Flight Operations 3

97 OPERATIONS RECORD BOOK JANUARY - JULY 1943

1.1.43 No flying – weather u/s.

2.1.43 6 aircraft detailed to mine “Deodars” area.  All aircraft successfully laid a total of 24 mines in the allotted position.  Navigation was excellent – a most successful operation despite poor weather conditions.

2/3 January 1943 – Gardening – “Deodars” Area – 4 mines

R5917K  Sgts J.Lennox, S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, P.J.Martin, H.R.Page.  Up 1656  Down 0146.  Veg successfully planted in primary Deodars garden.  Very dark.  Pin-pointed Pt de la Coubre and made time run from there.
ED425E  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, P/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  Up 1659  Down 0116.  Report as above.
R5738D  F/Sgt S.Colbert, Sgts T.G.Husketh, W.S.Hignell, D.D.Richardson, D.Dell, D.Wright, T.P.Bowles.  Up 1702  Down 0203.  Report as above.
W4355T  F/Sgt G.A.West, Sgt R.Kay, F/O R.B.G.Murphy, S/Lt W.H.Lett, Sgts J.G.Ball, J.Baker, J.Freedman.  Report as above.

3.1.43 Air test and Bullseye exercise for five aircraft.

4.1.43 NFTs.  8 aircraft for ops – later cancelled.

5.1.43 8 aircraft for ops – later cancelled – weather u/s.

6.1.43 Night flying detailed – cancelled – weather u/s.  Snow and rain all day.

7.1.43 7 aircraft detailed for ops and two for night cross country bombing.  4 aircraft took off to attack Essen, 3 of which successfully reached and bombed the aiming point flares.  No results seen owing to 10/10ths cloud.  The other aircraft abandoned the mission owing to engine trouble.

7/8 January 1943 – Essen – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 10 SBC

ED310A  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, P/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  Up 0356  Down 0823.  Primary target Essen successfully bombed.  Cliud and nothing seen in spite of flares.
R5738D  F/Sgt S.Colbert, Sgts T.G.Husketh, W.S.Hignell, D.D.Richardson, D.Dell, D.Wright, T.P.Bowles.  Up 0339  Down 0948.  Essen located by flares.  Cloud over target.  Incendiaries seen burning through cloud after own bombs released.
W4355T  F/Sgt G.A.West, Sgts R.Kay, W.Langworthy, S/Lt D.S.Watt, M.Griffiths, J.Baker, J.Freedman.  Up 0341  Down 0818.  Primary objective reached with cloud over target. Timing was accurate but PFF were 4 minutes late causing  us to overshoot on first run.  Return run aided by flares but nothing seen after releasing bombs.  Heavy flak encountered.   
R5896Y  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgts J.Dean, Trewsdale, J.H.Clay, Thompson, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  Up 0331  Down 0523.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  Aircraft very difficult to handle.  Bomb and incendiaries jettisoned safe.

8.1.43 Five Lancasters detailed to attack the town of Duisburg and three aircraft detailed for mining in “Pumpkin” area.  All five claimed to have attacked Duisburg.  The weather over the target was 10/10ths cloud.  All aircraft bombed on observing the marker flares but owing to the weather no results were observed.  Of the three mining aircraft, all dropped their mines successfully.  Sgt Rowson landed at Newmarket aerodrome and the undercarriage collapsed, wrecking the aircraft.  None of the crew was injured.  Night training also detailed.

8/9 January 1943 Duisburg – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.J.Roberts, W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1728  Down 2156.  Primary objective Duisburg located by flares.  Cloud over target.  Bursts of HC seen through clouds when own bombs released.  One half can of incendiaries hung up.  Some flak encountered causing holes in aircraft.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts W.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, Eaton, R.Muskett, R.Batson.  Up 1726  Down 2120.  Bombs released on primary target but no results seen.  PFF flares enabled us to locate target.  Much cloud.
ED310A  Sgts G.H.Rowson, P.Lane, J.E.West, J.Bell, J.G.Brittain, G.Axup, O’Donahue.  Up 1724  Down 2207.  Target not identified visually.  PFF flares clearly seen over target area.  Some cloud but visibility generally good.  Own bombs not seen to explode.  Nothing else observed.  Poer undercarriage collapsed on landing.
R5490M  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, H.Kershaw, Clark, T.S.Cummings, F/O P.Ballantyne, Sgt W.F.Guy, F/O W.Kirkwood-Hackett.  Up 1730  Down 2225.  Primary area reached.  Release point flares seen through cloud.  Bursts of own HC and incendiaries not observed.
R5917K  Sgts J.Lennox, S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, P.J.Martin, H.R.Page.  Up 1736  Down 2216.  Cloud over primary target area.  Release point flares seen.  Own bomb bursts unobserved.  Bomb doors slightly damaged when 4000lb HC released.  One can of incendiaries hung up.  Landed at Tangmere.

