this a/c to land at Baginton by SASO. Taking test pilot down and doing check on way down. Test pilot knows aerodrome. Contacted Baginton who say okay – 1 runway 1 1/4 miles long, Lancasters use a/d all the time. Movement passed to 12 Gp.
1445 Balloons Yarmouth & Lowestoft and all 11 Gp. barrages will be controlled at 1500ft from 2300 hrs till 0630 hrs. except [inserted] Dover [/inserted] which will be at 2500 ft. All SOR.
LFB #2 will be at 280° True 0440-0540.
LFB Beachy will be at 025° True 0350-0450
Passed to stations.
1640 Diversion Met now say Tangmere are expecting rain tonight. Controller instructs that another a/d should be obtained to replace it. CFC give us [deleted] Hardwick [/deleted] Lakenheath Met , agree. Gen. passed to Linton.
1700 Route changed. Cancelled L F Beacon #2 & LF Beacon at Beachy
L F Beacon Special LFB at [deleted] Bea [/deleted] Orfordness will be at bearing of 305°T from 04.30-05.30.
1730 Diversions (definite) Weather at bases will not be good so stations have been instructed that a/c will definitely go to diversion aerodromes unless they receive a signal to return to base. Diversion Groups informed.
[Page break]
1830 On duty P/O Spence – off. F/L Miller.
1845 Pundits #1, 91, 115, & 140 – Dusk to dawn – A.S.H.
Stations advised.
1900. American Fortresses M.S.G. C.F.C. advised several Fortresses would be in the vicinity of our Group between 1600 & 1800 hrs on 10-9-43. and request was made that M.S.G. be on the watch for them to render assistance if required. Passed to M.S.G.
1935 408 a/c from Baginton 12 Gp passed from 9Gr. – 408/S left Baginton 1900 hrs. to return to base. (Arrived at B. 1305hrs) Landed at 1940
2115 Div. Bases. Balloons L.F.B. Advised all concerned not required.
2200 3 Gp a/c. Message M.S.G. F.C.O. requested message – [deleted] “OTR [/deleted] “99RN (return to base“ be passed to their a/c – 07R (L) on M.S.G. frequency. Advised M.S.G.
2207 do. 3 Gp advise message passed on their own frequency. Informed M.S.G.
2255. Croft Prang. 1664/B. pranged on aerodrome 30 yds from S.E. N.W. R/W clear of flare path. Crew OK. Engine cut out on take-off; a/c made low circuit but could not get back in position to land on R/W.
[Underlined] 10TH SEPTEMBER, 1943 [/underlined]
0020 Pundits A.S.4 request cancelled.
[Page break]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0805 Movement Arranged with M.L.S. 12 for Bombing at Strensall & Air-Sea Firing at R.H.B. & Whitby for Hals. Wells + Lancs. from 0900 to 1800 hrs. Reference E-8.
0900 off duty L.A. Justanson F/Lt on duty SR Wyman F/L
[Boxed] NB D.F.C.O’s [/boxed] In future Convoy Signals will be passed to N.C.O i/c Intruder Board, who will pass to the Stations.
1018 12 Gp M.L.O. – Approves Special Route for Linton a/c Told Base Linton.
1230 FAIRY FULMAR THORNABY – YORK – LANDED LINTON – TOLD 12 F.C. also YORK.
1830 Off Duty S.R. Wyman F/Lt On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
[Underlined] Saturday Sept 11. 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident. Bd changed.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On Duty H.L. Spence P/O.
1830 off duty H.L Spence P/O. on duty SR Wyman F/L
1923 Pundits AS4 request for Pundit 1, 91, 115, 140 Dusk – Dawn. Passed to Stations.
[Page break]
1910 427/W Cypher message received by Ops. Room. M/n a/c leaving Gibraltar 2130. E.T.A. Leeming 0630 hrs 12/9/43. Contacted 6 Gp Met, Leeming F/C and 44 Gp. No guaranteed bases in British Isles. Advised that he stay. 44 Gp F/C he will without doubt.
[Underlined] - SUNDAY – 12 SEPT. 1943 - [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board Corrected.
0900 Off duty [Deleted] D.H. M [/deleted] S.R. Wyman F/Lt. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
DFCO’s Note New 12 Gp. Boundaries: coast south of Southwold, to Buckingham, to Derby, to QZ45, to QT55, to QU57. The northern part of the old 13 Gp. is now part of 14 Gp.
1100 Convoys 10 hr. positions passed to stations by Tables.
1330 Movements E208 Hal. Lancs. & Well. air firing Robin Hd, 1400-1800 Hal, Lancs. & Well. bombing Strensall 1400-1800
1600-1620 Weather Met. are not happy about x-countries of 1659, and 1664 over west coast and up overland from Strumble. Weather between here & Strumble is cloud at 500 ft. and thunder showers. Base conditions will be cloud base 1000-1500 ft. vis. 2000-3000 yds. at worst. No point in recalling 1659 as they are nearly to Strumble. Croft expecting 2 a/c back within half an hour.
[Deleted] 162 [/deleted] Middleton has now gone “red” & Croft may deteriorate so advised them to send a/c to Topcliffe on advice by Met.
1630 Weather Met. now say none of our bases will be very good on ETA of 1659 x-countries at 18.15 due to unexpected deterioration in weather.
[Page break]
However there should be two or three stations that can land them. Silloth will have good weather conditions at that time in case of possible diversions. Advised Base Control, Topcliffe of above. They say flight commanders seem quite happy about it.
1640 Croft a/c have all been sent messages to return and land at Topcliffe. Topcliffe given particulars. Topcliffe have sent messages to their a/c to return to base without bombing at Strensall.
1630 405/R landed Croft 16.07. Was heading for Middleton but couldn’t land due to weather. One engine fell out at position 5518N 0139W (accurate within a mile) 8 Gp informed.
1730 X-Countries Topcliffe weather still workable and have some a/c on R/T. They now tell us they have 4 a/c out on local
1745 X-Countries Linton standing by to receive any overflow from Topcliffe – weather not as good but workable. Topcliffe sending up mortars & rockets. Pilots of a/c on board show them to be finding it very difficult to determine their positions. Topcliffe’s D/F giving dozens of QDMs and could not send out [deleted] diversions [/deleted] recall messages due to congestion at first. Leeming gave QGH’s to two a/c. One [inserted] (E/1659) a/c couldn’t hear Leeming’s beam & was given directions by TR9. A/c could not receive on W/T. A/c landed eventually at Leeming. C/1659 broke cloud on Leeming’s beam and was sent to Topcliffe where it landed. E/1664 was given QGH at Leeming, broke cloud
[Page break]
was sent down to Topcliffe where it eventually landed. One a/c of 1659 was sent to Linton to break cloud but landed direct at Linton. 9 & 12 FCLO both were requested to watch for [inserted] [deleted] 5 a/c of [/deleted] [/inserted] 1664’s 5 x-countries coming in over west coast. Another a/c stooged up towards Middlesborough. 12 Gp [inserted] were [/inserted] contacted who said balloons were on ground. A/c then went out [underlined] to see [/underlined] ? about 40 miles. 12 Gp said they could not send a fighter out as all their bases were down to 500 ft cloud base. This a/c finally turned towards coast, headed for Topcliffe & eventually landed there at 1900 G/1659 came up on Topcliffe’s W/|T “45 min. petrol left.” Bearing 165°. 5 min. later a/c came up on Leeming’s W/T “Petrol low” It eventually landed Leeming [deleted] at [/deleted] after having been given a QGH. The last a/c up, H/1664 came up on Middleton’s D/F, and given QDM of 091° and told to go to Topcliffe. A/c went to Croft and finally made a very poor landing in bad conditions. Croft could not contact him on R/T.
All a/c finally down at 19.30. In all there were 21 a/c of our Group a/b when the weather suddenly closed in. Topcliffe & Leeming both put up a good show.
1820. P.F.F. #405 Sqn. R- Passed following message to P.F.F. Flying Control for transmission to Engr. 405 Sqn; from Croft Engr. Officer:- “Stbd. Inner Engine of 405/R dropped out in flight over Newcastle. We are trying to locate the Engine. Suggest that if possible 405 Sqn Engr
[Page break]
come up to see the a/c. Repair will be new power plant required. Plus certain accessories. We have requested A.I.B’s and are making further examinations of the power plant to determine whether or not additional spares will be required. Will you let us know when men, etc., will be available?
1830 Off duty F/L D.H. Miller
On duty P/O H.L. Spence.
[Underlined] MONDAY – 13th SEPTEMBER 1943 [/underlined]
0200 Ident. Bd. CHECKED.
0900 OFF DUTY [P/O Spence] ON DUTY S R Wyman F/L.
1045 [Underlined] BARRAGE BALLOON [/underlined] FROM BASE TOPCLIFFE – BARRAGE BALLOON AT THIRLBY (SHEET 22-975045) N/W THIRSK – THIRSK POLICE WILL CONDUCT A PARTY THERE. TOLD B.L.O. 12 Gp. THIRSK 2222
1309 [Underlined] OXFORD [/underlined] Left Middleton 1309 for Little Rissington. G/C Kelly. Duration of flight – 1 3/4 hrs. F.C.L.O. 12 say he will be plotted all the way down. [Underlined] Returned 1346. [/underlined] Told Little Rissington F/C. & 12 Gp. F/C.
1400 A/R SIREN [Underlined] TESTED. [/underlined]
1830 Off duty SR Wyman F/L. On duty D,H. Miller F/Lt.
1930 Oxford V3530 Landed at Eastmoor from Welbourne with 3 air ministry officials aboard. Came up from Hendon intending to go to Elvington. Will take off for Elvington in morning. Elvington informed.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Tuesday Sept 13. 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Bd. changed.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty HR Spence P/O.
0950 Air-Sea & Bombing Arranged with M.L.S. 12 for Air to Sea Firing at R.H.B. & Whitby, & Bombing at Strensall, for Wells, Hals & Lancs. 1000 hrs. to 1800 hrs. Ref. E230.
0930 427/W. [Deleted] West Malling [/deleted] Boscombe Down On advice from Leeming instructed F/C at [deleted] West Malling [/deleted] Boscombe Down that crew of 427/W were to return to Leeming - before 1200 hrs.
427/E West Malling West Malling advise a/c cannot return this a.m. – conditions unfavourable for take-off. Will contact Leeming later.
1100 Oxford V3530. A/c with 3 Air Ministry officials left Eastmoor 1053 for Elvington. Advised M.L.S. 12.
1105. A.V.M. Phoenix-Linton – M.S.G. Advised M.S.G. /C took off 1105. Should arrive there 1200 hrs.
M.S.G. a/c at Topcliffe Topcliffe advise these a/c have all taken off. (1004-1020 hrs) for return to M.S.G. Latter informed by Topcliffe.
1145. 427/W. F/C at Boscombe Down advises 427/W left at 1125. Leeming informed 1150 hrs.
[Page break]
1145 A.V.M. Movement. Arrived M.S.G. at 1130 hrs.
1210 427/E Advised West Malling not to permit a/c to take off until instructed by Leeming.
1215 A.V.M. & C in C. Informed Linton A.V.M. would arrive form M.S.G. to meet the C in C there at 1530.
1450 do. Linton advise A.V.M. arrived from M.S.G.
1500 428/B. Returned from Dunsfold to M.S.G.
EB-207 Cont. Equip. & Engr. Officers informed.
427/W. Returned from Boscombe Down to Leeming
L.K. 637
434/W DK. 250 Returned form Market Harborough. All concerned advised.
1800. Hal, from Ringway. Informed Linton new a/c for Tholthorpe, which previously landed at Marston Moor had now landed at Topcliffe & due to weather would stay there overnight.
On duty SR Wyman F/L
2000 Pundits AS4 request for Pundits 1, 91, 115 and 140 to the stations
2005 Night Flying Passed to Bases & Controlling stations – MLS 12 Gp & ROC.
2145 Night Flying Everything scrubbed – above advised.
[Underlined] – 15th SEPT. – WED. 1943 – [/underlined]
Checked Ident. Board
[Underlined] P.T.O. [/underlined]
[Page break]
0548 427/W Fix - 49° 44’N – 0705W – [indecipherable] at 0445 hrs. Passed by OAC F/C who “is very busy.” Forwarded to Leeming & warned their D/F. Plotted on wall map. This fix was acknowledged 1st there.
0900 Off duty S.R. Wyman F/Lt. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0900 427/W 12 Gp. & 10 Gp. FCLO advised re this a/c and fix, also OAC. 10 Gp. say they had several RDF slots at the time of fix in same area and all came inland. A/c was routed to cross coast at Hartland Pt. Leeming informed.
1010 427/W landed at Downham Market 0807. Downham informed Leeming F/C direct who neglected to inform us. SASO, Air I, 10 & 12 Gps. & OAC [inserted] informed [/inserted]. 12 Gp. have begun to organise deep-sea search.
1012 Movements E71 MLS Air Firing Robin Hd. 1030-1800 Hal & Lancs. Bombing Strensall 1030-1700
0945 Weather Met. say weather good for x-countries over west coast till at least 1600 hrs. and down south okay all day.
Gale Warning in Northern Ireland & west Scotland
1115 427/W 12 Gp. 12 Gp. controller says that a great deal of trouble had been caused to organise a deep sea search for this a/c and is wondering why they had not been notified. 10 Gp are complaining that they weren’t notified.
1130 Diversions Met. think we should have provisional weather diversions for all our a/c tonight. Contacted CFC who say it is too early to allot weather diversion stations. They will probably not be able to give us anything till about 1600 hrs.
[Page break]
1125 427/W landed at Leeming 11.10. Eng. & Equip. Officers informed. Also Air I.
1225 Crash Skellington 1664/D (#EB198) ROC report Halifax crashed in A0385 1/2 miles from Skellington (NE of Eastmoor) 2 crew believed to have baled out at A1379 and 4 crew baled out at A1581. Linton & Eastmoor have both sent out crash tenders. (This [inserted] a/c [/inserted] now proves to be 1664/D) a/c burnt Pilot did not bale out & is believed to have been killed.
1230 Crash Rufforth 1659/Q 1659/Q crashed near Rufforth. 2 believed to have baled out and [deleted] p [/deleted] one [deleted] taken [/deleted] of these thought to have been killed, remainder okay. Rufforth taking crash action. This gen from ROC. Plot of crash: A002682
SASO, Air I, GTI, Controller, Eng. & Equip. officers informed.
1335 L.F.B. at Selsey Bill will be exposed bearing of true north 0130-0230 hrs.
1430 Diversions CFC can give 5 a/d’s for provisional weather diversions, [deleted word] which were allotted as follows:
419/14 – Dunsfold
428/16 – West Malling
429/8 – Hartford
427/13 – Bradwell
434/12 – Manston.
Met. say okay.
1500 Balloons Southampton & Portsmouth, Langley & Weybridge, Shoreham & Newhaven, Thames Estuary and Canterbury controlled at 1500 ft 0130-0300 hrs. SOR. [Deleted] Shep [/deleted] Harwich & Dover will probably be at 4500 ft. from dusk till dawn.
Diversions Besides the provisional weather diversions, 1 Group have laid on the following aerodromes or aircraft in distress: Tangmere, Ford, Beaulieu, Homesley South. Stations informed.
[Page break]
1700 Billingham Balloons will be grounded from 2030-2200 and from 0230-0430.
1730 Oxford Permission given by SASO for W/C Clayton to take Communications flight to Hendon to get a medical inspection. Told Linton okay but they must get permission from Hendon to land first.
1805 Explosions Deep explosions reported by Topcliffe & Linton in SW direction. ROC and FLCO 12 Gp. have no information as to what they are. ROC making further enquiries.
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
2100 Darky Topcliffe R/T C.S. Portglass “C” Topcliffe spotted Darky call. A/c asked whereabouts & queried re balloons. Checked with *11 OTU Westcott (92 Gp.) who stated none of their a/c should be using this callsign [inserted] tonight [/inserted] and they did not believe it was theirs, as none should be north of Goole, and our offer to send a/c balloon information en route to Westcott not acted upon by them. Heading of a/c from Topcliffe at 2102 was 330°. Westcott have no a/c “C” flying.
2215 427/W. Leeming a/c instructed by Leeming [inserted] R/T [/inserted] to jettison at sea crossing coast at Filey Bay approx. 2230 hrs. Advised M.L.S. 12.
2253 427/L Message from a/c to Leeming: Returning to base. Jettisoned Bombs Engine u/s awaiting instructions T.O.O. 2250. Leeming instructed a/c to return to base.
[Page break]
[Underlined] THURSDAY – SEPT 16, 1932. [sic] [/deleted]
0125 L/427 Latest QDM 312° Leeming passed to R.O.C. 9. a/c on 3 engines – request for plots. – none.
0225 M.S.G. Divers. Topcliffe Requested Topcliffe to stand-by in case M.S.G. require some assistance for overflow.
0300 434/W. On request of W/C Harris instructed Pilot to return to base at dawn. (Through FCLO 11 Gr.) Group Met, feel conditions should be O.K.
0450 Div. to Topcliffe. Advised Topcliffe to close down as assistance not required.
- Thursday Sept 16th –
0100 Ident. Board changed.
0550 427/M. Ex 12 Group. a/c with marking ZL-M crashed near Market Drayton. Confirmed with Leeming it belonged to 427 Sqn.
0600 427/M Contacted Market Drayton & was advised that all the crew were killed. Guard placed on aircraft. Leeming informed.
0610 427/M. M.L.O. 12 Group confirmed all crew killed + Northolt were taking all necessary action. Leeming instructed to Contact Northolt for further information. Advised Southdown of the situation.
0745 427/M. F.C.L.O. 11 advise this crash was at West Drayton, not Market Drayton. Crashed actually at Harmondsworth.
[Page break]
THURSDAY SEPT 16
0900 On watch E.F. Dutton F/Lt
1100 Diversions Will be advised by met after 1600 hr conference, Prov. Petrol bases needed as follows (3 Bases).
419 – 11 a/c
428 – 12 a/c
429, 427, 434 – 22 a/c/c.
1400 Balloons Arranged for Sheffield at 500’ dusk to dawn and for Billingham 1915- [deleted] 0500 2000 and [/deleted] 2000 and 0330-0500. BLO at 12 Gr unable to grant balloons close hauled for whole period 1915-0500 and they will be at 1500 except for periods specified regardless of danger of early returns perhaps with W/T u/s.
1415 LFB #16 Granted by 11 Gr 0230-0330 (ETA coast) 0250
1430 Balloons S’Hampton, P’smouth, Shoreham, Newhaven, [deleted word], Langley, Weybridge at 500’ dusk to dawn.
1615 Diversion CFC unable yet to give us answer on request for ay 8 Gr airfields. We have Polebrook, Molesworth & Chilverton buttoned up.
1640 Div. CFC allot Polebrook (419) Bassingbourne (427 & 434) Thurleigh (429) Molesworth (428) Stations informed of runways and Pundits – Polebrook 093 – R/T Quillpen
Molesworth 256 R/T Earthquake
Thurleigh 316 R/T Bramble
Bassingbourne 102. R/T Monkey.
1830 Force Landing Dalton’s Magister (Polish pilot) force landed at – at 1630, broke undercart. Dalton has control.
1830 Off duty E.F. Dutton F/Lt.
[Page break]
Thursday Sept 16
1830 On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1900 Diversion for early returns. Weather all over Group for take-off is very poor – cloud base under 1000 ft generally with vis. at best 2 miles, rain at most stations all yellow or red. [Deleted] Alt [/deleted] Met. gave us Syerston as closest cast-iron diversion for early returns. Croft best in Group with 2000 ft cloud base and 2200 yds. vis. Told all stations concerned but not to divert without referring to Group except in emergency.
2000 Fulmar signalled in to Linton [inserted] on way to Drem, [/inserted] having taken off from Christchurch at 1820 due at Linton now. Weather at Linton “red”. On advice from Met. told them to send him to Acklington which will be okay or to Croft if okay when a/c comes up on R/T. Linton are phoning to Christchurch for information re R/T & D/F.
2100 Fulmar has landed at Breighton who are signalling Drem.
2125 Darky Middleton have heard Darky call from a “Pilchard Q” saying he was on 3 eng. & short of petrol. Middleton’s weather “red”. They have lost contact with him at present but will land him if possible. Several plots on board so cannot determine which is a/c in distress.
2128 Darky Topcliffe heard same Darky as above but quite faint. They are standing by to land him – or will send him to Leeming (better weather)
2130 Diversions Controller instructs that all early returns whether on R/T or W/T are to be sent to laid on diversions
[Page break]
aerodromes. Stations concerned informed.
2145 Darky 12 Gp. say Scorton has heard above Darky a short while ago and have all lights on & are shooting rockets up. Leeming are doing the same. FCLO 12 Gp. is trying to plot this a/c.
2135 Billingham Balloons. Requested 12 Gp. to keep Billingham [deleted] alone [/deleted] grounded till midnight due to early returns & low cloud base.
2150 429/B Sent message “Gee U/S”. Instructed Leeming to send him to Thurleigh. A/c acknowledged this at about 2200 hrs.
2200 Diversions Informed 1st US Wing 429/B was diverted to them and rest of our a/c would definitely be diverted to them.
22.25 427/P Southampton got a bearing on this a/c. Air I instructs that we send message “Land at Bassingbourne” on GOF and Leeming H/F, not to ack. on GOF.
23.56 427//P has landed at Bassingbourne 23.22
[Underlined] Friday Sept. 17, 1943 [/underlined]
0130 Diversion Controller has decided to divert all a/c to prearranged diversion bases after consulting Met. Stations informed. Message to be sent on GOF and stations’ H/F D/F’s.
0145 419/F Sent priority message “Returning to base, bad weather” Ident. fix right on track. 11 Gp. asked to watch him.
[Page break]
0245 Thurleigh’s pundit Pilots of 429 who have landed at Thurleigh say they were given wrong characteristics of Thurleigh’s pundit at briefing (were given [deleted] VJ TR [/deleted] TL instead of [deleted] TL [/deleted] VJ). Controller says no action should be taken. (Pilots were using R/T c.s. “Greenage” instead of “Monkey”)
0310 419/K Message received by Southampton “Landing Tangmere, petrol low”, Informed 11 Gp. FCLO.
0450 419/F landed Polebrook 0259
419/K landed Tangmere 0336.
0530 a/c Returning to base 1st Wing [inserted] 11 Gp, [/inserted] 12 Gp. & 5 Gp. informed that none of our a/c are to return till we give permission. Met. say a/c will definitely not be able to come back before noon and told them we would phone them at about 1200 hrs. & give them the picture of the weather. [Inserted] Our [/inserted] Stations informed of these instructions.
0540 Call Signs & pundit 1st Wing say crews [inserted] of 427 Sqdn [/inserted] who landed at Bassingbourne were given wrong R/T call signs for Bassingbourne and wrong so-ordinates & characteristics of pundit (Pilots of 427 were using “Greenage” instead of “Monkey”)
0900 Off duty F/L Miller D.H.
On duty P/O Spence H.L.
0940 Movements Arranged with M.L.S. 12 for Bombing at Strensall and Air-Sea & Air-Air Firing at R.H.B. & Whitby for Lancs, Wells & Hals. from 1000 to 1800 hrs.
1150 [Deleted] Weather [/deleted] Petrol Diversion Provisional C.F.C. have laid on Harwell as Provisional [deleted] Weather [/deleted] Petrol Diversion Base for 432 Sqn’s Wellingtons.
1200. 429 a/c Leeming checked re. met. Group Met feel conditions should be fairly favourable later in afternoon. Leeming to contact Thurleigh to have a/c ready to take off around 1500
[Page break]
1205 L.FB #18 Arranged with F.C.L.O. 10 Group for L.F.B. #18 on 045°T from 2345-0045 hrs. [Underlined] OTE [/underlined] This Beacon now located at Torquay
1200 Balloons Balloons this evening will be as follows, under Operational Control
Crew [sic] } Not above 500 ft.
Manchester } Dusk to Dawn
Cardiff }
Yeovil – Not above 1500ft. 0001-0130.
1450 429 a/c. Thurleigh Leeming requested their a/c be held till further notice but on contacting Thurleigh 5 of 7 had already taken off and another in motion. Group Met advised weather would improve and in conference with Controller it was decided to permit them to continue.
1500 Diversion 429 a/c diverted to Linton in view of conditions closing in at [deleted] Linton [/deleted] Leeming.
429/O. Pranged at Linton – Cat B. – Crew OK.
429/E & K Landed at Eastmoor
429/B,C,N. Landed at Leeming.
1630. 1659 a/c X-C. (6) In conference with Met, C.F.C. & Controller arranged for possible diversion to Syerston of Topcliffe’s 6 a/c if weather not good. Met now feel weather should be fairly good at their home base.
[Underlined] NOTE [/underlined]
0950 429/N W/C Patterson took off from Thurleigh for Leeming. Due to weather he returned to Thurleigh. (Leeming advised by Thurleigh at 1120 of his return)
[Page break]
1700 1659 a/c X-C. Ref. item 1630 – in conference with Met & Controller Topcliffe decided to use Silloth rather than Syerston.
1710 R/T message “216 to 557” Eastmoor intercepted R/T message from “216 calling 557” as follows: [inserted] “Leaving formation [/inserted] Proceeding to bale out”. Other stations in 6 Group did not receive this. Passed it to Ops [indecipherable word] as a matter of information.
1755. 429 A/C. THURLEIGH. In checking with Leeming it is revealed that at noon it was arranged with Thurleigh that 429/N (W.C. Patterson) would take off at approx.. 1300 hrs., the remainder to hold themselves ready to take off at 1500 hrs if the weather was fit. The following a/c took off prior to 1500 hrs – hence without instructions. “N.K.O.B.E.C”.
1805 1659 A/C X-C Advised C.F.C. that Syerston would not be required by 1659 Sqn aircraft.
1835 Com. Oxford Linton advised that W/C. Clayton landed at Sandtoft due to weather & will stay there overnight.
Off duty P/O H.L. Spence.
On Duty EF Dutton F/Lt
1905 Pundits Passed AS4 request for 115, 1, 140, 91, dusk-dawn.
1915 Diversion. Passed 432 Sq details to 91 Gr to forward to Harwell.
[Page break]
FRIDAY SEPT 17th
1930 Perc. Q6 4 Gr want to know if this a/c has landed with us. Took off from York 1815. Called Linton who says a/c landed 1900. Told 4 Gr and 12 Gr.
2115 SASO authorizes W/C Harris to fly Linton – Bassingbourne in Halifax tomorrow. [Underlined] Saturday Sept. 18th [/underlined]
0900 Off duty E.F. Dutton F/Lt. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0910 a/c away from base Checked with Met. re route and our bases. They say a/c will have to fly over 2000 ft. as there will be very low cloud en route. Middleton may encounter smoke troubles after 1300 hrs but rest of stations will be okay with a few showers. Told 1st Wing (who enquired from us) after consulting stations [deleted] for [/deleted] to send all a/c back but if any going to Middleton cannot get there by 1300 hrs. to get fresh permission from us before allowing them to return. Gave the above gen. to 11 Gp. & 12 Gp.
1030 419/E at Polebrook has coolant leak. Pilot wants further instructions. Middleton say Crew is to remain with a/c unless it cannot be repaired by tomorrow.
0930 Movements MLS Hal. & Lancs. air firing Robin Hd. 1030-1730 Hal. & Lancs. bombing Strensall 1000-1730
1100 Diversion Arranged with CFC for Harwell as a provisional petrol diversion for 8 Well id 432 Sqd.
1200 LFB #18 will be exposed on bearing of 045° T from 2330-0030 hrs.
[Page break]
1230 432 Sqdn all now at Eastmoor except W which is u/s.
1315 Balloons From 9 Gp: Manchester 500 ft dusk to dawn Crewe 500 ft dusk to dawn
(will let us know if balloons go up) |
From 10 Gp: Yeovil – controlled at 1500 ft 2330-0030
Cardiff – 500 ft dusk till 0200
From 12 Gp: Sheffield – 500 ft dusk till 0200
1330 Reports on F/C procedure Middleton F/C, Leeming F/C and Linton base requested to send in detailed report on the flying control procedure at Thurleigh, Bassingbourne, Polebrook & Molesworth under the following headings:
(a) R/T procedure
(b) Marshalling & landing procedure
(c) Dispersal procedure
(d) General [indecipherable word].
F/C 1st U.S. Wing and CFC have requested this information.
1400 Oxford SASO gave permission for W/C Fleming to go down to Polebrook in Oxford to see about 419/E.
1955 419/E Polebrook advised a/c left for M.S.G. at 1845 hrs. Advised Station. Landed 1948.
2010 Tiger Moth from Redhill. Landed at Topcliffe from Redhill. Was proceeding to Castletown, but is now staging overnight at Topcliffe. Topcliffe has signalled him in to Redhill & Castletown.
2030 Pundits AS4 requested Pundits 1, 91, 115 & 140 Dusk to dawn Stations informed.
[Page break]
2220 S.O.S Ascertained from Plotting Table S.O.S. of a Bomber a/c over the sea. Contacted 12 Group & received positions showing a track towards Eastmoor. Confirmed this through R.O.C. and passed information to Linton [inserted] Base [/inserted] for action. Also arranged that Topcliffe be ready to lend assistance. Landed at Eastmoor 2234 hrs.
2230 Darky Linton advised receiving call from a/c with letter B (R/T cs unintelligible). Landing facilities made available but no further contact was possible; and aircraft disappeared out of their range.
[Underlined] SUNDAY – SEPT. 19, 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0125 92 O.T.U. V. & S. Linton advise V. landed at Eastmoor. 0125 “S” has been in R/T contact and was given permission to land but has not done so. 4 Group advised of [inserted] “V’s” [/inserted] landing.
0155 92 O.T.U. V. & S. Instructed Linton to QDM Pincock “S” to Leeming. Latter requested to light up. R.O.C. informed.
0200 92 O.T.U. V. & S. 4 Gr. advise Pincock “S” landed at Pocklington at 0152. Linton & Leeming informed.
S.O.S. a/c. 432/L. Linton [inserted[ Base [/inserted] I.F.F. of this a/c appears O.K. but further check to be made for short circuit Did not intentionally show broad I.F.F.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Sunday Sept 19. 1943 [/underlined]
0900 Off duty H L Spence P/O.
0900 On duty E F Dutton
0930 429/O Accident 17/9 passed to Eng. NCO. And Equip offr.
1105 V/92 OUT 92 Gr say release this a/c if weather okay. Told Eastmoor who say a/c taking off at 1300 hrs. Told 92 Group this.
1413 no MO at Skipton. Skipton called to ask what they should do about landing a/c as they have no M/O. SFCO says apply to Leeming. Called Skip who say Leemings [sic] MO off the station but they will ask Topcliffe to stand by for call. Told SFCO this and got okay for a Linton a/c to land at Skipton.
1430 W/C Patterson Air I gives permission for W/C Patterson (429) to take Hal to Thurleigh. Told W/C Patterson who now wants to know max. number of extra people he can take. Trip postponed until tomorrow. Unable to locate Air I immediately
1500 O, E /428 Gave permission for these a/c to leave Molesworth for MSG. after consulting Met.
W/C Patterson Air I says max of 14 in a Hal. Told W/C Patterson.
1605 B1D-H W/T room receives message form B1D-H “have you any message for me”. Phoned MSG whose call sign it is and they say they have nothing in air. Checked whole group & finally located a/c from Croft, who have nothing for him
1630 V1D-X Q R/T c/s PINCOT Assigned MSG to 92 Gr as diversion base for two Wells on x-country after consulting Met & station. This is a definite diversion. Traded gen between MSG & 92 Gr. ETA 0130
[Page break]
1730 Pundits. Passed AS4 request for Pundits 115, 155, 140, 91, 1, to stations concerned.
1740 V1D-X 92 Gr say only this a/c now detailed (see item 1630) MSG told
1745 KL (?) 4 Gr ask if any of our Lancs carry m/n sqdn letters. [Underlined] NO [/underlined]
NOTE [Underlined] DFCO [/underlined] W/Cdr Clayton want [sic] permission from SASO first thing in morning to take Oxford to Hendon to pick up A/Cdr. McEwan. He has already reserved a/c with Comm flight.
1830 Off duty E.F. Dutton F/Lt. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1930 X-Countries and night flying passed to ROC & all Group stations
2015 Diversions 92 Gp. “Hightime B” from Bruntingthorpe will be definitely diverted to Middleton, ETA 0100. 92 Gp is expecting a very thick ground fog. Middleton informed. R/T all sign TK9.
2040 Balloons On Middleton’s request, 12 Gp. gave control on Billingham balloons 2200-0200 hrs. Balloons will be close-hauled during that time.
[Deleted] 09 [/deleted] 2115 Diversion CFC CFC say they may have to divert up to 14 a/c, operational & OTU a/c to us [deleted] tonight [/deleted] tomorrow morning in the early hours. Met. say there is not much to choose between the stations as far as the weather is concerned. CFC asked for Middleton & Croft – said okay. Warned both stations.
2310 X-countries Both Linton & Tholthorpe claim their x-countries are having difficulty in landing due to vis. closing in. Met. obs. Given 5 minutes ago say
[Page break]
vis. at both places over 4 miles. Gave them Topcliffe as a diversion station after consulting them.
2325 Diversion 4 Gp. Marston Moor have sent Hal. “Porkpie V” up to Leeming without consulting us. Their vis. has closed in. Informed Leeming.
2339 X-countries Linton & Tholthorpe have landed all their a/c. Topcliffe stood down.
2350 Diversion 4 Gp. “Porkpie V” landed at Leeming 23.47. 4 Gp. Informed.
2355 Diversion CFC say [deleted] tho [/deleted] as regards diversion to Middleton & Croft there may be 14 special a/c from Tempsford, and will arrive anywhere from midnight till dawn. They say Middleton could handle them all and Croft can stand down. Both stations informed.
[Underlined] Monday Sept. 20, 1943 [/underlined]
0055 92 Group “Hightime B” landed Croft 00.45. 92 Gp. informed.
0130 92 Group “Hightime X” from Bruntingthorpe landed at Middleton 01.33. 92 Gp. informed/
0145 Diversion Met. say southern stations are beginning to get smoky; Middleton & Croft will not definitely hold out after 0400 hrs. as they may get cloud & rain after that. Informed CFC who say they think they can get a/c down at Tempsford or Tangmere but would like us to stand by in case of emergency. Informed Middleton of above.
0800 Nothing has been heard of above diversion of the 14 a/c.
[Page break]
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty HF Spence P/O.
0845 Movements. Arranged with MLS 12 for Air Sea v Air-Air Firing at RHB & Whitby and Bombing at Strensall for Hals. Lancs & Wells. From 1000-1800 hrs. – Ref. E-11.
0910 Comm. Oxford Air I authorized flight of W/C Clayton in Oxford to Hendon to pick up a/c McEwan. Linton informed.
1030. W/C Patterson Air I authorised crew of 4 per a/c would be in order to fly Hal. back from Thurleigh. Leeming informed.
1045 92 Gr. Bruntingthorpe a/c. Advised Croft not to permit Hightime B to take off until further advise. 92 Gr and Met to inform us when O.K.
1055 Met. Met state fairly strong winds 30-35 mph which may cross some runways in Group e.g. Skipton now shown yellow as a result. For information.
Petrol Diversion (Provisional) In conference with Met & Controller arranged with C.F.C. for Provisional Petrol Diversion Base at Harwell.
1030 LFB #18 Arranged with #10 Gr. For LFB #18 at Torquay on 045T from 2215-2315 hrs.
Balloons. Arranged for over-riding control of 10 Gr. Balloons, which will be at:-
Yeovil – 1500 ft. }
Bristol – 500 ft. } 1900-0100 hrs.
[Page break]
1125. 427/S. 1st U.S. Wing advise a/c took off for base 1115 hrs. Leeming informed.
1145 92 Gr a/c at M.S.G. & Croft. On Instructions from 92 Gr. Bruntingthorpe a/c are to return at once. Croft & M.S.G. informed.
1155. 92 Gr. a/c Hightime “X” T.O. 1150 – 92 Gr. Informed.
1215 92 Gr. a/c. Hightime “B” T.O. [deleted] 1112 [/deleted] 1325 – 92 Gr. Informed.
1215 Croft Crash Tender Spare tender u/s. Hope to secure one from M.S.G. if required.
1220. 408/ to Feltwell. Air I confirmed authorization of flight by F/O Russell & S/L. Coule from Linton to Feltwell in 408/a/c.
1245 P-Oxford. M.S.G. Air I authorized flight on S/L. Suggett & crew to Molesworth to pick up one of M.S.G. a/c.
1410 P-Oxford S.A.S.O. O.K’d substitution of Halifax in place of Oxford in connection with entry 1245. M.S.G. informed.
1430 Comm. Oxford. W/C Clayton flight to Hendon cancelled. A/c going to [deleted] Feltwell [/deleted] Filton.
1430 408/a/c to Feltwell Reference entry 1220. Flight cancelled for today.
1500 429/P. flight to Thurleigh. Flight cancelled for today due to winds Refers to entry 1030
1655 428/E & K 1st U.S. Wing advise 428/E left Molesworth 1631 & K at 1624 for base. M.S.G. informed.
[Page break]
1612 Low Flying Lanc. Flying Control Middleton report low flying Lancaster and request identification of the aircraft.
R.O.C. York 9 & 10 report first plot on low flying Lancaster picked up at 1615. They report that the aircraft came in off the sea then proceeded to fly at approx. 100’ in following area Z-8931 – Z 9531 – The aircraft then climbed to 11000 feet – and followed a direct course to Elsham Wolds where it landed at 1705 hours.
1750. Spitfire M. – Walton – (P7912) Croft advise that the m/n aircraft, on Fighter Affil. Exercise, swerved on take-off and broke a prop. Duty Controller advised – S.A.S.O., Air I, Engr. & Equip. Officers not able to be contacted.
Provisional Petrol Diversion 92 Gr. F.C.O. asked if we desired, in case of a/c did land at Harwell, that they be refuelled and sent to their home base at once; interrogation to be effected at home base.
Advised 92 Gr., after consulting Controller (Air I), that a/c should be re-fuelled promptly on landing and crews to stand by for return to base, authorization for return to be secured from this Group before
[Page break]
any a/c take off. Interrogation to be made in regular manner.
1830 Off watch HF Spence, P/O.
On watch EF Dutton F/Lt.
1845 Night flying Passed to York 9 & 10 and all parent stations
1955 Pundits 155, 115, 140, 91, 1, AS4 – Passed to stations
2330 Amended ident Board
2400 V/432 Told 91 Gr m/n a/c may refuel and come home if practical as weather here is no cloud, vis unlimited.
2445 Asked ROC York to ask post near Thol if anything unusual on ACP’s report of a “white flash”. They say nothing unusual
[Underlined] TUESDAY – SEPT. 21, 1943 [/underlined]
0130 All X countries and ops a/c down. V/432 is refueling [sic] and returning to [deleted] Linton [/deleted] Eastmoor
0900 Off watch EF Dutton On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt
0915 Movements E230 Hal. & [deleted] Well [/deleted] Lancs. airfiring Whitby 1000-1800
Hal & Lancs. bombing Strensall 1000-1730
1020 Tiger Moth arranged for Tiger Moth with Comm Flight for W/C Hodgson. Also asked Res. Engineer to have runway at Wombleton cleared for him to land about 11.30 hrs.
1030 Spitfire Prang (see 1750 above) Informed Eng. & Equip. officers & Air I. Nobody seems very interested.
[Page break]
1040 Diversion Harwell laid on as provisional petrol diversion for 12 a/c of 432 tonight. Okay by Met.
1150 Crash 408 a/c (DS719) S/L Palmer received signal that 408 a/c hit overhead wires just north of Wittering 3 miles east of Stamford Neither F/C Group nor F/C Linton have anything about this crash. Ascertained from [inserted] GTI & [/inserted] eng. officer that this a/c has been [deleted] a/c at [/deleted] attached to Wittering for the last 4 or 5 weeks on special training. All crew okay. Controller, Air I, SASO, Eng, [inserted] & Equip. [/inserted] officers informed. Also Linton. A/c is Cat. AC. Wittering apologised for not having let us know immediately by phone.
1215 Balloons- Yeovil will be at 1500 ft from 1945-2030 & 2300-0030.
LFB #18 – at Leeming 045°T 22.30-23.30
DFCO’s Note Newhaven & Shoreham [deleted] S [/deleted] crettal balloons ceased to be operating from Sept, 16, 1943
DFCO’s Note All of 429 & 427 are now at Skipton and Leeming is officially U/S for the next few weeks. CFC informed by phone.
1745 Operations cancelled. Balloons & LFB #18 cancelled. 91 Gp. informed
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty HL Spence, P/O.
2000 434/A, Comm Oxford. S.A.S.O. authorized taking crew in the Oxford to pick up 434/A a/c at Bassingborne 22-9-43. Linton informed.
Pundits AS-4 requested 1, 115, 91, 140, 155 dusk to dawn. Stations informed.
[Page break]
2020 1679/W. Eastmoor. DS648 0946 Linton report m/n. a/c at Eastmoor blew a tire on take off, its undercarriage gave way and it ground looped. Crew are O.K. Runways u/s for several hours – now serviceable. a/c # DS-648 – Lancaster.
432/D Eastmoor HF 456 1410 Linton report m/n a/c at Eastmoor overshot on landing and crashed into hedge at end of runway. Crew are O.K. a/c #HF456 – Wellington. S.A.S.O. informed.
NOTE D.F.C.O. Reference entry 2020. Advice of these crashes not received in time to inform all those concerned. Please do the necessary S.A.S.O. [inserted] & controller [/inserted] informed but not Air I, G.L.O., Equip & Engr. Officers.
2110 Bulls-Eye 1664/E & L. M/n a/c took off approx. 50 mins late. Crews instructed [deleted] to [/deleted] by Croft to follow course laid on to Newbury, then to cut across to Redhill and join the flight when it is due there. Informed M.L.O. 12 Group who approved.
2210 Bulls Eye. F.C.L.O. 11 Group requested recall of 6 Gr. a/c from Bulls Eye exercise. Duty Signals Officer arranging. Croft advised.
2215 ditto Linton & Topcliffe informed.
2220. F.C.L.O. 11. Advised delay of 5 mins. in getting through to us on original priority call and 12 mins on this one. Requested we check reason with 12 Group who stated the G.P.O. were working on their lines
[Page break]
and the switchboard went dead. Could get no further details of the cause. Advised F.C.L.O. 11.
[Underlined] WEDNESDAY – SEPT. 22ND. 1923 [sic] [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0230 Dumfries a/c M.P.N.Q & S (S.I.C.) Linton Advised M.L.S. 12 Group that Linton had given the following to m/n. aircraft:-
M. QDM 156 – 0046 hrs.
P. QDM 138 – 0129 hrs.
N QDM 146 – 0138 hrs.
Q QDY 317 – 0218 hrs.
Note:- No contact with “S”.
0240 ditto a/c A ditto
A QDM 165 – 0237 hrs.
0900 Off duty H L Spence P/O. On watch E.F. Dutton
0940 P/429 Taking off from Leeming for Thurleigh at 1000.
0945 P/429. Per 0940 entry, Air I says take Oxford. Told Leeming
0955 Accident 1679/W and 432/D Per 2200 hrs yesterday. Notified GTI, Saso, and Equip offr, Eng offr, not available. Linton Base says these accidents both were reported to [underlined] someone [/underlined] at Group by 1400 hrs. but have no entry in their log to signify it.
1020 P/429 Airborne for Thurleigh after getting SASO permission
1050 Tiger Moth York 9 asked about this a/c from Drem, bound Catterick. Inquired Linton and found it landed there 1040, was refuelling and going on to Catterick. Told York
[Page break]
0930 [Underlined] WEDNESDAY SEPT 22 [/underlined]
1130 Diversion CFC grant Swanton Morley as prov. Petrol div. for 16 Wellingtons \432 after conferring with Met.
1135 Tiger Moth Left Linton for Catterick 1115
1215 Comm Flight Reserved Tiger Moth for W/C Hodson, 1415 for trip to Leeming & Skipton.
1410 Diversion Air I says no petrol div. necessary. Cancelled request for Swanton Morley.
1415 Balloons. Asked BLO for Hull & Humber Balloons 1800 to 0100 hrs. Billingham 1800 to 0100 hrs close hauled
LFB LFB [underlined] not [/underlined] laid on yet until target decided on. ETAs at coast are No1. 0019 No2. 0030
1430 LFB Air I says [underlined] no [/underlined] LFB needed.
1445 Balloons Hull & Humber 1900 to 0230 1500’
Billingham 1800 to 0200 [underlined] close hauled [/underlined]
Above granted by BLO 12 Group.
1700 Balloons Double checked Billingham with BLO 12, 1800-0200.
1810 Pundits AS4 want 115, 1, 140, 91 – Passed to stations
1830 Off duty E.H. Dutton F/Lt. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1915 432/S prang. Engines cut on take off and a/c could not pull up in time, went through hedge & into field. Crew okay. Tail sticking up so night flying cancelled but G/C says it will be safe to land ops. on return. U/C of this aircraft collapsed.
[Page break]
2210 Inter station diversion Skipton’s mains have gone U/S & consequently the drem has packed up. They may possibly get it working by the time ops. a/c return. Controllers said to have Topcliffe stand by to receive all the a/c of 427 & 429. All information passed to Topcliffe.
2230 Hostile Balloons reported off Hull. Hull & Humber balloons going up to 6500 ft. All stations informed.
2235 Skipton drem temporarily okay. Topcliffe told to stand by in case it goes U/S again.
2335 Hostiles have all gone home & Hull & Humber balloons are at 1500 ft. except one which is stuck at 6500 ft. All stations informed.
[Underlined] Thursday Sept. 23, 1943 [/underlined]
0002 432/F Group M/F watch heard this a/c send SOS but Hull was working another a/c at the time & did not hear him. Asked Hull to call him.
0012 432/B Sent message “CHIP 291M 9000 199 5355N 0130E Priority “O” Ident fix 5410N 0053E 3rd 0007. Passed to 12 Gp FCLO & 4 Gp. to have Lissett Catfoss [inserted] etc [/inserted] lit up.
0033 432/F landed Lissett 00.27
0035 432/P Sent following message “Course 282 Height 12000 knts (airspeed) 140 position 5400N 0242E” (TOO 0022) Fix obtained on a/c by Hull 5355N 0310E 3rd Acknowledged, Priority “O”. TOD. 0033. 12 & 4 Gps. F/C informed & standing by.
[Page break]
0040 Hostiles plotted near Hull off coast. Hull & Humber now at 1500 ft. Passed to stations.
0051 432/P SOS SOS fix passed at 0047 – 5405N 0015E 1st [Underlined] Not [/underlined] acknowledged – 12 Gp. informed.
0052 432/P SOS Another SOS fix passed at 0049 – 54.07N 0015E 1st [/underlined] Not [/underlined] acknowledged. 12 Gp FCLO informed.
0110 432/P From FCLO 12 Gp: this a/c’s plots have faded almost completely. A/c has screwed down on Hull and believed to be about to ditch. Are trying to get more accurate plots and will get some launches [deleted] out [/deleted] & night fighters out immediately.
0132 51/C Suarth. From Suarth landed Middleton 0130. 4 Gp. informed.
0200 Hostiles all gone. Hull & Humber at 1500 ft. Stations informed.
0215 432/P A/S Rescue From FCLO 12 Gp: 3 fighters now out, one of which is circling flashing lights. Two boats on way out & will arrive about 0600 hrs.
0220 432/P Last position obtained by 12 Gp: 5406N 0052E at 0053 hrs. Can we send out some a/c for Air Sea Search? Controller said we could send out 4 Wellingtons.
0240 Wellington U/6 O.T.U. Silloth Landed at Skipton while on x-country due to W/T failure & low cloud base over Pennines. Staying over night. Silloth informed.
(HZ-251)
[Page break]
0240 Wellington LB152 from Silloth landed Middleton at 0152 Couldn’t contact base by W/T. Silloth informed
0200-0300 Wellington 11 Gp. say they picked up a friendly plot 20 miles NW of le Havre which went west never making a landfall over England. They sent a fighter up to lead him in. Fighter apparently got fairly close & said it looked like a Wellington, tried to lead it in, but it wouldn’t follow, continuing west instead. 10 Gp. say plot faded near Septiles, northern France. Hull & Plympton were both calling him (using 432’s call sign) continuously but no joy,
0300 Results All a/c back except 428/H & K, 434/G and 426/P & G.
0410 A/S Rescue From 16 Group: [deleted] Area [/deleted]
[Underlined] Area: [/underlined]: 5357N 0010E 5357N 0100E
5420N 0010E 5420N 0100E
[Underlined] Call Sign [/underlined] 8RP – 57, 58, 59, 60
[Underlined] A/S Rescue W/T [/underlined]
Our a/c are to be on Sect J, Pulham 385 kc. from 5 min & 35 min past the hour for 5 min. Rest of time on 500 kc.
[Underlined] Search [/underlined]
They are to carry out a parallel track search east to west working south to north 1/2 mile apart. Area to be split in half, two flying abreast in each half.
[Underlined] When dinghy is sighted [/underlined] – a/c to climb to 2-3000 ft, get a good fix on Sect. J, 385 kc. then to go onto 500 kc. and try to contact launches (also on 500 kcs.) One a/c is to circle
[Page break]
dinghy at all times, others to search for launches. W/T call sign for launches is MHB11, MHB14, MHB 32.
All this passed to Linton. Met say the sooner a/c can take off the better. Weather will definitely be god till 1000 hrs. but possibly not after. Bases good all morning.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
A/S Rescue 4 a/c of 432 Sqn airborne. FLCO 16 Gr. Informed
0940 Movements Arranged with MLS12 – Air Firing at RHB & Whitby, Bombing at Strensall for Hals, Lancs & Wells. 1000-1800 hrs. (Ref E-40)
0950 A/S Rescue informed FCLO 16 Gr. that 432/C returned from search [inserted] (0858) [/inserted] as dinghy blew off shortly after take off. He advised that 432/L had sighted dinghy at pos. 5410 N 0102E.
1010 ditto A.M.L.O. informed at S/D. Also Controller & Linton.
1050 ditto. 16 Gr. advise no further contact with 432/L nor was their message to continue to circle acknowledged. Requested Linton endeavour to contact him.
1110 Wellington U/6 OTU FCLO 9 Group OK’d [inserted] immediate [/inserted] return of m/n aircraft to Siloth [sic] – low cloud between Squiresgate & Silloth but should be O.K. Requested Leeming to pass to Skipton. A/c should be at home before mid-afternoon.
[Page break]
1115 AS Search M.L.O. 12 Gr. states launches on the way out. Crew of 5 seen in dinghy – about 30 miles east of Flamborough. Advised AMLO S/D. & Controller, S.A.S.O., Air I.
1135 ditto 16 Group advise no further word received from 432/L, nor launch which was in the vicinity of dinghy at 0920 pos. 5410N 0102E.
1140. 432/ac at Catfoss Lissett Linton (Eastmoor) requested instructions be passed to m/n stations that these a/c return to base is serviceable, at once
1155 432/F Lissett advise a/c took off 1150 1210
432/B Catfoss advise a/c will take off in 30 mins.
Linton informed.
1200 A/S Search 16 Gr. advised having a fix on 432/L at pos. 5425N 0045E at 1150. Navy believe he has been homing launches.
1220. A/S Search 16 Gr state crew of 3 picked up & boat on its way in to Humber 432/L returning to base. Linton, Controller & AMLO S/D informed.
1235 A/S Search 16 Gr advise definitely the crew of 3 picked up are from 432/P. Search discontinued as balance of crew understood to have gone down with aircraft. Linton, AMLO S/D & controller informed.
1330 Emerg. Div. Bases. In consultation with Met. Controller & C.F.C. following Emergency Diversion Bases were allotted:
434 Sqn. Hertford Bridge – 427 Sqn. Dunsfold
419 Sqn. Tangmere – 428 Sqn. Ford
429 } Sqn. Hrwell.
426 } Sqn.
[Page break]
1445 LFB #16. Selsey Bill beacon on 010° from 0001-0130 hrs. Confirmed by F.C.L.O. 11 Gr.
Balloons B.L.O. 11 Gr. advises Balloons as follows:-
Langley }
Weybridge } 0001- [deleted] 00 [/deleted] 0130 hrs.
Portsmouth } at 1500 ft.
Southampton }
(all 11 Gr. Balloons at 1500’ 1900-0300 hrs.)
Balloons Billingham will be close-hauled 1850-2000 & 0130-0300 hrs. Arranged with B.L.O. 12 Gr.
1530 Balloons. & L.F.B. Information passed to Stations.
1700 A/S Search 432/P. Crew. 12 Gr. advise boat just entering mouth of Humber and will dock at Immingham. Crew appear OK but will likely be confined to Sick Quarters for 24 hrs. Linton & Controller informed.
1720 Billingham Balloons. Arranged with B.L.O. 12 to close haul 1830-2000 & 0130-0330 hrs. instead as originally arranged. Middleton informed.
1740 Wellington U/6 O.T.U. Linton advised m/n aircraft en route to home base at Silloth from Skipton-on-Swale crashed & burned near Skipton at 1310 hrs. Skipton N.F.S. attended crash & police informed. Bodies are at Skipton mortuary, Marston Moor
[Page break]
is handling; No 4 Group having taken all necessary action. This confirmed by F.C.O. 4 Group. Air I and controller informed.
1830 Off duty H.B. Spence P/O. On watch EFD.
1850 [Deleted] 1840 [/deleted] AVM Emory. Topcliffe says Mosquito landed from Swanton Morley at 1830 with AVM Emory a passenger. Left for Leeming in car immediately. Leeming Ops told
1900 Pundits Passed A M request for Pundits 155, 115, 1, 91, 140 to sta.
1930 Night Flying Group & York Brost on night flying.
2030/50 Diversion Passed appropriate info to 11 and 91 Gr.
0910 [sic] Hostiles Some plotted inland from Hull. Informed MSG, Topcliff [sic] Linton Leeming to pass to FC and W/T that Hull, Middlsboro and Sheffield balloons now shining.
2100 Diversion 4 Group worried about smoke, want emergency facilities in our Group. After calling MSG, Croft & Topcliffe base, evolved following plan: Dalton to stand by for Linton and Tholthorpe; Croft to stand by for 10 a/c of 4 Group. Dalton also to stand by for 4 group if Linton able to cope themselves. Everybody informed and 4 group will keep us advised.
[Underlined] FRIDAY SEPT 24 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed
0350 Missing A/C 12 Group report crash at A5500 north of Hull
[Page break]
FRIDAY SEPT 24
but no Hal plots on table. Group short of 4 a/c from MSG
0900 Off Watch EFD
0915 E38 Movements MLS-E38 Hal. & Lancs. & Well bombing Strensall 1000-1700
Hal. & Lancs. & Well airfiring Robin Hd 1000-1800
0940 Permission given by SASO for 426 a/c to go down to Thorney Island to pick up crew of 426/L that crashed there this morning.
09.45 a/c away Middleton, Leeming & Tholthorpe say it is okay for their a/c that landed away from base to return immediately. Are [sic] Met. say okay. 11 Gp. & 9 Gp. were then asked to send our a/c back as soon as possible.
1030 426/L (crash) DS714 Informed equip. & eng. officer this a/c crashed on landing at Thorney Island at 0130. Believed to be a write off.
1030 Crash north of Hull (see 0350 above) Contacted FCLO 12 Gp. who say this was a Halifax from Lissett (plot A5599)
1125 Silloth Wellington This a/c will be taking off from Middleton shortly for Silloth. Our met & Silloth say okay. Cloud will be down over Pennines so a/c will fly 4-5000 ft & break cloud near Silloth. Cloud base at Silloth is about 2000 ft. Pilot is experienced.
1200 Diversion 4 Gp. having trouble with weather & request us to take some of their a/c if they can’t get them down at their own base. After consulting
[Page break]
met, we gave them Linton, Eastmoor and Topcliffe
1210 Diversion 4 Gp. may be sending 3 Hal. From Pocklington to Linton. Linton given call sequs.
1227 Diversion From 4 Gp: “Porkpie B” has been sent to Linton from Manston. Linton informed.
1315 Diversion “Porkpie B” landed at Linton 1305. 4 Gp. informed.
1345 Bombing a/c at Middleton is testing some height apparatus, and will be going to a height of 2000 ft. with full load of bombs. They want permission for him to jettison out to sea. Referred to Controller who said they must go 40 miles out to sea. 12 Gp. informed.
1400 4 Gp. would like to use one of our aerodromes for 3 a/c of Marston Moor’s to do C & L’s on. Controller said okay and Middleton agreed. Gen. passed to Middleton.
1510 4 Gp. Can they use another of our A/D’ for 3 Hal. From Marston to do c & l’s? Okay by Controller and Linton but not till 1600 hrs. Informed 4 Gp and passed gen. to Linton.
[Underlined] D.F.C.O’s. [/underlined] When notifying crashes to AIR STAFF PERSONNEL G.T.I and Engineer Officer should be included. [Signature] S/Ldr.
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty H.B Spence P/O.
2015 Pundits AS4 requests Pundits 91, 140, 115 & 155 Dusk-Dawn Stations informed.
[Page break]
2015 Night Flying Passed to Stations + R.O.C.
2200 Balloons 12 Group state one balloon broke loose in Sheffield area at 2145. Travelling east-south east. No height or other details available.
[Underlined] SATURDAY – SEPT. 25, 1943. [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0900 Off duty H L Spence, P/O.
On Watch EFD
0955 to 1010 Comm Ox. Air one phones reserving Oxford for AOC and self at 1100 hrs. At same time operations officer on other phone giving permission for S/L Hughes & W/Cdr Smith of Linton to use it at 1000 hrs. Phoned Comm flt and had S/L Hughes stopped just as he was about to get into kite. He very annoyed as he had to go to Thorney Island to pick up parts. Phoned Air I and he suggested S/L Hughes take Lanc on a training flight to Thorney I. Told S/L Hughes. [Underlined] Suggestion [/underlined] – many senior officers seem to make a practice of reserving Comm flight a/c first, then phoning Group just before they are ready to take off and demanding permission immediately. Suggest [underlined] all [/underlined] reservations of Comm flight a/c should be made by Group [underlined] alone [/underlined], as group alone has whole picture of who wants what and when.
1230 LFB 2. Balloons LFB from 2320/2420.
Hull & Humber, [deleted] Middlesbrough 1830 [/deleted] 1840-0230.
Billingham Balloons. 1740-0100
Arranged with MLO and BLO.
1240 Comm Oxford AOC landed at Linton on Ouse.
[Page break]
[Underlined] SATURDAY 25/9/43 [/underlined]
1245 Comm Ox W/Cdr Weir & A/Cdr Slessor have Oxford reserved for 1200 hrs 26/9/43.
1404 Comm Ox Left MSG for Eastmoor with AOC and AIR I. Told Eastmoor.
1500 Comm Ox Left EM for Linton. Unable Tell Linton as line engaged (Landed Linton 15.15)
1505 426/R. 12 Group say Lanc ETC 1100 Linton has not arrived Thorney Island. (Landed Thorney Island 1723)
1600 Comm Proctor Reserved for W/Cdr Ferris & F/Lt Thompson to go to Bristol, 0830 on 26/9/43.
1710 Ops LFB & Balloons. TOT changed from 2125 to 0230. Therefore changed LFB no. 2 to 0440/0540
Hull & Humber Balloons 2200 to dawn (0630)
Billingham Balloons 2200 to dawn (in two shifts 2200-0100 and 0430-0730), close hauled.
1830 Off duty EF Dutton F/Lt. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1900 Tholthorpe 6 Bullseye a/c have taken off but seventh, 431/E has bogged, preventing the other 3 taking off. No damage done to 431/E.
2030 Operations cancelled. Request for Hull & Humber & Billingham balloons & LFB #2 cancelled.
2100 Tholthorpe 431 Sqdn a/c on Bullseye were told to fly to Whitby and return to base at 0114 to save interfering with operation of take off from Tholthorpe. Linton intends to send a message to them to land at base on original ETA on H/F D/F.
[Page break]
2135 Topcliffe H/F D/F received following message: To 6RUR from R8R/Q – Our position is 5351N 0109W T.O.O. 2055. Received 2125. Passed to 92 Gp.
[Underlined] Sunday September 26, 1943 [/underlined]
0200 Ident Bd changed
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty H.L. Spence, P/O.
Movement Arranged with M.L.S. 12 Group – Air Firing at R.H B. & Whitby; Bombing at Strensall; from 1000-1800 hrs, for Wells, Hals. & Lancs.
1245. Movement A/C Slessor Took off from Linton in Oxford for Gransden Lodge. F.C.L.O. 12 Gp. informed. Also F.C.O. 8 Group.
L.F.B. #2 Arranged with Ops. 12 Gr for L.F.B. #2, on 280° from 0200-0330 hrs.
1500 Balloons Billingham Arranged with B.L.O. 12 Gr. for close hauling of Billingham balloons,
2100-2230 hrs.
0200-0400 hrs.
M.S.G. informed.
1525 Transport. Hendon to RCAFs/SH.Q. Arranged with Hendon Transport Section: car for G.C’s. Campbell & Planto [deleted] at [/deleted] for 1630 hrs.; also permission to land from Flying Control.
1700 Operations Cancelled request for LFB #2, Balloons & Emerg Pet. Div. Base.
[Page break]
1810 Comm, Tiger Moth Reserved with Linton for W/C Hodgson 1000 hrs. 27-9-43. Required all day. Flying to M.S.G.
1830 Off duty H.L. Spence, P/O. On Watch EF Dutton.
1850 Pundits 155, 115, 91, 1, 140 passed to stations.
2100 Corks F/Lt Stacey requests corks be passed at 0830 hereafter to enable pilots on early movements to be briefed. (SOC informed)
0015 Ident Bd changed.
0310 Crash York 9 report crashed nr. Borobridge giving reference E8789. Phoned Topcliffe to organise crash tender & ambulance from Dishforth or Dalton – Phoned Boroughbridge police who say crash is near Dishforth airfield. Phoned Boroughbridge NFS who pinpoint crash somewhere just east of Dishforth. They have Thirsk NFS on way. Phoned Topcliffe new position. They will send ambulance from Dishforth and Dalton and firetender from [deleted] D [/deleted] Topcliffe as Dishforth is u/s. Topcliffe say Dishforth can see fire so Topcliffe base will despatch equipment from Topcliffe or Dalton whichever is quickest regarding roads and will arrange guard. 12 Group say a/c is a Wellington.
0330 Crash Phoned Borobridge NFS who say Thirsk fire dept was contacted a minute after crash by one of Boroughbridge firemen who heard crash.
0400 Crash Phoned Thirsk F.D. who say two engines left for crash at 0325. They will call us if they get any report.
0405 Crash 12 Group still trying to find identity of a/c
[Page break]
[Underlined] MONDAY SEPT 27 [/underlined]
0430 Crash 12 Gr say a/c believed to be XLW of Lossie, which is overdue on a trip to Goole.
0500 Crash Topcliffe reports they have received information that a/c is in reference Sheet 26, 871901, and conflicting evidence that a/c caught fire before crashing and at time of impact. It is a total wreck and searches unable to identify anything
0700 Crash 13 Gr say Lossie’s Wellingtons have returned but Kinloss is minus a Whitley.
0740 Crash Report from Topcliffe. Identity disk found, Sgt Fowler, 1893913; Receiver type 10D/5 Serial 18450. 2 steel airscrews.
0745 Crash 853/D. Phoned Kinloss. They report a/c overdue with Sgt Fowler in crew. Others are P/O Wallace, Sgt Cammies, Sgt Rogers, Sgt Robinson, Sgt Dickson. Told Topcliffe. Also Sgt. Hughes.
0900 Off Watch EF Dutton On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0914 Movements [underlined] E28 [/underlined] Hal. Well & Lancs. air firing Whitby 1000-1800
Hal. Well. & Lancs. bombing Strensall 1030-1700
1100 Crash LA853/D Details of crew passed to Topcliffe for casualty signal to be sent by Topcliffe:
Pilot: Sgt. T.W. Cammies 1339016
Nav: Sgt. E.R. Rogers 1338400
B.A. P/O J [circled] A [/circled]. W. Wallace Can J24145
W.O.P. Sgt. W.F. Robinson 1577597
AG Sgt. R.C. Fowler 1893913
AG Sgt. H. Dickson 1824449
Sgt. C.A. Hughes 1382175
A/c is a mk. V Whitley #LA835/D – Kinloss
[Page break]
1330 Diversions Due to sudden change in weather forecast for tonight. Met. say we may have 1500 ft or lower cloud base, slight rain & vis. 1-3 miles & suggest we lay on diversions in East Anglia. Requested prov. [deleted] petrol [/deleted] weather diversion bases for 74 Hal. & Lancs. & 9 Wells., Suggesting East Anglia. They say they will come back later.
1340 Authorization Air I authorized w/c Sweetman to fly down to Manby in 426 a/c to get gen. on [deleted] co-or [/deleted] bombing co-ordinates for GH exercises. (Runways at Manby 1400 & 1250 – told Linton)
1415 SASO airborne for Linton from Gransden Lodge at 1417. Linton informed.
1430 LFB #2 will be on from 00.20 till 0120 bearing of 280°
1535 SASO landed from Gransden at Linton 15.32.
1540 Billingham balloons will be grounded from 18.45-2100 and 23.59-02.30.
1600 6 Ansons Lossiemouth wants permission for 6 Ansons on way from Lossie to Llandwrod to land at Middleton en route due to weather. ETD Lossie 1600, ETA Middleton 18.30.aid no, send them to Croft (Middleton’s ops. a/c due to take off at 18.55)
1605 6 Ansons Lossie has informed the Ansons to land at Croft instead. Croft informed & gen. passed to them.
1620 6 Ansons Lossie now say all but one Anson got off
[Page break]
without being told to go to Croft instead of Middleton. Told 13 Gp. FCLO to send message by W/T and he said he would try. Middleton will divert them by R/T if necessary.
1710 6 Ansons 13 Gp. has not be [sic] able to contact them so Middleton will have to divert them by R/T
1630 Diversions CFC allot the following prov. Weather diversions.
Bassingbourne – 16/419 Pundits 102° 4 1/2
Molesworth – 15/428 256° 4
Polebrook – 14/427 093°4 3/4
Thurleigh = 15/429 316° 4 1/2
Ridgewell – 14/434 (Stradishall’s 192° 12
Chelveston – 9/432 140° 4 1/2
Polebrook have no taxi lighting but say they can cope okay by leading a/c with jeeps or something.
Met. say above stations will be okay.
1730 4 Group Can we let Marston Moor use one of our A/D’s for c & l’s tonight. Air I said okay on a non-operational A/D.
1810 6 Ansons From 13 Gp: 3 of these a/c have landed at Montrose. Croft informed.
1735 Permission given by Air I for 426 a/c to land at Newmarket while on G run to Barkway to drop off 3 Bomber Command GH experts. ETD from Linton 0900 28/9/43
1830 Off Duty (D.H. MILLER F/L)
[Page break]
1830 On Duty [Signature] F/L and P/O Spence. Controller: S/Ldr Napier.
1845 C & L 4 Group In answer to 4 Group query advised F.C. 4. that Linton are agreeable to receiving 2 Halifaxes from Marston Moor until 2300 hours when weather conditions are expected to deteriorate.
1850 Weather query with Croft Ref. x-countries Discussed deteriorating weather picture with F/C Croft – strongly suggesting that assurance be made that Sqn Cmdr be thoroughly in the picture, because due to expected conditions a/c should be back at base by 2230 hours. – Croft quite happy. –
1855 C & L 4 Group. Ex. F.C.4. – Linton not required for C & Ls. Base Linton informed.
1900 6 Ansons – Lossiemouth – Llandwrog. Picture to F.C.L.O. 13 and F.C. 91. – Of these Ansons which were to land at Middleton – (but unable to do so because of conflict on E.T.A. with Operational ETD)
3 Landed Montrose
2 Landed Croft
1 Landed Leuchars.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Sept. 27th 1943. [/underlined]
1915 Pundits. AS4’s request for Pundits No 1, 115, 140, and 91 passed to resp. Stn Ops & F.C.
1950 N/428 To MLO 12 – N/428 No I.F.F.
1959. Halifax in Sea. Ex. R.O.C. 10 and FCLO 12 Halifax plunged into the Sea between Flamborough and Hornsea. – Life boats already searching the area. The aircraft was not identified. – Controller informed.
2000/2100 Idents & Early Retns. - Fix Positions – Idents and messages passed to Stations.
2120 Diversion Provisional Diversion now definite because of weather deterioration –
Stations – C.F.C (W/C Warner) and 1st USA. Wing informed.
2130 Early Returns. Weather dropping. Discussed probable diversion of Early Return a/c with LINTON = Skipton = MIDDLETON – Each O/C N.F. quite happy!
2150 Early Returns Stations flapping for fix base to which to divert Early Returns.
2200 CFC C.F.C. suggest Elsham Wolds
[Page break]
[Underlined] Sept 27th Contd. [/underlined]
2205 Elsham Wolds. F.C. 1. Gp. willing to cope for an hour only. Stations informed.
2210 [Underlined] Earlies. [/underlined] Because Fix Positions on Early Returns show them to be near the coast and possibly in 6 Group area before able to be reached on Group Broadcast the Sqn Cmdrs decided to bring the a/c home and redivert on R/T if necessary.
2220 Recall 1664. Croft sent out Recall Signal to 1664 a/c.
2240 N/428 Returning Early.
To M.L.O. 12 Reminder that this a/c has no IFF (Landed Middleton 2307)
2250 Diversion To FCLO’s 11 and 12 – Diversion Definite – A/c should be making Landfall near Lowestoft – proceeding direct to Allocated Stns in 1st USA Wing.
2300 Pundits Leeming Pundit U/S. Checked that Topcliffe was flashing OK.
2323 Pundits Leeming Pundit now flashing OK.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Tuesday Sept. 28th. [/underlined]
0005 ASR Request for 10-12 a/c in morning. – unable to cope because full complement away from base
009 CRASH. R.O.C. Plot Halifax crashed in flames near Linton
FINAL position details. –
RED HOUSE SCHOOL
Cockhill – Map Ref: 990754
- Crash tenders from Marston – Rufforth and Linton.
Final gen on this crash reported by Linton at [deleted] 2300 [/deleted] 0230 hours. – as follows. Aircraft thought to be an Halifax in bits and pieces – widely scattered.
- Few serial Nos as follow
DSB/VA 12219. (Bomb Release)
DMB/VA/17.
DWG/F/4688/11.
DMB/VA/PI683.
Carburetor – Type 754/99.
Practice Bombs on Board.
- All this gen was passed to F.C. Croft,. Who were unable to identify their long overdue S/1664 from these meagre facts. NO bodies were evident at the crash. It was thought crew might have bailed out.
Hessay Police searching
[Page break]
[Underlined] Tuesday Sept 28th [/underlined]
0010 Pundits Leeming [deleted] Sen [/deleted] unserviceable AS4 were not informed because the pundit was made temporarily serviceable before the call could be put through
0030 L/419 QDY. M.S.G. 202!
Cl. Base MSG. – 1000 ft – patches at 500’ vis 2-4 mi – Rain. Request Diversion base because 30 mi/hr x-wind prevented use of Contact Strip. – Advised Linton a bit better. – able to use Contact Strip.
Linton standing by
0053 L/419 L/419 landed Thornaby
0100 Y/419 Diverted on R/T from M.S.G. to Linton. – O.K. by all concerned. a/c – 1 hour endurance.
0105 J/429 On R/T Skipton. Weather bad. – Attempting Landing.
0110 F/434 Learned for the first that Sealand (who were listening in on M/F Sn.K.) heard F/434 send S.O.S. on Bearing 082° at 0014 hours
- Hull [deleted] disputed [/deleted] doubted Sealand because none others of M/F K heard the transmission
- Information passed FCLO 12
[Page break]
[Underlined] Sept 28th ’43 [/underlined]
0116 J/429 Landed Skipton under very duff weather conditions
0135 Y/419 Landed Linton. Poor vis.
0230 O/428 Crashed at Ludford Magna in 1 Group. Crew who bailed out are reported to be O.K. The Pilot who belly-landed the a/c because of undercart failure – also O.K.
All concerned informed
0340 U/428 Crashed at Framlingham. in 3rd USA. Dvn.
[Underlined] FACTS: [/underlined]
1 Appeared to do Normal Approach.
2 Attempted to do Overshoot
3 Crashed.
4 3 of CREW Killed.
3 of CREW injured.
1 of CREW ok.
5 The Killed are:
Sgt Lucas 1388785
Sgt Murcer R181017
Sgt Whitely 1547703
The injured are:
Sgt Smith – 1586966 badly injured
Sgt Wilson – 1389464 broken leg.
P/O Roughton – 151333 broken arm.
The uninjured is –
Sgt Wainwright 943031
0400 – See concerned informed
[Page break]
[Underlined] Sept 28th 1943. [/underlined]
0430 S/1664 Still outstanding from x-country. Croft still unable to identify crashed a/c near Marston as S/1664.
-Overdue signal sent by Croft to A.M.
0500 Ref Return of a/c away. -To Stations (6 Group) and to F.C. at All Groups concerned
-MET. REPORT.
“Improvement at Bases expected at 0500 hours with passage of cold front when conditions will become 8/10 ths Sc 2000 ft – occasional rain vis. 6-12 mi. Main cold front will NOT have cleared the Diversion Bases until after 0800 hours. Therefore a rain belt with 10/10 cloud 1000 feet vis 1-2 mi with squally veering winds would have to be crossed if a/c took off before 0800 hrs.”
Aircraft are therefore NOT to take off before 0800 hours – and after 0800 hours NOT without permission from the respective Station and Sqn Cmdrs throughout the Groups concerned.
0500 – See Groups thanked for
[Page break]
[Underlined] Sept 28th ’43. [/underlined]
their assistance tonight.
0530 A/C away Summary to C.F.C.
0900 Off Duty – [Signature] F/L
1115 Crash 0009 Entry 4 Group say this a/c is a Lanc “F” Sq letters IR or LR. A kit bag found near crash contained a battle dress with 1250 made out to Sgt AW Miller R154030. 4 Group say letters indicate it is a/c from 1669 Con. Unit, one Group. Croft say no Sgt, Miller in a/c. 4 Group will contact I, and let us know. S
1145 Diversion Up to now no station has told Group what orders have been issued to their away a/c though some have been issued their away a/c though some have contacted the diversion stations direct. Phoned all bases and parent stations to please put us in the picture. They all say they will call back.
1148 Diversion Middleton reports their a/c have been told to stand by for further orders.
1205 Diversion W/Cdr Turnbull has ordered 427 to come home form Polebrook
1210 Diversion S/Ldr Shann (MSG) doesn’t think weather warrants their a/c coming up today at all,
1211 A-M. Edwards. Linton calls that A/Cdr McEwan has informed Base ops that A.M. Edwards left Hendon , stopping “somewhere” en route and coming on to Linton. Don’t know when he is arriving. Tried to phone AOC but he left by car at 10.30 dont [sic] know where. Told Controller and Air I who doesnt [sic] know either.
[Page break]
[Underlined] SEPT. 28, 1943 [/underlined]
NOTE: At 1045 1st U.S wing F.C. phoned to say that their stations were calling in and saying that the various pilots had been receiving instructions to return – also that these instructors had been passed to some station FC. They complained that they had no information from us in this regard. In consultation with Met, the controller decided to tell 1 Wing to hold a/c until after midday. At 1120 W/Cdr Turnbull of 427 called, telling us we had no authority to countermand his orders. Up to that time Group here had no knowledge of what orders had been passed to any a/c. We then phoned each Base & parent station for this information and told each one the Group [underlined] must [/underlined] be put in the picture. At 1130 on receiving this information from MSG we called 1 Wing and told them to send up A/C of 427 and 429 at Polebrook and Thurleigh and to tell Bassingbourne, Molesworth, Ridgewell and Chelveston to await orders [underlined] from their stations [/underlined] and to act accordingly [underlined] without referring the orders to 6 Group. [/underlined] By 1200 hrs we had learned that MSG a/c at Bassingbourne and Molesworth, and [deleted] 434 [/deleted] 432 a/c of Eastmoor had been told to stand by. No report from Thorlthorpe’s 434.
1240 G/429 Crashed at Thurleigh This a/c has one (port) wing smashed, both port engines crippled. Crash occurred when u/c gave way on port side & kite ground looped, putting r/w out of service until this morning. Told Leeming.
1245 J/427 left Polebrook for Skipton. Leeming told.
1250 Diversion Base Linton says E.M. has told a/c at Chelveston to stand by awaiting release from [underlined] Group [/underlined]. Reminded E.M. that executive control passed [underlined] to them [/underlined] after 0800 hrs, and to let us know what instructions are passed later.
[Page break]
1255 O/428 Crashed Ludford Magna. Phoned 1 Group re condition & whereabouts of bailed out crew. They will call us back.
1257 A/M Edwards. 11 Group say A-M. Edwards left Headcorn (nr W. Malling) at 1250 in Wellington. Told Linton Base to tell everybody concerned.
1310 Diversion All Eastmoor a/c at Chelveston told by EM to come up about 1400 hrs.
1325 On request Topcliffe, asked York 9 if Whitley which crashed near Dishforth as 0310 Sept 27 seemed to catch fire in mid air or before it hit ground. Also were there any plots of Beaufighters at the time or any sound of firing.
1327 Diversion 1 Gr pass airborne times of 427/E, J, Y, P, V, W, Z, C. O has engine shot up & burst tire. S is taxying out. Told Leeming.
1335 Diversion 1 Gr say 428 Sq have been wanting to get home. Called MSG who say tell them to wait. Told First Wing.
1340 434 Sqdn want their a/c to come home. Told 1 Group to tell Ridgewell.
1345 Crash York 9 will send report on Whitley Sunday night crash to Base Ops Topcliffe. They say their observer did NOT see a/c on fire before it hit ground, and [underlined] no [/underlined] reports of Beaus or firing.
1400 Diversion MSG have instructed their a/c to come home
[Page break]
1417 Crash II Topcliffe gets report from Thirsk police of a/c crashed at Kepwick in a disused quarry Ref. Sheet 22 968/117. Lanc. 6 dead. Obtained guard from North Allerton subdivision (Air Formation Signals, Thirsk 2261). Topcliffe have sent ambulance & C.T. and Thirsk NFS are attending. Told Linton who say no Lancs should be in that area.
151 [missing digit] AM Edwards 16 Gr say Wellington going to Eastmoor. Told Linton to get EM on toes.
1520 Checked back to 16 Group & discovered a/c mentioned is not A-M. Edwards.
1655 Crash II Topcliffe now say a/c in 1417 Entry has been identified as missing S/1664. Explanation seems to be that a/c crashed last night without anyone seeing it. Thirsk police got report at 1417 today and phoned information in to Topcliffe in such a way that Topcliffe understood it just happened. Notified Croft (who already knew) Linton and 12 Group. Told Controller, [deleted] GTI [/deleted] SASO, Equip officer. Unable to find GTI. Eng, officer.
On order SASO phoned Thirsk police to find out full details of finding of a/c etc. They say lieut of RE, out on manoeuvres, found a/c 1/4 mile E of Limekiln House, near Kepwick. Two of crew were conscious & one said crash occurred at midnight 27/9/43. Topcliffe ambulance picked up injured crew. Police say five dead and a/c a total wreck spread over 1/2 mile.
2100 Crash II Address of lieut. who first discovered crash: 2nd Lieut. Ewens, 556 Field Cpy., R.E. Luchan House, Ripon.
Thirsk police gave position of crash as sheet 22/975118.
[Page break]
2140 Bullseye 1659 Sqdn are not happy about the weather and are going to recall their Bullseye a/c from London at 23.15.
2220 428/O Ref. entry 12.55 1 Gp. say all crew okay with only minor injuries and are scattered around countryside – will endeavour to find out where they are. (Passed this gen. [inserted] to Middleton [/inserted] at 2300 hrs.)
2245 Recall Met. advise weather prospects are going to be worse than previously expected. Controller decided to recall all Bullseye a/c after conferring with stations. Message to be sent on M/F at 2300 [deleted] & [/deleted] 23.30, 2359 and 0030; on H/F D/F’s at 23.15, 23.45, & 00.15. FCLO 12 Gp & Ops. Stanmore informed
2340 A/1664 asked for fix at 23.35 and Hull was working another a/c and told A/1664 to stand by. When Hull called again they got no reply.
[Underlined] Wednesday Sept. 29/43 [/underlined]
0015 431/E From 1 Gp: Binbrook picked up the following message from 431/E addressed to Linton H/F D/F: “Returning to base, eng. u/s, position 5205N 0055W T.O.O. 23.55.” Passed to Linton.
0025 1659/F ground looped on landing, u/c written off, crew okay.
0050 A/1664 landed at Croft 0047
0055 431/N Returning from Bullseye, got turn 4 to land, fly at 1500 ft. A/c then went over to Linton, called Linton on R/T & requested to land. Linton landed him. Using wrong R/T Call sign. Taxied through red light and bogged on perimeter track. No apparent damage.
[Page break]
0245 1659/D got a QDM on Topcliffe of 357°at 0203. After wandering all over 4 Gp., finally landed at Holme on Spalding, saying he was short of petrol. Topcliffe informed.
0900 Off duty DH Miller F/L.
On duty HL Spence P/O.
0920 Leeming Oxford S.A.S.O authorised trip to Thurleigh & Polebrook. Station informed.
0935 Air Firing & Bombing Arranged with M.L.S. 12 for Air Firing at R.H.B. & Whitby and Bombing at Strensall from 1000-1800 hrs. – Ref. – E-25
0940 1659/F Informed G.T.I., Equip & Engr Officers & S.A.S.O. informed. Air I away.
1035 A-M, Edwards Linton Hendon. [Underlined] V.I.P. [/underlined] Advised M.L.O. 12 Group. Wellington L4340 left at 1035 for Hendon with A.M. Edwards & 5 passengers. Hendon informed by Linton. Pilot F/O Altman. FCLO. 12 advised also
1000 1100 Comm. Oxford Linton Linton stated F/L Neal (O.C 426/A Flt.) & F/L. McMillan (Bomb. Leader) desired to go to [deleted] (Granstown Moor) [/deleted] Gransden Lodge to secure “gen” on electrical modifications & that we were aware of the proposed trip. Desired to take off in 10-15 mins. S.A.S.O. know nothing of trip nor did S/L. Fernside. A/c had already taken off before further information could be secured. W/C Smith, Linton Base Engrg. Officer authorized flight & passed to Comm, Flight. Advised S.A.S.O. 1130hrs.
[Page break]
1200 426/L. (DS-714) F.C.L.O. 11 Gr. advises this a/c appears to be waiting to be broken up for repairs. One wheel collapsed, tail unit broken off and port wing collapsed (Cat. AC.) Advised Linton Ops. & Group Equip. Officer.
1230. 1659/F Topcliffe state this a/c Cat. A.C.
1300. 4 Gr. a/c. Ex 4 – May require to land 3 Hal. Linton standing by.
1320. ditto Ex. 4 – a/c concerned landed OK in own Group Linton informed.
1345 M.S.G. Oxford M.S.G. advised OK for Oxford to return from Molesworth. Group Met. say cloud 2,000 ft at worst with moderate viz. Advised Molesworth who say a/c also going to Mildenhall before returning to M.S.G. informed M.S.G.