8/9 January 1943 Gardening – “Pumpkin” area – 4 mines

ED323O  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts J.Pulford, W.Wishart, R.M.Nelson, W.Burr, P/O A.R.Poole, Sgt P.J.Thomas.  Up 1827  Down 2346.  Primary Pumpkin area.  Veg planted in correct position.  Pin-pointed Rosnaes.  Rear gunner saw all four parachutes open and veg enter garden.

R5559W  F/O I.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 1748  Down 2312.  Primary garden reached.  Rosnaes port visually identified.  Veg dropped in correct position.  Satisfactory trip.
W4175U  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts K.W.Knight, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  Up 1753  Down 2335.  Dark visibility over primary Pumpkin area.  Pin-pointed Rosnaes Port through gap in cloud.  Veg planted correctly, one possibly exploded on contact with sea.

9.1.43 4 aircraft took off to attack Essen.  Three aircraft claimed to have bombed the target; one aircraft, F/Sgt Colbert and crew are missing.  Weather was fairly good but considerable haze.  One aircraft carried out a night cross country.  On landing across wind owing to only one runway being serviceable, the aircraft glided off the runway and ran into a pile of frozen snow damaging the tail unit.  Due to snow and frost only one runway has been serviceable for the past two days.

9/10 January 1943 Essen – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

ED430C  S/L B.R.Hallows, Sgt W.S.Treacy (2ND pilot), F/L P.M.Cutting, F/Sgt D.B.King, F/O P.Ballantyne, F/Sgt W.Broomfield, F/Sgt T.Goacher.  Up 1703  Down 2038.  Primary objective Essen bombed.  Target located by marker flares.  Four sticks of incendiaries seen to start fires when own bombs were released.  Many fires seen, one large one observed from 60 miles away.
R5896Y  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts A.Robinson (2nd Pilot), G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, P/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  Up 1716  Down 2112.  Essen reached in good visibility with some ground haze.  Bombed by white flares but own bursts not observed.  Several small fires seen.  4 cans of SBC brought back, believed due to icing.
R5738D  F/Sgt S.Colbert, Sgts T.G.Husketh, W.S.Hignell, D.D.Richardson, D.Dell, D.Wright, T.P.Bowles.  Up 1707 – aircraft and crew missing.
W4355T  F/Sgt G.A.West, Sgts R.Kay, W.Langworthy, S/Lt D.S.Watt, Griffiths, J.Baker, J.Freedman.  Up 1725  Down 2200.  Some ground haze when primary objective reached.  Essen identified visually by River Rhine.  Own bomb bursts seen.  Small fires seen south of town.  A good deal of heavy flak encountered.

10.1.43 Stand down for ops but maximum training which was cancelled owing to bad weather.

11.1.43 6 aircraft detailed for ops and one on night cross country and bombing.  F/O Keir has been awarded the DFC and F/Sgt Crouch (Aus) the DFM.  5 aircraft took off for ops against Essen.  Two of the aircraft were abortive owing to engine trouble, the remaining three aircraft successfully reached and bombed on the marker flares.  No results seen owing to 10/10ths cloud.  All returned safely to base. 

11/12 January 1943 Essen – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

ED430C  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt W.S.Treacy (2nd Pilot), W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1716  down 2115.  Marker flares observed over target area.  Bombs not seen to burst.  Heavy flak opposition encountered target.
R5917K  Sgts J.Lennox, S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, P.J.Martin, H.R.Page.  Up 1729  Down 2017.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
W4175U  Sgts G.H.Rowson, Robinson, J.E.West, J.Bell, J.G.Brittain, G.Axup, Beebe.  Up 1709  Down 1950.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
ED323O  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts W.K.Knight, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  Up 1725  Down 2210.  Primary objective Essen reached.  Some cloud.  Marker flares seen but not release point flares.  Own bursts not seen but other bursts observed through clouds.  One can of incendiaries hung up.
W4355T  F/O I.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 1721  down 2138.  Primary target bombed.  Bombs dropped by white flares.  Own bombs observed through clouds.  3 cans of incendiaries hung up.  Straightforward trip. 