1430 LFB #2. Arranged with F.C.L.O. 12 Group for LFB #2 on 280°T from 2230-2330 & 0030-0130.
Balloons Billingham Arranged with B.L.O. 12 Group for close haul of Billingham’s Balloons from 1730-1830 & 2300-0200.
Met. Cold front to come down from north but should not affect 6 Gr. until 0200-0400 hrs, cloud base 2,000 ft, possibility of some rain about 0300 hrs.
1525 Balloons Times revised as follows:=
1730-1900 hrs. and 2300-0230 hrs.
[Page break]
1710. 5 Group Diversion to Croft. In consultation with Controller & Met & Croft agreed to handle possible diversion of 5 Group [deleted] Diversion of their [/deleted] Gardeners (16). Advised C.F.C. & M.S.G.
1730 ditto Following stations feel they may be able to cope with emergency diversion of 5 Group a/c as indicated:-
Croft. – 20.
M.S.G. – 15
Linton – 15.
Eastmoor – 15
Also possibility of 10 at Topcliffe if sufficient notice given to enable our own a/c from Skipton to divert to Topcliffe thus eliminating possibility of confusion because of the 2 adjacent circuits being used at the same time. This information passed to C.F.C.
C.F.C. advised that a/c mentioned in entry 1710 could be returning t around 0400 hrs. We gave C.F.C. following Met picture:-
0300-0500 – cold front moving south, cloud below 1500 ft., rain, & poor viz due to smoke, making southern stations poor; at 0500 in northern parts of group cloud will likely be 1000-1500 ft. 8-10/10ths with chance of rain.
C.F.C. felt that a/c mentioned in entry 1710 could be re-diverted by signal later if necessary. Croft advised of Met picture & requested to watch weather
[Page break]
situation. C.F.C. requested to advise us particulars of Squadrons if, as, and when diversion becomes necessary.
1750 Leeming Oxford Leeming state this a/c is staging overnight at Thurleigh and will return tomorrow.
1830 Pundits AS4 request 1, 91, 115, 140 & 155 Pundits dusk to dawn.
1845 Darkey I Four Group say Lissett received Darkey from “Granite Y” asking priority landing
1846 Explosion ROC say an explosion NE of Flam. Head.
1847 Phoned Lissett & they have landed 10\Y. Asked them to find out immediately if he jettisoned. They will do so and let us know.
1850 Explosion Called 12 Gr re explosion. They are unable to give any additional information as too many a/c on board to reorganize possible fading plots.
1855 Diversion Controller in conference with Met requires that CFC be asked to provide another diversion base for gardeners of 5 Gr, due Croft at 0300-0445 as weather likely to be difficult at that time. Told C.F.C. who said they would get on to 5 Gr.
1905 Explosion Jacked up 4 and 12 Gr re: did 10\Y jettison. They haven’t heard yet.
1915 Explosion Called 4 Gr again and got rough about above question. They haven’t heard yet
[Page break]
Sept 29, 1943
1920 Diversion 5 Group called with more information about their Gardeners diverted to Croft. CFC haven’t called them yet. They say provisional diversion is “likely”.
1922 Diversion Croft called re diversion. How do we expect the, to take 36 a/c if all come?
1932 Explosion 4 Group say Y/10 jettisoned 12 miles E of Bridlington & bombs did not explode. Called 12 Gr. who say there are a great many a/c over this area. Controller suggests we wait for a possible sighting report from one of these in case explosion [underlined] was [/underlined] a crashed a/c
1940 Explosion Asked 4 gr to find out if crew of 10/Y saw anything unusual at 1845, as explosions was reported at about same time as he was in that area. They will report to us.
1945 [Deleted] Diversion [/deleted] Explosion Called Lissett intell. Who say crew have been interrogated & they say they saw nothing & bombs did not explode & they saw nothing out of the way. Told 12 Gr.
1955 Explosion Call ROC for further details. It was about 3 miles E. of Flamborough hd. A78-79 to A88-89. ROC think it was 10/Y as they were keeping a plot on him and his position and explosion coincided. Controller derides our information does not warrant an immediate search.
2025 Diversion CFC again. They say they are unable at present to find any plane better suited for the 0330 a/c than Croft. They ask us to wait until midnite when we will have a clearer weather picture. Told all stations the position.
[Page break]
Sept 29, 1943.
2120 U, B /57 These a/c now over Scampton may have to be diverted to Eastmoor. 5 Gr will let us know if they are. Told Eastmoor. C/S So Tight.
2215 Diversion 57 Sqdn diverted to Croft. So Tight A C D F H L Q ō O T Z Y – 27 officers & 62 NCO’s. Told Croft. Called MSG after 5 Gr. tell us a/c have been told go to MSG first. Sq/Ldr Shore given details & believes that MSG & Croft can handle these 12 a/c between them & also take the 14 a/c coming later.
2240 Linton reports white flash to SE. Called ROC who say Verey lights have been reported but no plots near there.
NOTE Croft was laid on for 14 a/c of 5 gr. definite diversion for 0300-0400. Together with other airfields in Group it also was laid on for 20 a/c for emergency diversion as per entry 1730. We called 5 Group and asked them if they had any emergencies, to leave Croft until last. In spite of this request, the first sq, diverted was sent to Croft. Controller called 5 Group F.C. and protested, but was told BFX had already been sent before we were consulted. Suggest some protest might be made to CFC.
[Underlined] Thursday Sept, 30. 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Bd changed.
0105 Ops. Op a/c down – 3 missing from Group and one of 57 Sq diverted to MSG.
0215 Diversion First a/c of 5 Gr gardeners on plotting table.
Diversion 13 of 5 Gr a/c landed Croft. One sent message “ditching” to 5 Group blower.
[Page break]
Sept [deleted] 29 [/deleted] 30, 1943.
0900 Off Watch EFD On duty D.H, Miller F/Lt.
0910 5 Gp. a/c Asked 5 Gp if we could send their a/c back to them yet. They said no, their weather was not suitable and to wait for further instructions from them. Informed Middleton and Croft.
1010 5 Gp. a/c 5 Gp say it is okay for V/49 Sqdn. to return although Fiskerton is now yellow. They said they were quite happy about it. Informed Croft.
1030 Permission granted by SASO for 434 Sqdn, to take Comm. Oxford down to Ridgewell with crew to pick up 434/V.
1030-11.15 5 Gp. [deleted] a/c [/deleted] have given permission for following a/c to return to base: 57/A, F, Q, ō, T; 49/V; and 9/Z and H. Croft & Middleton informed.
1205 5 Gp. want us to stop all of 57 Sqdn a/c and to send 207/P & O. Croft & Middleton informed. The only 57 Sqdn. a/c that took off was 57/A which took off at 11.18. 5 Group informed.
1220 E57 Movements MLS-E57 Hal. Well & Lancs. bombing Strensall 1300-1830
Hal. Well & Lancs. airfiring Whitby 1300-1830
1225 X-Country 431/9 a/c Linton passed x-country going up to Mull of Galloway & Mull of Kintyre, then to Inverness. Met. say weather in that area is: cloud below 1000 ft. extending up to 8000 ft. Suggested to Tholthorpe they fly about 8000 ft. They said
[Page break]
they would fly at 10000 ft. MLS informed. Informed Met. who say this is too high.
1250 LFB #2 will be exposed from 0140-0240 hrs bearing 280°T
1230 Diversion Met. say at present they do not think we will need diversion bases tonight but will let us know for sure later.
1300 Operations cancelled – LFB #2 cancelled
1230-1300 X-Country 431 a/c Told F/C Tholthorpe to tell a/c which had not taken off to fly between 5000 & 9000 ft as freezing level is around 8 or 9000 ft. Met. say they will be okay at that height.
1430 X-Countries Croft When ETA of these x-countries was passed to us, we warned them of the weather at base on return (cloud over the Hambleton hills, - almost dark at that time) Croft had been warned earlier on of the weather. Told them a/c should be back by 19.30 as per Met. 6 Gp. but flight commander said he wanted one due back at 20.30 to go anyway.
1435 91 Gp. enquired if Topcliffe had landed one of their Wellingtons from Wellesbourne returning from a sea-search and if so had they anything to report. Topcliffe said they had landed Wellington HS640 from Wellesbourne at 13.55 and it had nothing to report as far as they knew. Permission obtained from 91 Gp. for it to take off immediately.
1503 X-Countries Linton Linton are recalling 408/O,E,G and 426/F & E from detail at Stoney Down due to weather.
[Page break]
1500 4 Group Night Flying Can they use one of our A/D’s for c & l’s for 2 of Ricall’s a/c and also to land one of their x-countries from Ricall. Controller said okay.
1510 Occult 29 The selected site for this occult was not in Sig. A4547 July 17/43. Enquired from AS4 by phone who say it is on Site A and that this should have been in the signal. Stations informed.
1630 4 Group night flying Middleton say they can take 2 a/c from Ricall to do c & l’s and Met. give following conditions: cloud base 1500 ft. patches at 1000 ft. vis. 4 miles. 4 Gp. informed.
1700 5 Gp. a/c During the day permission was received for 57 Sqdn, 207 Sqdn, 44 Sqdn, 49 Sqdn., 9 Sqdn and 50 Sqdn. to return to their bases from Croft & Middleton. All got back except the following who are as far as is known serviceable.
[Deleted] 467 Sqdn for [/deleted] Bottesford – 467/X, R }
[Deleted] Fiskerton 49/V [/deleted] } Croft.
Syerston – 61/H, Z }
106/Y, H }
East Kirkby – 57/L at Middleton 2 engines U/S
1700 4 Group night flying Ricall say they have no serviceable a/c and are scrubbing this night flying at Middleton. Middleton informed.
[Page break]
Note DFCO’s The following call signs will be used w.e.t. 0100 hrs. Oct. 1st.
[Underlined] 1659 [/underlined] – Barred a/c – W/T – NGQ
R/T – “Gimcrack” (away) “Pitchdark”
Plain a/c – W/T – UNG
R/T “Fighead” (away) “Ratcliffe”
[Underlined] 1666 [/underlined] W/T – TLO
R/T “Popsy”
[Underlined] 1691 [/underlined] R/T “Bowlan”
[Underlined] ASDU [/underlined] (Fighter Affil. Unit) – R/T “Hexad” [Hexad}
[Underlined] Topcliffe F/C [/underlined] – “Good friend”
Topcliffe H/F D/F – BX3
1120 Crash Base Linton report having heard of a crash 5-6 miles [deleted] SW [/deleted] W by S of Linton. Asked ROC about it who have heard nothing but are making enquiries. Linton flying control say they saw an a/c in flames go into the deck.
1730 Crash Linton FCO says he & two others saw an object with smoke coming out of it go towards the ground and disappear behind the trees. ROC, after enquiring from all the posts, have seen nothing. They say that the only a/c in that area landed safely. Neither Dishforth flying control, Boroughbridge police nor Melmesby police have seen anything of this “crash” so in view of lack of information no action could be taken.
1820 X-countries All of Tholthorpe’s x-countries back okay.
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty H.L. Spence. P/O.
[Page break]
1930 Movements All 6 Gr aircraft accounted for.
Crash. No further information received of entries 1720 & 1730. All 4 Group a/c accounted for.
S.P. 02274(16) (Nav. Int. Div.) Copy No. 4941 received from Signals. Table of Lettered Co-Ordinates – (16th Edition)
Pundits AS.4 request #1, 91, 140 & 115 Dusk to dawn. Stations informed 1740 hrs.
2335 Pundits #1, 91, 115 & 140 cancelled by A.S.4. Stations informed.
[Underlined] FRIDAY – OCT. 1, 1943. [/underlined]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0810 Movement Arranged with M.L.S. 12. – Air firing at R.H.B. & Whitby, & Bombing at Strensall for Hals. Lancs. & Wells, 1000hrs – 1800 hrs. – Ref. E10.
0900 Off watch HL Spence P/O.
0900 on watch SR Wyman F/Lt.
0905 CROFT 5 Gp a/c Called 5 Group, re. Bottesford and Syerston a/c at Croft. O.K. for them to return. Told Croft F/C.
0920 1832 B.A.T. / OXFORD Landed Leeming 0832 hrs. from Ricall.
0925 A/F Bombing see [underlined] note: 0810 hrs. [/underlined]
[Page break]
Y/106 – 1057
X/467 – 1043
1011 H/106 left Croft 1009.
H/61 1015
R/467 1029 [Underlined] Told 5 Gp F/C. [/underlined]
Z/61 1031
1050 Prov. Pet Diversions 4 Stations required in S or S.E. England for Prov. Pat. Diversions. Told C.F.C. also consulted 6 Gp. met. who say wait for midday conference.
1113 Landfall Beacon Dungeness on a brg of 345° from hrs to hrs.
1155 The above beacon not required due to change in Route. Cancelled with 11 Gp F/C.
1225 Landfall Beacon at Beachy Head on a bearing of 030° from 0020 to 0120 hours.
1300 Balloons Dover 2500’, Chelmsford 1500’, Canterbury 1500; and Thames Estuary 1500’. Overriding Control.
[Underlined] Times [/underlined] 1915-2145 – 0015-0130
1315 Landfall Beacon #2 Flamboro Head 280° - 2300 to 2359 hrs. Elevation 070°.
1335 Operations Cancelled for 6 Gp except Gardening.
1400 Cancellation Entries 1225 and 1300 hours cancelled.
1445 Cancellation entry 1400 cancelled & 1225 & 1300 back in force.
1515 Balloons. BEACONS. PASSED to Leeming & Middleton & Linton
1615 BALOONS Beacons Cancelled with 11 and 12 Gps. All six Group operations cancelled.
[Page break]
1637 PARA TROOPERS On the morning of October 24, 1943 – 12 Whitleys of 38 Wing will land at M St George and take on 120 para troopers & then take off again. Air I, Controller, G/C Ross have details. Passed to Group by S/L Shand.
1719 G/C McNAB. Hurricane 658 with m/n pilot landed Eastmoor. Told Digby F/C.
1831 G/C McNab Took off from Eastmoor for Digby at 18.21 I Hurricane KZ658. Informed Digby by phone.
1830 Off duty S.R. Wyman F/Lt.
1830 On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
[Underlined] Saturday Oct. 2nd 1943 [/underlined]
0100 Ident Bd. changed.
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
On duty H.L. Spence P/O.
Movement arranged with M.L.S. 12 doe Air Firing at R.H.B. & Whitby & Bombing at Strensall for Lancs. Hals. & Wells from 1000 hrs-1800 hrs. (E-208)
[Deleted] 1500 [/deleted] 1215 L.F.B. #2 Laid on at 280° (70° elevation) from 2245-2345 hrs & 0045-0145 hrs. through 12 Gr. Ops.
1445 L.F.B. #2 Times now revised to 2245-2345 & 0130-0230 hrs.
1445 Training Exercise “Density” Laid on Density Exercise for 7 Halfaxes from 1659/[deleted] Croft [/deleted] Topcliffe. Details submitted
[Page break]
to 12 Gr, Ops. + AA + SL. Liaison Officer Kenton (Newcastle) Sector.
Base 0001 – Whitby (out) 0009 – Saltburn (in) 0017 – T.O.T. 0020-0025 and 0035-0045 – Base 0053 – Target No. 1.
1540 Density Exercise Reference entry 1445 – One aircraft from 1664/Croft also taking part. Details of T.O.T. etc given to Stations. 12 Gr. Ops & AA & SL. Liaison Officer informed.
1515 1545 Crash at Westgate. M.S.G. reported crash S.E. of Westgate. Military authorities guarding a/c All crew of Wellington killed. Position – 1 Sheet 10 – 4157. Report originated from Militia – Mr. Wood, tel. Stanhope 287. F.C.L.O. 12 Gr. stated that Duston were taking all the necessary action. M.S.G. informed.
1545 Pundits A.S.4. requests Pundits 1, 115, 91, & 140 dusk to dawn. Stations informed. 1655 hrs.
1720 L.F.B. #2 Revised times – 2245 to 2345 & 0230 to 0330 arranged thru Ops. 12 Group.
1810. Night Flying Passed to R,O,C, & Stations.
1830 Off duty H.L. Spence, P/O.
2127 York 10 Mann Plotter Lines – Advised Controller. Some hostiles in York 10 – Stations told Plot. Investigate system.
[Underlined] Sunday – 3 October 1943. [/underlined]
0105 Checked Ident Board.
[Page break]
0133 434/K This a/c idented on Section K at 0133; obtained a fix (5433N-0315E-①) at 0136 and in the same transmission sent following information Course 253T; Height 4500; Speed 170. At 0200, instituted Emergency procedure. The aircraft was later identified as a plot on our intruder board and Searchlight & Aerodrome lighting action was taken with 4 Group. [Inserted] [Underlined] 0245 [/underlined] cancelled Emergency [/inserted] Aircraft later crossed the coast at Bridlington and landed at Base. 0305.
0210 434/U This a/c obtained a brg. Of 024 and not until 0237 was a fix (3rd class) 5754N-0145E obtained. [Deleted] Previous to this [/deleted] an attempt was made to get the aircraft on [inserted] M/F [/inserted] Section A without results. At 0238 hrs. a/c instituted emergency procedure. At 0300, a/c sent following message a posn. & course, T.A.S. Petrol. Previous to this it was decided to divert the a/c to Peterhead, [inserted] message sent out on M/F in P/L [/inserted] (even though not on diversion schedule). Contacted 13 Gp and advised them of our intentions, which was a good thing because a Beaufighter had been sent out to shot [sic] down “the hostile”. All good things come to an end and the a/c landed at 0333 Peterhead.
Ops. All aircraft returned (early or otherwise) from Ops.
0900 off duty SR Wyman F/O.
On duty H.F. Spence P/O.
0910 Movement Arranged with MLS 12 Gr. for Air Firing at RHB & Whitby and Bombing at Strensall for Lancs. Hals. & Wells. from 1000 to 1800 hrs. Ref. E210
1100 Emerg. Diversion In consultation with Met. & Controller
[Page break]
requested emergency patrol and weather diversion bases. Suggested Dunsfold, Hartford Bridge, Harwell and north, six in all. Met believe conditions on return should be better than originally thought. Some rain expected in East Anglia area on return. C.F.C. to advise.
1220 L.F.B. Beachy Head. Special Beacon at Beachy Head requested of F.C.L.O. 11 Group on 310° from [deleted] 0030 [/deleted] 2330-0030 hrs. (O.K.)
Balloons Arranged with B.L.O’s 11 & 12 Groups for over-riding control of balloons, which will be at following heights, for times noted:-
Langley }
Weybridge } 1500 ft. 2345-0100 hrs.
Derby }
Sheffield } 500 ft. 001-0200 hrs.
Billingham – Close hauled 1745-1900 hrs and 0030-0300 hrs.
1300. Mosquito DD607 Dyce. Linton state Mosquito DD/607 from Dyce (F/O Duke) c/s “Slumber 104” landed Tholthorpe 1200 hrs, via Drem (1330 hrs) & Dyce (1350 hrs.) Has requested that Drem home him on Channel “D”. Passed request to F.C.R.O 12 Group & movement to M.R.O. 12 Gr.
1425 4/32/U. Chelveston Air I authorized flight to transport extra crew to Chelveston in order to bring back 432/V.
[Page break]
1600 Emerg. Petrol & Weather Diversion Bases. In consultation with Met the following bases have been laid on as provisional diversion bases:-
Tangmere – 419
Ford – 428
Middle Wallop – 427
Boscombe Down – 429
Dunsfold – 431 & 434
Passed to stations 1630 hrs.
Billingham Balloons. Revised times:- [underlined] 1815-1945 [/underlined] and 0030 to 0300 hrs. – arranged with B.L.O. 12 M.S.G. informed.
1550 Density Exercise night 23/10/43. A.A. & S.L. Liaison Officer explained that they were ready by that for some reason (as yet not determined) the R.O.C. from whom they had arranged co-operation in plotting failed to function. A further & more detailed explanation is to be forthcoming for our information. (Kenton Sector telephoned Newcastle 26111 Army “B” Board or Ext, 15)
1735. L.F.B. at Beachy Head. F.C.L.O. 11 Group has just advised that this Beacon will be on 360°T instead of 310T. – Stations informed.
1830 Off duty HL Spence P/O.
18.30 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L
18.45 AS4 request Pundits #115, 1, 140, 91 from Dusk to Dawn
22.15 W/427 overhead at Skipton – reports 2 dead and one injured on board. Undercarriage shot up, also tail assembly damaged.
Ex. Skipton: Can we arrange diversion to Dalton as
[Page break]
he may possibly prang on landing.
We suggested Topcliffe instead & arranged same through Base there.
22.25 Informed by Skipton they intend to land him there instead as his U/C is down & locked.
22.40 W/427 landed OK at Skipton.
Dead: P/O Rogerson G.T. (WopAG)
P/O Findlay J.G. (Rear Gunner)
Injured: Sgt. Cardy W.H. (Flight Engineer.)
X/429 Bearing 070° (Bircham Newton) II class at 00.08
Fix 54.48N, 0815E (Bircham Newton) II class at 00.26
Position passed to FCLO at 12 Group.
[Deleted] Bearing [/deleted] Fix 54°54’N, 07°53’E (Bircham Newton) II Class at 00.38 acknowledged.
FCLO at 12 Group informed of position and aid requested.
Sheffield Balloons. Balloon Officer at 12 Gp. inform us it is necessary to raise Sheffield balloons to 6500 ft.
This information passed to FCLO 12 and also asked if any of our aircraft go near balloons to either close haul them or illuminate them.
0100 X/429. Priority Fix position 54°27’N 06°38’E 3rd Ack plus Bearing 078°T. – passed to F.C.L.O. 12 who suggested that the Whitby light be put in operation at full power. -
Controller informed agreed – when a/c’s position shown to be within visual range
[Page break]
Oct 4th 43 Cont’d
0105 X/428 Ex. M.L.S. 12. Message from X/429. “S/C 260° - A.Speed 170 mph Height 7400’”.
Controller 6. FCLO 12 and Leeming informed of all foregoing particulars
0110 A/C flashing lights Ex FCLO 12: Aircraft near Croft flashing lights. – Passed at once to F.C. Middleton.
0120 X/429 Fix: 54°14’N 05°48’E 3rd 0106 Ack. Passed to F.C.L.O. 12.
Station and Controller informed.
*
0135 X/429 Ex the aircraft on Hull Ht 5600’, S/C 238° AS 170 mp
01*22 Crash. Crash at Middleton Airfield not obstructed – Particulars later
Controller advised
0140 F.C.L.O. 10. Apologies to FCLO 10 for failure to stand down Boscombe and M. Wallop graciously received. No inconvenience as plots showed a/c to pass through ok.
D.O. F.C.L.O. 11.
01.55 Sheffield Balloons Now flown at 500 ft.
Oct. 4th/ 43 Contd.
02.00 Unknown Middleton aircraft. R.O.C. report one Middleton aircraft left circuit and now circling Skipton.
02.10 Skipton say it is not Middleton’s.
Z419 2 injured. Attacked by intruder near Lincoln. Crashed – aircraft complete write-off.
02.07 X 429 Fix Hull I class 52.58N 01.54E Ident. Message: Negative emergency – OK – Heading for base.
02.26 X 429 Landed at Coltishall. Slight flak damage. Crew O.K.
0900 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
On duty H.L. Spence. P/O.
429/Y Leeming request this a/c return from Tholthorpe to-day, weather permitting. Linton informed for transmission to Tholthorpe.
0940. 429/X Leeming state Pilot of this a/c which landed at Coltishall is injured & request permission to fly a Halifax to Coltishall for purpose of transporting another Pilot to fly 429/X back to base. – this providing there is a “standown” today + weather permits. Air I authorized taking pilot in the Oxford – not in Halifax.
0945 1000 Met. Weather in Group up to 1400 hrs. – 10/10’ths cloud base 1,000 (patches below) continuous slight rain or drizzle. Recommend best time for return of a/c away around 1800-2000 hrs. Informed Leeming and Tholthorpe (via Linton). Also to Leeming
[Page break]
following met re WaterBeach, Coltishall & West Malling: Present Cloudy 8-10/10’s, base 1500-2000 ft. good viz 6-10 miles. Around 1800-2000 hrs weather at these places will be similar to present weather in 6 Group.
1025 429/Y W/C Pattison requested m/n aircraft be returned to base immediately. Instruction passed to Linton for transmission to Tholthorpe.
1040 427/P 427/L On instructions from Leeming requested of F.C.L.O’s 11 Gr. & 12 Gr. That a/c at West Malling & Waterbeach (respectively) return to their base at once – E.T.A. to be before 1200 hrs. If a/c unserviceable we are to be informed.
1150. 427/L. Leeming advise this a/c temporarily U/S & that Waterbeach will advise this Group when “S”, at which time we’re to check. Met for return conditions same information received from FCL.O. 12 Group at 1108 hrs. Also from F.C.O. 3 Group at 1115 hrs. C.S.U. U/S. OIL PRES. GA. U/S. S/F U/S.
1120 427/P F.C.L.O. 11 Gr. Advises Pilot of this a/c requires a Navigator for its return. (regular Navigator wounded and in hospital), also that one engine of a/c is “ropey” and is being worked on. Hope to have it ready by noon or early afternoon.
[Page break]
1120 429/Y Linton advise m/n a/c took off from Tholthorpe 1115 hrs. for Skipton. Leeming informed. – Landed Skipton 1127 hrs.
1145 L.F.B. #2. Arranged through 12 Group Ops. to be laid on at 280° from 0420-0520 hrs.
1215 [Underlined] NOTE D.F.C.O. G.C. Taite C/O Wellesbourne. [/underlined] M/n Officer expected to land at Linton at 1000 hrs. 5-10-43. [Underlined] W/C. Bradshaw is to be informed immediately he lands at Linton. [/underlined] Transportation to H.Q. here has been arranged. Linton Base F.C. have been asked to advise us immediately G.C. Taite arrives.
1315 427/P. Leeming state latest information from West Malling is that crew are returning by train, although no instructions were issued by the station to do so. Latter unable to contact the Captain, but believe there is some electrical trouble with the engine.
1330. Leeming Oxford 1822 429/X Air I authorized S/L. Chipling to fly F.O. Barker & [inserted] (P & N.) F.O. Bowden to Coltishall to bring back 429/X. Leeming informed.
[Underlined] 1320. [/underlined] [Deleted] Emerg [/deleted] Provisional Petrol Diversion In consultation with Controller & Met have requested from C.F.C. five emergency Petrol Diversion bases – suggesting Upper Heyford, Abingdon, Wellesbourne, Honeybourne, Moreton-in-Marsh, Westcott, Wing.
[Page break]
1325 L.F.B. Beachy Hd. Requested F.C.L.O. 11 Group to lay on Special Beacon at Beachy Head on bearing 310°T from 2315 to 0015 0050 hrs.
1400 Balloons Confirmed with B.L.O’s 11 & 12 Groups that balloons would be as follows, with control thereon:-
Langley }
Weybridge } 1500 ft. – 1845-2030 hrs. 2200-0030 hrs.
Derby }
Sheffield } 500 ft. – Dusk – 0300 hrs.
1400 Movement Arranged with M.L.S. 12 for Air Firing at Whitby & R.H.B. and Bombing at Strensall for Lancs. Hals. & Wells. from 1400-1800 hrs. (Ref. E-75.)
1445L.F.B. Beachy Hd. Bearing of this Special L.F.B. will now be 360T instead of 310°T.
1520 LFB & Balloons. Information passed to Stations.
1430 Prov. Petrol Diversions C.F.C. have allotted us following:- Wing, Westcott Harwell, Chipping Warden, Pershore.
1530 ditto In view of provisional aspect, Controller has decided only 3 bases are required. Selection and allotment is as indicated below
419 & 428 – Wing
427 & 429 – Westcott
431 & 434 – Harwell.
“Gen” passed to Stations.
[Page break]
1640 Billingham Balloons. Arranged for close Hauling from 1700-1830 hrs. & 00.30- [deleted] 0200 [/deleted] 0230 hrs. – through B.L.O. 12 Group.
Prov. Petrol Diversion Harwell. Group Met. are not happy regarding conditions on Harwell on return – 10/10 ths cloud, base 1,000 ft., with continuous slight rain. They feel a base farther north would be better. In view of petrol shortage, & provisional nature of diversion, Controller considers to let Harwell stand.
1745. V.I.P. AVM. Johnson from Sherburn Landed at Topcliffe. 1729 hrs.
1820 L.F.B. 2. Cancelled with 12 Gr. Ops.
1830 Off duty HL Spence P/O. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
1930 Diversion 91 Gp. say that if weather at Harwell is not very good on return of our a/c (see note above) they will redirect theirs to Pershore, Gaydon or [deleted] Chipp [/deleted] Moreton-in-Marsh where the weather is expected to be better.
2050 Crash E/1679 (Taxying accident) E/1679 crashed while on circuits & landings at Eastmoor just off the aerodrome. Apparently aircraft while taxying along perimeter went through the hedge & into ditch. Two props. broken, other damage as yet unknown. Will give us rest of details in the morning. Controller & Air I informed.
[Page break]
2055 Weather From Met: the cold front that has just passed through 6 Gp. is now stationary and may back up causing poor conditions at bases – [inserted] (possibly [/inserted] 1000 ft cloud base, with some rain, 1 miles vis.) Requested them to advise us of a better area for our diversions.
2140 Bullseye cancelled an account of weather at bases on return.
2141 Diversion On instructions from Controller, advised 91 Gp. to have Harwell divert any of our emergency aircraft to Pershore (weather there: cloud base 1500 ft, slight rain) Told them of possibility of using Pershore for a definite diversion base for some of our aircraft.
2150 X-countries On Air I’s instructions 1679’s two x-countries ETD 2300 ETA 03.45 were cancelled due to weather at base on return.
2150 Diversion Told 92 Gp. that we may require them for a definite diversion due to weather at our bases. Asked them if they could find us two other A/D’s in addition to Wing and Westcott for our 46 aircraft originally laid on to these two stations as a petrol diversion. 92 Gp. pointed out that their weather is pretty duff also, [deleted] with [/deleted] Wing with only a 1000 ft. cloud base.
2210 Weather diversion On Controller’s instructions, the following arrangements were made to cope with our a/c if weather conditions to permit them to return to bases:
Croft & Scorton to aid Middleton
Dalton to aid Skipton
Linton to aid Tholthorpe
Eastmoor to stand by for emergencies
[Page break]
2210 92 Group Re weather they say they can offer us no additional aerodromes as they are expecting a low cloud base. Wing at present has a cloud base of 800-1000 but they say of any of our a/c come up at Wing [inserted] in emergency [/inserted] they can handle them somewhere in their group.
2300 Weather From Met: latest forecast shows bases will not be as bad as expected and a/c should be able to get back without any difficulty. Conditions expected are: cloud base 1500-2000 ft. good vis., very slight rain possible. Controller instructs no new diversion bases be laid on.
[Underlined] Monday October 5, 1943 [/underlined]
0020 92 Gp. 428/J & 429/S Their weather is very bad ad they are working 428/J and 429/S on Westcott’s [deleted] etc [/deleted] & Wing’s D/F. 429/S says on Westcott’s R/T that he only has 15 min petrol left. Bruntingthorpe, the nearest fit station is 20 min. flying time away. They are lighting all aerodromes in vicinity. (429/S landed at Silverstone at 0030)
428/J sent message on Wing’s D/F – “short of petrol, where can I land?” a/c was sent to Bruntingthorpe at 00.25 (ack. Diversion)
(428/J landed at Little Straughton at 00.40)
0027 429/F From 12 Gp: this a/c sent following message[inserted] on South [/inserted] “I require flarepath, petrol low, eng. u/s, will call again”. No fix on this a/c was obtained. Told 11 & 10 Gp FCLO and requested he have all A/D’s on coast ready to receive this a/c. Told South to hold him & contact us when he calls again.
0035 434/W Received fix from Pulham at 0019 “4930N 0028W 3rd Ack.” Putting him west of le Havre off
[Page break]
French coast. Informed 11 & 10 Gp. FCLO’s. 11 Gp. FCLO says he has plot of a/c near Cherbourg going north believed to be hostile, but possibly friendly.
0040 Diversion to all 6 Gp. a/c Controller instructed following message to be sent on GOF “Negative Wing Westcott, you may land at Tangmere Ford” (This to be sent out at 0050, 0120, 0150 & 0220)
0052 429/F Acknowledged fix [inserted] – passed to 11 F.C.L.O. [/inserted] from Southampton at 0052 “5112N 0025E 2nd putting him over Kent. 11 Gp. informed, and Controller instructed that the following message be sent out immediately “Land at Tangmere” which was ack. By a/c at 0100)
0048 434/W From 12 Gp. – a/c sending message & SOS – too weak to fix.
0049 434/W Pulham told this a/c to send call signs. a/c was weak & bearings were:
Pulham 210 3rd
Tangmere 205 3rd
0054 434/W A/c still unreadable, too weak [deleted] Bearin [/deleted] for a fix but bearing on Pulham 206° 3rd.
0058-0200 434/W a/c bearing 211° from Pulham & 207° 3rd from Tangmere. [Deleted] E [/deleted] This latter bearing was passed to the a/c but it did not ack. & nothing further was heard of him despite repeated calls. 11 Gp. informed who say this ties up with a plot which faded in Z5404 1 mile off French coast. Not possible for Air Sea Rescue but they may send out international broadcast in the morning. They will let us know of action taken.
0055 Tholthorpe lights U/S and will land a/c at Linton.
[Page break]
0150 Tholthorpe lights now okay – will land remainder of their a/c.
0202-0300 Crash 429/F at 0117 From Leeming: this a/c crashed at Heathfield, Sussex (north of Friston A/D) Mid-gunner phoned Leeming.
From 11 Gp: F/Lt. Pentony }
F/O Messenger } All okay and on way to West Malling.
Sgt. Byers }
P/O Craig }
F/Sgt. Patton }
P/O Fitzgerald } 1 dead in a/c (not identified, 2 still missing
Sgt. Holdsworth }
F/Lt. Thompson }
0330 429/F 11 Gp FCLO, after making enquiries found out the following: An a/c “F” (no callsign) called Friston at 00.20 & said he must land. Friston put on all lights (glim flarepath & flood light, no drem) The [sic] got a visual on a/c & said it was definitely a Halifax. At 0032 a/c said something about “going away” and 11 Gp. searchlighted it to West Malling who stood by with lights on. 429/F crashed at 01.17, according to ROC just north of Friston.
0400-0430 a/c away Met. say our weather will not be suitable to bring a/c away back to base till 11 o’clock. Instructed 10, 11 91, 92, 5, 3 Gps. & 1st US div. to have our a/c stand by for take off about 1000 hrs. but not to take off till checking weather with us. All our stations informed of these instructions.
Results 5 missing, one (434/W) of which was heard from.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Oct 5th 1943. [/underlined]
0800 434/W International broadcast was sent by 10 Gp. for this a/c at 05.30
0900 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
0900 On duty F.D. Cleland F/LT.
10.45 Smoke S. of Topcliffe { 9 Group report heavy black smoke south of Topcliffe. Passed to Topcliffe. Bonfire on Dishforth Aerodrome.
10.45 434/W International Broadcast was acknowledged by Germans at 05.30 hrs.
11.15 431/D Permission from F/C. Linton Base [inserted] (F/O Young) [/inserted] for this a/c to return to base from Middle Wallop. Passed to 10 Gp.
12.00 429/K Port outer engine U/S. New engine needed. Crew told to return by rail –
12.15 Aircraft Serviceability – Linton Base informed of serviceability of their aircraft [deleted] air [/deleted] which have landed away from base.
Diversions tonight
12.45 427 Aircraft W/C Turnbull orders all 427 a/c [deleted] back by 15.00 hrs.[/deleted] Airborne from other aerodromes by 14.30 hrs. otherwise to stay where they are.
13.00 427 Aircraft This information passed to 92 Group.
14.10 429 Aircraft. 428/N All serviceable told to return. P/429 told to return base as soon as possible.
14.58 Landfall Beacon Beachy Head. (EL 070°) Bearing 360°T from 22.15-22.35.
15.05 Langley Weybridge Balloons. 1500 ft from 20.00-01.00
15.06 Billingham Closehauled 17.30-19.30 hrs & 23.30-01.30 hrs.
[Page break]
15.15. Diversion Base. Petrol diversion base for Wellingtons 432 is Ford. Arranged with Central F/C.
15.00 Comm. Flight. Ordered either Oxford or Proctor for S/L Jacobs Thursday.
15.35 K/427. At Bruntingthorpe – Mag. drop in one engine. May be ready at 17.00 hrs. Contacted W/C Turnbull who sets deadline for ETA base 18.30. 92 Group informed.
16.10 Diversion Base. Air I cancels Ford as diversion base for 432.
CFC suggest Wyton for 432 – finally conceded & Wellingtons 432 to Oakington and 7 Wellies 432 to Wyton.
1615 Diversion Base. See necessary gen on provisional Dvn Bases passed to Middleton – Leeming and Linton.
1640 – All ops in Command Cancelled because of weather at Bases on return.
Balloons – Cancelled with respective BL.O.’s.
L.F.B. – Landfall Beacon Beachy Head cancelled with FCLO 11
Dvn Bases. – Cancelled with Thanks to C.F.C.
17.45 { J 429 At Mkt. Harborough (92). Ready to leave 07.30 hrs.
{ P 429 At Downham Mkt (3) Ready to leave 07.30 hrs.
{ Q 427 At Westcott (92) Ready to leave 08.30 hrs.
* ( W/C Pattison will call at 07.30 hrs. tomorrow morning. Will Duty FCO have a weather report ready?
17.34 K/4278 Left Bruntingthorpe for Base.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Oct 5th 1943 [/underlined]
18.30 Off duty F.D. Cleland F/L
On duty HL Spence, P/O.
1840 Night Flying – Passed to Stations & R.O.C.
1845 Pundits A.S. 4 requests #1, 91, 115, 140, & 155 from dusk to dawn. Passed to Stations.
427/K Landed at base.
2055 1100 429/F Reference entry 0202-0300 – Intelligence West Malling state all 8 of crew accounted for. Summary:- 3 on way back, 3 in hospital and 2 killed.
[Underlined] F/L. Pentony [/underlined] in hospital, suspected fracture of ankle turned out to be small bone in foot.
[Deleted] P/O Craig [/deleted] P/O Fitzgerald in hospital, under observation for kidney trouble.
[Deleted] P/O Fitzgerald, in [/deleted]
P/O Craig in hospital with bruises to head and knees.
All 3 resting well & easy.
Ops. 3 Southdown & Leeming Ops. informed.
22.35 Movement Air I authorized Tholthorpe’s Halifax on planned x country to land at Harwell to drop off some parts for 434/M. Tholthorpe informed.
[Underlined] Tuesday, Oct. 6, 1943 [/underlined]
0045 Pundits A.S. 4 request cancelled. Stations informed.
[Page break]
0100 Ident Board changed.
0715 429/J + P 427/Q Reference Entry 1745 hrs. Group Met states cold front coming in from west bringing rain with it. Gale blowing at present time This is general throughout England En route and at take off points low cloud, about 1,000 ft. and small drizzle. Recommends waiting until middle or late afternoon when cold front should be through. Suggests checking Met again early afternoon.
0815 ditto Passed entry 0715 to W/C Pattison who requested 429 a/c not to take off until further advice is received from him. Advised F.C.O. of Groups 3 & 92 for transmission of instructions to Market Harborough & Downham Market. Also passed Met information to F.C. Leeming for W/C Turnbull.
0820 ditto W/C Pattison countermanded previous instructions. Now wishes a/c to take off immediately & to get back to base by 1000 hrs, to route up Vale of York. Similar instructions received from W/C Turnbull for Q/427. This passed to F.C.O’s 92 & 3 Groups for transmission to Stations.
0900 Off watch H.L. Spence P/O. On duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
[Page break]
0930 427/Q Westcott 92 Gp. advise that this a/c has P.E trouble and will not be ready till at least 1000 hrs. The front is due at Leeming about noon. 427 Sqdn. Comm. says he’s to return by 1000 hrs. but not after [deleted] wh [/deleted] without further instructions. Same applies to 429/J. Passed to 92 Gp.
0950 }
1000 } 429/J & P On instructions from W/C Pattison, informed 92 Gp that 429/J who had not yet taken off from Market Harborough that he is to await further instructions. 3 Gp FCO given same instructions at 1000 hrs. and they managed to stop him taking off.
1015 AVM Johnson Permission given by Air I for AVM Johnson to go down to Northolt in 1659 Halifax. Met. say Okay. Informed Northolt.
10.40 429/J & P W/C Pattison says he will leave getting these two a/c back to base to us. He wants them back as soon as possible and says that a 1000 ft cloud base and 2 mile vis. is okay for weather at base to bring them back to.
1045 AVM Johnson Met now say they do not like conditions at Northolt (1000 ft cloud base, vis 4000 yds and slight rain) they don’t think it will improve very quickly and suggest trip be scrubbed. Topcliffe informed.
11.10 a/c away [Deleted] W/C [/deleted] Met. Say front is now past us and conditions are reasonably certain for return of these a/c although they will have to fly through the front. Told 92 & 3 Gp.
[Page break]
to send them back immediately after getting permission from W/C Turnbull and gave them the following routes:
427/Q – Westcott – Peterborough – Base
429/P – Downham – Lincoln – Base
429/J – Market Harborough – Newark – Base
Warned them of low cloud & to avoid high ground.
1120 [Deleted] H20 [/deleted] AVM Johnson has decided to go down to Northolt despite weather. Warned Northolt to watch for him.
1125 427/Q Still u/s; they will let us know when it’s okay.
1135 AVM Johnson took off for Northolt at 11.32; passed to HLS
1200 429/P Pilot cannot be located. W/C Patterson informed
1350 LFB Beach Hd Special LFB at Beachy Head will be exposed at a bearing of 360° True from 2320-0130 hrs.
Balloons Sheffield Balloons – at 500 ft 00.30-0400
Langley & Weybridge at 1500 ft 2330-0200
Harwich at 1500 ft. 1930-2045
We have over-riding control on these.
1400 429/J landed at Finningley. W/C Patterson is going to instruct him to come back immediately.
1435 427/Q is now serviceable. Referred to Leeming for instructions. W/C Turnbull says he is to come back immediately. Warned him weather was not good en route but he said it was good enough. Passed W/C Turnbull’s instruction to 92 Gp.
1530 427/Q Airborne from Westcott at 15.25
[Page break]
1545 [Deleted] Balle [/deleted] Communications Flight Arranged for Proctor for S/L Jacobs tomorrow at 0900 hrs. Form sent to Comm Flight.
1650 427/Q and 429/J have both landed back at Skipton.
1700 429/P W/C Patterson want this a/c to take off immediately despite the fact he will have to fly through front with cloud 1000 ft & below and rain. Base conditions good vis. with cloud base 1200-1800 ft. Informed 3 Gp. of above.
1640 Operations cancelled. LF Beacon at Beachy Hd. & request for close hauling of balloons cancelled.
1745 S/L Jacobs will be going down to Eastchurch at 0900 hrs. in the Proctor, route: Linton, Spalding, Cambridge, West Malling, Eastchurch ETA 1030. Permission obtained from Eastchurch.
1800 Bullseye scrubbed on account of weather.
1825 427/L at Waterbeach is ready & will be coming back first thing in the morning. Leeming informed.
1830 Off duty D.H. Miller F/Lt.
18.30 On duty F.D. Cleland F/L.
P/429. Weather at Downham Market [deleted] 8 [/deleted] 10/10 – 800’ – rain – viz moderate – Permission granted by W/C Pattison for a/c to wait a couple of hours for clearing conditions – but definitely to return tonight – by hours of darkness – ok. – 3 Group F/C advised.
[Page break]
[Underlined] Oct. 6th 1943 [/underlined]
19.00 Restricted Areas. MLO 12 – W.E.F. Oct 7th TFN clearance will be withheld for non-operational flying [underlined] by night [/underlined] in the Sea Areas formed by the coast at following points
[Underlined] Area I [/underlined] Brancaster Bay.
WB7500
WB4290
Flamborough Head
[Underlined] Area II [/underlined] Scarborough
RW2009
RQ4020
Acklington
19.15 Passed to all stations
18.56 Aircraft Showing Broad I.F.F. D/1659 MLO 9 reports aircraft showing intermittent Broad IFF approximately over Gt. Ormes Head – going east towards Ryll hugging coastline. Believed to be D/1659 – QDM 088 at 20.25 QDM 110 – 20.26 hrs.
20.30 Pundits AS4 request #1, 91, 115. 140 dusk to dawn.
Passed to Tiopcliffe, Linton, Leeming.
21.15 D1659. Overhead Topcliffe Landed 21.15
21.56 P/429 W/C Pattison wants this a/c to return from Downham Market immediately – To fly at 4000 ft – not to fly below until position ascertained in Vale of York, Can home on Leeming’s beam – Passed to 3 Gp – F/C
2245 P/429 Ex F.C. 3 Group. P/429 to be a/b in approx. 5 minutes – Passed to Ops Leeming for W/C Pattison.
2307 P/429 Ex F.C. 3. P/429 a/b from Downham Market at 2303. Passed to [deleted] F.C. [/deleted] Ops Leeming.
[Page break]
[Underlined] October 6th 1943 [/underlined]
23.25 Pundits AS4 cancel #1, 115, 91, & 140.
0001 Thursday Oct 7th ‘43
- Remainder of night quiet.
0800 MAP and Sdn. F.C. – advise for S/L Jacobs that Program at Eastchurch will be carried out as detailed
0800 S/L Jacobs informed
0805 Base Linton informed who advise that Proctor will be ready.
0900 Off Duty [Signature] FL
On duty H.L. Spence. P/O.
0920 Arranged with M.L.S. 12 Gr. For air firing at RHB & Whitby and bombing at Strensall for Hals. Wells & Lancs. from 1000 hrs-1800 hrs – Ref. [underlined] E-45. [/underlined]
1005 428/O 428/C 428/I M.S.G. advise instructions have been issued for m/n aircraft to return from [deleted] base [/deleted] Little Soring, Tangmere & Mildenhall.
1020 BullsEye. Night Ops (12) Maj. Eaton-Smith – [indecipherable] 39 Admin. promoting Bulls Eye for this evening. Route planned St. Neots – Newcastle – Middlesboro – Goole – Cambridge – Norwich – Sheffield – Bases. Groups 1, 4, & 5 may also participate. Requested offers form Con Units.
1120 434/M Informed Harwell Tholthorpe sending
[Page break]
parts & mechs. to repair this a/c. T.O. 1130 ETA 1245 hrs.
1115 428/I M.S.G. report this a/c returned to base.
1155 427/L Waterbeach On instructions of Leeming F/C. requested 3 Gr F/C to have this a/c return to base at once.
1155 [deleted] 1220 [/deleted] 1300 Bulls Eye 12 Gr Night Ops. report change in route as follows:-
St. Neots – Goole (IR) – Middlesboro – Newcastle – Liverpool – Manchester Peterboro (IR) – Norwich – Sheffield – Bases. Starting Beacon St. Neots. Turning Beacon at Norwich (3 at 18,000’)
Offers 1 Hal. 1664 Croft.
1 Lanc 1679 Eastmoor.
No P.F.F. – (Mos. & Beaus) Fighter interception all the way. Search lighting except in areas North Yorkshire to Middlesboro, and Newcastle Liverpool & Manchester until about 10 miles east of Nottingham. – Provisional starting time St. Neots [deleted] 730-745 [/deleted] 1930-1945 hrs at 15,000 ft.
Groups 1, 3, 4, 6, 92 & 93 participating.
Passed above details to M.S.G. & 62 base ops.
1300 L.F.B. #2 Beachy Head Arranged with 12 Gr. Ops. for LFB #2 on 280° from 2345 to 0045 hrs; also through F.C.L.O. 11 Group for Special Beacon at
[Page break]
Beachy Head on 360° from 0200-0300 hrs.
1300 Balloons Arranged for control of balloons, as noted below, with Balloon Liaison Officers of 11 & 12 Groups respectively:-
Langley }
Weybridge } 1500 ft. 0200-0330 hrs.
Sheffield }
Derby } 500 ft. 0230-0400 hrs.
1530 Bulls Eye. Eastmoor have cancelled their offer of 1 a/c. – Night Ops 12 informed.
1730 Comm a/c Proctor S/L Jacobs should arrive at Linton at 1900 hrs. (T.O. at 1700 from Gransden Lodge or Eastchurch) F/L WYNAS
Linton informed.
1800 Firing Exercise Beachy Head M.L.O. 12 state exercise of firing scheduled near Beachy Head from 0300 to 0500 – 8th/14th Oct. In view of time of return of our operational a/c they have requested it be discontinued on the 8th.
1810 Pundits AS 4 request 1, 91, 115, 140 Dusk to dawn – passed to Stations.
1810 L.F.B. #2 Time changed to 0230-0330 hrs. Linton (62 Base) informed.
1835 Pundit 155 requested by A.S. 4 dusk to dawn. M.S.G. informed.
1945 Night Flying Passed to R.O.C. & Stations.
1830. Off watch H.L. Spence/ P/O.
[Page break]
[Blank Page]
[Page break]
[Table of Diversions]
[Page break]
[Underlined] Con. Units. [/underlined]
1659 Topcliffe Hal.
1664 Croft. Hal.
1679 Eastmoor Lancs.
408 Linton Lancs.
431 Tholthorpe Hal.
429 Leeming Hal.
[Underlined] Gp. Sqd. [/underlined]
419 } Middleton Hal.
428 }
427 Leeming Hal.
432 Skipton Well.
426 Linton Lancs.
434 Tholthorpe Hal.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Flying Control Log Book
Description
An account of the resource
Log covering the following periods -
29th August to 6th October 1943 (71 pages)
Movements of aircraft at Tholthorpe.
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One handwritten book
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Log book and record book
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
MCothliffKB[Ser#-DoB]-151020-120001
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Anne-Marie Watson
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-08
1943-09
1943-10
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
England--Yorkshire
air sea rescue
RAF Tholthorpe
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1339/22062/SValentineJRM1251404v10080.1.jpg
bc5b7ad21b97b010dbcd60058e53db09
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Valentine, John. Ursula Valentine's newspaper cutting scrapbook
Description
An account of the resource
131 items contained in a scrapbook. Mainly newspaper cuttings of events from May 1942 to 1945.
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
THE TIMES THURSDAY OCTOBER 14 1943
ITALY DECLARES WAR ON GERMANY
CO-BELLIGERENT WITH THE UNITED NATIONS
ACTIVE COOPERATION ACCEPTED
ARMISTICE TERMS STILL IN FULL FORCE
Italy declared war on Germany at 3 p.m. yesterday. The decision was communicated by the Italian Ambassador in Madrid to the German Ambassador, who was informed that the Italian Government had taken this step in face of the repeated and intensified acts of war committed against the Italians by the armed forces of Germany.
A joint declaration was issued by the British, American, and Russian Governments accepting the active cooperation of the Italian nation and armed forces as a co-belligerent in the war against Germany. Meanwhile the terms of the armistice retain their full force.
ITALY TO PROVE HERSELF
ALLIES’ ATTITUDE
FACTS OF SURRENDER UNCHANGED
From Our Diplomatic Correspondent
The Italian declaration of war on Germany and the allied acceptance of “the active cooperation of the Italian nation and armed forces as a co-belligerent” derive primarily from military developments and considerations. Time alone can show how well based is the assumption that the decisions now taken will rally the mass of Italians and strengthen their fighting spirit, which most accounts agree has touched a low level. “Co-belligerent” Italy has yet to prove itself.
The three-Power statement makes quite clear that what is called “the relationship of co-belligerency” does not change the fundamental facts of the Italian surrender. Italy does not become an ally. The careful phrasing of the statement accepting her as a “co-belligerent” will be noted by Yugoslavs, Greeks, and others who have reason especially to remember the savage war waged by the Italians against their countries.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Two articles: Italy declares war on Germany and Italy to prove herself
Description
An account of the resource
Article 1 headlines: Italy declares war on Germany, co-belligerent with United Nations, active cooperation accepted, armistice terms still in full force. Article 2 headlines: Italy to prove herself, allies attitude, facts of surrender unchanged.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
The Times
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10-14
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
Two newspaper cuttings mounted on a scrapbook page
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
SValentineJRM1251404v10080
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Italy
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
David Bloomfield
Steve Baldwin
Requires
A related resource that is required by the described resource to support its function, delivery, or coherence.
Workflow A completed
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/865/20718/BHazeldenePVHazeldenePVv10001.2.jpg
b9482ab63dc7c4f88453451987998226
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/865/20718/BHazeldenePVHazeldenePVv10002.2.jpg
b9580a9f302f26651a8e874887d2e50f
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/865/20718/BHazeldenePVHazeldenePVv10003.2.jpg
bfe68cd0f8ecad7bb90961f3b6f9a87a
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/865/20718/BHazeldenePVHazeldenePVv10004.2.jpg
e05886da0091b565c5d8b3f5f2de8752
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Hazeldene, Peter
Peter Vere Hazeldene
P V Hazeldene
Description
An account of the resource
19 items. An oral history interview with Rachel and John Gill about their father, Peter Hazeldene DFC (b. 1922, 553414 Royal Air Force) and 16 other items including log book, memoirs, medals and photographs. He flew operations as an air gunner with 106 and 57 Squadrons.
The collection has been loaned to the IBCC Digital Archive for digitisation by Rachel and John Gill and catalogued by Barry Hunter.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2017-03-07
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Hazeldene, PV
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
MEMORIES OF MY CREW OF 57 SQUADRON LANCASTER
ND 954 ‘Q’ – Queenie
By
PETER VERE HAZELDENE DFC
(16.01.1922 – 27.04.2003)
I was a member of 57 Squadron based at East Kirkby from 22 April 1944 until my last operational flight from the base on 19 July 1944.
This was my second ‘Tour’ having completed my first with 106 Squadron.
I was the Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Our Lancaster’s call sign was “Q” for Queenie.
After my first tour I was sent to Husband’s Bosworth, in October 1943, where I met my ‘new’ rookie crew who were undergoing training in readiness for their first tour.
They were:
Flt Lt, J.B.P. “Tuesday’ Spencer – 20 years – Pilot – Tuesday was from Greenside, Co Durham
Sgt W.D.E. West – 21 years – Mid Upper Gunner – from Barking, Essex.
Sgt H. Gordge – 21 years – Bomb Aimer - - Itchen, Southampton
Flt Lt R.T. Clarke DFM – 21 years – flight Engineer – Teddington, Middlesex
Sgt E.D. Anderson – 19 years – Rear Gunner – Kirkstall, Leeds
P/O N.E. Hughes-Games. – 21 – Years – Navigator. ‘Hughie’ was a member of the RCAF and from Kelowna, British Columbia.
[page break]
[underlined] Flt Lt Spencer and the crew [/underlined]
I met ‘Tuesday’ at 14 OTU, Husband’s Bosworth in October 1943, when we were crewed together.
We carried out many training flights on Wellington’s[sic] and Stirlings before being posted to 57 Squadron at East Kirkby “ ‘Silksheen’.
I don’t know why we called him ‘Tuesday’.
I remember him well: he was a flamboyant character who once put us up at an expensive hotel in London after a forced landing.
We had many good nights together; he was one of a few who had a motorcycle.
Often we went to Spalding where [sic] and spent many a night at The Greyhound Inn (now a draper’s store) where my wife, Olive, worked.
We usually got drunk and it did us the world of good.
I cannot recall much of the background of the rest of the crew but they were all ‘good types’ and very friendly.
‘Hughie’ was quite a character; he was typical of many Canadian airmen I met. He never showed concern and was able to laugh, and make us laugh, often in the face of great danger.
He was a great tonic and morale booster for the rest of the crew.
Flt Lt Clarke, DFM, was very popular on the Squadron as Engineering Leader.
We carried out many raids from East Kirkby up to and after D-Day.
[page break]
I remember attacking the gun-emplacements on the Normandy Coast on 5/6 June 1944.
I recently visited the area for the first time (on land!) and the evidence of those raids is still apparent.
After 25 Operation [sic] with the crew I was sent on ‘End of tour leave’ – I was told that having completed one tour of 30 Ops, I was not allowed to do more than 25 on my second.
So of on leave I went.
On return to base, about 2 weeks afterwards, I was immediately called to the C/O’s office and was told that ‘Queenie’ had been lost over France on 31 July whilst returning from a daylight raid on Joigny-La-Roche.
Sadly all my crewmates had been killed [symbol].
Tuesday’s parents were present in the Station Commander’s Office and they had asked to meet me, as the only surviving crew member who had flown with him – they were such a kind and caring couple and I am sure it was a comfort to them to talk to me about their son.
Sometime later they sent me £5.00 to help me celebrate both my commission and the award of the DFC.
I actually spent the money on a pair of silver candlesticks in memory of him and the rest of the crew – we still treasure them.
[symbol] It later transpired that Hughie had survived the crash but after being taken prisoner of war he died of meningitis.
Many years later I found that my replacement, WO/AG, Sgt Grice (St Georges, Wellington, Shropshire) was also taken POW – ending up in Stalag IIIA. Luckenwalde, and survived the war – I never met him.
[page break]
[underlined] What happened to Queenie on that ill-fated operation? [/underlined]
The evidence is obviously sparse but some details emerged over time and is as follows”
In an interview with Hughie, in Stalag Luft III, he told the Red Cross that a fire had broken out on board and this was so sudden and catastrophic that ‘Tuesday’ Spencer had not been able to give the order to abandon aircraft.
The evidence later gathered from the Germans indicates that 3 parachutes left the aircraft although the third was on fire.
‘Queenie’ crashed and was burnt out.
Sadly Hughie contracted meningitis whilst in Stalag III and he died on 28 September 1944 – he was just 21 years old.
All except Hughie lie in the British Commonwealth War Cemetery at Banneville-Le-Campagne.
I visited their graves recently – in such a peaceful and beautiful setting near Caen.
Hughie lies in Ponzan Old Garrison Cemetery, Poland.
Sgt Grice, I later found survived the war but I believe he may now have died.
Finally, as for me for me, [sic] I received permission to commence a third tour and was well into this when the war the war [sic] ended.
Peter Hazeldene
November 1995.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Peter Hazeldene memoir
Memories of my crew of 57 Squadron Lancaster ND954 Q - Queenie
Description
An account of the resource
Peter's RAF service with 57 Squadron is detailed. This was his second tour and he lists his new crew:
Flt Lt J B P 'Tuesday' Spencer, 20 years, Pilot from Greenside, Co Durham
Sgt W D E West, 21 years, Mid Upper Gunner, from Barking, Essex
Sgt H Gordge, 21 years, Bomb Aimer, from Itchen, Southampton
Flt Lt R T Clarke, DFM, 21 years, Flight Engineer, from Teddington, Middlesex
Sgt E D Anderson, 19 years, Rear Gunner, from Kirkstall, Leeds
P/O N E Hughes-Games ('Hughie'), 21 years, Navigator, member of RCAF from Kelowna, British Columbia.
He gives descriptions of 'Tuesday' Spencer, and 'Hughie' Hughes-Games.
Peter carried out 25 operations since he had already completed a first tour of 30 operations. While he was on leave, his aircraft crashed and his crew died, including one who survived the crash but later died of meningitis in prison.
Peter then commenced a third tour but the war ended before it was completed.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Hazeldene,P
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1995-11
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
Four typewritten sheets
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Memoir
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
BHazeldenePVHazeldenePVv10001,
BHazeldenePVHazeldenePVv10002,
BHazeldenePVHazeldenePVv10003,
BHazeldenePVHazeldenePVv10004
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Royal Canadian Air Force
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
England--Leicestershire
England--Lincolnshire
England--Spalding
France
France--Normandy
France--Caen
France--Joigny
Poland
Poland--Poznań
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
1944-06
1944-07
1944-08
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Tricia Marshall
106 Squadron
14 OTU
57 Squadron
air gunner
aircrew
bomb aimer
bombing
crash
crewing up
Distinguished Flying Cross
final resting place
flight engineer
heirloom
killed in action
Lancaster
navigator
Normandy campaign (6 June – 21 August 1944)
Operational Training Unit
pilot
prisoner of war
RAF East Kirkby
RAF Husbands Bosworth
Red Cross
Stalag 3A
Stalag Luft 3
Stirling
training
Wellington
wireless operator / air gunner
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1322/20147/PCahirFS1607.1.jpg
d943b7571502819f10a0fcc1b37de835
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1322/20147/PCahirFS1608.1.jpg
00126ddc027c6306165115e15d3cff10
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Cahir, Francis Shamus. Letters and photographs
Description
An account of the resource
32 items. The collection contains correspondence and photographs.
The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Jim Cahir and catalogued by Barry Hunter.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2016-06-09
2016-06-08
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Cahir, FS
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Jim Cahir, Sister and Brother
Description
An account of the resource
Jim Cahir standing in a garden with his sister and brother. Behind is a garden settee/swing. On the reverse 'Brother, sister & Jim at my sister's home. Berkshire Oct 1943'.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One b/w photograph
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Photograph
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
PCahirFS1607, PCahirFS1608
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Australian Air Force
Civilian
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
England--Berkshire
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
air gunner
aircrew
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19807/EDaviesDHHughesB431201-0001.2.jpg
33c1065783307ff4d4171a391d833654
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19807/EDaviesDHHughesB431201-0002.2.jpg
15931e64bc093cbc1d346ca8b36930a1
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Davies, Dave
D Davies
David Howell Davies
Description
An account of the resource
26 items, including 22 letters, three photographs, and a service and release book. The collection consists of correspondence sent by Sergeant Dave Davies (1923 - 1984, 1653015 Royal Air Force) during his pilot training in Canada to his fiancée, Betty Hughes, who lived in Aberystwyth, Cardiganshire, Wales. It also includes photographs of Dave Davies in Royal Air Force uniform, one with his bride, Betty, in wedding dress; and his service and release book. Dave Davies served with 48 Squadron from 28 January 1942 to 1 October 1946.
The collection was digitised on behalf of the IBCC Digital Archive by Edward Davies and catalogued by Monica Emmanuelli with additional contribution by Natalie Brimecome-Mills.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2018-08-10
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Davies, DH
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
Miss. Betty Hughes,
50. Portland Street.
Aberystwyth.
Cardiganshire. WALES.
1653015 L.A.C. DAVIES. D.H.
R.A.F. STATION ESTEVAN,
SASKATCHEWAN. CANADA
[page break]
1653015 LAC DAVIES
R.A.F. STATION.
Estevan.
Sask.
Canada.
1/12/43.
My Dearest Darling
I received 3 letters from you today darling one written on the 27th of October and the others on 11th and 12th of November. One of the letters included the surprise darling. You could’nt [sic] have sent me a better surprise. I shall always keep it darling. I'm afraid [missing] w’ont [sic] last long though. I shall be looking at it so [missing] I still have the one you
[page break]
gave me before I went away, but it is’nt [sic] is such a good condition. It is a lovely photograph of you darling. I've placed it on top of my locker. all the boys have been admiring it and saying what a lucky guy I am. I must have one taken too, but I think I'll wait and see if I can get some feathers on my breast first. I might have [deleted] on [/deleted] taken on my Christmas leave though, that is if I go away. I do'nt [sic] think there is a photographer in this town. Well I'm still working as hard as ever darling. They do'nt [sic] give us much time off. It will be nice to get some leave Christmas. I shall be able to catch up with my sleeping hours. I shall be able to stay in bed all day too I hope. I wish you could be here to spend it with me - Now do’nt [sic] get me wrong! We would have so much fun just like we used to. Never mind we might be spending a couple of weeks together sooner than we think. I'm looking forward to it so very much darling. I'm glad you liked your present darling. I [indecipherable word] started a collection of some more things for you darling. I shall be sending you a parcel before long. I shall buy a lot of things for you before I came back - after I finish the course. They keep back some of my money every week, as I have bought a 50 dollar war bond, and I pay for it by weekly installments. They held a victory week in the R.A.F. when I was in Assiniboia, I shall just finish paying for it when I finish the course. It was one way of saving money. I’m glad you enjoyed yourself down home. I wish I could have been there with you. I enjoyed myself very much those few days we were down there together. I'm sure I w'ont [sic] regret it as long as I live - I know I w'ont. [sic] I love you so very much darling - more than anything in the world in fact. I'm looking forward to the day I shall be taking you down there as Mrs Davies. Yes it does sound nice darling. I am looking forward to seeing you in white again,- a lot of white [deleted] aq [/deleted] too I hope. I hope this war will end soon, or I’ll have to change my mind and see you in white sooner than either of us expected. It is the only thing I'm living and hoping for darling I want you all for myself. I hope you feel the same as I do. I wish I could be back in Aber [sic] to prove it to you darling. You better be prepared for my return. I shall be able to see you quite often when I came back. I'll get more
[page break]
leave than I used to get before. I'll get more 48’s anyway. Well darling I'll have to close. Think of me sometimes. I'm always thinking of you darling. Thanks again for the photograph. I’ll treasure it always.
Your darling husband (to be)
Dave
xxxx
xxxx
xxxx
P.S. Please do'nt [sic] alter your hair style before I come back.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letter from Dave Davies to Betty Hughes
Description
An account of the resource
Dave thanks his fiancée, Betty, for a letter and a photograph. He considers sending Betty a picture of himself. He hopes to have a rest during the Christmas holidays. Dave plans to send a parcel of items to Betty and describes a small financial investment. He recalls past times with Betty and expresses the desire to marry her as soon as possible.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Dave Davies
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-12-01
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Monica Emmanuelli
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One page handwritten letter
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Correspondence
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
EDaviesDHHughesB431201
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Canada
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan--Estevan
Canada
Canada--Assiniboia, District of
Canada
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
1943-11
love and romance
RCAF Estevan
training
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19806/EDaviesDHHughesB431127-0001.2.jpg
3dfbda851e0724f4c12a109fa90d351a
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19806/EDaviesDHHughesB431127-0002.2.jpg
2fe9311c8d8d04b55e30b897866528c6
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Davies, Dave
D Davies
David Howell Davies
Description
An account of the resource
26 items, including 22 letters, three photographs, and a service and release book. The collection consists of correspondence sent by Sergeant Dave Davies (1923 - 1984, 1653015 Royal Air Force) during his pilot training in Canada to his fiancée, Betty Hughes, who lived in Aberystwyth, Cardiganshire, Wales. It also includes photographs of Dave Davies in Royal Air Force uniform, one with his bride, Betty, in wedding dress; and his service and release book. Dave Davies served with 48 Squadron from 28 January 1942 to 1 October 1946.
The collection was digitised on behalf of the IBCC Digital Archive by Edward Davies and catalogued by Monica Emmanuelli with additional contribution by Natalie Brimecome-Mills.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2018-08-10
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Davies, DH
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
[postmark]
Miss Betty Hughes,
50 Portland Street
Aberystwyth.
Cardiganshire Wales
1653015 L.A.C. Davies D.H.
R.A.F. Station.
Estevan Saskatchewan
Canada.
-
X
[page break]
1653015 LAC Davies DH
R.A.F. Station.
Estevan,
Saskatchewan
Canada.
27/11/43.
My Dearest Darling,
I received another letter from you yesterday but It was written on Oct 26. I have received a couple of letters from you written later though. I'm waiting patienlly [sic] for the parcel. You’ve had me guessing for the last week or so. Well darling I'm still working as hard as ever, we‘re having our mid- term exams this week, and we had our final aircraft recognition yesterday. I did fairly well I think, it's one of my best subjects. The other examinations are in five weeks time. We had some good news todays we're having five days leave Christmas. I don't know where I‘ll go yet. Taffy is staying in Estevan, he has been invited to stay somewhere in town. He‘s well organised here. Some of the boys are going to Winnipeg I think I‘ll go with them, I'd like to go to some big town and see some sights, and see some latest films. I have written to Don asking him if he has any leave Christmas or not. If he has we‘ll try and go to the same place. I have managed to get some films at last. They‘re very scarce out here too. I'll send some photographs as soon as I can. I have some already but I'm afraid I can not send them, you'll find out why when I came back. Well darling how are things in Aber? [sic] Are you still working as hard as ever? I have seen some good films lately, Charles Laughton in "Man from down Under" Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland in "Girl Crazy" and "For Ever and a Day" have you seen any of them. I wish you were here so that I could take you. It seems strange somehow not to see
[page break]
you by my side. I miss you terribly darling. I could not forget you for a moment however hard I tried. I love you as much as ever darling, and looking forward very much to the day we'll meet again, and make up for all this. Keep loving me darling and wait patiently w’ont [sic] you? There’s only nine weeks before finals darling. Your darling husband (to be)
Dave
xxxx
xxxx
Remember me to mam and Grandad and all at the office. Hoping to see them all before very long.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letter from Dave Davies to Betty Hughes
Description
An account of the resource
Dave has received letters from Betty and is waiting for a parcel. He describes working hard for various exams. Dave has not yet decided where to spend his Christmas holidays. Dave updates Betty on the latest films he has seen; and emphasizes his love for her.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Dave Davies
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-11-27
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Monica Emmanuelli
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One page handwritten letter
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Correspondence
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
EDaviesDHHughesB431127
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Canada
Manitoba
Manitoba--Winnipeg
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan--Estevan
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
entertainment
love and romance
RCAF Estevan
training
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19804/EDaviesDHHughesB431115-0001.2.jpg
fe06081e161f1674aa0faba0c6457543
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19804/EDaviesDHHughesB431115-0002.2.jpg
b492a18ac0e7974b2711f78703d28a7c
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Davies, Dave
D Davies
David Howell Davies
Description
An account of the resource
26 items, including 22 letters, three photographs, and a service and release book. The collection consists of correspondence sent by Sergeant Dave Davies (1923 - 1984, 1653015 Royal Air Force) during his pilot training in Canada to his fiancée, Betty Hughes, who lived in Aberystwyth, Cardiganshire, Wales. It also includes photographs of Dave Davies in Royal Air Force uniform, one with his bride, Betty, in wedding dress; and his service and release book. Dave Davies served with 48 Squadron from 28 January 1942 to 1 October 1946.
The collection was digitised on behalf of the IBCC Digital Archive by Edward Davies and catalogued by Monica Emmanuelli with additional contribution by Natalie Brimecome-Mills.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2018-08-10
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Davies, DH
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
Miss Betty Hughes,
50. Portland Street
Aberystwyth.
Cardiganshire WALES.
1653015 L.A.C. DAVIES D.H.
R.A.F. STATION
ESTEVAN SASKATCHEWAN
CANADA.
-
X
[page break]
13
L.A.C. DAVIES DH
R.A.F. STATION
ESTEVAN
SASKATCHEWAN
CANADA.
15/11/43.
My Dearest Darling,
I received your letter dated the 22nd Oct yesterday. I’m sorry I hav’nt [sic] written for so long darling. I hav’nt [sic] been feeling very well lately. I’ve had a
[page break]
terrible cold. I have been in "DOCK" for a few days. I’m glad to say I’m much better, and have started flying again. I was glad to hear you had a lovely time [deleted] time [/deleted] down home. I wish I was down there with you. Never mind [sic] I shall be Taking [sic] you down again before very long, unless they keep me here after I finish my course. I doubt it very much though but I’m afraid there is a slight possibility. About half the last course went back to England or at least to Moncton to await transportation. By the way I’m always forgetting to tell you. My instructor at E.F.T.S was a Taffy [sic] he was from Montgomery. He knew Aberystwyth well. He was a young chap, only 21 and we got on well together. We had lots of fun up in the air. Did I tell you I met "Curly" and Don one week end? They told me that one of the boys of the old "c" flight in Aber [sic] has been killed out here. I think you know him. He was a very short chap. he danced a lot. His name was Bloxam. He went with Clements‘ the Plumbers [sic] daugher [sic] for a while, then he went with another girl I d’ont [sic] know her name. That’s the only serious accident I have heard of out here, funny it should happen to one of our crowd. Well darling I have finished more than half my course over here. It has’nt [sic] been so very long has it darling? I wish the time would pass quicker though. I miss you so very much darling. I would’nt [sic] mind if they sent me home tomorrow with the course half finished. I still think I would go mad if they kept me here as instructor. Some of the instructors on this station are lucky. Their wives and girl friends have come out here. The instructor I had when I came here first is on his honeymoon this week - lucky devil. They still keep us busy on the station we have plenty to occupy our time all day. We’ll be starting night flying again before
[page break]
very long. We have to do night cross country flights here too. I think I shall enjoy that.
Well darling I’ll have to close. I’ll write sooner next time. I still love you as much as ever. I wish you were here to prove it to you. You better watch out when I come back. Think of me sometimes darling. Keep on loving me and wait patiently. Wo’nt [sic] you darling?
Yours forever.
Your darling.
Dave
[a heart drawn with x]
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letter from Dave Davies to Betty Hughes
Description
An account of the resource
Dave informs Betty that he was unwell, but is now much better and continues with his flights. He hopes to return home soon, but fears he might be ordered to stay in Estevan after the course. Dave relays news that his instructor at Elementary Flying Training School was originally from Montgomery; and the death of a fellow student. He concludes with words of love for Betty.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Dave Davies
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-11-15
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Monica Emmanuelli
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One page handwritten letter
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Correspondence
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
EDaviesDHHughesB431115
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Canada
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan--Estevan
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
love and romance
RCAF Estevan
training
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19803/EDaviesDHHughesB431030-0001.1.jpg
1530bd074750cda706eea52300fabab4
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19803/EDaviesDHHughesB431030-0002.1.jpg
9bcc01c5bc686a1311740a6ceb2d0286
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Davies, Dave
D Davies
David Howell Davies
Description
An account of the resource
26 items, including 22 letters, three photographs, and a service and release book. The collection consists of correspondence sent by Sergeant Dave Davies (1923 - 1984, 1653015 Royal Air Force) during his pilot training in Canada to his fiancée, Betty Hughes, who lived in Aberystwyth, Cardiganshire, Wales. It also includes photographs of Dave Davies in Royal Air Force uniform, one with his bride, Betty, in wedding dress; and his service and release book. Dave Davies served with 48 Squadron from 28 January 1942 to 1 October 1946.
The collection was digitised on behalf of the IBCC Digital Archive by Edward Davies and catalogued by Monica Emmanuelli with additional contribution by Natalie Brimecome-Mills.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2018-08-10
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Davies, DH
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
Miss Betty Hughes,
50. Portland Street.
Aberystwyth.
Cardiganshire WALES.
1653015 L.A.C. DAVIES D.H.
R.A.F. STATION.
ESTEVAN Sask.
[underlined] CANADA. [/underlined]
[page break]
[underlined] 12 [/underlined]
1653015. L.A.C DAVIES
R.A.F. STATION
ESTEVAN
SASKATCHEWAN
CANADA.
30/10/43.
My Dearest Darling,
I received two letters from you today, one posted on the 16th and the other on the 19th of October, which was’nt [sic] bad at all. They are the
[page break]
quickest I’ve had so far I think. I wish they would not come together though, and that they would spread them out a little. Well darling you are getting a big girl are’nt [sic] you? Did you have a nice birthday? I hope you did. I wish I could have celebrated it with you too darling, I was thinking of you. Never mind I’ll be home for your next birthday. By the way have you received the present I sent you. I hear you are going down home again. I wish I was going with you darling. I’d give anything to be down there with you. I hope you’ll enjoy yourself. They like you very much darling. Blodwen says she likes you more every time she sees you. I was glad to hear your cold was better darling. You certainly are getting good. I hope you w’ont [sic] be going to bed so early when I come to see you. Are’nt [sic] you lucky, getting lovely weather. The weather out here has become very cold all of a sudden. We’ve had quite a lot of snow too. They hav’nt [sic] stopped the flying though, we land on the snow. The temperature last night was 12° below zero. So you can imagine how cold it is. I have seen a few pictures lately. - "Stage Door Canteen", "Lassie Come Home" "The Moon is Down" "Swing Shift Maisie" and "Salute to the Marines". We get very good films on the station, considering it’s so far from civilization. It’s strange not to see you by my side though darling. I’m longing for that day too darling. I hav’nt [sic] received the parcel you have sent me yet. I suppose I’ll get it this week though. You could’nt [sic] have sent me a better present darling. I spend most of my money on cigarettes. There’s a Wings Parade on here tomorrow, one of the courses have just passed out. It really shook me when I saw how many of them were going home. Only a few of them were lucky.
[page break]
I hope I shall be one of the lucky ones, when our time comes. I’m longing to see you darling. I could’nt [sic] stand it having to stay out here, after we finish the course. We’ve all reached such a state, that we would’nt [sic] care if we were thrown off the course tomorrow, so that we could return home. We can't stand this [indecipherable word] staring much longer. I do’nt [sic] sound very cheerful do I? IT's [sic] just for the simple reason that I miss you so much darling. I love you more than ever and am always thinking of you darling.
Yours forever
Your darling
Dave.
xxxxxxxxx
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letter from Dave Davies to Betty Hughes
Description
An account of the resource
Dave hopes his fiancée, Betty, had a happy birthday and asks if she has received his gift. He tells about the cold weather and snow, but says that the flights continue. Dave lists the films that he has recently watched; and expresses the desire to return home soon. The letter closes with words of love to Betty.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Dave Davies
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10-30
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Monica Emmanuelli
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One page handwritten letter
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Correspondence
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
EDaviesDHHughesB431030
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Canada
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan--Estevan
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
entertainment
love and romance
RCAF Estevan
training
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19802/EDaviesDHHughesB431024-0001.1.jpg
4c290b60abad7cb61042eab384bc4c95
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19802/EDaviesDHHughesB431024-0002.1.jpg
d681416572c1e322263a4368f19eecec
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Davies, Dave
D Davies
David Howell Davies
Description
An account of the resource
26 items, including 22 letters, three photographs, and a service and release book. The collection consists of correspondence sent by Sergeant Dave Davies (1923 - 1984, 1653015 Royal Air Force) during his pilot training in Canada to his fiancée, Betty Hughes, who lived in Aberystwyth, Cardiganshire, Wales. It also includes photographs of Dave Davies in Royal Air Force uniform, one with his bride, Betty, in wedding dress; and his service and release book. Dave Davies served with 48 Squadron from 28 January 1942 to 1 October 1946.
The collection was digitised on behalf of the IBCC Digital Archive by Edward Davies and catalogued by Monica Emmanuelli with additional contribution by Natalie Brimecome-Mills.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2018-08-10
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Davies, DH
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
[postmark]
MISS BETTY HUGHES,
50. PORTLAND STREET.
ABERYSTWYTH.
CARDIGANSHIRE. WALES.
1653015 L.A.C. DAVIES. D.H.
R.A.F. STATION
ESTEVAN SASKATCHEWAN
CANADA.
x
[page break]
[underlined] 11 [/underlined]
1653015. L.A.C. DAVIES. D.H.
R.A.F. STATION,
ESTEVAN.
SASKATCHEWAN
CANADA
24/10/43.
My Dearest Darling,
I received three of your letters today darling, which I was very pleased to receive. They evare sent on from Assiniboia. One [deleted] was [/deleted] written on
[page break]
the 1st October the others on the 28th of September and 5th of October. I was surprised to hear that you had been down to Cwmcoy [sic] darling. I hope you enjoyed yourself but I wish I had been down there with you. I spent the happiest days of my life down there with you. I hope it w’ont [sic] be too long before I take you down again. You were’nt [sic] chased by a nanny-goat [sic] this time were you? I do remember that night very well darling. Did’nt [sic] we have some fun that night? You did’nt [sic] wear my slippers out did you? I hope the time will soon come when I’ll be able to put them on again. The weather is getting worse hre [sic] every day, too darling. IT [sic] gets really cold at times. They say it is very unusual not to have any snow here before the end of October. They were snow bound here last year for weeks and they say it’s nothing unusual for the temperature to drop to 40° below zero. So you can imagine what we are in for. I miss the boys now, we had been together for so long it seems funny not to see them around. I suppose I shall see them again sometime though. It’s more than likely I shall meet them in Moncton on the way back. I still have a Taffy [sic] with me though. He is from Llandilo [sic]. We get on very well together. I shall tell Don about the piece of cake you’re going to give him when I write to him next. I hope it w’ont [sic] be too long to darling. I’m waiting for that day, it will be the happiest day of my life. I’m looking forward to the day I’ll be able to call you my wife. I hope you feel the same darling. I was sorry to hear your broadcast did’nt [sic] come off. I bet it was a shock for you. It can still picture you in your white blouse on that day of the performance I saw. What did you mean by saying that you would keep what I said in mind? I’m sorry I could’nt [sic] have been home to have some of your birthday cake darling. Was it nice? I hope you had a nice birthday darling. I wish I could have been there to make it a little happier for you.
Well darling we’re still working as hard as ever. Flying these big aircraft [underlined] is [/underlined] more difficult than the ones we have been used to, but we’re getting used to
[page break]
them now.
Well darling I’ll have to close. There’s a barack [sic] room inspection by the C.O. in the morning so I’ll have to get mobile and give a hand with the floor. I miss you as much as ever darling. I’m always thinking of you and hoping we’ll meet again soon. Think of me sometimes. Love me always darling. I’ll be back soon.
Yours ever
Your darling
Dave.
xxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxx
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letter from Dave Davies to Betty Hughes
Description
An account of the resource
Dave relays which letters he has recently received from Betty. He recalls a memory of time spent together; and looks forward to the day he can return home to marry her. Dave writes about the very cold weather and snow. He misses the cohort that he is no longer with; and hopes that Betty enjoyed her birthday.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Dave Davies
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-10-24
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Monica Emmanuelli
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One page handwritten letter
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Correspondence
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
EDaviesDHHughesB431024
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Canada
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan--Estevan
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
1943-09
love and romance
RCAF Estevan
training
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19799/EDaviesDHHughesB430919-0001.1.jpg
81a932570ddf2e055f2ec475c2880945
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/1318/19799/EDaviesDHHughesB430919-0002.1.jpg
2f280600b24a10fbb8fdccbb2cd5d7cf
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Davies, Dave
D Davies
David Howell Davies
Description
An account of the resource
26 items, including 22 letters, three photographs, and a service and release book. The collection consists of correspondence sent by Sergeant Dave Davies (1923 - 1984, 1653015 Royal Air Force) during his pilot training in Canada to his fiancée, Betty Hughes, who lived in Aberystwyth, Cardiganshire, Wales. It also includes photographs of Dave Davies in Royal Air Force uniform, one with his bride, Betty, in wedding dress; and his service and release book. Dave Davies served with 48 Squadron from 28 January 1942 to 1 October 1946.
The collection was digitised on behalf of the IBCC Digital Archive by Edward Davies and catalogued by Monica Emmanuelli with additional contribution by Natalie Brimecome-Mills.
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2018-08-10
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Davies, DH
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
MISS BETTY HUGHES,
50 PORTLAND STREET
ABERYSTWYTH
CARDIGANSHIRE WALES
1653015 L.A.C. DAVIES D
R.A.F. STATION.
ASSINIBOIA SASK. CANADA.
X
[page break]
1653015 L.A.C. DAVIES D
R.A.F. Station
Assiniboia
Saskatchewan
Canada
19/9/43
My Dearest Darling,
I received your cable yesterday darling. I was very glad to receive it. Even though it was only a few words, it made me feel much happier. Well darling nothing very exiting has happened since I wrote last. I’m still waiting for my 20 hour test. I expect I'll get in the next few days though. It is getting near my turn now. There is so many of us that it takes our flight commander a long time to test us all.
I went to town this afternoon and I bought you a birthday present. It should be on ils [sic] way by now. The shopkeeper is sending it on for me. Do not be surprised if you do not get a note with it. We are forbidden to enclose correspondence in parcels. So I’ll wish you a very happy birthday, hoping I shall be with you for your next. I hope you will like the present darling. [deleted] The [/deleted] It was the best I could get in a small town like this.
Well darling we are still as busy as ever. We have plenty to do. There’s only a couple of weeks before our final ground subjects examinations start. We should be out of here too, before eight weeks is up. There’s only one course after this that will take 16 weeks I think.
Well darling I hav’nt [sic] any more news this time.
Remember me to everybody. I still love you as much as ever darling. Hoping the day we shall be together again will come soon. So for the present darling keep on loving me, and think of me sometimes.
xxxxx
xxxxx
Your darling
Dave
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Letter from Dave Davies to Betty Hughes
Description
An account of the resource
Dave is glad to have received news from his fiancée, Betty. He is still waiting for the 20-hours flight test. Dave has sent Betty a birthday present and wishes her well. He concludes with words of love, looking forward to seeing her again.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Dave Davies
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1943-09-19
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Monica Emmanuelli
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One page handwritten letter
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Correspondence
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
EDaviesDHHughesB430919
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Canada
Saskatchewan
Canada--Assiniboia, District of
Canada
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-10
love and romance
training
-
https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/files/original/834/18899/YGeachDG1394781v5.2.pdf
10162827a32d552c966e4454065fa9f0
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Geach, David
D Geach
Description
An account of the resource
<a href="https://losses.internationalbcc.co.uk/loss/218400/"></a>52 items. The collection concerns Warrant Officer David Geach (1394781 Royal Air Force) and contains his diaries, correspondence, photographs of his crew, his log book, cuttings and items relating to being a prisoner of war. After training in Canada, he flew operations as a bomb aimer with 623 and 115 Squadrons until he was shot down 24 March 1944 and became a prisoner of war. He was instrumental in erecting a memorial plaque to the Air Crew Reception Centre at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. <br />The collection also contains a scrap book of photographs.<br /><br />Additional information on his crew is available via the <a href="https://losses.internationalbcc.co.uk/loss/218400/">IBCC Losses Database.</a><br /><br />The collection has been donated to the IBCC Digital Archive by Harry Wilkins and catalogued by Barry Hunter.
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2016-03-14
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
Geach, DG
Transcribed document
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading.
Transcription
Text transcribed from audio recording or document
[blank page]
[page break]
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA
NO. 288
[page break]
[underlined] Wednesday 17th March. [/underlined]
Back in England again, gee! its great to be home, I don’t know how fellows must feel being overseas 10 years or so, 8 months was enough to make me feel really thrilled at the sight of old England again. Beg pardon! I should have said Scotland, for it was up the firth of Clyde we slipped and anchored off Greenock. It was a nice morning & the fields & hills looked really pleasant in the sunshine. As we slid along we were shot up by Hurricanes and Martletts from the Auxiliary Aircraft Carriers. There were quite a few of the latter, converted merchant men turned into A.C. Carriers, quite large some of them. Beside this, the usual swarm of naval craft lay around. Destroyers, & corvettes slipped past, & occasionally the sleek black hulk of a submarine would slide along; in the distance. There was a Catalina station, with quite an amount of activity going on. One of the “Cats” landed quite close to us in a flurry of foam, nice looking jobs! We anchored just by three aircraft carriers & the modern battleship Howe, there was quite an amount of Aldis flashing, but far beyond our limited 8’s. I was glad I was on guard as I had a fine view, whilst all the others weren’t allowed up on deck.
[page break]
We docked on the 15th about 3 pm and it was 24 hrs. before we got off her. Being as there were no large docks as at Boston & New York everyone had to be taken off in lighters, & there were a good few thousand to go ashore. The lighters seemed like little toys alongside the Queen Elizabeth, although in reality they were quite large two funnelled vessels. Pumping oil in was a large tanker she really was a size, a smart looking American ship, with the T of the Texaco Oil Coy. on her funnel covered by the grey war paint. We struggled into the boat in full webbing lugging the kit bag, that everyone had crammed with cigarettes, chocolates, cosmetics, & heaven knows how many with stockings, for everyone at home. Quite a delay ensued before the lighter was packed to capacity, then away she went. My God as we passed alongside the Q.E. we could get an idea of her size, she was immense. As we drew further away, & saw the cluster of ships around her, dwarfed to doll size, looking like a duck with a swarm of ducklings we realised what a prize it would make for Jerry U Boats. No wonder they had claimed to have sank her, that made us laugh when we were on it. She really had a rakish cut, though, and as we neared the dockside, gazing back through the [deleted] Deff [/deleted] half mist, I was glad I had had the opportunity of travelling on the two largest ships afloat.
[page break]
On the dockside we had the inevitable hours wait with packs, full webbing on, but being as it was our priviledge [sic] to moan we indulged in it to the full, & were cheered by it. The troop trains were drawing away and at last our turn came. Comfortable seats were taken, our mass of webbing crowded everything out of the way but nobody worried away we [deleted] wend [/deleted] went, into a lovely drizzling evening, it may sound dim, but were we glad to see the rain again, after months of continuous snow without a drop of rain. It must have appeared depressing to the Canadians, raining on their arrival, bearing out tales of the island when it always rains, that they had heard, but to us it was home & heaven. Everyone waved out of windows & from streets as we slid along, everything was so friendly. Some of the fellows tackled the canned rations they had of Beans & Hash etc. but I stuck to the Biscuit & Sweet ones. Into Glasgow we rattled, onto Edinburgh when the NAAFI gave us tea on the platform, & so to Harrogate. Here we were assembled in the [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] dim light & pushed into lorries & away we went to Pannel Ash, three miles out of Harrogate to a large school. Here we whizzed around getting bedding & filling forms and having an eagerly awaited breakfast. However I am getting tired so I’ll continue in my next entry.
[page break]
[underlined] Sunday 21st March [/underlined]
As I said we arrived here at Pannel Ash, about 5.30 AM. on the 17th & they told us to be on parade at 8 A.M. to start the whirl of kitting, form filling and heaven knows what else before we went on leave. It sounded a line of bull to us, but the magical word leave was enough to keep us moving. We rapidly discovered that there were two of the biggest b-s I have seen here, & the two most influential. No 1 the C.O. and No 2 the W.O. I can truthfully say the C.O. or Sqdn/Ldr was the most illiterate fellow I have ever seen holding a commission. They say [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] he was an N.C.O. pre-war & just got a lucky push. The W.O. vies with him for our hatred, he is a fat red faced guy & a real nasty piece, just loves to catch one of us N.C.O’s with something wrong. It is something like a Gestapo purge, they are [deleted] [indecipherable letter] [/deleted] possessed with the idea, that because we have come back from overseas we are no longer fit for aircrew, are a pack of scare-crows, are unruly & undisciplined etc. etc. Admittedly the Guards could give us a few points on smartness but hell! we haven’t had time to get back into the rut of drill again. Our job doesn’t depend on whether we can drill smartly either, a point which they always try to hammer in.
[page break]
We have whizzed about filling in reams of forms, kitting up to the English scale once more, this was a scream Some of the fellows had thrown away nearly all their service kit in order to make room for their presents, & they certainly had some 664B action. When they can’t think of anything for us to do, we drill, with the C.O. binding continually. The latest purge is haircuts, & as mine hasn’t been trimmed for about 6 – 7 weeks I’m right in the line of fire, guess I’ll need a lawn mower on my mop. On the evenings that we can get away we generally walk into town to see a show, the trouble with this town is it is [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] lousy with aircrew. When we first arrived we were so tired that we got some bed hours in, & wrote letters with the old 2 1/2' stamp on again. It was quite good to write a letter, & in a couple of days get a reply come buzzing back. The family & Mary had a surprise as they didn’t think I would be home for a couple of days, Mary is trying to get leave at the same time as myself. We should be going on leave pretty soon now, yippee! will we hit the high spots, & guess I’ll be glad to hand over their presents after lugging them quarter way round the world & guarding them, ah! well it wont [sic] be long now.
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday April 8th [/underlined]
Time certainly has flown by, but in a glorious fashion, since I made my last [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] entry. In the last couple of days we got packed, stowed our flying kit, & personal kit in the in the cellars & were all ready to move. The great day was Wednesday the 24th. and the coaches came to take us to the station. All the A.G.’s had gone a couple of days before, but only for 7 days, as they needed them, I felt sorry for them as we were all getting 14. After some waiting the train drew in, & we piled in heartily, it was well organised, all the London fellows were in one train those going South, Portsmouth etc in another, & Midlands & North a third. We got a good seat & old Fred Porce was opposite me so we arranged to travel on the Met to Plaistow together. On the journey we dozed & ate a little of the rations, & thought & made plans of what we would do on leave, then finally we drew into London, bang on! Fred had a monster kit bag crammed with tinned goods, & it certainly was a weight, we both had to drag it along to get on the Met. Sinking into a seat, not daring to remove our packs, for fear we wouldn’t get them on again, we soon became wedged, & I had the devils
[page break]
own job to struggle out, when we reached my station. It was really great to get home again, there was a great welcome, everyone saying things together & I know, I forgot lots of the things I wanted to tell them. Mary & my sister certainly were enthusiastic over the cosmetics, most probably be run in for hoarding.
Leave time as usual simply whirled by, shows & films, different people to see, & places to go. I saw Frank Pritchards mother, apparently I just missed him at Greenock, he went back on the Queen Elizabeth, they must have embarked the morning after we disembarked. Life always seems to be like that just missing people, well, I hope he likes Canada, one thing he won’t get the hellish winter conditions I had. I could kick myself missing the mildest winter England had for 17 years, & catching the coldest Canada had for 19 years. Anyway time flew, & yesterday it was time for me to return, they ran a special train for us, good show, & at 5 PM I met Norman & all the boys, & back we travelled swapping stories of leave. Harrogate once more, & in the Grand Hotel, where we were billeted when we arrived from Hastings, & so here I am.
[page break]
[underlined] Wednesday 14th April [/underlined]
We are ‘squaddied’ now, (placed in a squad) and waiting for the lectures to commence. Still the memories of our leave keep coming back to torture us, in heaven knows when we will be home again. Won’t be till after O.T.U. I’d wager, some fellows say we get some after AFU but I doubt it. Most of the fellows here whilst they are waiting for a posting are sent to Whitley Bay on a 4 week Commands Course with the RAF Regiment, I don’t quite know whether I relish the idea or not. The first few days we were back we didn’t do anything merely route marches, occasionally if we had a decent fellow in charge we would lay down in a field for the afternoon, but that wasn’t often. That state of affairs rarely lasts long however & we were soon put in a squad and commenced lectures. These are held at the Majestic Hotel, & we parade and march there each morning and afternoon. The lectures themselves are the same as they are anywhere the inevitable Signals, Armaments, Aircraft Rec, & Bombing Theory, they certainly cheese us, & I have a hell of a job to keep awake.
[page break]
There is quite a bit of P.T. as well, & we always have to run up to the Crag or thereabouts then turn off, for a general town of Yorkshire, around 5 miles or so. A fellow who was already in our room when we arrived, (a pilot on singles) is on the permanent P.T. squad, this is a hell of a racket. You are put on this when you have finished all the lectures. They parade in the morning in P.T. kit, or more often than not trousers, vest & jacket, then after roll call, go for a run by themselves to the Cing Café & sit there gazing at the view, & eating scones & supping tea till nearly dinner time, then they trot back for their midday meal. In the afternoon they repeat the process, maybe add a game of football, if they feel energetic, always ensuring that they finish in plenty of time for an early tea, & a quick get away to the cinema. Still you can’t blame them, they’ve been here nearly four months & I’d be really fed up.
Looking around at the thousands of aircrew here, & hearing of the thousands of Canadians & Australians at Bournemouth it amazes me. All these aircrew hanging around waiting to get onto operations and they can’t, & it goes right to the
[page break]
bottom of the ladder, to the fellow just joining up for aircrew who has to wait nearly a year after he has been accepted, to get into the RAF. If only we could clear the bottlenecks & get all these fellows on ops’ what a mighty bomber fleet we should have. Surely it isn’t the shortage of aircraft, we should be turning out enough by now. It must be a bottleneck at O.T.U. & AFU & not enough to cope with the flow of crews, or the most likely explanation they have been piling up here, owing to there being limited flying during the winter. I daresay there will always be the same situation here, though. As for myself I’m quite content, we have a decent room, Norman, Henry, Jack, & Ron & myself all together. There’s a wash basin in the room & a bath room next door, which is good. The food isn’t bad either, it is a rush for meals now that we are on [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] lectures. There isn’t much to do in town but go to the cinema I have been six nights running, but there’s nothing else available. One thing about coming in at night the lights are switched off at 10.30 PM by a master control, so we always creep in, in the dark, stumbling over things. Rumours of leave here are as prevalent here as at any other posting centre, but after a while we discredit them all.
[page break]
[underlined] Wednesday April 21st [/underlined]
Norman, Harry & myself are still here, but Ron & Jack are at Whitley Bay now, getting that cave man complex on the North Sea now. The went off in the traditional RAF style full webbing etc, & kidding us about our getting posted up there when they had nearly finished. Us not to be outdone assuring them, that there was an AFU posting on the way & they were merely clearing the dim ones out. I wouldn’t mind betting we’re “joes” though & get sent up there shortly. In the meantime we are just continuing with lectures, we have had one period of wet dinghy drill. We went in the swimming baths, belonging to a school, now occupied by the Civil Service. Being as the changing accommodation in the boxes is inadequate a lot of fellows changed on the spectators seats at the far end. There are a lot of full length windows, & as the boys changed & stood there in the altogether, quite a lot of the female Civil Servants opposite found a sudden lack of interest in their work. We have to don full flying kit and Mae Wests, & as a crew jump in & swim to the dinghy & climb in. It wasn’t so bad in the water, but when one went to climb into the dinghy, their weight
[page break]
soaked, with water, became apparent, & it really was a struggle to get aboard.
I have been with Norman to visit his Aunt & Uncle living here. His Uncle is in the Civil Service & took us to their club they have on the Ground Floor of a Hotel. Its a nice place with refreshment bar, dance hall, games & card rooms, we went to a nice dance there the other day. It is so nice to meet someone like that, because Harrogate is a hell of a place if one knows nobody. Being as it is crammed full of aircrew & soldiers, every place of entertainment is bound to be packed. There is nowhere to go but the cinemas really cos the dances are pretty dear. Most probably with the idea of keeping the services away, because the citizens really resent the troops being here, & hate the war being forced on them. It really is a “Forget the War”, town. The solitary Y.M.C.A. & a couple of small Forces Canteens do sterling service, but are overwhelmed & can’t cater for all their customers This leaves the troops at the mercy of the money grabbing café owners. The Copper Kettle being one, 2 small sausages & a few chips being 3/6’, out of an ordinary soldiers 2/6 a day its not even funny. Yes this town certainly wants re-organising & a few of the rackets squashed.
[page break]
[underlined] Tuesday 27th April [/underlined].
We are on the point of recommencing our flying in England we have arrived at our Advanced Flying Unit, at Bobbington near Stourbridge. So we did steal a march on Ron & Jack after all, I bet they are annoyed about it, but still most probably they will be posted soon. They called us all out together all our little clique, & when they said Bobbington we jumped for joy as most of us are Southerners and didn’t fancy going up North again. There was quite a dash around & quite a bit of bull with kit inspections & parades, clothing parades, & Heaven knows what else. Bags of waiting around & queuing as usual, arguing and scrambling for different things. At last all was done & our kit was left downstairs in the lobby ready to go next morning. We went out in the town to have a last night celebration, I am a bit sorry now that I have left there, as it was pretty good there, and I had some decent times with Norman’s Uncle & Aunt. Still there it is the training system doesn’t worry about individuals, & it is the only way I guess. Anyway after that last night we staggered in rather merry & noisy stumbling through the pitch black corridors of the hotel.
[page break]
Up the next morning bright and early, early anyway I dunno so much about the bright. With bull to the last we had to parade in full webbing and march to the station. We got fixed up on the train O.K. & commenced our first stage of the journey to Leeds. It was crazy weather, raining like anything, when we arrived at Leeds we were going to have a stroll around but the weather deterred us. The train to Birmingham was crowded & although we had a carriage reserved, bags of civilians crowded in & as there were elderly women & women with babies, we gave them the seats, but boy! was it a squash. At Birmingham we darted around unloading the kit & dashing over to another platform to catch the Wolverhampton train. We were beginning to look like porters after lumping the kit around all the time. The train had to wait a few minutes until we had loaded everything, the guard was a bit peeved but there was nothing he could do. Off we bowled and then found we had left Norman behind, nothing could be done then so on we went. At Wolverhampton there was a lorry waiting so we loaded it all on & climbed on the kit. We were rather shaken by the distance we were from the town through miles of country lanes until we finally arrived here.
They say that first impressions are often misleading, & I hope so, because our first impressions of this place is that it is a bloody awful station. We are in a damp Nissen hut with a concrete floor, that clouds of white dust rise from on the slightest stir of anything. Being ‘pupils’ as we are termed we aren’t allowed to eat in the sergeants mess, they say it isn’t large enough. We may go into there for letter writing etc. after 5.30 P.M Our meals are in the airmen’s mess, and we queue up amongst all the a.c’s and it is no exaggeration that we get less food than them. I have experienced it many a time the WAAF has given the fellow in front a ladle full, & had one ready for the next chap. Then looking up & seeing they are aircrew they tip half of it back. The mess is terrible and so is the food. All this we have found out in our few hours of being here, tomorrow we start the course. Our ablutions is a place not finished, no bowls or mirrors, just a line of taps containing freezing cold water – grim isn’t the word for it. By all accounts aircrew are disliked on this station by all & sundry from the Groupy downwards, we meet him tomorrow. – Norman has just rolled in he followed on the next train, had quite a shock when he found we had gone.
[page break]
[underlined] Sunday May 2nd. [/underlined]
We have been here long enough to dislike the place entirely, & the sooner we leave here the better for all of us. On our first day we met the W/O in charge of the school, Alves his name is, & we didn’t take much of a liking to him. He gave us quite a few warnings with a long list of “Donts”, [sic] & impressed upon us how the “Groupy” disliked aircrew and was always ready to catch them out, then he marched us off to see the big noise himself. All the time he was marching us along in threes he was binding “Stop that talking”, and “Swing those arms”, just like the old I.T.W. back again, it gets a bit cheesing at this stage. We had the ‘welcome’ address in the station cinema a rather bare place that is still undergoing completion. The Groupy bore out all the stories we had heard about him, a rather mean faced individual. During the talk he broke off three times to tear a strip off a poor M.T. driver who had the misfortune to be starting his lorry & drowning the old man’s voice, what a type. Quite a lot of his talk was devoted to the subject of WAAF’s we weren’t to go around with them or associate to any given extent, & if he caught anyone near the WAAF site it would be too bad. Anyone would think it was a convent here, still from what I’ve seen of the WAAFs here, I can’t see anyone wanting to associate with them.
[page break]
Our day is quite a long one here, we rise & have our icy wash then dash over to the airmen’s mess to queue for our “breakfast”. Back to the hut to dash around making up our beds & sweeping the floors, then on parade at the unearthly hour of 7.45 A.M. Even at I.T.W. we went on parade at 8 A.M. nowhere have I seen it as early as this, a quarter of an hour doesn’t sound very much, but one can pack an awful lot into it in the morning. Lectures are from 8 AM. to 10.15 then a quarter of an hours break, lectures from 1.30 to 5 P.M. a half hour for tea, then back for an hours lecture 5.30 to 6.30. The latter is the worst of all I think, we have to dash from the classroom to the mess, which takes about 6 mins, queue for our meal, bolt it down then dash back to the classroom, all in half an hour, we’ll all be suffering from indigestion before long. Unless the instructor taking us is willing to let us off a little early then we are unable to catch the 6.30 p.m. bus into Stourbridge.
Each day we have an hours P.T. & there is a mad F.O. for the P.T. officer, at least we call him mad, he is one of these very keen types he used to be a champion swimmer before the war. The first
[page break]
time we went over the assault course, it was pretty gruelling. Twice round a half a mile track then into a veritable maze of climbing over walls, crawling under wire, balancing along poles ten feet high. One part was swinging along on a single rope across a pond until we were able to wrap our legs around a tree & pull ourselves in. The P.T. instructor a Cpl that was showing us got about three quarters of the way across to the point where the rope sagged the most & there he fell in. He had his long blue P.T. trousers on too, boy! did we laugh, needless to say he didn’t join in. Twice we have been on hellish long cross country the P.T. officer being bang on at running cracks along at a hell of a pace. Then he binds us because we dont [sic] do so well & shoots the bull about being fit for flying etc. We bind him back, & tell him to have a crack at aircrew it is quite a scream. The trouble is we generally arrive back at about 12.45 & have to wash & dress & dash for dinner in three quarters of an hour, so invariably we arrive back late for classes.
The NAAFI here is a pretty good one, we have our break there, they have a good selection of cakes. In classes we are doing all the old familiar Bombing Theory over again, & using the Bombing Teacher. We do our flying on Ansons, seems we are never free from them, I’m really cheesed of winding that undercart up & down.
[page break]
Yesterday, May Day, was our day off, not because the RAF favoured the Labour Party, but it just happened that way. After quite a bit of wangling they finally granted us the priviledge [sic] of getting off an hour earlier [inserted] Friday [/inserted] There was a bus running at 5.30 P.M. & we went into town on that & there caught a bus to Birmingham, we were able to book beds at the Services Club that night. Jimmy Selkirk, Harry & I went out on the beer as Norman had gone by train to Oxford as his fiancé was there spending her leave. We eventually found a pretty low dive & finished the night there. The next day we wandered around for awhile, then went to a cinema, & travelled back on the 9 P.M. bus to catch the 10.30 P.M. from Stourbridge to the camp.
The other day we had our flight photograph taken, we all agreed to look cheesed in it, to register our disappointment of this place, & it came out pretty well. We have been to the station cinema here, they charge us 1/- it isn’t too bad, if only they didn’t have rows of old seats on the same level. Because if one is sitting a fair way back it is impossible to see over all the heads on the same level as yourself. I wonder if we will get leave after this place, I hope so, there are the usual rumours floating around, first we will then we wont, [sic] I guess we wont [sic] know till it arrives.
[page break]
[underlined] Sunday 7th May. [/underlined]
I should say roughly half our time has passed here, as most chaps remain here a [deleted] fortnight [/deleted] [inserted] month [/inserted] anyway roll on the next fortnight, & lets get to hell out of here. It is a fairly hum drum existence with the lectures & so forth. On Monday we had a pleasant diversion in the form of wet dinghy drill, in Stourbridge baths, I rather like it as we are able to swim about afterwards – Turning the large bomber dinghy over when one is in the water with full flying kit, will be some job in the North Sea, I reckon. It isn’t too bad in the baths, but then there is no rough sea or wind to contend with.
The F/Sgt in charge of us is a pretty good guy, pretty quiet, & got quite a bit of service in, he is thoroughly cheesed with the station. Beside the famous old Theory of Bombing lectures he takes us on the Bombing Teacher. We were up there the other day & looking from the open window, when old Alves went dashing past. Tom Alan commented “Old Alves is on the warpath”, boy! he must have had keen ears because he called us down & bound us rigid. For the Gunnery lectures there is an F/O A.G with a V.F.M. he is a Welsh chap, shoots a fair amount of lines, but is really a good type, his lectures make a welcome break. For the aircraft rec. there is a nattering little sgt A.G. who absolutely cheeses everybody, nobody likes him. The other chap a tall F/Sgt is a good egg though, livens up the epidiascope slides with an occasional nude woman.
[page break]
The map reading periods are O.K. too. the F/O who takes us did his tour out in Abyssinia, I believe it was on Valentine or some obsolete kites. Thinking of it, it must have been a pretty easy tour, but he is a good chap, a Flt/Lt D.F.M. who is also there, shoots bags of lines, but they are worth listening to & at this stage, we are ready to lap up all lines. A chap who ‘nattered’ to us the other day about ‘ops’ in the Middle East, said at the beginning of the campaign, the crack Italian liner Rex was in the harbour at Tobruk. They were briefed to attack & did so, but they were made to bomb with 25 lb H.E. naturally they were like pin pricks, & that night she whipped up steam & was away. An Air Commodore was slung out of the RAF for that. We went out on a lorry the other day for practical map reading, & drove around the lanes, stopped & had to find where we were & make tactical sketches. About three times we did this, & then had to change into our P.T. kit, that we had brought, leap out of the lorry & run the 3 miles back to camp. It rather reminded me of the hunt with the hounds leaping from the van & tearing down the road. We have been on Groupie’s parade, & he certainly is down on aircrew, the parade was a real bully one, bags of shouting & everything. He whizzed through the permanent staff without saying much, & when he came to us, he went really slow & bound practically everyone rigid, & the W.O. almost wore his pencil out, taking names.
[page break]
Yesterday was our day off again & once more we spent it in Birmingham. We were unable to get in at the Services Club & had to go to a large house converted into a hostel, it was pretty good. This week saw the commencing of our Flying here, I made three flights all day bombing exercises. The first one was Wednesday, & came off alright, there is a village fairly near the range & that made me twitter. It is a bit more awkward to bomb from the kite than from the Canadian Anson, because there is no perspex panel in the nose. Also the sliding panel is metal, not perspex, this necessitated having it always open, causing quite a draught. On Friday Harry Jamieson & I did two more flights with an ex-operational pilot F/O Ryan. It was pretty grim because he hadn’t the technique of the steady bombing runs, like the regular B.G pilots. The kite would be bouncing around necessitating us giving corrections & sometimes we would be nowhere near the target so we had to call ‘Dummy Run’. He would scream & bind & curse like the clappers, & said “It’s a bloody good job you’re not over a target”. That kind of stuff never gets anybody places though, & only leads to a bad exercise. We do a few of these Day Bombing trips, maybe some Night bombing, & then some Night Combined exercises. These are only cross countries but they give them the high sounding titles. We’re beginning to get really cheesed with all this training, no wonder chaps get stale, & lose all their interest & enthusiasm.
[page break]
[underlined] Friday 14th May. [/underlined]
Life still flows in its uninteresting way, we have done some map reading trips. We go on a small cross country of 3 legs, with the pilot & 3 B.A’s each who map reads one leg of the trip. They are O.K. if you get a decent pilot, who puts the Forces programme on the intercom, & is fairly tolerant with the map reading. I was up with ‘Taffy’ Evans & Norman Griffin the other day & we had a binder! Poor old Taffy chopped in the mire, by losing himself completely. The pilot was one of those tricky individuals who would fly the aircraft so a village was directly under the nose, & out of sight, & then ask you suddenly where it was. We coped anyway.
I had a good laugh the other day, whilst standing by in the flight hut for a day bombing exercise. There were a couple of chaps from the previous course there, also detailed for a bombing exercise. Like us all they weren’t very keen on it, but the antics of one of them kept me in fits. He was small with dark wavy hair, & a perfect cherub face, chubby rosy cheeks etc. looking about 17. Every few minutes he would pop to the door & gaze at the sky. Any cloud, no matter however small, was greeted with a beaming smile & the exclamation “Wizard” drawing out the last syllable, as it meant there was a faint hope of the exercise being cancelled.
[page break]
Whilst every time the sun burst forth he would scowl & slump disconsolately back in his chair, resigning himself to Fate. In the end they took off & so did we.
The lectures are still as binding & unvarying. Yesterday our “Chiefy” was taking us on Bombing Theory & although he is a good chap, he is a real lousy lecturer. Bombing Theory being one of the driest subjects in itself he succeeded in putting half the class to sleep in a quarter of an hour. Then a Sqdn/Ldr Education Officer from Group slipped into the room, & after listening for 10 mins, took over the lecture. For the next half hour, it even became quite interesting, & some points were cleared up, which I for one had been doubtful over for a long time.
So far rumours that we will not get leave at the end of the course have gained strength, I hope they turn out false. When the last few days arrive W/O Alves gives the Senior Man a list of the O.T.U’s to which we are to be posted & then the course is left to sort them out amongst themselves, I hope we get some decent ones.
Norman has had an old cycle of his sent up, it is quite handy for getting around on, and half the course use it. It might be a good idea to get one if I land on one of there really dispersed drones I hear about. I played a game of football earlier & am just beginning to feel the effects, so I’ll have supper at the NAAFI & turn in.
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday May 20th. [/underlined]
We had our day off on Tuesday, & a crowd of us caught the bus outside the camp into Wolverhampton. The morning was spent looking around the town & then after dinner in a nice little café we found a decent park & spent the afternoon. After tea in the Forces Canteen above Surton’s we got down to a steady pub crawl. I have never seen a place like it, for so many girls of 16 – 17 in the pubs. Old Pete Rawlings had quite an amusing encounter with one, but this is not the place to disclose it. Anyway after closing time, four of us wandered around in a happy stupor till we sobered up a little & realised we had better look around for means to return to camp. We finally phoned a taxi who took us right into the camp, & off we bowled to bed.
As far as the flying part goes we are on the last stages, that of day and night cross countries. I don’t know which one the greater bind the latter gets it by a narrow margin, I think. It will be a relief to get to O.T.U. & go on a really organised X country. So far I have been on two day trips & five ‘scrubs’, it is an inoffensive word – ‘scrub’, but conceals a lot. When we are due for a day X country we hand our names into the Guard Room & then at 5.30 or 6 AM an S.P. rudely awakens
[page break]
us, to tear off for early briefing, breakfast & take off at 8.30 A.M. – there are afternoon X countries but I haven’t had the luck to get on one yet. It is binding to get up, see the rain, & knowing in advance it will be scrubbed, tramp 10 mins through the rain to the briefing room, & wait until they inform you officially it is cancelled. Now we are getting wise & only two going up, one with Norman’s bike to nip back & arouse the others if by chance, flying is on.
On a night cross country, our main function is winding the undercart. Actually we are supposed to do some infra red bombing, but no-one has been known to see the target, the pilot hates stooging around, & the navigator is chomping to set course. Consequently we sit & shiver in the darkness, maybe once in a while giving a beacon position to the Navigator, or taking over the controls while the pilot dives to the back. We had a little excitement on one trip when the weather was closing in over the airfield when we returned, but we got in O.K. The only good thing about it is we sleep the next day, & it breaks the monotony. A kite crashed the other day killing the occupants, they weren’t on our course. The S.S.Q. backs onto our billets though & the blood wagon was outside with the bodies in while they were getting things ready inside. It was a fairly sobering thought, but I guess we shall see more of it, the closer we get to ‘ops’.
[page break]
[underlined] 25th May. [/underlined]
Once more a change of address, I am now at my O.T.U. at Hixon, Staffs, having arrived here today. Most of us came here, some went to Whitehead & four to Lossiemouth. ‘Taffy’ Evans has gone to Whitehead & ‘Buntie’ Rogers, Norman, Jimmy, Harry, & most of our clique are still together. Naturally the Lossiemouth posting wasn’t wanted, there being no Scots on the course, so it was drawn for, I thanked the Lord my name didn’t come out of the hat.
Anyway the usual clearance procedure was got through & we were driven by lorry into Wolverhampton this morning. There was a couple of hours to kill before the train & we spent them in town. Although the distance from Bobbington to Hixon isn’t so great as the crow flies it took us a few hours by train with the changing. Transport came out after we phoned from Stafford station, & I was surprised to find the airfield was 8 miles, out from the town, at least – somebody had told me it was nearer than that.
We are all in the same hut, they are not Nissan huts, but kind of asbestos boarding & wood, on concrete bases, much better & larger than the Nissan hut. Each collection of huts is called a site & given a number, the site with the mess etc. is called Command Site, these sites are dispersed over a wide area, & are a considerable distance from the airfield. Apparently a cycle is a very handy thing, Pete Rawlings has one now.
[page break]
A course arrives here every fortnight, & we are No 17 course. After nearly a fortnight of ground training terminating with exams, we commence flying, by this time we have ‘crewed-up’ of course. This is the stage where we crowd of Air Bombers will finally split up, because inevitably after each of us joins a crew we shall go about with them, I shall be sorry, because we have been together a long while, but this breaking up of friendships happens again & again in the RAF as ours is an odd course number (17) we move to the satellite airfield, Seighford, when we have completed our ground training & finish our O.T.U. there. It is situated the other side of Stafford & is more dispersed than this, but there is a lot less discipline, as chaps say who have been there.
As usual on arrival at a new place, we have been pumping all the fellows that we can find on the various aspects of the course, & every conceivable thing attached to it. We haven’t collected much ‘gen’ yet though, beyond the fact that we parade outside the mess, after breakfast tomorrow, with the rest of training wing personnel, & then the S.W.O. will march us to the Training Wing for roll call. Apparently this is an everyday procedure & is fairly strictly adhered to. I have written off the letters to home & Mary as usual on arriving at a new station, with the address & what gen is available, & now I’ll close this entry and get into bed I think, then tomorrow I’ll start one of my last stages towards a squadron.
[page break]
[underlined] June 1st. [/underlined]
Things have changed somewhat since I last wrote. I have just returned from a compassionate 48 hr pass, which I went on when I received some very bad news from home. The C.G.I. said that I would have to revert back a course, so I am staying here on 17 course, whilst the boys on 17 go over to Seighford. We would have broken up anyway so maybe it is just as well this way. They finish their ground training this week and then my course commences the following week.
This O.T.U. course lasts approximately 3 months, after the fortnights ground training, it is all flying training with an occasional lecture slipped in. Half of the time, (the first half of the 3 months) is day flying, & the other or second half night flying. The exercises are similar in each case, we commence circuits & bumps with an instructor, then after our pilot has flown solo with us as a crew, we complete our circuits & bumps without the instructor. Then day bombing with a ‘screened’ or instructor pilot & a ‘screened’ Air Bomber after the first exercise, we do the rest alone, there are quite a few of them too. The same procedure is followed for gunnery & fighter affiliation, although most of the actual firing exercises are done with four gunners & a ‘screened’ gunner in one aircraft. Then we do a cross country with a ‘screen’, & afterwards another couple by ourselves, each longer in duration.
[page break]
The same procedure is followed for night flying, as far as is practical. Then at the end of the course comes the pièce de resistance – a leaflet [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] or “nickel” raid on France. I hope we are able to do one, as sometimes the weather prevents it & crews do a “bullseye” instead. This is an exercise over England, combining Fighter Command & the ground defences, except ack ack naturally. It isn’t that I am all that keen to see what the other side of the Channel is like, but I think it affords quite good practise, before going to a squadron and the real thing.
From what I have seen of the actual station here it isn’t too bad. The mess is about 8 minutes walk from our site, & the food is pretty good, (a lot better than Bobbington anyway) it is laid out fairly well too, & the waitresses serve us sitting down. The ante room & billiards rooms are quite large, & the station cinema, isn’t too bad, they are improving the latter I believe. Getting in & out of Stafford is rather a snag, there is a liberty bus from the Guard Room of an evening, but we are required to book seats the previous day by dinner-time, & as we rarely know that far ahead if we are going in, it is generally by taxi that we arrive there. At the moment I am acting as runner in the Discip Office until the next course commences, I wonder what sort of chaps they will be. Pete Rawlins has crewed up with the pilot that I originally had, he seemed a decent chap.
[page break]
[underlined] 8th June. [/underlined]
Well, I have been on the course nearly two days now. There wasn’t much for me to do last week stooging around in the Discip. Office, so I was given a 48 hr pass over the weekend. So I said goodbye to all the boys as they moved over to Seighford during the week end, though I shall see Norman a couple of times in Stafford if we can arrange it. I was lucky travelling into Stafford, I had just come out of the Guard Room with my pass, when an MT Corporal said “Going into Stafford, Sarge?”. So in I travelled in style, lolling back in the Groupie’s car, the driver was going to meet the Groupie at the station.
When I returned yesterday I had expected to find the billet empty, but I had switched my things to the corner bed, just on the off chance, somebody might roll in. They certainly had – a whole room of Canadians, pilots, navigators, and Air Bombers. On the whole they seem a pretty decent crowd, pretty noisy, but full of life and really generous & anxious to be friendly, I like Canadians quite a lot, anyway. I had to smile, because as soon as they found I had been on the previous course, they kept asking me all sorts of ‘gen’ about the course, in exactly the same manner as I had done a fortnight earlier. It was precious little I could give them. Then today we started the ground work, it was exactly the same as my first few lectures on the last course, they follow a strict pattern here.
[page break]
[underlined] June 13th. [/underlined]
I have arrived at a stage which will play a most important part in my immediate future – I am crewed up. In a bomber a man’s life is wholly in the hands of his crew members, and the closer they are together, and the better they are as a team, then the more chance of survival they have. I [deleted] a [/deleted] had always understood that considerably rare, and quite an amount of time was allotted at O.T.U’s for the purpose of selecting crews. Hixon has proved the fallacy of it, everyone starts the course separately as a course of pilots, & course of navigators or Air bombers – W/Ops etc. They remain in their classes for the first lot of lectures and hardly have any chance of meeting the various other categories of air crew, the only chance being in the mess or the billet. Suddenly like a bolt from the blue it is announced that everyone must be crewed up in two days or else they will be allocated by the instructors into a crew. A mad flap then starts, people go wandering about, staring into each others faces, vainly trying to sum up whether a person will be an asset to crew up with – or otherwise. Having experienced this on the previous course, I thought it best to let matters take their own course.
Friday night, I was sitting in the mess, after writing a few letters, having a quiet drink & waiting for the sandwiches to arrive for supper. At the next table to me, were two Canadian
[page break]
pilots from my billet, McCann who slept next to me & Cecil Kindt who slept opposite McCann. They had been drinking for a while and were both pretty mellow, as Kindt went out to get some more drinks he [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] leant over me and said, “Mac said would you join him at the next table”, so I moved over to where McCann was sitting.
We chatted for a couple of minutes, then he asked if [deleted] [indecipherable letter] [/deleted] I was crewed up with anyone. When I replied in the negative, he said “Well how would you like to sling in with me, and be my bomb-aimer?” I rather liked him, and so I had found a pilot. Cecil Kindt returned with the beer and we had a drink to it. Well, I think I had better put on record my impressions of Mac, as he is always called, & the other crew members. Len McCann, though I’ve never heard anyone call him Len, is only about 5’ 4”, and almost as broad. He said he has lost a lot of weight over here, & that he weighed 220 lbs in Canada, so he must have been tubby. For his weight & size though he isn’t so very fat, he has some superfluous flesh but is extraordinarily thickset under it. The amusing part of him is his neck which is very short & seems almost as thick as his shoulders are wide, actually he takes an 18 1/2" collar. The other fellows often call him for no reason at all, just to watch him turn around.
[page break]
He cannot swivel his neck as we do, but has to lift his shoulder & turn as one would with a stiff neck, yet the action is not a slow one; he takes all the kidding in very good part. In features he strikes me as very similar to the comedian Lou Costello, having the same cheery round face & turned up nose. He had his hair cropped right short in Canada & now stands up in a mass of wiry black bristles. With a short bristly moustache this completed my description of Mac, with whom I shall be for long time – I trust.
I asked Mac if he had a Navigator, & when he said he had one in mind, I told him of another one, who seemed quite a ‘gen’ chap to me. He was a Canadian & Mac knew him & told me he was a real farmer, & that he always ‘nattered’ nineteen to the dozen, so we didn’t ask him. On my advice Mac tackled the navigator he had in mind, just in case somebody else should snap him up. Nobody had, and he became our navigator.
His name is Ken Price, also a Canadian, and I cannot give a better description than say he is the exact image of Gary Cooper. It may seem as though I am rather a film fan, but the resemblance is remarkable. He is tall & lean, very quiet and reserved, and seems a thoroughly decent chap all round. By all accounts, from what the other navigators say he is a darned
[page break]
good man at his job.
Then this afternoon Mac introduced me to the wireless/op. he had chosen. Bill Bowery is his name, and he is English coming from Sunderland. He seems quite a keen type and knows his gen, his broad “Geordie” accent tickles us, but it is nowhere near as broad as Jimmy Selkirk’s was, or others I have heard. In appearance, he is about 5’ 8” well set, with straight auburn hair, brushed down, he seems to have an expression as though puzzling or enquiring over something, & that may be a good thing. Anyway there are four of us now, we shall get a rear gunner in a day or so, & the five of us do O.T.U. together.
Mid/Upper Gunners do their Gunnery School somewhere and then join us at the end of the course, generally in time for the “Nickel”. As we are flying Wimpeys there is no accomodation [sic] for them, & it would be a waste of time their coming here all through the course. Also in Fighter-Evasion Tactics the Rear Gunner gives all the instructions, as the co-operation between the pilot & him is the result of their training at O.T.U. The remaining member of the crew, the Flight Engineer we will pick up at our Heavy Conversion Unit, and then we will be a full crew of seven. I hope the other three members will be as good as these, & we should have a rattling good crew.
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday 17th June. [/underlined]
On Monday we found ourselves a rear gunner. Mac had noticed a chap who looked pretty keen, but I had heard him ‘nattering’ away and didn’t go much on him. I had another one in mind, fairly similar in appearance to the above mentioned one, and pointed him out to Mac, so he told me to go ahead and contact him.
Nobody has asked him to crew up, and he agreed to pitch in with us. He is a pretty decent kid, he is only 18, I know I’m only 19 myself but he looks very young and he is only about 5’ 5” and slimly built. He is a Londoner and comes from fairly near me, the most important thing, he seems to know his ‘gen’ on gunnery pretty thoroughly. His name is Johnny Watson.
So there we are the five of us, who will do O.T.U. together as a crew and pick up the other two afterwards. Somehow I can’t help wondering sometimes what lies in store for us, and the ability of a crew counts for such a lot in emergencies. Still ours looks pretty good to me, even though it does seem rather early to say it.
At the moment we are completing our ground lectures, and then tomorrow we start our exams. They aren’t actually long ones, or terribly important, although if one makes a pretty poor showing they are liable to be put back a course. The only subject
[page break]
I am hazy on is gun turrets, I had hardly any instruction on them at B. & G. School, then here a couple of hours were devoted to it. As it happened I was at the back of a crowded class room, and the diagram being on the wall, well I just couldn’t see a thing.
We have had some lectures together as a crew although for the majority of them we remain in our aircrew categories. There is an old Wellington Mk I in the Airmanship Hangar, & is sitting on supports, so that undercart drill can be carried out. We scramble all over it, learning the positions of various things, petrol cocks, escape hatches, crash positions, oxygen bottles, dinghy releases, & a 101 other things necessary to learn in an aircraft. A couple of times we have scrambled out of it, on dinghy or baling out drill – hope I never have to use either. The Wimpey is a real battered old thing, but it was used for the “1,000 bomber” raid on Cologne. Apparently to make up a 1,000 aircraft they called on all the old kites at O.T.U’s & anything that could get airborne was used. If the public had only known some of the old kites that were used they would have had a shock.
The airmanship instructor, Sgt Peacock, did a tour on Lancs as a mid/upper gunner and saw quite a bit of action apparently. One would think he would at least get a crown at the end of the tour, but his is well overdue.
[page break]
[underlined] 21st June [/underlined]
‘Midsummer’s Day’ – it certainly has been glorious weather too, I’m afraid the long daylight evenings mean later day flying for us and consequently less evenings off. We officially started our Flying Course today, though our crew weren’t on today, we commence our circuits and bumps tomorrow.
The results of the exams were posted up today. I had done well in everything but Turrets, on which I made a horrible ‘boob’ – it was as I expected Macgillvray the Canadian pilot opposite me in the billet was cursing because his Bomb Aimer, another Canadian named Dodson, had come bottom in the B/Aimer course. Apparently Dodson is a bit of a woman chaser, & didn’t bother staying in to do any swotting for the exam. Macgillvray was giving forth “He wants to get down to some studying instead of getting on the nest so much”, and so forth. The most amusing part is that Macgillvray is one of the biggest wolves I’ve known. He has a stock of Tangee lipsticks & cosmetics, with a few silk stockings which he uses as bait for the women, - he says. I have never known him to part with anything in the fortnight he has been here & he has been with a couple of women. It is dead funny to hear Mac slang him about them, as Mac has very little time for women. He isn’t a misogynist but he just doesn’t bother. Anyway most of his remarks although screamingly funny are quite unprintable.
[page break]
We are all in ‘A’ Flight, a whole course comprises a Flight which goes round in strict rotation, as the courses commence Day or Night Flying. Our Flight Commander Sqdn/Ldr. Ford seems quite O.K. he gave us a welcoming natter, and was very much to the point regarding keeping the crew room tidy, punctuality etc. still he is quite right in stressing these points. This afternoon I squeezed in an hour’s practise on the Bombing Teacher. There is a system here where the various aircrew categories each have to put in so many hours practise on exercises relating to their own particular aircrew duties Bomb Aimers have to do 20 hours in the Bombing Teacher, 10 hours on the Link Trainer, and 6 hours operating a secret navigational instrument. Navigators have to spend quite a few more hours on this instrument than we do, and also take a certain number of astro-shots. W/Ops have to get [deleted] [indecipherable word] a stated number of Q.D.M’s fixes etc. & Gunners get so many hours, spotting turret training, and other exercises, I haven’t found out what the pilots do yet. All the exercises which are carried out on the ground, that is practically everyone’s except the W/Ops have to be fitted into our spare time. That is when we are hanging around the crew room & not flying, then we can nip across & tick off an hour in the Bombing Teacher or the Link. During the rest of the course, although we are flying most of the time, we still have some lectures, as crews on matters of general interest & importance.
[page break]
[underlined] 27th June [/underlined]
Sunday again – although it is very similar to all the other days of the week, here. We have a Church Parade, first thing, all the pupils fall in at Training Wing and then march to the airfield, along the perimeter track, to a temporary parade ground outside a hangar, its about 1 1/2 miles from Training Wing. Anyway all the station is on parade there, & we take our place, the Groupie then rolls up for the flag hoisting, inspection and so forth. The flag is flown on a double line & pully attached to the extension of the hangar roof, where the door slides back into. Today the S.P. that was doing the flag hoisting pulled the flag up O.K. then when he gave a pull to unfurl it at the top nothing happened. He pulled & pulled & still no joy, the poor devil got very red in the face as the Groupie was waiting to give the order “General Salute”. However there was nothing else for it, & shamefacedly he hauled it down, & not daring to risk it again, pulled it up already unfurled. After the salute we had to march off in squadrons to another hangar where the pulpit was an RAF lorry covered with the Union Jack and a piano, for hymn singing on. When this was over we were marched off dismissed, and then everything carried on as in a normal day. On all stations when flying is done there is no break for Sundays as they had in the peace time RAF, funny how one almost loses track of the days that way.
[page break]
Although we are still on the circuits and bumps stage we are about at the end of it, and will soon be onto some more interesting exercises. All of the crew except the Navigator fly on circuits & landings, & he is lucky not to, it gets pretty binding after the first hour or so. When we first started a ‘screened’ pilot flew with ‘Mac’ giving him the ‘gen’ and everything, and after a little while let him go solo. We were a little apprehensive, in case the short time given, wasn’t enough to let Mac become acquainted with the new cockpit layout. However everything went O.K. and then we continued on our own with circuits & bumps. It hardly seems as though we are off the ground before we are getting ready for the approach & landing. Some of the landings we bump up & down quite a few times & Mac [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] refers to these as the “Grasshopper Blues”. I sit in the collapsible seat, for the second pilot, & it is O.K. seeing everything that goes on, but I wouldn’t like to be in the W/Ops position, feeling the bumps & jarrings, without seeing what was what. For some of our circuits we go over to Seighford and do them there. Actually if we could fly continually we could do them all in a couple of days. However in order to make the aircraft go round, & keep all the crews at the same stage in training, we are allotted the same length of detail. Sometimes a crew does get ahead of the others by luckily striking good weather every time, & never scrubbing an exercise through snags.
[page break]
[underlined] July 4th. [/underlined]
American Independence Day – I expect all the Americans around here are making whoopee. There are always a lot in Stafford, they come from the large transit camp at Stone, a small town 6 – 7 miles from here. All American aircrew, I believe, entering or leaving the country pass through there.
We are making steady progress on the course, we have managed to get three bombing exercises done, we are a bit ahead in that respect but behind in Fighter Application & a couple of other things. As I said before it is a matter of luck sometimes the kites are U/S & that puts us behind on that type of exercise for a while, it pretty well evens up at the end though. On the first bombing exercise we went up with a ‘screened’ pilot & a ‘screened’ bomb aimer. Mac had never made bombing runs before, it is only pilots that have been instructors, & staff pilots at B & G schools who have that experience. The ‘screened’ pilot was there to instruct Mac on how to make the corrections of course, that I asked for, & various other little points. There wasn’t very much need for the ‘screened’ bomb aimer, as bombing is very similar on whatever aircraft one flys in. The main point, he was there to point out, was in the method of giving corrections of course. In Ansons the pilots could flat turn them, thus the sighting angle was practically round when you gave “steady”, and a good pilot could hold it practically as it was. However a Wellington has to have banked turns, consequently if the bomb
[page break]
aimer waits till the target is in the drift wires of the bomb sight & then gives “Steady” – the pilot flattens out and the target is then way off to one side, so it requires some practise to estimate when to say “Steady” thus making the target come into the drift wires when the pilot flattens out.
Poor old Mac has a hell of a time on run ups, he is so small that he can just see out of the windscreen. He watches the target whilst making his run up, & then when I give a correction, he slides down in his seat to kick the rudder bars, & his head is below the windscreen level, so then he has to pull himself up again to look out. He told us he is actually just under the height standard for a pilot but flannelled his medical.
We did a low level bombing exercise yesterday, & once more took up the two ‘screens’. My first bomb overshot by about 300 yds, & so did the next, I checked every setting on the bombsight, & all were correct, so I called the ‘screened’ bomb aimer & told him, & he could find nothing wrong. So I tried the third one & that was 300 yds overshoot again, then I realised I was taking a line of sight with the back & fore sights as for high level, whereas for low level bombing the back sight, & front beads are used. I told the screen & he told me to carry on & they would make the exercise a grouping one. That is by maths they discount the different sighting & work out where the bombs would have landed, using the front beads. The exercise came out to 47 yards so it ended O.K.
[page break]
[underlined] 10th July [/underlined]
The time is slipping past and we are well on the way to finishing our day flying. We had rather an amusing incident the other day, amusing that is to everyone but Mac. He always taxies rather swiftly & as we were passing the control tower, we reached the part where the perimeter track, dips a little. Consequently we gathered speed and started to swing, instead of throttling back & braking, Mac decided to open up the opposite throttle to swing us back. However he over-corrected and we swung back across the perimeter track & onto the grass the other side, in the direction of the runway. Again Mac opened the opposite throttle, and again over-corrected, & we crossed the perry-track once more & raced towards a hangar. Mac clamped on the brakes for all he was worth but it wasn’t enough, the hangar doors were fully open, & we struck the edge of them with our port main plane & sent them thundering across. It must have shaken the people inside to see the hangar doors suddenly move swiftly. From our point of view it was quite amusing, one moment there was hardly a soul [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] in sight, then with the same effect as if someone had kicked an ant-hill, people came pouring out from the hangar, & clustered around the kite. The pièce de resistance was the fact that we had cut clean through the ropes that held the Groupie’s flag & this was now drooped nonchalantly over our astro-dome. – Groupy took a dim view of it. Poor Mac sweated blood, but he only got a strip torn off, but the kite had a mains-plane changed.
[page break]
[underlined] 17th July [/underlined]
We had an enjoyable night in Stafford this week, as usual we got set into a regular pub crawl. Old Mac is all against this, he likes to get settled in at one pub and stay there all night drinking steadily. His words of wisdom are “Jeeze, you’re wasting valuable drinking time, going round looking for other pubs, - sit here”. I have never seen anyone drink so much, and affect them so little, it is amusing. He can knock back the pints and I have never seen him, what you might call drunk, merry yes, but inebriated – never. His personality is amazing everyone everywhere gets to know him, & all like him, he will sit and ‘natter’ with people for hours, and tell the most amusing stories of his life in Ottawa, and recount anecdotes of his numerous friends. He certainly is a tonic to have around. While we were in Stafford we saw the Gunnery Leader, he is an Aussie Flt/Lt, and a real lad when he is sober. Now he was out on the beer, evidently, & was strolling down the High St, with his hat on the back of his head, a dingy old battle dress on, & swinging, a gent’s black umbrella, rolled up (where he got [deleted] [indecipherable letter] [/deleted] it from I dont know). On his other arm was a real brassy blonde – he certainly doesn’t give a damn.
All our bombing exercises are finished and two of our three cross country trips, I have one more gunnery trip to do, and so has ‘Nipper’, thats [sic] what we call Johnny now. I rather like the Air Firing trips which are carried out in Cardigan Bay, then
[page break]
they generally fly to Rhyl, & fly at about 30 – 50 ft just a little way out from the shore. There are always lots of holiday makers there. Cecil Kindt had a strip torn off the other day, through an Air Firing accident. They were sent out over the Wash to fire so many rounds into the sea, this in itself is pretty boring and the gunners always look round for some sort of a target. His rear gunner spotted some sort of an old hulk and fired at it on a couple of runs. Apparently it was a wreck & their [sic] were a couple of divers, & salvage men working on it, & one leapt into the water, because of the bullets. God knows how the rear gunner didn’t see them, anyway they got the kite’s letter, phoned to the shore, & by the time Cecil landed the pressure had been put on Sqdn/Ldr Ford as he gave it to Kindt hot & strong.
Macgillvray has been providing laughs all round with his amorous adventures. Not so very long ago he met a nurse in Nottingham, a very nice girl by all accounts, a widow, anyway it wasn’t long before Macgillvray was staying at her flat. However he couldn’t get to Nottingham very much so he began associating with a WAAF Sgt here on the camp. One thing about him he admits openly what he is after, anyway she wasn’t that type, but after a little while with Macgillvray she was. Now she is crazy over him, & runs about after him, whilst he is very off handed. At the same time he meets an A.T.S. girl, on leave who lives in a house, a couple of hundred yards from our billet. It didn’t take him very long to string her along
[page break]
as well, so there he is with three strings to his bow at the same time – no wonder he looks a wreck. The amusing incident arose the other night when the WAAF Sgt saw him coming out of a corn field with this blonde A.T.S. She was furious & drinking with him the next night she said “Don’t let me see you with that – tart again,” which for her is a very strong word. Jokingly one night she said she was the “Three-hook Wonder”, hook meaning Stripes, Macgillvray, & Mac, who also knows her well, immediately changed it to the “Three-Hook Blunder,” & later cut it down to “The Blunder,” & so it has remained – poor girl.
They are a pretty decent bunch of fellows in this hut, we have had a little reshuffle in order to get crews together. Some of the original Canucks are in other huts, whilst Johnny, & Bill are now in here so we have all our crew. Macgillvray has his Navigator – Lance Weir, & his Bomb Aimer Dodson, both Canadians in here. Weir is a really decent chap, very quiet spoken, some of the boys kid him & call him “Toody-Fruit,” because he has a habit of rubbing talcum powder over his body. Frankie Allen, pilot, Yelland, navigator, & Tom Hughes – bomb aimer, all Canucks form another crew. Hughes is very decent, I have only one pair of pyjamas & when that was at the laundry he saw me dive into bed in the altogether, & asked the reason. When I [deleted] said [/deleted] [inserted] told [/inserted] him he tossed me a Canadian Comforts pair & said “Keep it, I’ve got five other pairs”, it was good of him. Their rear gunner Rose, an English chap is here, a small comical fellow, they call him John L. after the boxer Sullivan, because he wears long pants like him. Cecil Kindt, with Sam Small, navigator, and Macdonald, b/aimer, all Canadians, complete the hut.
[page break]
[underlined] 22nd July [/underlined]
We are now the senior course here, and have now moved on to become the ‘night-flying’ flight, tonight we expect to start our night circuits & bumps, some of the chaps commenced last night. They hoped to squeeze us a 48 hr pass in between the end of day flying & the start of night, but we were a little behind as a course through unavoidable incidents, so we had had it! I am sorry the day cross country trips are over, as I really enjoyed them, we generally flew to Rhyl, and I camera-bombed the pier. Then drill was done as if we were on an ‘op’ & that was our coast we were leaving. We then flew across to the Isle of Man which separated the enemy coast, & I would camera-bomb the quay at Ramsey. With a brilliant sun, & flying in our shirt sleeves everything looked lovely. The sea was a sparkling blue and invariably there would be a huge convoy spread about, a never failing source of interest to us. However we had been warned to keep well clear of them, as the naval gunners were very trigger itchy, and one of our crews had been fired on by an aircraft carrier. We would fly across the Isle of Man, head North, then turn in at the English coast once more, & return to Cannock Chase for a bombing exercise of 12 practise bombs on the range, & then return to base. The rations were pretty good, we always saved our tin of orange juice to drink on a morning after the night before it was very good, I suppose we will get the same on night X-countries.
[page break]
On the first one we had a ‘screened’ pilot, then the next one did by ourselves, the third & largest, we carried a full bomb load of 250 lb H.E’s filled with sand, except one which was live. This I had to bomb on a sea range with and photograph the splash. We had a ‘screened’ bomb-aimer/navigator on this one, an F/O pretty decent chap. [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] [inserted] He [/inserted] asked Mac if he would let him do some tight turns over his home in Aberystwyth as we were passing over it. Mac agreed but quickly retrieved the controls when he saw we were almost stalling.
For night flying we report to the flight just after 6 P.M. to see what is on, naturally it is broad daylight then. Then if we are not on till late we can go to the Station Cinema, as we did last night. It is the usual effort, it is in the lecture hall, when we first came the cinematograph was mounted on a large table, so if one sat well back, the noise of the machine drownded [sic] the sound track. Now they have built a brick projection box, and have provided a wooden platform for the dearer seats – with the usual front two rows reserved – Officers Only.
Looking back at my last entry, I see I have forgotten to mention ‘Pinky’ Tomlin. He is a Canadian Bomb Aimer, but his pilot, & navigator are commissioned, & his W/Op & R/Gunner are in another hut so he is ‘one alone’. He is pretty tubby & really loves food, he bought himself an electric [deleted] plate [/deleted] [inserted] heater [/inserted] to use as a grill, & cooks things from the numerous parcels he receives from home. He was a scout master back in Canada – not a bad chap, rather hail-fellow-well met.
[page break]
[underlined] July 30th. [/underlined]
Night circuits and bumps are almost completed for us – Thank God! – they really are binding. We follow exactly the same procedure as with our day flying, first of all with an instructor, then Mac solo’ed and we carried on by ourselves. The first couple of times were O.K. but then it grew monotonous staring out into the blackness, with just the circuit lights to relieve the unbroken darkness. I suppose an artist gazing at them would murmur “Pearls cast upon a black velvet background”, but to us they mean “Keep me under your port wing, and fly at [symbol] 1,000 ft.” The Dren lighting takes some getting used to, the flarepath lights are only 15 watt bulbs and are hooded and secured to give a 15o vertical, and 40o horizontal spread of light, only in a down wind direction. Consequently one can only see them, immediately facing into them, as soon as we have taken off we can no longer see them. It was funny when Bill first saw this, he is generally working on the radio, then he looked out of the astro-dome for the first time on night take off, and called on the A/T “Hey! they’ve switched off the flare path now we are airborne”. Johnny has the worst job, sitting right at the end of the kite, cramped in his turret, and feeling all the crashes and jars of landing far more than us. Every now & again, I go lurching along the catwalk with coffee for him. Bill was quite eager to sit in the cockpit, so I change places with him sometimes & listen to dance music on the radio.
[page break]
We get more time off now than we did on night flying, our day off now becomes a night off. So we have the day off after night flying, then that night off & the following day until 6 P.M. Should night flying be scrubbed the night before, then one can make two nights and two days out of it, providing one hasn’t put in a pass. On a couple of days off we have been into Birmingham and stayed at the Services Club. At least we did the first time, the second time they were full up, so we had to doze in arm chairs & so forth. Mac took me into the American Red Cross, I didn’t think we could go in there, but it was O.K. The food in there is very good indeed, I believe it is sent over from the States. I took Johnny in there on our second visit and he thought it was an excellent place, they are certainly superior to our Services Clubs.
There is another instructor in the Bombing Section now, a Sgt Bomb Aimer, just finished his tour of ‘ops’, Sgt Mason his name is, quite a decent fellow. He gave us a ‘natter’ on what life was like on a squadron at the moment. It certainly cleared up a few points and provided a shock. According to him it is a pretty odds on chance that a crew will get the chop before finishing a tour. On his squadron only about 4 crews finished, as far as he could recollect all the time that he was there. It certainly isn’t a rosy future anyway, still there’s always the chance we will be one of them to come through.
[page break]
[underlined] 5th August [/underlined]
We have only about a fortnight left before we finish here, one crew became well advanced so they were sent over to Seighford onto 17 course the previous one to ours. At the moment we are on Night bombing exercises, and somehow we always seem to be ‘joed’ for the very last detail. Consequently we hang about all night waiting to take off, and finally get the exercise in between 6 & 7 A.M. when it is beginning to get light. Then we arrive back in the hut to find all the others are up and have been for hours – they nicknamed us “The Dawn Patrol”.
Our first prang on this course occurred the other night. There have been some major prangs on other courses while we have been here, and a few minor ones [deleted] [indecipherable letter] [/deleted] on our course, this was our first major one though. We were circling the airfield waiting to land, when we saw a kite overshoot, prang and burst into flames, not far off the end of the runway, we couldn’t see much detail at all. So we continued to circle and await instructions, then all lights were extinguished and we were ordered to land at Seighford. Over we went and lobbed in then with three others crews, and naturally were wondering what had happened.
We had a meal in the mess, & then as there was nobody around to fix us up with beds, we had to doze on chairs in the mess. After breakfast, which was quite early,
[page break]
we decided to sleep on in the ante-room, as Hixon was going to phone when we were to return. However the C.M.C. had locked the ante-room, & said it was always out of bounds in the morning, and would make no exception for us – nice type. So we had to sit on the grass outside the mess for a couple of hours.
I met Derek Ashton over there, they will be finished in a day or so, & so would I if I had still been on that course. I couldn’t have had a better crew than what I have now, though. Ashton said they liked Seighford better than Hixon as there was no ‘bull’ there and it was a lot easier to get into Stafford. The only snag is, it is far more dispersed than Hixon is.
We didn’t get back to Hixon before 1 P.M. as we were held up for brake pressure. It turned out to be Carr’s crew who had pranged. They were making a flapless landing with an instructor, owing to trouble with the flaps. The instructor was flying it, and he approached too fast, overshot didn’t make it, and crashed on the railway lines, when the kite immediately caught fire. Luckily they were all unhurt except Sgt Mann, the ‘screened’ bomb aimer, he was burnt slightly on the face, and has been admitted to hospital for a short while. It seems Fate that he should get through a tour unscathed and then have this happen at O.T.U.
[page break]
[underlined] 12th August [/underlined]
Only a week to go, and then most probably we shall fly over enemy territory for the first time – on a ‘nickel’, I hope we do one anyway. The course is split practically in half with the first half slightly ahead of the others – we are in the latter. I said goodbye to Norman and the boys on 17 course, when they came over here, they have to get cleared here as well as at Seighford. Pete Rawlings was chatting to me about his skipper, he was the one I would have had on 17 course. He said he was a damn good pilot, but he would ‘natter’ such a lot on the inter-com. – I should have hated that.
We certainly get good meals on night flying, they have opened, a place especially for us near the cinema. It is a pukka little cook house, with a Cpl & two WAAFs, just for our flight. The Cpl is a good type & we get steaks & eggs for our flying meals, it is bang on. Although we are not supposed to officially, we go there for supper, if there is no flying detail for us that particular night. There is a real craze for cards now, & Hughes, Mac, Bill, Johnny & myself & various others, often play Blackjack & Pontoon, of a night if we aren’t on. We start in the evening & play till the small hours & then stagger down to see what Flying supper is. The Canadians are fond of playing “Shoot”, & have a school regularly in the locker room.
[page break]
If night flying is scrubbed for everyone, most of the boys turn in at 11 P.M. or so, in order to have the next day free. However Mac & a couple of others hate getting to bed at that time, preferring to turn in late, & sleep the following day, as if night flying was on. They generally get Pinky Tomlins, electric heater out, & cook things out of their Canadian food parcels. Mac is really amusing when he gets nattering about “Chicken soup with noodles”, & “weeners” & various other Canadian foods. Naturally they kick up a fair amount of noise, and the boys trying to sleep shout out uncomplimentary remarks to Mac, as he is generally telling an anecdote or a story about back home. Then he immediately bellows back “- this is a night flying hut, get out of that bed, you lazy so & so”. The amusing part is the following day, when they are all up & about, & Mac is trying to sleep through the noise. He will sit up & shout “Quiet, let a guy get some sleep”, & they laugh & generally Hughes will give him a shake & say “Come on McCann this is a night flying hut”, & various cracks until Mac aims a boot. They are a good bunch of boys though.
Another good thing about this night flying is that we don’t bother about the C.O’s billet inspection every week. We just put a notice on the door “Night Flying Hut – Do Not Disturb”, & funnily enough nobody does.
[page break]
[underlined] 19th August. [/underlined]
Our O.T.U. Course has now ended, the perk was last night when we did a “Nickel” to Rennes. The first lot of our course left a few days ago, they had to do a ‘bullseye’ exercise to finish as there were no “nickels” laid on. They got 10 days leave, & posted to Lindholme to go on Lancasters, that is where we will go, everyone goes onto Lancs from this O.T.U. We had another cross country to do, the usual long stooge right up to the Orkneys, with airfire and bombing at Caernarvon – what a farce.
Yesterday we were told that all the remaining crews would finish with a ‘Nickel’ that night, & we have to take up the kite we would be flying in and Air-Test it. The tail trim proved to be U/S on ours & another was put on, with another crew air testing it. At evening time we assembled in the intelligence room for briefing, it was a pukka briefing, like they have on a squadron, with the Sqdn/Ldr Intelligence Officer taking it. Then the C.O. & a couple of other officers said a few words, & briefing was over, they even had an S.P. on duty outside the door. We put all our personal belongings in an envelope with our name on it, collected our escape kits & foreign money, then off to the locker room to dress.
Half of the crews were going to St. Malo, and the rest of us to Rennes, we were flying the same track & course to Isigny at the base of the Cherbourg peninsula, & then to Avranches our next pin point, where we would continue our various ways. Soon we were all dressed, then into the crew bus & out to the kites.
[page break]
They were lined up together, & as R/T isn’t allowed on any ‘ops’ take-offs, a yellow verey was to be fixed from control for the signal to start up engines, then a green verey, when it was time for the first kite to start taxying out. The photographic vans drove out with the camera magazines, & the LAC, rather a gigolo type, who handed up mine, uttered the famous words “Wish I was coming with you”. Suddenly up went the yellow cartridge & the ground crews leapt into action, and the roar of engines shattered the summer’s evening. Johnny then called up to say none of the lights would work in his turret, & the spare fuses had no effect. This caused quite a flap, ‘bods’ went dashing everywhere, & both an armourer & a fitter came dashing along when it was a job for an electrician. During this time the green verey went up & the first kite taxied out, Macgillvray was next, on our right and he waved to us, as they went out, we were still waiting there as the kites on our left followed Macgillvray out, & soon we were sitting there alone. The Groupy came whizzing over in his car to see what the electrician was doing, but at that time one came along with the fuses that had to be changed inside the fuselage. So everything O.K. at last, we taxied out by ourselves, the others all having taken off. All the officers were on the control tower and they waved as we went past, then onto the runway, a green from the A.C.P. and off we went. The others were circling base to gain height, & there was 10 mins to go before setting course, so we were O.K. for time. We set course with them, & made up our height by the first turning point.
[page break]
It was quite dusk as we crossed the coast near Southampton, & it was quite dark when Ken said “We’re getting near the enemy coast”. I strained my eyes to peer through the darkness, & after a little while made out the long narrow neck of land, that I had memorised so well as the Cherbourg peninsula. Then I saw my first flak, the sudden whitish flashes on the ground, & after a brief while, the flashes (like twinkling lights but not so harmless). I felt a sense of false confidence, as it seemed remote from us, but the truth was there wasn’t very much flak, and nobody would have worried much. I told them we were starboard of track, & we altered course & soon crossed the enemy coast. Johnny said there was quite a bit more flak going up at the chaps behind us.
I pinpointed the river at Avranches, & after a while we came to the dropping place, it was 15 miles S.E of Rennes owing to the wind. We had to follow the bombing procedure, & drop them by a distributor in order to space them out. A sudden shout from Johnny caused a flap, & as he said “There’s thousands of them floating everywhere,” I cursed him as I wanted to give the order “Close Bomb Doors”. Eventually we shut him up and returned to base. It was an uneventful return journey, & we landed tired but happy (admittedly mainly because we were going on leave). Carr got quite a bit of flak over St. Malo.
We slept in this morning for a while & then got going on our clearance chits. Mac has met the Mid/Upper who has joined our crew, but the rest of us haven’t seen him yet. Tomorrow morning we will complete our clearance chits, then off on 10 days leave, before going to a Con Unit. So goodbye to Hixon.
[page break]
[underlined] 29th August. [/underlined]
Since I last wrote various changes have taken place. On the morning of the 20th, the day we [deleted] went [/deleted] left Hixon, we reported at the Adjutant’s office for our warrants & passes. He came out very apologetically & said a last minute change of posting had occurred, we were to go on Stirlings & report to a Con. Unit at Woolfox Lodge, after [underlined] 6 [/underlined] days leave. Losing four days leave didn’t seem too good to us, also we had heard pretty duff reports of Stirlings on ‘ops’. Still off we went – the orderly room had told us the Con Unit was near Cambridge & the warrants were made out to there.
I caught the evening train back, but when I went to the Cambridge R.T.O. they said Hixon Orderly Room had boobed, & Woolfox Lodge was near Stamford. As there were no more trains that night, I had to spend the night in the Nissen hut there, rather grim. In the morning I met Johnny & Pinky Tomlin, & we travelled to Stamford, we had to change at Peterborough and there met some more of the boys. At Stamford we phoned for transport, but it was a few hours before it arrived and we had [deleted] dinner [/deleted] lunch in the George Hotel. Mac & some of the others arrived here yesterday and are in the hut near to ours, and today we have been tramping around with our arrival chits, but as the course commences for us tomorrow we won’t bother to finish them. This course has already been on a couple of days, they were as unprepared for us, as we were for coming here.
[page break]
[underlined] [deleted] August [/deleted] [inserted] September [/inserted] 5th. [/underlined]
First, I had better bring my crew up to date, as we have a full crew now. Don Keeley the Mid-Upper Gunner, who joined us as we left Hixon is tall & very dark, his face has been sunburnt so much it leaves one with the impression almost of an Indian, he is quiet a good looking chap & seems very decent. Our engineer was allotted to us by the Engineering Leader, and is a Welshman, Jack Barker. He is about 5 ft 5” with a cheerful face, & crisp wavy hair, we haven’t had a lot to do with him yet, as quite naturally he still goes around with the engineers who came with him as a course, from St. Athens, I think I can safely say that we have got a very good crew, though.
This station is far more dispersed than Hixon was. It is cut in half by the Great North Road, to the East of the road is the airfield itself, whilst to the West are the living & communal sites. Our billet is a quarter of an hours walk to the mess, then from the mess it is a 20 min walk, to the other side of the airfield where training-wing is. There are no ablutions on the sites, and washing kit is stolen if it is left in the ablutions by the mess, so we wash from an old rain water tub at the back of the hut.
We have a ground course of a week to 10 days here, comparable to that at O.T.U. only bringing newer work into it. At last I have met the MK. XIV Gyro Bombright, the one I shall actually use on ‘ops’ – it certainly is a bag of tricks. In a day or so we will have our exams, & then commence our flying on Stirlings.
[page break]
[underlined] 14th [deleted] August [/deleted] [inserted] September [/inserted]. [/underlined]
The exams are over, everyone passed O.K. and we are now underway with our Flying Conversion. For the engineers, this is when they fly for the first time, as they pass out from there [sic] training school, and come straight here to be crewed up, without ever having flown before. It seems pretty hard on them, to have only a few hours air experience before they arrive at a squadron and go on ‘ops’.
Stirlings are the largest 4 engined bomber there is, and the cockpit is certainly a height from the ground. They have a long undercart, & it is quite a common prang, to see an undercart wiped off, as the aircraft have a tendency to swing & if one brakes severely & swerves, the undercart is quite likely to go. I have to fly as second pilot in there, and attend to boost, revs, flaps & undercart, it takes both of us to get the kite off the deck & they take a hell of a long run.
For a lot of our circuits and bumps we flew over to a Yankee airfield, they had Fortresses. We used to fly there for 2 hours or so & then return. Before Mac had soloed, he was taking off there, & the kite swung viciously & shot across the grass straight towards a Fort. There were some mechanics working on it, and they looked up to see a Stirling thundering at them, without pause they leapt off the wing, fell over picked their selves up & dashed off. If it hadn’t been dicey, it would have seemed ludicrous, however, the screened pilot took a hand, pulled at the controls, & we took off right over the Fort. Mac soloed O.K. a little later, & now we are on X-countries.
[page break]
[underlined] 22nd [deleted] August [/deleted] [inserted] September [/inserted] [/underlined]
Our Con. Unit is nearly over, & we shall soon be on an operational squadron, different instructors speak in glowing terms of their old squadrons, & advise us to try & get posted there so we don’t know where we are. At the moment we are commencing our night X country period, this is a tricky airfield to taxi on at night.
Macgillvray has been going out with a WAAF M.T. driver here, & at last it seems like the real thing he is talking seriously of marriage. When he left Hixon, “The Blunder”, went into Stafford with him to stay the night, & then spins a 48 hr pass with him at the Strand Palace. Macgillvray was half & half about telling her to go, however when he arrived here he wrote, & told her he didn’t want to see her again. She wrote back & said as soon as she got a pass she was coming to have it out with him. Then a letter arrived yesterday saying she would arrive in the evening, & would he meet her in town. Macgillvray religiously stayed in camp all evening, & every now & again the phone would ring for him, it was her, phoning from Stamford, & it was really funny to see him keep telling chaps he wasn’t in. Suddenly, the boys came in with the news, she had come out on the 10.30 P.M. bus, & fixed up with the WAAF Officer to stay the night. Macgillvray was off to his billet like a shot. [deleted] Next [/deleted] [inserted] This [/inserted] morning, the Blunder, was in the dining hall, early, & waiting behind the servery, when Macgillvray came in, she dashed out, & told him exactly what she thought of him, in a loud voice. Everyone listened interestedly, & the cooks even ceased serving in order to hear clearly, Mac went deadly white, & after a while walked out, with the Blunder behind. Anyway that was exit to the Blunder. We’ve certainly had some laughs here.
[page break]
[underlined] Wednesday [deleted] August [/deleted] [inserted] September [/inserted] 29th. [/underlined]
At last the time has arrived, and what a time I have had to wait for it, 2 1/4 years ago I volunteered for aircrew, & right up till now I have been training for the real job, & we have arrived at last on a squadron. It is a new squadron just forming, No 623, and we are stationed at Downham Market with No 218 squadron. We left Woolfox about 8 AM. on Monday, and caught the 9.15 AM. to Peterborough, where we arrived about 10.15 AM. Deciding to spend the day we trooped out and started off with a large meal in the Silver Grill, a very satisfying start. During the afternoon we looked over the Cathedral, and afterwards went to the cinema to see Tyrone Power in “Crash Drive”, pretty good. Another large meal at the Silver Grill then off on the 6.46 PM. to Downham Market. Naturally the trains were late and we reached Downham Station around 10 PM. & phoned for transport. When it arrived we threw the kit on, we were getting rather cheesed with it by now, after lumping it on & off different trains, and out we went.
It was rather a grim reception, they told us we couldn’t have a meal, & then we found out there was no accommodation for us. So we drove round in the dark in a lorry and they found room for us in ones & twos with the erks, it was pretty grim organisation.
[page break]
They locked our kit up in a hut, my overcoat & groundsheet amongst them, so of course it poured of rain during the night & the next morning. Being as the station is all clay like most of the Fen country, it was one helluva mess. Like all Bomber Stations it is horribly dispersed, & we tramped around miserably in the wet, with our arrival chits. The mess was large and new, & very bare, & the food just happened to be pretty grim, so I’m afraid we took a rather poor view of the station, things look a little better now though.
There is a rigged up cinema & I believe they have occasional shows there, but there isn’t a lot of entertainment available. The town [deleted] of [/deleted] or village of Downham is only 15 mins walk from the mess, but there isn’t much life in there. They have one rather ancient cinema with old films & a dance hall, that is always over crowded & 21 pubs, the latter is over shadowed by Stamford’s 63. I don’t think we will be going in there very much. There were three crews arrived from Woolfox together, Pete, Macgillvray & ourselves, Carr is travelling down too today, as he hadn’t finished his flying at Woolfox. We are binding for leave as most crews get it on arrival but our efforts haven’t been successful so far. Our first two ‘ops’ here are mining trips & the pilot was a second “dickey” (pilot) trip, before we start we have to do a bullseye though.
[page break]
[underlined] Monday 4th October. [/underlined]
Things are looking quiet a bit better now, the mess seems comfortable, & the food really is good. Up till Saturday we didn’t do much, mainly hung around & had a few lectures, & got our kit into the parachute section. This is a new idea, they have a large room, with lockers, & hang our kit up properly, to dry etc, also testing it each time, then when we want something we go & ask for it & they bring it out. If they have found any stuff U/S they tell us what it is so we can change it, it’s a good scheme. The essentials such as chute, harness, helmet, boots, & ‘K’ type dinghy, are laid out already when the crew is on ‘ops’. No waiting or anything its quite a good scheme. We drew our electrical kit & our new flying boots, from stores, there [sic] boots are the new type with leather boots as bottoms, they have a knife in the side to cut the upper off, should we land in enemy territory, & thus leave a fine pair of walking boots.
On Saturday our bullseye arrived and we were briefed in the afternoon for a 7.50 PM take off. We got away a few minutes late but with no mishap & climbed over the drome then set course for Bedford, this was the starting gate of the bullseye. About 15 mins after we left there, we were coned by about 20 beams & passed on to other cones. We were diving all around the sky but we were
[page break]
held pretty well for around 10 – 15 minutes, before we got out. At Portsmouth we were held for around 2 minutes, & again at Beachy Head, then we headed for the target – London. We came in over Croydon & Lewisham to run up to our target, Westminster Bridge. There were about four cones in action with about 30 beams in each, and they all had a kite in, jerking like mad. Whilst they were occupied we were able to slip in smoothly on our bombing run without interference. The searchlights blinded me a bit though and I was unable to get a good line of sight on the bridge, but took the photographs. The black out of London was pretty grim, there were bags of lights about, & the docks were clearly lit up along the river & so were the main railway stations. I don’t think I would fancy an attack on London though, the defences seem pretty hot. After London we went to Bedford again where the bullseye finished, so we had no engagements with fighters. From here to base then up to Goole and back on another I.R. stooge. It was pretty nippy & poor Johnny & Don in the turrets were frozen stiff. There were hardly any fighter interceptions I guess the fighter boys didn’t feel like playing. Anyway back to the bacon & egg, the usual natter with the other crews on various points & then off to bed, for a nice lengthy sleep.
[page break]
When we got up at dinner time yesterday it was to be told that we were operating that night – mine laying, it rather shook us. Briefing was at 4 PM. & we learned we were going off the Frisian Is. (a fairly short trip) & taking 6 x 1500 mines. Back to the mess in the bus for the operational meal, then over to the billet, where like old men we clamber into our long flying underwear. Even though it is all pure rayon lined it makes me itch, just not used to long legs & sleeves I guess after jockey shorts & singlet. Our next move is back down to the dressing room in the parachute section, where we collect our kit. We never put the stuff on otherwise we would sweat moving around & then it would freeze when we got up & defeat the clothing. Out to the kite in the bus then, dump the kit on the grass & everyone climbs in for their last minute check of their equipment. Whoever D.I’d the first turret did a poor job, because the reflector sight was left on & the guns weren’t loaded, so I got cracking on those & tested the tuner, then climbed down for my initial bombing check. The engines were run up, tested, then shut down again & we climbed out for a smoke and sign our various forms. The Wing Comdr & Sqdn Ldr drove out to give last minute tips & see if there were any snags, then we all climbed aboard again, fully dressed now, all hatches closed, & taxied out.
[page break]
The first aircraft was due off at 7.35 and took off dead on time, we were third, got the green from the ACP opened up & away we went. They are a bit of a job to get off with a heavy load & we didn’t miss the trees by much but we made it. We set course for Cromer, where we were leaving the coast, at 1500 ft, we were staying at that height so Jerry couldn’t pick us up, then climbing to 5,000 ft at the last moment to avoid any flak ships. Everything went fine, poor old Ken was sick again, he certainly has guts to keep flying and navigating when he is often queer. We had to climb quickly at the mining area, & the revs wouldn’t increase for the minute, consequently we nearly stalled. At 1500 ft with that bomb load we would [deleted] dive [/deleted] have dived straight into the waves, it was touch & go for a minute but worked out. The mines were dropped, one [deleted] f [/deleted] could feel them drop, & back we went. When we got back to Cromer there were lots of searchlights & they picked us up, but shut off when we flicked our nav lights on & off. They suddenly coned a single engine kite so we watched it like hawks just in case, there have been a lot of intruders around this area. There was a large fire about 50 miles off the port bow, enemy activity maybe. We landed O.K. though were interrogated & off to the mess, when the siren went so we had just dodged it, still we were safe then. A bang on supper then off to bed for another good rest.
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday 7th October.. [/underlined]
Life is proceeding along fairly smooth lines, and we are pretty well settled in. The other night when we did our mining trip, the main force went to Kassel. Clarc Carr went with another pilot to get his second ‘dicky’ trip in. The pilot he went with had 23 trips in & was on the point of completing his tour, but they never returned. Poor old Clarc, he was one of the best chaps I have met, he never got in a temper with anyone, yet he was pretty tough, it’s a shame that such fellows have to go. It really shakes us when fellows we have been with for a long while get the chop, brings it home the hard way. They have sent his crew home on 3 days leave, I don’t know what they are doing after that, whether they are returning to ‘Con’ Unit to pick up a new skipper, or stay here as ‘spares’, the former would be better I should think.
Speaking of spares they grabbed Don, our mid upper to go in somebody else’s crew on Monday for the raid on Frankfurt, as their m/u.g had gone sick. It was rather a nerve I thought both asking a crew to fly with a chap they didn’t know, & worse for the gunner to fly with a strange crew. They did the same thing to Smith, Macgillvrays rear gunner, if they keep this thing up they will
[page break]
soon be doing away with the crews & just have a pool that they draw on, I always thought that if somebody was sick in a crew the whole lot was declared U/S. there is a word they have when referring to men they call them ‘bodies’ or ‘bods’, & how right it is, you are just merely a figure on paper. Every morning the big noise walks into the flight office & asks the flight commander “How many crews have you, fully operational?”, and then demands those that aren’t be made so in as short a time as possible. That is all they are interested in, is, how many crews have they available for an ‘op’, regardless of how much flying you’ve done, just recently some of the chaps have been on the main force 3 out of 4 nights. Anyway all kites returned from Frankfurt O.K. and Dan gave us a vivid description, it was very interesting but I guess we will be seeing all we want of it very shortly.
Tuesday night we were on ‘stand down’, but Wednesday we were briefed for a long mining trip to La Rochelle, right down near the Spanish border. There was a hell of a front expected at base around 6.30 so they were rushing us off at 5.50 & come back to meet the front over the Channel & battle through it. There was severe icing from 7 – 15,000 so we had to try & climb above it, not an easy job in a Stirling, the extent was possibly
[page break]
right up to the London area as well. The briefing & everything was terribly rushed & we tore around in a mad flap to get everything done, and we were all dressed & on the point of going out to the kite when they scrubbed it, what a life, tonight we were in it again but it was scrubbed once more.
Last night I decided I would see what Downham was like so I ambled in with the boys & was I cheesed. I had seen the [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] film on at the little cinema, so all there was to do was sit in a smokey pub, & swill lousy beer. At last the smoke made my eyes ache so much I came home. Macgillvray was on a short mining trip last night, & a Picture Post reporter was going along. They sent down 4 camera & news men, & took photographs of them having an operational meal & were going to take bags more in the kite, but it was scrubbed, what bad luck, a chance like that only comes once in a life time. The traditional RAF bull was in evidence, for the photograph they had a spotless table-cloth, cream crackers on the table, & a Cpl WAAF waiting on them. Actually we queue up for our meals & a long one at times & eat of [sic] bare dirty tables, & the only biscuits we see are hard dog ones. – We did our first day flying, here, today, took two kites up on air tests, we were doing a loaded climb but that was scrubbed, at least we know what the drome looks like in daylight now.
[page break]
[underlined] Sunday October 10th. [/underlined]
We look like having our first leave in a few days we are officially due to go at 0700 hrs on Thursday 14th, until the following Tuesday midnight. The chaps generally get away on the Wednesday, & if they are very lucky & they aren’t on ops on Tuesday they get away Tuesday afternoon which is pretty good. I only hope we are that lucky, Mac has to do a second dicky & if he gets that in tomorrow night we may be on ops the following night (Tuesday) & mess things up a bit. Should it be scrubbed tomorrow, Mac will go Tuesday & we can go Tuesday afternoon, I am afraid we are unscrupulous enough to hope that the weather is lousy tomorrow night. He has got his Flight through at last, & is now ‘Chiefy’ McCann, it is well overdue, but the Canadians get back pay on crowns, one of the numerous ways they are better than the RAF, so he has about £16 back pay to come. The comical part is that after all this waiting & binding now it has appeared in P.O.R’s the stores have no crowns so he is unable to wear it – poor Mac.
Friday night we went on our long mining trip, off Bordeaux in the estuary of the Gironde. We took 4 1,500 mines a fair weight, our all up weight was 69,784 lbs. The briefing was at 6.0 P.M. it shook us but they were having a late take off because the room was nearly full & they were waiting for it to die down as the German fighters have an easy time in the bright moonlight. The bus took
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting showing a WAAF with a mine] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[duplicate page]
[page break]
us back [missing words] as our operation [missing words] wasn’t until 8.45 we had bags of time to fill in. Lots of Forts went over then & we watched them the next day we learned they had been to Bremen. We had our egg & at 10.25 the transport took us back, we didn’t have to struggle with our kit as we had taken it out in the afternoon. The run up & testing commenced, then shut down while we donned our kit & start up once more. We took off bang on time & 5 mins later set course. Old Petch who was the only other one beside us going swung on take off & hit his undercart against some iron rails for fog lighting & they wouldn’t let him take off, consequently we were the only ones from this station that went.
It was practically 10/10ths cloud down to the coast, it cleared there & I was able to get a wizard pin point on Selsey Bill, our crossing point. The moon was like a searchlight & we felt all naked illuminated up there, it set quite a bit after they told us it did, because there was the time of setting as seen by a ground observer, whereas we were at 12,000 ft. The cloud built up more & more over the Channel until it was 10/10ths again on the French Coast and we were unable to pin point. It remained like that most of the way, the least it was, was 7/10ths, approaching the target area it began
[page break]
to clear & I got down into the bombing hatch ready. I was determined to get my night vision up to scratch because if we couldn’t pin point we had to bring the mines back. The green indicator target on the VCP was glaring on my vision panel like a searchlight so I piled my long cushion over it. Then I wanted to see my target map so hopped to switch on the light for a brief second, next the cushion fell down & the light glared again, I dove back at that. I was hopping around like a rubber ball, & sweating lest I should miss the coast & be unable to pin point. Suddenly I saw it, it was pretty dark, I could make it out clearly though, then we passed out to sea over the first island & swung out to rear to clear the island defences. Then altering course we swung in for the mainland once more, I was straining my neck, thats [sic] the worst of the Stirling bomb aimers window, the Lancs have a beauty. After a bit I made it out we were heading up the Gironde estuary, so we made a left hand turn & came bang on the corner of the estuary, which was our pin point. Setting course on a D.R run we dropped the eg O.K. & set course home. Just after we left the flak began to open up on the islands & one searchlight probed around, but they weren’t near us.
Stooging along happily with thoughts of home & bed we were shaken by a show of
[page break]
flak suddenly thrown up. We had got a little port of track & were too near Nantes, they had some accurate heavy flak down there, because of the Fort raids on the U Boat Bases. Anyway they were too accurate for our liking the first burst exploded with quite a crash underneath us & burned the kite a bit. We did some hectic weaving & finally got clear, it was a sticky moment though that predicted stuff is deadly they reckon to get you on the first burst. Nothing happened on the way back beyond sighting another Stirling, the cloud thickened over England, & when we reached base they diverted us to Tangmere, although we could have got in. So we had to fly back all the way we had come down to the South Coast. Arriving there after 6 hrs 40 mins flying we found 11 other Stirlings there. We had a meal, & the guy told us you can sleep as long as you like they gave us good accommodation, boy! we needed sleep. Hardly had we laid our heads down when they dragged us out saying we had to return right away. Then we had to wait 3 hours before we were re-fuelled & away. Two squadrons of Typhoons scrambled while we were there, straight off down wind a lovely night. Flying back to base I could hardly keep my eyes open we had had no sleep for nearly 36 hours. We certainly slept well on return. Today there hasn’t been anything doing because of the lousy weather. Jack Spackly & Ron Winnitt have arrived here, they were with me from Manchester & all through Canada, I was glad to see them arrive here, they are in 623.
[page break]
[underlined] Sunday October 24th [/underlined]
It is a fortnight since I last made an entry but I have been on leave during that time, & following my maxim of never letting work interfere with pleasure I made no entries in here. I had a fine leave, Mary was able to get the time off & that made it just right we saw a couple of shows, popped around to a few friends & had a wizard time. There was one disappointment overshadowing it though, Ken didn’t come on leave with us, it all began a little while before - . A fair number of times through his earlier training, so he tells me, and during the time we were with him at O.T.U. and on Conversion Unit, he was sick during trips. He tried hard, by doing everything he knew to overcome it, but unsuccessfully. Then on our first mining trip to the Frisians he was sick at the target area & we had to rush to drop them & there was a fair flap resulting as I have previously mentioned in the kite nearly stalling in. Poor Ken, he reckons he is to blame but I don’t think he has anything to worry about, out of the lot I think he did his job the best & the smartest. He was sick a lot on the long mining as well so he reported sick a couple of days afterwards to see what the M.O. could do.
[page break]
He was given some Anti-Air Sickness capsules, & tried them without effect, so the M.O. grounded him for a little while. Then they took Ken’s case up a little more & the Wing Comdr said he would have an interview with him. This was the position on the day we were going on leave Tuesday 12th, Mac also hadn’t done his second dicky trip. So Ken was hanging around all morning waiting for the Wing Co to say he would see him, & we were worried in case he wouldn’t catch the 3.51 London train with us. We left him waiting at the camp & told him to whizz down on his bike if there was a chance of catching the train, if not, to follow us down on the later train. On the road we got a lift to the railway station in an army lorry & had a cup of tea in the café next door. Waiting on the platform later, the [deleted] [indecipherable letters] [/deleted] train was almost due in, when Ken came dashing up. Everyone was overjoyed because we thought he had just made it, but he told us the Wing Comdr. had cancelled his leave and he had to remain behind to get 15 hrs Fighter Affiliation in, to see how often he was sick & then go before a Medical Board. My God! as if anyone wouldn’t feel lousy after 15 hrs. Fighter Affil. Also with the weather as it had been, a stinking yellow fog, there didn’t
[page break]
appear to be much chance of flying. It was a hell of a twist all the way round, and poor Ken was on the receiving end. There was nothing to be done, however, so off we had to go without him. I felt pretty rotten though seeing him standing there watching us go on leave, & having to ride back & spend a week by himself.
As I said previously I had a fine time, the days flew swiftly as they always do, & the last day arrived. I had arranged with Johnny to meet at 5.30 in Liverpool St to catch the 5.40 P.M. However he arrived up from Bristol early & came over to my place, so we travelled up together, & met Jack on the station. The train was very crowded & we had to bunk in the luggage room, at the first stop, Bishops Stortford, lots of people got out & we got a seat easily. At Cambridge there was about a 20 minute wait so the three of us got out for a cup of tea. A porter told us it wouldn’t be going for a while yet & we had plenty of time. We were only in the canteen for about 3 minutes and as we emerged, saw the train about a quarter of the way along the platform. I broke into a sprint with Jack about 10 yds behind and Johnny 10 yds behind him. Down the platform we raced, porters shouted out “Clear the Way”, and people skipped
[page break]
nimbly aside, luckily the platform was fairly empty. Some people shouted encouragement, other shouted “You’ll never make it”, but unheedingly we pounded quickly on.
One American soldier told us it was just like the races, first I flashed past, and he turned to watch me when Jack whizzed by. As he swivelled his head to watch him Johnny shot past, so he ran after us to see the result. Down the whole length of Cambridge platform we raced & closed the distance to about two yards, I had already selected the door I was jumping for, when we reached the blacked out part of the platform. There were no lights at all & it was as dark as the pit, I tried to maintain speed but cracked against a pillar and spun around like a top. So the chase was abandoned & we stood watching the tail light disappear into the darkness. We were in rather a fix as all our kit was on the train, none of us had hats & Johnny had no belt either. After hunting around & getting wrong directions from a few people, we contacted a porter, and old sweat from the last war, who was very helpful & took us to a fellow, who sent off a wire to the different stations telling them to take our kit off the train & send it to Downham. That done, with certain misgivings as to whether it would work out we went over to the A.T.O.
[page break]
Here we phoned the camp and told them we would be arriving late & fixed things up. That done we adjourned to a nearby pub & treated our helpful porter to a few. After that it degenerated into a regular crawl, hatless & hands in pockets we rolled round Cambridge. Greatly warmed by the beverage, we didn’t notice the hardness of the bunks, & I didn’t suffer as I did on the previous occasion I slept at Cambridge ATO. We travelled on to Downham on the 8.13 AM. next day & arrived about 9.15. As I feared they hadn’t any of our kit there, so I thought “Goodbye to that”. It rather shook the S.P’s in the guard room when we rolled up with no hats or anything, they didn’t say anything, though, I shudder to think what would have happened at a training unit under similar circumstances. Within an hour of arriving back we were flying on an air test, maybe they thought we would forget how.
We haven’t done much since arriving back, the weather has been pretty rough. The situation regarding Ken appears pretty obscure, he didn’t get much flying in as he predicted, now he is just hanging about to see what the score is. I hope they wont [sic] take him out of the crew he is such a decent chap. Its growing late & the other guys are binding for the lights out, so I guess I’ll put more next time.
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday 28th October [/underlined]
The weather still remains duff, after days of rain, it has changed into pretty thick fog every day. The last time we flew was over a week ago when we did a loaded climb in “D”, we now have I for Ink, instead of D. For the time being Ken is out of the crew, we are all praying it wont [sic] be for long although we have another decent chap in his place, Les Gray another Canadian. The whole situation is pretty vague, Ken himself feels he would rather not go on in case he should be sick one time & we wandered into a flak area whilst he was sick. As for us, we would put implicit faith in him whatever happened, & I just hate to lose him. So nobody knows what is going to happen, we’re just keeping our fingers crossed.
To keep ourselves amused now quite a bit of our time is spent in seeing films, I have seen a couple of decent ones on the camp recently. The other day they had the power off all day, no electric light, wireless or anything, I certainly think they ought to get there [sic] fingers out with the lighting in the ante room, it is very dim. Last night seeking amusement further afield, Mac, Jack, Don, Johnny & myself went in the liberty bus to Kings Lynn. We had a good meal when we arrived there, & then saw a decent show, coming out from there, Jack, Johnny & myself
[page break]
went into a dance, while Mac & Don went to the Duke’s Head for a meal. I think they had the best of the deal, because the dance was pretty corny, & then when it finished at 10 P.M. we were tramping all over the town trying to find a place with something to eat without success, it was pretty grim.
We got back to the bus O.K. & off we went, by this time a thick mist had rolled in, add to this the fact that our driver had a fair number of drinks under his belt, & we went weaving all over the road. It wasn’t long before we went into the ditch, & a fellow raised a laugh by asking “Does this count as an op?” We lifted the thing out of the ditch, then he found he had taken the wrong turning so back we had to go. It took us 1 1/2 hours to travel a 25 minute journey, we heaved a sigh of relief when we arrived back here. It would be that night too that they had an ENSA show at the camp and who should be in it but Pat Kirkwood, I would have liked to have seen it. Our next leave is due on the 24th November & I have written to Mary & told her to book some shows up. It is rather a long chance, that we will be there on time, even providing all goes well. Still I think it is worth trying. Ah! well I’m tired we didn’t get much sleep last night so I’ll turn in.
[page break]
[underlined] Monday November 1st. [/underlined]
Friday was just one of those uneventful days, though the mist seemed to have lifted a bit, a few very keen types were speaking eagerly of the prospects of flying, but the main horde, including all of our crew, nearly, retired to the mess early & buried theirselves [sic] in the newspapers, springing up eagerly to get in the dinner queue. That evening we went into town to see an Abbot & Costello film, it wasn’t bad, with a simple meal of fish & chips, we wandered back, what an uneventful life this is. Saturday was no better, but we really put some work in on the kite harmonising all the guns. We made quite a job of it, having Bill & Jack run backwards & forwards with the harmonisation board. The only thing that marred it was the fact that both Johnny & myself broke our lateral levelling screws on the reflector sights, necessitating harmonising them over again. We have been informed that it is nigh on impossible to get any small nuts & bolts of that type, so we are waiting for them, meanwhile the kite is unable to go on ops without the two reflector sights harmonised. So a kite has to stay back because of two nuts & bolts. Just a classic example of the important part played by the small cogs in the big wheel.
[page break]
Yesterday the weather seemed to be better, but there was nothing doing in the morning so we put in quite a bit of work on the kite. In the afternoon though there was a sudden flap, to get as many aircraft airborne as possible, so off we went for our air test. We have a new kite now I Ink instead of D Dog that we used to have, yesterday was the first time we had flown in it. She seemed a pretty decent kite, if we can do a loaded climb on it, & see how much height we can get out of it, it will be O.K. In the evening I just remained in the mess & went over to the hut early, I just seem to be in a state of lethargy here, with no inclination to do anything. We tried to get the fire going in the hut, these stoves are grim things at times. All the time we are chopping fences down & scrounging wood & ‘borrowing’ coal from out of the dump opposite. Most times that we light it, huge clouds of smoke belch out in every direction and there is a frantic rush for the doors to breathe some fresh air in. Last night was an exception though, the fire lit right away, & it gradually warmed up until it was giving out a heat like a blast furnace. It isn’t very often that we get it to go like that though, still I am nearest to it, I had that in view when I chose my bed.
[page break]
Today we had quite an interesting time, the morning we spent going round the bomb dumps. Practically all the bomb aimers went out, and at the dump we saw how the carriers are fixed on, & then at the firing point how they are flared. It was quite a sight in the dump to see all the rows of bombs laid out in their rows behind the blast walls. The corporal who was giving us the gen set a 4 lb incendiary off for us to show us how they went, boy they certainly burn, they seem better than the ones the Jerries dropped on London in the blitzes. We handled all the equipment & all of it was quite different from the stuff we had been taught throughout training all that was obsolete a good while before. Finally we went out to the kites to watch them bomb up & then try the various ways of releasing hang ups, it was quite a useful morning.
This afternoon we flew again, to level the bomb sight, & then to continue to Goodestone for a bombing exercise. It went off pretty well, but I don’t know how they are going to figure out where bombs are where, because we didn’t have 3073’s and didn’t inform the range as we dropped each one. As there were at least four kites bombing, they seemed to be showering down. Most certainly there will be some news in the morning.
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday 4th November. [/underlined]
There has been some flying recently but not a lot we have been up on a couple of air tests but on the whole the weather is still rather grim. We have been putting in quite a bit of work on the kite, Johnny, Don & myself have had our guns out & cleaned them. They were in a hell of a mess as they were packed with grease, then somebody borrowed our kite & the dope of a bomb aimer fired my guns, mucking things up well & truly. We have got them back again now. Tuesday afternoon they gave us a stand down, its funny no sooner do they say stand down & the fellows have started trekking into the different towns, when the old sun comes out & things are fine again, I bet they gnash their teeth.
All of us except Mac caught the 2.3 P.M. into Cambridge, had a look round, & a decent tea then booked our beds in the W.V.S. Afterwards we saw a show, then diving into a pub for a drink we landed in a flight passing out party. They had just finished their exams at Cambridge I.T.W. & were celebrating, when we entered somebody said “Here’s the gen boys”, at which I nearly fell over. Still they plied us with free beer so that was bang on, they also asked quite a bit about their future training & ‘ops’. Maybe quite a few lines were shot, but we had enough shot at us
[page break]
during our training so it was our turn. They all had bright blue uniforms, ‘bully’ white belts, close cropped hair, a general sprog appearance altogether. I shudder to think I was like that once, though not to such a degree, but I was & so must everybody who goes in for aircrew, we didn’t notice anything strange then. They had various toasts & I’m afraid I smiled a little cynically when one chap said “Goodbye to all exams and binding”. Still we had a good time, followed by a meal in a nearby café & then to bed. We rose at 7 AM. & went round to another W.V.S. place for our breakfast, then from there to the station to catch the famous 8.13 AM. to Downham.
They were taking a squadron photograph, & naturally Jack & I had to roll up late and miss being in it – such is life. Last night they had an ENSA show to which we went and surprisingly enough it was quite good, we almost got in without paying, but not quite, it would have helped our financial status quite a bit. Today we had to take the Flight Commander’s kite up an [sic] Air Test it, a doubtful priviledge. [sic] The bind was it was 12 midday when they rang the mess and told us & we were already in the dinner queue, so out we had to go & tramp back to the flights. We came down fairly late so didn’t go back again, but phoned into town & booked our seats for the cinema it was a good film, though I’d seen it before.
[page break]
[underlined] Sunday November 7th [/underlined]
Friday was quite a busy day, in the morning there was a smashing lecture by a Dutch F/O who had been shot down in a Lanc. & had got back from Holland. We had been listening to him for about 10 mins & lapping every word, when they came in and dragged us up for flights affil. typical RAF. The bind was there were two crews in the same kite, ourself [sic] & Bennett. We stooged around for over an hour but the fighter didn’t show up, so back we had to go, I was pretty cheesed about missing that lecture though. They put us up again in the afternoon, & after a bit of stooging around, boy! that fighter could fly. I sat in the Wops seat all the time, listening to “Music While You Work” poor old Bennets Engineer was sick, he must be quite a lot because he had a paper bag ready with him. I felt a bit grim once or twice, because they were really throwing the kite around. I am O.K. if I can see out to see whats [sic] doing, but if I am in the middle of the kite unable to look out then its rough.
Ken has gone on leave at last, this was the one he missed when we went, he has gone to Iver, Bucks & to London. I have told him to pop in at my house I hope he does. Meanwhile he has let me ride his bike which comes in very handy at this blasted place. Friday
[page break]
night it was given out on the radio that F/Sgt Aaron who used to be with 218 had been posthumously awarded the V.C. The citation said his courage had never been surpassed, & by jiminy they were right. In absolute agony & with severest wounds he had diverted the kite on from Turin to N. Africa, where he died 9 hours after, it was a marvellous show! The air bomber who flew it & landed it, belly landing, with 4,000 lb still on received the C.G.M. & most of the crew the D.F.M. They arrived back from Gibralter not long ago, with tins of sugar & heavens knows what else besides.
All our trips recently have been in other kites ours was U/S, when we came down from a flip they found the tail plane was only secured with about 3 nuts & bolts, we nearly had it that time. Yesterday it was put serviceable again & we had to take her up for a couple of hours. It had rained cats & dogs in the morning so there was a stand down & we were the only joe’s flying, & Saturday afternoon too. We were caught in some hellish storms but dodged them, then found parts with clean weather, & played tag with the cloud tops it was good fun. I broke a bigué and then we couldn’t get the undercart down, so poor old Jack & Bill had to set to & wind it down. We all held our breaths when we came in but it didn’t collapse & we were O.K.
[page break]
The Wing Cmdr was attacked by a JU88 on a gardening trip to the Baltic the other night, & they claimed it shot down. Who is to dispute them, I bet they went nowhere near the thing, as everyone else thinks & its popular talk that the Wing Cmdr. may get a gong for it whether its true or not I don’t know. There is something funny going on Stirlings haven’t operated against a land target for a month now, & there are all sorts of rumours going around. We are going on Coastal Command, are going out East, are converting onto Lancs, are towing gliders, are only going to do mining trips, these are but a few of the speculations floating around, there certainly seems to be something in the air. The most obvious solution I think is they are waiting until a .5 mid under gun is fitted, we also have to operate this, quite a few jobs we have now.
It has been bitterly cold all day today, whilst harmonising my front guns I gashed two fingers & I didn’t feel it, nor did it start to bleed for a good while, my fingers were so frozen, it’s a real touch of winter. There are two fires in our huge ante room & that is the only method of heating the place. Consequently there is a circle of fellows packed tightly around it, & another circle around them waiting for someone to vacate a chair at which there is a mad rush. The rest of the fellows just have to hover around hoping to catch a glimpse of the fire or of moving into the outer circle.
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday 11th November. [/underlined]
The cold weather continues, it takes ones breath away just walking down to the flight, I am glad there are no ‘ops’ on from this station nowadays. I wonder what is happening, it certainly is funny, Stirlings off ‘ops’ all this time, must be something behind it all. The rumours are flying as thick as ever, but nobody has any definite ‘gen’ at the moment. We will find out in due course I daresay. Yesterday we went on rather an interesting trip, an Eric, which is a daylight bullseye. Naturally the only defences we had to combat were fighters, & we didn’t have any engagements, so everything went smoothly. Our route took us across London three times, & pin pointing became very interesting, as I found the various places I know. The balloons were quite a sight, flying at their operational height, there seemed literally hundreds of them. Old Father Thames looked grand in the sun with the boats chugging slowly up & down, there was a fair amount of shipping off Tilbury & Grays & a convoy at Southend. At Chatham there were a fair amount of naval vessels, but nothing like peace-time. We followed the Thames up to attack our target Tower Bridge, there was a certain amount of difficulty in finding this owing to cloud that had rolled across. We eventually made it though.
[page break]
Being used to stooging along by ourselves at night it was a novel experience for us to see about another hundred bombers all around, on the same course & height. It was rather tricky at turning points, some kites E.T.A’s would be due slightly before one’s own & they would turn & come cutting across, diving underneath, or lifting above, there must be some close shaves at night, which the darkness hides. When we returned to base the weather had changed down so we had to stooge around for a bit, but we landed quite safely.
Our leave is due on the 24th, and we are beginning to make our arrangements, praying to the Lord, that nothing crops up & we lose it. I had a letter from Bill today, saying that old Bob Blackburn, who was in our room at I.T.W. had got the chop on his 13th over the Ruhr. He always maintained there was nothing in superstition & insisted on third lights, I guess it was just Fate that it should be his 13th, I hope he managed to bale out safely. We lost a crew the other night on a long mining off the Spanish border, Johnston was flying with them as rear gunner, it was his first trip. He was in Carr’s crew that is the second one gone, these mining trips certainly don’t seem to be such a stooge nowadays.
[page break]
[underlined] Sunday 14th November. [/underlined]
What a hum drum life this is, & a cold one. Rush for breakfast, fight to get a wash basin then trudge down to the flights. Knock around in the Bombing Office for a while to see the score then out to the kite for a D.I. It’s a hellish cold job polishing the perspex on the first turret, especially the outside I have to mount a rickety iron ladder, & perched up there 25 ft in the air polish away vigorously with frozen hands, each movement causing the ladder to sway. We generally continue to get back to the flights at 11.15 AM. in time for the NAAFI van. Then back to the mess, with more chances than one of being called back for an air test, just as we are about to go into dinner. The afternoon’s procedure is very similar, if we aren’t flying, it is link or Gee, Astro or something, until we scuttle back to tea. Over to the billet, then, to coax a fire into the stove & all huddle round it. Gangs of fellows scour the immediate vicinity of the huts for wood, posts are pulled up & everything of an inflammable nature seized upon. There is a huge coke dump opposite & every evening sees a dozen fellows or more filling buckets & other articles. These stoves are quite our pride & we take an experts delight in raising a large fire in a short while.
[page break]
If we aren’t writing letters we are listening to records on a gramophone that Bill managed to ‘borrow’ from the W/T section, I wish we had a wireless here, though. Sometimes we attend an ENSA show, the one this week wasn’t so bad. Friday afternoon we had a stand down so Jack, Johnny & myself bowled into Cambridge again, following the routine of our previous visit, but not having the luck to fall into any flight parties again. So far this month we have gone in quite a few flying hours the weather has been lousy on quite a few trips. Last night we were stooging round in a rain storm trying to find a bombing target before we were recalled, Saturday night, too. The other day Mac, Johnny Don & myself went up with Wiseman’s crew for Air to Air firing over the Wash. After landing & unloading the blasted ammo. when it came to my turn the Martinet ran out of fuel & had to return.
The other day on our Air Test, Mac feathered the starboard outer to test it, but couldn’t unfeather it. After a few unsuccessful attempts we gave up & landed with it feathered, & got down O.K. too. If it isn’t the undercart refusing to come down, its something else. Still old I Item is quite a good kite now, & we can get a fair turn of speed from it.
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday November 18th [/underlined]
Quite a lot of things have happened in the few short days since I made my last entry. First like a bolt from the blue came the news that the squadron was being disbanded. It was quite a shock we are supposed to be moving to Chedburgh shortly & there given individual postings. Everyone is thoroughly cheesed about it, we were just getting settled in here too, all the top bags, Bombing, Nav & Gunnery Leaders are fine fellows, one couldn’t wish for a better bunch, I guess that’s typical of the RAF when one gets a piece of cake, they aren’t allowed to eat it. 214 squadron which is at Chedburgh is coming here in our place & we are gradually breaking up. They say we are converting to Lancs & if so it may be time that Stirlings are gradually dieing [sic] out of Bomber Command & the Lancs taking their place. If we are moving in a few days, as the tale says, then it will mess our leave up, after all our arranging, its driving me nuts, we never get a leave that works out smartly. Johnnie Smythe a Nav. from Sierra Leone has had a letter from the people there saying they want to adopt 623 Sqdn. & have collected 100 to £150,000 for our benefit – phew! that’s over £250 per head ground & air crew, of course it would be used for the betterment of the squadron, building a wizard crew room, & various other things.
[page break]
The Wing Cmdr. has been up to Group to raise Cain, I don’t know if he has had any satisfication, but I & everyone else hope we stay here together. Monday night we had our Sqdn party, strictly bachelor, the air crew paid for it all, & invited the ground crew to show their appreciation for their maintenance of the kites. There was lots of beer & everyone was happy especially old Mac he was well under, a gang of them started down the mess before the party, then rang Downham for a taxi to take them to the party 200 yds away. There was a championship table tennis match between a couple of top notches in peace-time & then the winner issued a challenge. Ginger Morris who used to play for England, had been waiting for this to just bowl out & beat him. The only fault was Ginger had been imbibing heavily & consequently could hardly see the ball, so lost easily. At 10.30 P.M. it broke up and Mac got in at 5 AM. he had wandered over to the mess to shoot the bull & fell asleep there.
Poor Johnnie has been feeling grim and was very bad the other day & went sick, & they chopped him in dock with flu. Jack was also feeling bad but has recovered, but Don is in bed very queer & I feel it myself, what a crew, but this place is enough to give people all the illnesses under the sun.
[page break]
Tuesday night, six Canadians came & gave a concert show, they were a travelling party all [indecipherable word] & they put up quite a performance too. Last night there was an ENSA show which I thought rather good, so we haven’t done too bad for entertainment. Today held a big shock for quite a few people, Group came through to say there was a big do, & 218 & 623 were on the main effort. All crews available were put on, & after 6 weeks they thought it was a laugh & a joke, but realised it was true. Mac was due to go on a second dickie with Sqdn/Ldr. Overton, but it was scrubbed at the last minute as Overton’s Navigator was sick. Petch has gone with Flt/Lt. Willis, & Macgillvray with Flt/Lt. Nesbitt, I hope the morning saw them all back safe & sound. Apparently we are still an operational squadron, but for how long is the question. There is also a fair amount of mining & a new crew is taking our kite, so Don & I were out there this afternoon checking on the turrets.
The other afternoon we had a wizard lecture from a Lieutenant in the Navy. He had quite a few experiences to recount he had been on the Greton in the Graf Spee battle & in the U-Boat War, & seen quite a bit of excitement in the Med., he was very interesting to listen too. [sic] His story showed both sides of the picture too, we weren’t always winning. He said a good word for mining, the results of which were definitely assessed as 1 ship sunk every 11 mins which is good going.
[page break]
[underlined] Sunday November 21st. [/underlined]
The squadron definitely is disbanded, though in the meantime it is fully operational. The Wing Co. leaves on Dec 6th to some O.T.U. I believe. Sqdn/Ldr Smith adding his D.F.C. to his D.F.M. is going to an O.T.U. also, - as a flight commander, he has both his tours completed now. The Navigator Leader has already gone, & the Wing Co. has been asking crews what squadrons they would like to be posted to, but nothing is promised. Anyway it appears we are remaining in 3 Group & not going onto Lancs, so that is one theory squashed. Right now we are just praying that nothing will crop up to cheat us of our leave, there are only two days to go. We have arranged to get on the 11 AM pay parade Tuesday & hope to catch the 11.48 AM London train.
Three kites were lost from here on Thursday’s trip to Ludwigshaven – one from 218, & two from 623. Poor old Ray Bennett was one, Johnny Smythe was his Nav. I only hope they baled out, F/Lt Wallis was the other & Petch was with him on a second dicky. That leaves only Macgillvray & us with complete crews from Hixon. P/O Ralph & F/Lt Nesbitt turned back with engine trouble, so it wasn’t too good for 623. It was even grimmer on Friday night, they were going to Leverhulme or something a small place just north of Cologne, & a pretty easy trip it turned out.
[page break]
623 only managed to get two kites off the deck, & there was hell to pay, there was quite a bit of finger trouble, though. They said Group sent through the bomb load too late, but then it was the armament officers first experience of bombing up for ‘ops’. Bombs were being sent out to kites that were U/S with engine trouble when others were standing there with engines running merely waiting for bombs, consequently most of them never got off in time. They told one chap to take off 5 mins after time & catch the force up, he told them what to do. Another just got off & set course over the runway in his take off. Wiseman was waiting for one more 1,000 lb H.E. when the Armament Officer said that’s O.K. take off without it, this made the C. of G somewhere in the region of the rear turret – Wiseman’s reply was rather flowery. So poor old Mac didn’t get off again & still has to get his second dicky in. All the kites got back safely but were diverted owing to local fog, one of 218’s was pretty shot up by flak, and pranged at Chedburgh. The kites that were on mining also returned safely. Nesbitt has been told that his tour is completed now, so they are screening him after 24 trips, still that’s enough for anyone, and if I had that number under my belt I would feel very contented.
[page break]
Johnny seems a lot better now, we have popped in to see him each day, & he is having a regular rest cure, he intends trying to come out tomorrow as he doesn’t want to miss his leave – nor do any of us – keen types. Ken & I went to the camp cinema the other night, quite a good show but the place is like an ice box. There is a real fiasco here, the water supply is being cut right down, apparently the camps normal consumption is 52,000 gals a day, & the water company will only supply 10,000 gals daily, until their reservoir rises. Consequently all water on the sites is cut off & we cant [sic] have any baths or showers, & now we have been informed we are not supposed to wash or shave in the mess ablutions. This means not washing or showering day in, day out, I wonder what the M.O. thinks of it! There are a couple of water carts that come round the sites & people fill up old cans etc. Even of we hand round all cans we are never on the sites, our whole day is spent down the flights or in the mess. The whole situation is preposterous and it’s a pretty poor show for an RAF camp.
I went into town last night, for the first time for over a week, it was a real pea souper of a night & we muffled right up. The film was quite a decent one, & a drink after made a little break out of the monotony.
[page break]
[underlined] Wednesday December 1st. [/underlined]
Another fair interval since I last made an entry, & for the old reason that I have been on leave, we arrived back last night. After all the sweating & heartbreaking we eventually got away on Tuesday, & we did sweat as I will account. On the Sunday, before going on leave, when I last made an entry there had been rumours of something big coming off the following day, as all Ground Crew N.C.O’s had been ordered to have their kites in really tip top condition. Monday dawned a thick misty day, visibility wasn’t more than 50 yds, Jack & I danced for joy as Mac couldn’t possibly do a second dicky that night & we would definitely go on leave on Tuesday, what a fine world it was. Down at the flights a rude shock was awaiting us there was ‘ops’ on that night & Mac was going as second dicky to Sqdn/Ldr. Overton. Everyone thought it must be a farce, it was bound to be scrubbed, the Met reckoned it would clear though. However out we went to the kite & gave it a thorough D.I. because Sgt Ralph was taking it. Gradually the weather cleared, and gradually our hopes sunk, because if Mac got his trip in we would be definitely on “ops” the following night instead of on leave. Every few moments we would gaze at the cloud formations & the fast disappearing mist & try to cheer each other up, although we all felt we had had it.
[page break]
We had found out all tanks were to be filled that meant Berlin or Italy & it all pointed to The Big City. Briefing was at 2.30 P.M. & off they went & I went out to the kite again, Johnny was still in dock as his guns had to be checked but Johnny Hyde the Gunnery Leader was out there to do them. At this time the sky clouded over really black, & everyone was certain the Met had boobed. When large drops of rain fell I could have danced for joy, but as though the Met had exercised a superhuman influence the skies miraculously cleared as take off time grew near. The crew came out to I Item & I spoke to the Air Bomber for a bit & happened to see the Nav’s charts, & Berlin it was. I wondered whether Mac was twittering inside, Overton was taking Les Gray, our Nav. who had only done a Nickel before. What a task without even having done a Mining to navigate to Berlin & back. When the actual take off started the weather wasn’t too good but they went, they scrambled at 5 P.M. & set course 5.30 P.M. with our best wishes. During the evening five kites returned early but old Mac wasn’t amongst them, they were mainly 218’s kites too. So off we went to bed, hoping to hear old Mac come banging in at about 2 AM he did. It had been a fairly quiet trip he said, cloud cover all the way, & no fighter sightings. Les’s navigation had been bang on & he was personally congratulated by the Groupie.
[page break]
There had been a lot of reporters and photographers there & someone said a B.B.C. chap, lots of lines were shot anyway, we listened to all the story & then sank back asleep. When the morning came it seemed as though our luck was really out, it was clear as a bell. Jack & I grabbed two bikes & dashed down to the Flights to see whether we were on or not. What an anxious half hour that was, the Wing Co. rang for P/O Ralph who was acting Flt/Comdr. then & he came out with lots of papers etc. our hearts sank, but then he said “Nothing on, only mining” we could hardly believe our ears. Back we tore & dressed up for pay parade & a speedy get away. We reckoned without Pay Accounts, with their typical efficiency they paid us at 11.45 AM instead of 11 A.M as it was supposed to be. So we missed the 11.47 train, still nothing mattered then we were off & going home. Scorning the RAF food we had a dinner in Sly’s Café then a drink & homeward bound.
I had a fine leave although the weather wasn’t so hot, that night (Tuesday) it was Berlin dunno if any Stirlings went but we didn’t send any at all. During the leave I saw quite a few shows, among them the new film “For Whom The Bell Tolls”, also read the book, both very good. We arrived back O.K. without any incidents we only stopped 5 mins at Cambridge so couldn’t recreate our previous escapade.
[page break]
Johnny was looking very seedy going home, as he had only come out of the dock that day, he wangled round the M.O. He came back looking fit though, we all seemed to have reduced our colds. Ken had been down to Pastow for his Medical Board, & has been taken off flying. So we have definitely lost him, it is goodbye to a fine Navigator & one of the finest fellows it has ever been my priviledge [sic] to meet. We are lucky to have an equally good chap to fill his place they are much alike in many ways. Old Jack Yardley the W/Op who is in our hut & also suffered with air sickness went down with Ken & he is also off of flying.
This morning we did the inevitable Air Test, it always happens the day one returns from leave. I Item is still here, someone buckled a wing tip whilst we were away, there are only four kites left now, they have ferried all the others away. So we should be leaving in a few days, but where to nobody knows yet, rumours are flying as thick as ever. One thing that is definite 214 Sqdn are arriving here on Monday so we will have to leave by then. It is so cold as anything today, there was a frost like snow this morning. If this weather continues & gets worse during the winter I would welcome a posting to Italy or somewhere warm. Talking of warmth, I think I’ll turn in, bed is the best place to warm anyone up.
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting] [/inserted] [Duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting about the raid on Berlin with a photograph of the crew led by Flying Officer Wiseman, and including Sergeant Twydell, engineer; P/O Craig, Sergent Foreman, Sergeant Copley F/Sergeant Brasington, F/O Theriault, and Flight Sergeant Macgillvray, second pilot] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[duplicate page]
[page break]
[duplicate page]
[page break]
[underlined] [missing words] December. [/underlined]
The cat is out of the bag, & there were a few surprises in the bag too, the gen has been dished out as to where we are all going. We all leave tomorrow on the 2 P.M. train, except for those who were due for leave & they went today, (our luck was in we were the last ones to get away, all leave was cancelled after we went). The Wing Co. went a few days ago to 90 Sqdn at Tuddenham, & P/O Ralph, Macgillvray & somebody else are going as well. After all this time then we are parted from Mac, it’s a pity, we two crews have been together a fair while, we are the only ones from Hixon now. By the by. Macgillvray appeared in the newspapers, there was a large photograph of old Wiseman & crew being interrogated upon their return from Berlin, & Macgillvray was in as second pilot quite celebrities now. That B.B.C. chap was here he gave a hell of a ‘bully’ story after the 1 P.M. news the following day.
To resume we and about six other crews are off to Waterbeach to convert onto Lanc IIs. As they have Hercules engines, we wont have Jack, as he won’t have to take another course. Four or so of the crews have gone on leave, today as they are due for it & they arrive there a week after us. It came as quite a surprise we all thought we were set on Stirlings, it will be quite a
[page break]
bind, circuits & bumps & screened cross countries all over again, oh hell! There is a squadron there as well 514, I wouldn’t mind being put on that, pray to the Lord we are. Four chaps are being transferred to 218 Sqdn. Overton & Wiseman are amongst them, they say Overton will have to revert to F/O. Nickie Nesbitt went back to P/O & Vickers the Engineering Leader did also, daresay they will have ‘em back again soon though. Some of the postings were to 199 & 149 Sqdns I believe. Last night we were put on the main effort, right in the middle of getting cleared from here, quite a flap. It was only 2, 4 & 6 tanks and 8 x 1,000 lbs & 6, x 5,000 lbs, as it must have been to these rocket gun emplacements they are building to shell London. It was scrubbed though, the minings went & poor old P/O Puch got the chop, his B/A Sutherland was a good guy, they were only an a short mining, too, quite shaking.
The latest Berlin raid where they lost 41 two war correspondents are missing, one got back though, gee! if they were paying that reporter £200 for going on a mining trip, heavens knows what those boys were raking in. One thing is sure from the way the Lancs are operating nearly every night whatever the weather, our tour will be over pretty soon one way or the other. We were paid today & finally cleared from here, last night we went into town to the dance & to the Crown for a farewell ‘do’ before we said goodbye to the hallowed precincts of Downham.
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday December 9th. [/underlined]
This entry is being made at Waterbeach, another new station this is my eighteenth station since I have been in the RAF, like Crosby & Hope I certainly get around. We left Downham Monday dinner time, and in the rush I missed saying cheerio to Ken, and was sorry but I have written to him. As usual when they tell you transport will be waiting, there was none, so we walked it was about 15 mins to the billet. The tales of the billets etc. being good inside the camp are quite true, the only snag being we aren’t in the camp. Our quarters are in the inevitable huts “Con Sight” as we call it though it is listed as Conversion Site. The Con Unit (1678) is almost entirely separate from the squadron we have our own mess about 5 mins walk from the hut. The food is good, better than at Downham, but the mess is bare, empty & cold. Not being many crews here either, it is generally isolated, & not very cheering. The squadron have a smashing mess in the camp, with living quarters above, very handy, wish we were in it.
I think the most shaking thing is that breakfast finishes at 7.45 A.M. right on the dot, so we have to be up really early. Then breakfast over we wash & are supposed to be at the flights at 8.15 A.M. It is a 25 min walk too, so we have to start out in time. There is [underlined] P.T [/underlined] 8.15 till 8.30 AM. then lectures.
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting with photograph of an Avro Lancaster II] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[duplicate page]
[page break]
The walking is rather a bind as we didn’t expect it here, poor Mac is looking somewhat slimmer, as he lost his bike at a [deleted] [indecipherable word] [/deleted] wild party, before leaving Downham. Tuesday was occupied with filling in the arrival chits as usual, then yesterday & today we have had ground lectures, weather permitting we may commence our circuits & bumps tomorrow. There was nothing new in the ground work, the bombing side of the Lanc. is simpler than the Stirling. We carry cookies on there now, there is no second pilot, so I have lost my comfortable seat. This is compensated by the much better bombing compartment, there is a fine huge vision panel in the nose, no more straining one’s neck to get a line on the target. One also enters the turret from the bombing compartment, so there is no chance of being locked in the turret. The performance of these aircraft are pretty good, especially speed & climbing power.
Tuesday afternoon we went into Cambridge, there is a pretty decent bus service to & from there. In the village there isn’t a lot of life but a couple of decent pubs do a good trade. I have just heard from Bill Taylor, & he tells me poor old Jack is missing now, he was on the same squadron as old Bob Blackburn who is now reported killed. Its pretty grim to hear of the old pals getting the chop, wonder if I’ll be alive at the end.
[page break]
[underlined] Monday 13th December. [/underlined]
The weather at this place is as bad as at Downham, I didn’t think there could be another place as bad. Mac’s day circuits & bumps are now complete & we are ready for a day cross country which finishes the day flying & then on to night c & b’s. I rather like the lay out of this station, it is very neat and compact, of course that is because it was a peace time station. I wish we were billeted in the camp although I understand the food in the permanent mess isn’t as good as in ours. On Friday the Duke of Gloucester came down to inspect the camp, we knew a full 24 hrs before who it was, the old grape-vine certainly defeats security. On the Thursday morning the Bombing Leader asked us who it was as he wasn’t able to find out. Our six crews were joined for a cheering party we had to line up opposite a line of WAAF’s at the gate & cheer when he left. I haven’t been on P.T. yet I have a hard enough job to get up in the mornings. Mac has managed to scrounge an official bike now, that is one thing he moves fast for. Every Wednesday they have a C.O’s parade and march past, there is a fair amount of bull here considering they have an operational squadron, I guess it is because they have the Con Unit still, yes, the more I think of it, the more easier 623 appears.
[page break]
[underlined] Tuesday December 21st. [/underlined]
We are now back on an operational squadron again, 115 Sqdn at Witchford near Ely. Our course finished here last [inserted] Sunday [/inserted] night and yesterday & this morning we were completing our clearance chits. It wasn’t such a bad place, & the work was pretty easy, the ground work was nothing new at all, except a new photo flash fuse. Our first flip was a day cross country at 23,000 ft, a really binding trip, 10/10ths all the way, just sit there and freeze about 25o below. Then after the night circuits and bumps, we were on a Bullseye, Sunday night. Or rather a Flashlight exercise, because the I.R. bombing is abandoned over London, & they have a target of three red lights to simulate T.Is, & at various distances of a couple of miles altogether were white lights flashing various Morse characters, so on the photograph, one could tell in theory how near the bombs would have landed. That trip was a cold one as well but we had a hot time with the defences, a solid belt of searchlights all the way round, & a hell of a cone sight over the target, we were picked up on our bombing run & they sure dazzled me. We rather preferred to remain at Waterbeach with 514 Squadron owing to the compactness of the station. They don’t operate such a lot, the other night they landed at Downham Market, practically all kites were diverted. It was a black night, & the Met boobed badly, all England almost was fog bound, & we have heard from reliable sources that 65 kites either crashed or had to be abandoned owing to weather. With the 30 kites lost that made 95 kites, the public will never know of that.
[page break]
The transport brought us by road from Waterbeach it is 13 miles & when we reached Witchford there was a howling gale & the rain was lashing down. Nobody knew where we were supposed to be billeted & we were driving around the place, dashing in & out of huts, until soaked to the skin, we eventually found one. Roger’s crew is in the hut with us, we are on 4 site & it is about two miles from the mess. I have seen some dispersed stations but this is the worst of them all, the mess is a 30 min walk from the flights as well, we certainly use Shanks Pony here, it is killing Mac he hasn’t done so much walking for ages. The usual thick mist is everywhere that is the trouble in East Anglia. Everything about the station & squadron seems to be grim, at one time it was a happy squadron & contented, but this station has got everyone down a lot; they have only been here 3 weeks. To give a typical example of the way the place is run, they moved here via Berlin. The crews were sent off to Berlin from this base & on return had to land here, what a fiasco that must have been, tramping round in the dark trying to find billets etc. Leave here is about every 12 weeks, its incredible, they don’t appear to worry whether you have any or not. There is no operational meal before ops, just tea & a couple of sandwiches & the rations are pretty small, & no coffee. No transport is organised to take us into Ely, & there are hardly ever stand downs, there appears to be a complete lack of interest in air crew, oh! well I’m too cheesed to write any more.
[page break]
[underlined] Monday 27th December. [/underlined]
Xmas is over now, & I’m none too sorry really, it wasn’t a lot to shout about. Now we are settled down a bit better, but its hard to shake off the feeling of being cheesed here, everyone is, the old chaps of 115 Sqdn, the fellows on 196 the sqdn that was here before, & ourselves the mix crews from 623. The Bombing & Engineering Sections are in the same room, the Bombing Leader is a decent chap, but I don’t see how you can get to know the other bomb aimers, they don’t make any advances or anything. We flew the second night we were here on another Flashlight exercise, & were getting around O.K. but as we were running in towards London for the target, all the searchlights began homing us away from London, so we realised there was an air raid in progress, & beetled back to base. There they told us over the W/T to continue with our exercise & we had to beetle up North & keep cracking around. The trip took us 6 1/2 hours & they didn’t give us any rations at all, I was absolutely frozen, & had an electric waistcoat on, but that didn’t keep my legs warm, I was glad when we landed. On Thursday night, Mac did his second dicky they have to do them on these kites as well, of all places it was Berlin again. Thats [sic] two second dickeys he has done there now, packing ‘em in alright. I think it is a terrible feeling waiting around for them to come back I would rather go myself, he returned O.K. there was one missing from here.
[page break]
On Xmas Eve afternoon Bill & I cycled the 26 mls to Waterbeach & back to collect the Xmas mail for about a dozen fellows, we could have used a truck coming back. That night we all went into Ely to the Lamb Hotel to commence the celebrations. What a night it was, & what a head I had next morning. On Xmas Day the officers mess invited us over in the morning then came over to our mess in the afternoon, it was more of a drunken brawl than anything else. Bags of broken bottles & glasses, it is grim like that, we were supposed to serve Xmas dinner to the airmen, but I felt too grim to go across. Our tea that night was really wizard, it was served buffet form, & there were sausage rolls, cakes, pastries, sandwiches, sardine on toast, spam & chopped egg, trifle & cream cake it was grand! There were two fights, because tempers were rather frayed after drinking. Afterwards we all tramped into town to have our Xmas Dinner for the crew, in the Lamb Hotel, it was pretty good, we were in bed pretty early that night. Boxing Day was very quiet, we had our turkey dinner at 7.30 P.M. it was well served, afterwards there was a dance in the mess. There wasn’t a single decoration in the mess for the Xmas just lovely & bare. Anyway that was the end of the festive season, & this morning we donned battle dress once more & got cracking on the same old grind.
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting regarding the raid on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [three newspaper cuttings regarding the raid on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting regarding the raid on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [two newspaper cuttings regarding the raid on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday 30th December. [/underlined]
We have made a start at the squadron now, they don’t waste a lot of time, last night we began ‘ops’ here with a trip to Berlin. The pre-briefing was at 1.30 P.M. & Les & I got cracking on the maps and charts before all the crews arrived at 3 P.M. for the main briefing. Our route was worked out to try to bluff Jerry in believing the attack was being carried out on Leipzig or Magdeburg. We went straight for those places and as Mossies opened the dummy attacks on both towns we suddenly turned north & headed for the “Great City”. Taking it on the whole it wasn’t a bad trip twenty kites lost when over 700 were sent.
The trouble with these early take offs is that we don’t get a meal before we take our kites away & start dicing. At the end of briefing there is a mad rush to grab a cup of tea and a couple of sandwiches at the back of the room; then down to the locker room to change. Out we lumber to the transports, & they take us to the waiting kites. Here we dump all our heavy kit & climb in to check all our equipment & run the kite prop to see everything is bang on. Then we shut her down, & climb out to complete our dressing, a few minutes for a smoke for those that need it, then 20 minutes before we are due to take off we climb aboard again & start up. As the time approaches we taxi out & take our place in the line, then one by one [missing words]
[page break]
Round & round we circle, then as the time for setting course arrives we make the last circuit and away we go. By this time we are at about 13,000 ft & generally by the time of crossing the English coast we are a little [deleted] of [/deleted] over 15,000 ft. I carry out all my Bombing checks & put the front guns on Fire, all ready for something, we begin our vigilance here, as the German fighters often operate right across the North Sea. At our turning point we are at our operational height of 20,000 ft, & we set course for the Dutch Coast. Approaching the coast the flak can always be seen coming up from Texel or other equally well defended spots. The cloud was 10/10ths awarding us a natural protection from the searchlights.
Every now & then along the south some place would start throwing up flak, if it came close we weaved but generally didn’t bother. Quite a few times a fighter would drop three flares, lighting up quite an area of sky, if they were too near for safety we corkscrewed quickly, with everybody searching the sky carefully. The searchlights would also shine on the clouds in large concentrations causing us to be silhouetted to any fighter above. Two markers were dropped on the route to guide us away from hot spots, we didn’t see the first, but the second at Leipzig was plainly visible. The dummy attacks had commenced & there were some red & green T.I’s & a few bombs, they were certainly throwing up some flak, we had to nip in between Magdeburg & Leipzig, it was very warm & we got away as soon as possible.
[page break]
[inserted] [two newspaper cuttings regarding the raid on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [two newspaper cuttings regarding the raid on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting regarding the raid on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [two newspaper cuttings regarding the raid on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cuttings] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [two newspaper cuttings] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
Just after leaving Leipzig I had a momentary panic when three ME110’s came whizzing past us going the opposite direction to Leipzig, I guess they came haring back later when Berlin opened up. We were running into a head wind coming up to the target & I thought we were never getting there; the T.I’s were burning there, & the cookies exploding, & the flak was pouring up, although it wasn’t too heavy; but we never seemed to be getting any nearer. As we eventually approached I could see the glow of a large fire reflecting on the clouds. Then “Bomb Doors Open” – “Running Up”, “Left Left” “Steady” “Bombs Gone” “Bomb Doors Closed” & away we went. The return journey was much the same as the outward, but we found the W/Op had turned the inter-wing balance cock the wrong way & we had lost 200 galls. So we had the worry of whether we would be able to make it or not. We crossed the English coast O.K. and were trying to make base, when the fuel warning lights started to flicker meaning we were almost out. There we were at 400 ft to [sic] low to bale out & unable to use up petrol to climb, just expecting the motors to cut at any moment. Suddenly a drome appeared & we screamed in there without announcing or anything but we were down & that was the main thing. It was a P.F.F. place Warboys, we didn’t get the egg there & had to sleep in a chair in the mess, so it wasn’t so good, next morning we flew back to base, & had a badly needed sleep. There was one missing from here which wasn’t so bad, however that was our first major ‘op’ over.
[page break]
[underlined] Monday January 3rd [/underlined]
Well that’s another year gone and 1944 is here, I wonder if this year will see Germany out of it, somehow I doubt it, though I think she will be well on the way. Last Friday ‘ops’ were on, so we had visions of seeing the New Year in over the other side. Briefing was at 3 P.M. again and the target was Frankfurt, it was an attempt to fool the Jerries and make them think we were going to Berlin, somehow I don’t think it would have been successful, anyway just as briefing it was scrubbed and we didn’t cry over it. There was a New Year’s Dance on in the gym, so we went there and got pretty merry, eventually getting into bed around 4 A.M.
Getting up well the worse for wear in the morning we were shaken to find there were ops on again that night. Pre briefing was 1.30 P.M. but the main briefing wasn’t until 9 P.M. there being an operational meal before we took off. The target was once more Berlin, this time we were going in from the north with a dummy attack on Hamburg though I wasn’t so sure that that would fool them. Take off was at a quarter to one in the morning a hell of a while to wait up till. This time they sent the fighters out to meet us and the fun started right over the Dutch coast. The flak was as eager to greet us as ever.
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting regarding a major air battle over Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting showing a photograph of Hitler’s new Chancellery in the Wilhelmstrasse, Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
About 10 mins after we had crossed the Dutch coast I saw a burst of tracer go streaking across the sky then suddenly flames burst out on a Lanc & she slowly peeled over & went spiralling down through the clouds, then a few seconds later a huge glow shot up – poor devils. It couldn’t have been more that five minutes afterwards when Johnny the rear gunner screamed “Corkscrew Port”, I thought “here it comes” & gripped on. I guess whoever they are they all feel a bit of panic at such moments, I know the flesh on my back crawled as I kept anticipating the feeling of bullets ripping into my back. However we dodged him, it was a JU88 who came screaming down and fired a burst at us, he broke off the attack though. The flak in the target area was quite a bit heavier this time & it was really close, the return journey took us a fair bit longer as we were pushing against the wind. There were quite a lot of fighters lobbing down three flares at a time, it certainly is a hell of a feeling when one is battling along in the dark, & suddenly one is lit up as plain as daylight, & the feeling that every fighter in the sky is leering down at you is no fun. Mac generally swears and corkscrews viciously. We got back to base without mishap, shot the lines at interrogation then trotted off to another bacon & egg meal. There were 28 missing on that raid out of about 450 kites so it was heavier losses, none were missing from here which was good but 3 didn’t take off, and 3 turned back. ‘We got to bed at 10.30 A.M.
[page break]
At 2 P.M. we were awakened by the Tannoy blaring for all Navigators to report to the briefing room at 4 P.M. for pre-briefing. My God! there were ops on again & we were feeling nearly dead from lack of sleep already. It certainly set me back when going into briefing the target map showed Berlin again, gee! three times in five nights to the Great City it was pretty rough. Take off was at 12.20 P.M. because we were fighting to avoid the moon, even then it wasn’t set when we took off, but it had set before we reached the enemy coast. Things were pretty lively because there was a ninety mile an hour gale blowing and we had to go straight to Berlin, with no dummy attacks, & boy were they ready for us. For miles around the target it was like day with lanes of flares and kites whizzing around. It certainly was hectic over the target, I was expecting a fighter attack at any moment, & when the bombs had gone I got in the front turret & scared old Mac by flashing the guns backwards & forwards. Altogether we were in the thick of it for nearly 25 minutes it seemed like 25 years. I thought we would never get clear of there. It took us 2 1/2 hours [deleted] for [/deleted] to reach the target & 4 1/2 hours returning, because we were battling almost head on against the gale, it seemed an eternity before we reached the French coast. We reached base O.K. & tumbled in at 10.30 A.M. & boy! did we need the sleep, we lost one from here & I believe 27 on the whole effort.
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting regarding the bombing raid on Brunswick] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cuttings] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [duplicate newspaper cutting] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting regarding bombing raid on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [duplicate newspaper cutting] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[underlined] Saturday 12th January [/underlined]
Its quite a while since I wrote here, but as usual I have been on leave in the meantime. There were no ops on the Tuesday after I last wrote, but on Wednesday there were. It was to Stettin & the route was all around Norway & the Baltic, then the stream suddenly headed south to Berlin, where Mossies started a dummy attack & the main force suddenly swung west to Stettin. The trip was terribly long 8 hr. 32 mins at the minimum & it was cutting it fairly fine with a full petrol load. At the last moment the route was lengthened by another three quarters of an hour, so that if we had made the trip we would have landed in the North Sea, consequently all Lanc IIs were scrubbed, the I’s & III’s went though & only lost 15 I wouldn’t have minded going. The next morning at two hours notice we were told we were on 7 days leave & had to rush around to get away that day.
We returned Thursday night, & got to bed about 1 A.M., then as it was the 4th day after the full moon, we were sure there would be no ops. Because 4 days before & 4 days after the full moon is the moon period & there are no ‘ops’. However Chopper Harris shot us up by putting ops on, after the morning air Test we dashed off for dinner then Les & I went back for 1.30 pre-briefing. The target was Brunswick, the place that the Forts went to a couple of days previously. They attacked aircraft factories about 20 miles from Brunswick, & we attacked the town.
[page break]
It was a real daylight take off, & when we were approaching the Dutch Coast it was quite light behind us, so I was expecting a head on attack. The weather was quite clear so the searchlights were active, there was quite a cone on Texel, & three large dummy fires as well, they must have quite a faith in the dimness of Air Bombers to bomb there. Our route took us quite close to Bremen, & there was a T.I. marker there cascading yellow. Later as we were getting close to the target we had to come really close to Hanover, & they were pretty active there. She had a hell of a lot of searchlights and if anyone strayed across the old flak would poop up. The attack started when we were a quarter of an hour from there, down went the T.I’s & up came the old flak. At briefing they said it would be pretty quiet, and that the Americans had destroyed 150 fighters for us – lovely it sounded. However there was quite a bit of flak and damned accurate, & more fighters milling around there us & other crews had seen before. I saw four kites go down in flames, [inserted] & burst [/inserted] on the ground, it was really grim. There was a lovely fire burning a huge thing with the green T.I’s in it, then a minute later our load went crashing down to help the conflaguration. The return journey wasn’t so bad there were numerous red flares dropped that burnt for a very short [deleted] [indecipherable letters] [/deleted] while, not like the usual fighter flares. We landed at 10.20 A.M. came butting back to beat the moon rise, we lost Blackwell & Christianson two senior crews, which was pretty grim, 38 [missing words], it certainly was no easy raid.
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting regarding the bombing raids on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cuttings regarding the bombing raids on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting of account of an eye-witness of the effects on the citizens during the bombings on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[underlined] Tuesday January 18th. [/underlined]
The weather certainly is grim, we haven’t flown since Friday, there has been a thick fog, and these last two days it has rained, but tomorrow promises to be clear so I guess there will be ops on then. According to the Press the Brunswick raid was fairly easy, they certainly harped out some guff, one of them said there were no fighters over the target & the Luftwaffe was fooled. I was looking at the official list of combats & sightings over the target, & there really were some. One chap from here claimed a confirmed & a probable. Three times over the target Bill the W/Op. happened to knock our huge nose light on, it put five years on my life, ‘cos the first time nobody knew who did it, & I was crouched there with my hands over it, & cursing like a madman. F/Sgt Foggarty who was with us put up a damn good show, over the target he was attacked consistently for half an hour by fighters & an engine (stbd inner) hit by cannon shell. He feathered it and it fell right out, he came down from 23,000 ft to 7,100 ft before he could pull out, & had to stay down low all the way. He sent out an SOS because he thought he wouldn’t make it, & the Jerries followed our homing procedure identically. They homed with searchlights to a ‘drome in Holland, lit it up & gave him a green, luckily his Gee operated and he battled off in a hurry. He crash landed with 3 engines, one bust tyre, no flaps or brakes, & nobody hurt. The engineers right arm & leg were rendered useless over the target & he carried on, but they both got a gong. Beside the two we lost we had three kites written off through fighter attacks, Waterbeach lost two. Dimmock was one of them he came back from leave with me the night previously.
[page break]
[underlined] Monday January 24th. [/underlined]
Still no more ops, in a week, at least no ops that we have completed. Last Thursday we were on the Berlin trip, it seemed a pretty good route, but there was a terrific long sea leg up to Denmark. I hate that, I don’t mind baling out over land ‘cos you have some chance, but there is no sense in baling out over water as by yourself in a Mae West, a chap wouldn’t last a couple of hours. So the only thing is ditching, then if the kite is out of control & we are unable to ditch, we’ve had it. However soon after taking off we couldn’t see any other kites & Johnny & I were picking up opposite drifts from what they should have been. Suddenly Mac checked his compasses and found they were all haywire, we were well off track, and crossed the coast at Ipswich instead of Cromer. Then trying to steer a straight course we went round in a huge circle. It was impossible for us to go on so we tried to jettison fuel in order to land. Mac & Jack tried to jettison fuel to bring our load down, but were unable to do so. We had to jettison the cookie, and flew sixty five miles out from the coast & let her go. So back we went, & were we cheesed, & hate a turn back, it was our first. Jimmy Rodgers returned earlier with a U/S rear turret & W/O Robbins with a U.S Rev counter, Anderson got lost & bombed Wilhelmshaven & I believe F.O Ogden came back after 4 1/2 hrs we were airborne 2 hrs. We lost P/O Canning, on his 19th trip.
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting on raid on Magdeburg] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[duplicate page]
[page break]
The following night we were going to Magdeburg, with a dummy attack on Berlin, by 15 Mosquitoes, & 20 Lancs (dont [sic] fancy that). There were 690 kites detailed, quite a few for a place that size, we were taxying out, & were almost at the flare path when the kite in front of us became bogged, it was old Howby in F, Freddie. The dim of an ACP let us get right on top of it, before flashing a red, so there was no room for us to turn & go round the perimeter in time to take off. There were other guys in the same position as us & there we all sat whilst the minutes ticked by & we were scrubbed, did we curse. In all eight kites didn’t take off & we lost one, Waterbeach lost four, which was grim, and they say six returned early, I don’t know if thats [sic] right, if so only six kites got to the target & back, it certainly was a chop raid.
Hardwick the chap who was at OTU with us has 5 weeks more [deleted] week [/deleted] grounded, he is cheesed. He gave us some news of fellows at OTU. Doc & his crew are P.O.W’s poor old Cecil Kindt had the chop, Chiefy Young is a P/O with 15 in & his navigator Shields has his W/O they have [deleted] [indecipherable letters] [/deleted] been doing O.K. Bouchard is O.K. with 9, old Towne is in jail, stripped for beating up a town low level. Mac met, Pat Macguire, who was Petch’s Navigator, in London, he said Petch was killed outright. They have an English chap who was a staff pilot in Canada. Ray Bennett was killed outright, but Johnny Smythe his dark navigator is a P.O.W. I don’t know about the rest of the crew.
[page break]
[underlined] Sunday 30th January [/underlined]
Everything was peaceful until Wednesday & then ‘ops’ were on again, bags of twitter, we beetled out to old G George to see everything was bang on. The weather wasn’t too hot & everyone was sure it would be scrubbed. When we found out it was Frankfurt, we were certain we wouldn’t go as before we had been briefed for it & hadn’t gone, sure enough it was scrubbed. The Forts went there the other day though, (yesterday in fact) 800 bombers, they certainly must have wanted to rub that place out. However the following night (Thursday) we were dicing once more & it was the old Faithful Berlin again. It seems strange but I have on obsession for that place, I wouldn’t go so far as to say I like it, that would be plain dumb, but I am less disturbed when we go there than anywhere else. Why I am at a loss to explain as it is the longest & hardest trip we will ever have to do. All I know is I wouldn’t mind doing quite a few there, I hope it isn’t a fateful fascination & we get the chop over there.
We had a strong westerly wind blowing behind us & the outward trip only took 2 1/2 hrs, whilst the return took 5 1/2 hrs. Our journey wasn’t too bad, we had a nasty moment when Les told Mac to turn on a course of 037o & Mac thought he said 137o. We were on it for 2 minutes before I saw a Lanc. cut across us & I queried our course.
[page break]
[inserted] [two newspaper cuttings regarding a gale over Berlin causing fires to rekindle] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[duplicate page]
[page break]
This caused us to stray over, Brandenburg I believe it was & by jimini their predicted flak was damned accurate. It burst at the dead same height about 200 yds in front & another lot off the starboard beam. Another few seconds & we were flying through the black smoke puffs. As we saw the P.F.F. flares go down (they were a couple of minutes early) the first fighter flares dropped. Some of the kites had obviously arrived early & been stooging around, waiting for zero hour, because the flak had been going up for a while already. By the time we arrived, we were in the blasted last wave as usual, there were scores of yellow fighter flares making a lane into the target & another one out of it. There was one fair sized fire going but not so big as I have seen, just after the W/Op watched my cookie go through the clouds he reported a huge explosion. I smile to think it might have been me, but one can never tell what happens in a concentrated attack like that.
Two minutes after the bombs had gone, Don the Mid Upper spotted a fighter, & called to Johnny to watch it. Then we heard Johnny’s excited voice over the inter-com, “Its a JU88, he’s coming in he’s crossing over now, get ready to corkscrew port, - corkscrew port go”. I was scrambling up to the front guns & just reached there in time. Our corkscrew was so violent that neither of the gunners were able to open fire, it also
[page break]
must have surprised the Jerry because he overshot above us, & skidded in a stall turn about 200 yds away from our nose. I remember thinking “My God what a bloody size he is”, somehow I had never realised how large a 66ft wing span was for a fighter. Anyway he was in the wing right & a no deflection shot my fingers squeezed & I nearly whooped with joy, when I saw the tracer striking the rear of the port engine & the [deleted] sp [/deleted] mainplane between the engine & the fuselage. Then he dived down to port at a hell of a speed & my little bit of fun was over. It shook me that I was the one to open the attack, as the B/A’s don’t often get a crack. I think it rather shook him to be fired at from the front as he didn’t break away there again.
The battle really started then, & it was a battle too. Up he came from underneath, & Johnny yelled “corkscrew” & opened fire, we could hear his guns shattering, & we were zooming around the sky. Johnny said he hit the port engine again, as I hit it previously & some sparks & flames shot out then subsided to a glow, I think everyone thought we had had it then, though I must hand it to that fighter pilot he really had guts. Round he would come firing right in close & both our gunners would return the compliment. We were corkscrewing violently all the time and my stomach felt as though it was being torn apart & my head smacked against the perspex. Mac & Jack were both thrown against the
[page break]
[inserted] [two newspaper cuttings of the Berlin raid from two eye-witnesses] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting regarding the 12th major bombing raid on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
roof too. Every now & again a huge stream of tracer would pour across the top of us, & my mouth was dry with fear as I saw the cannon shells exploding at 600 yds. The gunners would be shouting “Corkscrew keep corkscrewing – here he comes again,” then the guns would chatter & we’d roll around. When it came to the break aways I kept praying he would come up to the front & I could get another crack but he never did. I would yell “Where is he?” each time but he would dive right down underneath & they would lose him, it was a separate sighting & attack each time. He made 7 attacks on us, I thought it would never end, on the third he hit us in the elevator trim. Then on the fifth attack a cannon shell exploded in the port wing & bullets ripped through the port inner nacelle. Though we couldn’t tell where the damage was we could only feel the hits. However we gave him quite a bit of punishment, we all hit him, & on the seventh attack, the glow in his engine suddenly became brighter & he dived down & that was the end of the attack, we claimed him as a probable. The whole engagement lasted 18 to 20 minutes it seemed like years, I had one moment of real fright in it. In the middle of a corkscrew with squirts of tracer everywhere I felt a violent blow in the left leg & thought “Hell, I’ve been hit” but it was all the heavy bundles of window that had shaken loose & crashed on my leg.
[page break]
We were at 18,500 ft when the attack started & were down to 13,000 ft at the end, the corkscrews were so violent, the Elsan came right out & was all over the floor & the ammo from one of Johnny’s tanks was all out. My God I was really thankful we had seen that through, one doesn’t often get continuous battles like it. Mac had a fair amount of work with no elevator trim but there was nothing vital hit and the kite flew O.K. We managed to get back on track but we were pretty late, everything went pretty well until it came to the part we squeezed between Frankfurt & the Ruhr. Everything was O.K. until some wicked predicted flak shot up about half a mile to the starboard, there were only three bursts then suddenly there was a Lanc. with flame pouring from the nose & three of her engines. She held her course for a short while, then swung round in a huge circle, came behind, assumed course for half a minute or so then plunged down, I hope they got out. I thought the return journey would never end, I hate it as long as that. We came out pretty well south of track, but we were back O.K. a fair few landed away through lack of fuel. The bullets that ripped through the port inner [indecipherable word] punctured the tyre, but we didn’t know, and landed with a flat tyre, swerved off the runway & there we were. The crash wagon & blood wagon tore out, & they insisted on us riding in the blood wagon.
[page break]
The M.O. insisted upon giving us some capsules, to make us sleep that night & wouldn’t let us go on ops the next night. He knew his ‘gen’ because when we woke we were pretty dizzy & weak from their effect & couldn’t possibly have operated. It was Berlin again, another 8 hr effort, it was a shambles here. They only got 9 out of the squadron airborne, & 2 of these returned, leaving 7 to go on to the target. Out of these 7 we lost 2 which is pretty grim, F/Lt. Aarvin & P/O Tyn were the ones missing. From the night before we lost F/O Harris & F/Sgt Morris, old Morris had been with us at Downham, they said he was in a dinghy, at least he was going to ditch, but they heard no more. Friday night, the RAF Bomber Command Band gave a performance here & was very good, Saturday there was a stand down we went to a camp dance. G George is U/S for a fortnight or so & we were going to take another kite tonight but they were so short of kites they couldn’t put us on. We are right hard up for kites now, two had a head on crash when taxying, nobody was hurt, but the kites are really ripped up. Another had incendiaries through it, they only sent 11 tonight, it was Berlin again, Chopper is really pushing ‘em in again. Old Foggarty has been awarded the DFM for the show he put up, I thought he would. So 623 has made a start here anyway. I wonder if we will be going to Berlin much more I should think it must be pretty well smashed up, they haven’t been able to get photographs for awhile.
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting saying that the Battle of Berlin is almost won and suggesting that Breslau may be the new Capital.] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[duplicate page]
[page break]
[underlined] Monday February 7th. [/underlined]
A week has elapsed since I last wrote, a week of doing practically nothing. That Sunday raid on Berlin was the last op there was, we got eight kites off I believe, & lost poor old F/Lt Hicks. He was the Asst. Flight Commander in our flight, a [deleted] [indecipherable letter] [/deleted] ‘Newzie’ & a good chap it was his 24th. There were no ‘ops’ then for a few days & then the moon period commenced. Our kite won’t be serviceable for nearly three weeks so they have given us J Johnny, Hicks’ old kite it was U/S & he took another when he got the chop. Sqdn.Ldr [indecipherable name] the ‘Corkscrew King’ had a real do. They had a contact on the Monica & instead of corkscrewing as they were told he asked the gunners if they could see anything. They were looking down & said “No”, & a fighter sitting about 10o up gave them a long burst while they were straight & level. He raked them right along, the rear turret smashed, the mid upper had about 20 fragments pass between his legs. A couple of cannon shells exploded in the fuselage, the [deleted] [indecipherable letter] [/deleted] D.R. Master Unit was hit, a large hole in the main plane, one prop damaged, Boy! they were really shot up. The only one who was hurt was the A/B who had a small piece of flak in his behind. We have been informed that the old Groupie has detailed us for an hours circuits & bumps for the bad landing we made returning from Berlin. That was with a burst tyre. God knows what he wants, I don’t even believe he knows we were shot up.
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting regarding the raids on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting with a photograph of a Halifax III] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
It seems pretty definite that the German [indecipherable word]. is evacuating from Berlin to Breslau, its another 200 miles to the South East, surely they wont go there from here, it would be about a 10 hour trip. There is some talk that the tour is being reduced to 25 ops as they are pretty grim now with the Berlin trips, it seems pukka ‘gen’ I hope it is. During the week we have been doing loaded climbs on J to test her starboard outer now it has to be changed. We have also been trying to get some GH Bombing in but the weather isn’t so good. Yesterday we had the day off, they are giving crews a day off during the moon period. Johnny & I went home catching the 1036 AM. Sunday, & travelling back on the 8.20 AM. Monday, I had a wizard time.
On Saturday night we lost a kite on the Bullseye, it was Bishop who was at Downham with us. Poor old Jack Speechly was the Bomb Aimer, I had known him 18 months ever since Manchester, we did our training in Canada together, he was a rattling good chap. They had an American pilot with them, they were all killed, & they don’t know how it happened yet. The crash was found with them all in it, its really grim. That’s three of the crews that were with us at Downham gone now P/O Whitting Ginger Morris & now old Bishop, boy! I only pray we see the tour out & so do all the others. There’s nothing much happening, consequently there isn’t much to make an entry of, think I’ll snatch an early night.
[underlined] Sunday February 13th. [/underlined]
The moon period has definitely finished now and our period of rest is over. Once more ‘Chopper’ whipped a day off the end of it, we were briefed for Berlin & were out at the kites with about 30 mins to go before take off when it was scrubbed. The reason being the bad weather at base on return, it was pretty grim, & was a [deleted] poo [/deleted] wonder it wasn’t scrubbed before. I wouldn’t have minded the trip, because for a change it was a long trip out, & a short trip home. Last minute scrubbings are worse than some ‘ops’ I think after being keyed up all that time, still it shows there is still some of the Big City left there.
We haven’t done much this week, as the weather has been pretty duff, most of the time we tried some GH Bombing nothing came of it, owing to climate conditions. The other day we were up in a hell of a snow storm, all the time we were running before it & trying to find a way out. All the countryside looked pretty Christmassy with a coating of snow over the fields & villages. As I was in the rear turret all the time I was more interested in keeping warm. Our turrets got in grim condition during the moon period and we had to work like the devil all day to get it in shape. I was late for briefing through it and had a hell of a flap trying to get my tracks & maps all ship shape.
[page break]
All Jimmy Rodgers crew went to Cambridge on Friday, as two of [deleted] Jim [/deleted] Bishops crew were being buried there. It is terrible really four of them were married & a couple engaged, old Bishop was only married at O.T.U., I would never get married in war time for that reason. Looking at it soberly with all the chaps getting the chop it seems a hell of a mugs game still there it is.
There has been a fair amount of entertainment this week, we had a night out in Ely with a wizard meal in the KUMIN Café. On Wednesday night there was a dance in the gymnasium, then Thursday night we had a big social in the mess. They even went to the extent of polishing the floor, & in our grim mess that really is something. It went on until 1 AM. & there was bags of beer & eats, the food was very good, marzipan cakes, sausage rolls etc. £25 was allowed for it, so it should have been good. On Saturday there was another dance but I was cheesed with that & don’t think I will bother going again.
The siren is going now & there is some gunfire, be quite comical now, with us refraining from bombing Berlin owing to the met. here, & the Jerries using the same conditions to bomb us. They have left the bombs on the kites & only drained the tanks to 1500 so it looks as though they will be parking us along tomorrow. I guess now they have started again, Chopper will try & really finish Berlin, hope he doesn’t finish us.
[page break]
[inserted] [two newspaper cuttings regarding the continuing raids on Berlin and their effect] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[duplicate page]
[page break]
[underlined] Thursday 17th February. [/underlined]
All was quite [sic] until Thursday, when ‘ops’ were on again, & there it loomed on the briefing room chart, the [deleted] G [/deleted] Big City once more. It was another daylight take off, quite a sight to see all the kites streaming over the coast at Cromer. The first leg was a terrific long one up to Denmark, & it was quite light most of the way, but luckily got dark by the time we were crossing the coast. Those Danish islands can certainly poop up some flak, & I was glad when we hit the Baltic Coast. The last leg to the target was a terrific long one, straight to it, I couldn’t see that the Jerry would be fooled regarding the target, even though there was a spoof attack on Frankfurt-on-Oder. The P.F.F. boobed by sending the flares down before zero hour, & the flak certainly opened up. It was the heaviest I have seen there, I think he was relying more on that than his fighters. Running up I could see about six Halifaxes beneath us, they seemed quite happy as the flak was all bursting between 18 & 21,000 ft. We were carrying just one 8,000 lb cookie, which is quite a goodly size, it was handy in the way that immediately I said ‘Bombs Gone’ Mac could whip the Bomb Doors shut.
Bomber Command was trying new tactics this time the 1st, 2nd, & 3rd waves went one way, & we in the 4th & 5th waves went a bit south of them along another route. The idea was to split the fighter forces, & I think it succeeded we only saw two all night, one ME110 just after
[page break]
[inserted] [two newspaper cuttings regarding the raids on Berlin] [/inserted] [duplicate page]
[page break]
[inserted] [newspaper cutting about obliterating bombing techniques]
[page break]
leaving the target flashed across our nose. We ran into some flak though, getting off track a bit we stooged right over Magdeburg. Beside window there were two huge packets of nickels to throw out so I was sweating like anything shovelling it all out. Not much happened on our return journey apart from a few fighter flares & some rockets. We saw a kite go down in flames over the North Sea, I should hate to get the chop right back there. Two were lost from here, F/S Whyte who had 16 trips in & F/S Ralph who was with us at Downham. He had Pinky Tomlin, Petch’s old B/A, who arrived with a new skipper F/O Nice, beside losing his B/A he lost his rear gunner who went as a spare with Whyte. I hate this spare business they always seem to get the chop.
Yesterday we were briefed for Berlin, then scrubbed, then again tonight & were out at the kites before being scrubbed, the weather was terrible both days, yet they wait till the last minute before scrubbing it. We were read a message from Chopper Harris C in C. congratulating us on the progress of the Battle for Berlin. After the usual flowery comments on our ‘courage & steadfast spirit’ he said we were well ahead of schedule in the obliteration of the capital. He also said the Allied Command considered it the most important battle of all land, sea or air battles fought & yet to fight in the war. There was a long list of reasons of its immediate need to be liquidated, & he said he had to rush us to finish the job as the lighter nights and the Northern lights would soon be making their appearance. Well I hope there isn’t many more trips to be done there.
[page break]
22
[underlined] 60/520 [/underlined]
8
196
2443
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Book 5, Return to UK
Description
An account of the resource
Fifth and final diary kept by David Geach chronicling his time training and on operations. He writes about his return from Canada on the Queen Elizabeth then his training in England which began with arriving at the Posting Centre in Pannal Ash, Harrogate. He was then posted to AFU Bobbington, training on Ansons. From there he went to O.T.U. Hixon and satellite station Seighford training on Wellingtons. He then went to Flying Conversion Unit Woolfox Lodge to train on Stirlings. Once training was complete he was posted to RAF Downham Market on 623 Squadron flying Stirlings on operations. When 623 Stirling squadron was disbanded he was transferred on to Lancasters. He was posted to Flying Conversion Unit 1678 at RAF Waterbeach to train on the Lancaster and then on to RAF Witchford where he undertook operations over Germany, including a number on Berlin. Covers the period 17 March 1943 to 17 February 1944.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
David Geach
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
One handwritten diary
Language
A language of the resource
eng
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Text. Diary
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
YGeachDG1394781v5
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force. Bomber Command
Spatial Coverage
Spatial characteristics of the resource.
Great Britain
Scotland--Greenock
Scotland--Glasgow
Scotland--Edinburgh
England--Harrogate
England--Whitley Bay
England--Bournemouth
England--Stourbridge
England--Birmingham
England--Wolverhampton
England--Stafford
Canada
Ontario--Ottawa
Atlantic Ocean--Cardigan Bay
Wales--Rhyl
England--The Wash
England--Nottingham
Great Britain Miscellaneous Island Dependencies--Isle of Man
England--Cannock
Wales--Aberystwyth
Scotland--Orkney
France--Saint-Malo
France--Rennes
France--Isigny-sur-Mer
France--Cherbourg
France--Avranches
England--Southampton
England--Stamford
England--Cambridge
England--Peterborough
England--Bedford
England--Portsmouth
Netherlands--Friesland
England--Cromer
France--La Rochelle
France--Gironde Estuary
France--Nantes
England--King's Lynn
Italy--Turin
North Africa
Gibraltar
England--Thames River
Germany--Ludwigshafen am Rhein
Germany--Cologne
Germany--Berlin
England--Ely
Germany--Leipzig
Germany--Magdeburg
Germany--Hamburg
Norway
Netherlands--Texel
Germany--Bremen
Denmark
Germany--Wilhelmshaven
Germany--Brandenburg
Germany--Frankfurt am Main
Germany--Braunschweig
Germany--Hannover
England--Sunderland (Tyne and Wear)
Poland--Szczecin
Poland--Wrocław
England--Southend-on-Sea
Italy
Atlantic Ocean--Firth of Clyde
Poland
France
Ontario
Germany
Netherlands
Germany--Ruhr (Region)
England--Bedfordshire
England--Durham (County)
England--Essex
England--Hampshire
England--Lincolnshire
England--Norfolk
England--Northumberland
England--Sussex
England--Staffordshire
England--Worcestershire
England--Nottinghamshire
England--Warwickshire
England--Selsey (West Sussex)
Wales--Caernarfon
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
IBCC Digital Archive
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This content is available under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0). It has been published ‘as is’ and may contain inaccuracies or culturally inappropriate references that do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Lincoln or the International Bomber Command Centre. For more information, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ and https://ibccdigitalarchive.lincoln.ac.uk/omeka/legal.
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Tricia Marshall
David Bloomfield
Temporal Coverage
Temporal characteristics of the resource.
1943-03
1943-04
1943-05
1943-06
1943-07
1943-08
1943-09
1943-10
1943-11
1943-12
1944-01
1944-02
115 Squadron
149 Squadron
1678 HCU
196 Squadron
199 Squadron
214 Squadron
218 Squadron
30 OTU
514 Squadron
623 Squadron
90 Squadron
Advanced Flying Unit
aerial photograph
air gunner
aircrew
Anson
anti-aircraft fire
B-17
bale out
bomb aimer
bombing
Catalina
Conspicuous Gallantry Medal
crewing up
Distinguished Flying Cross
Distinguished Flying Medal
entertainment
fear
flight engineer
Gee
ground personnel
Halifax
Heavy Conversion Unit
Hurricane
incendiary device
Ju 88
Lancaster
Lancaster Mk 2
Me 110
military living conditions
military service conditions
mine laying
Mosquito
navigator
Navy, Army and Air Force Institute
Nissen hut
Operational Training Unit
Pathfinders
pilot
RAF Chedburgh
RAF Downham Market
RAF Halfpenny Green
RAF Hixon
RAF Lindholme
RAF Lossiemouth
RAF Seighford
RAF Tangmere
RAF Tuddenham
RAF Warboys
RAF Waterbeach
RAF Witchford
RAF Woolfox Lodge
Red Cross
sanitation
searchlight
Stirling
target indicator
target photograph
training
Typhoon
Victoria Cross
Wellington
wireless operator
Women’s Auxiliary Air Force