12.1.43 6 aircraft detailed to attack Essen.  One aircraft returned early due to engine trouble.  The remaining five aircraft reached and successfully bombed the target or target area.  Results not seen owing to 8 – 10/10ths cloud and ground haze but marker flares were seen and bombed.

12/13 January 1943 Essen – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

W4835H  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, P/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  Up 0332  Down 0825.  Primary target Essen reached.  Bombed by release point flares but own bursts not observed.  Cloud obscured ground detail.  Uneventful trip.
ED430C  Sgts V.R.Stephens, H.Kershaw, Trowsdale, T.S.Cumming, L.Thompson, W.F.Guy, F/O W.Kirkwood-Hackett.  Up 0343  Down 0842.  Much cloud over primary target area.  Bombs released on estimated position but no results observed.  Nothing further seen.
R5917K  Sgts J.Lennox, Brown, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, P.J.Martin, H.R.Page.  Up 0345  Down 0817.  Target Essen reached but cloud obscured built up area.  Bombed between marker flares but no results observed.  No camera results – flash hang up.
R5575L  Sgts G.H.Rowson, P.Lane, J.E.West, J.Bell, J.G.Brittain, G.Axup, Beebe.  Up 0348  Down 0603.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
W4355T  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgts J.Dean, W.Langworthy, J.H.Clay, Burr, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  Up 0400  Down 0822.  Primary Essen target bombed.  Cloud over target area.  Bombed by marker flares but no results observed.
ED323O  P/O I.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 0410  Down 0837.  Primary target reached.  Much cloud.  Bombed by release point flares, no results seen.  Uneventful trip.

13.1.43 2 aircraft detailed for ops and 3 aircraft on night training.  Only one of the latter carried out the duty owing to the weather conditions.  Both the aircraft detailed to attack Essen successfully completed their sorties.  Weather  8 – 10/10ths cloud.  No results observed.  Both flights carried out fighter affiliation during the day.

13/14 January 1943 Essen – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

W4355T  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts K.W.Knight, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  Up 1703  Down 2126.  Primary target reached.  Bombed by release point flares.  Some of own bombs seen to burst.  Glimpse of river seen through break in cloud, many fires observed.  Glow seen from 50 miles.  Defences not accurate.
ED430C  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgts P.J.Roberts, D.A.McLean, W/O H.C.Boyd, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1656  Down 2113.  Primary objective reached.  Some cloud.  Bombed by release point flares.  Nothing seen.  Uneventful trip.

14.1.43 4 Lancasters mined Deodars area in the allotted position.  Poor weather was encountered.  All aircraft were diverted on return.  Night training cancelled.

14/15 January 1943 Gardening _ “Deodars” Area – 4 mines

ED430C  Sgts A.Robinson, R.Harvey, C.P Bigg, A.E.Croome, J.West, P.G.Nickerson, R.W.Rea.  Up 1716  Down 0040.  Primary Deodars area successfully planted with veg.  Pin-pointed Pt de la Coubre and made time run from there.
W4835H  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardly, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsy, F/O W.Kirkwood-Hackett, Sgt W.Hussey.  Up 1724  Down 0118.  Primary garden successfully planted with veg.  Pin-pointed Pt de la Coutre and made time run from there.
W4355U  P/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, Griffiths, F/Sgt Bertwistle, W.Whiting.  Up 1727  Down 0116.  Veg planted in Deodars garden.  Report as above.
ED323E  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, W.Hill.  Up 1729  Down 0059.  Sortie completed.  Report as above.

15.1.43 Air firing carried out – ops cancelled – 4 aircraft were detailed.

16.1.43 12 Lancasters took off to attack an aiming point in Berlin.  11 claim to have bombed the target or target area, several large fires being seen many miles after leaving the city.  There was little cloud over the target and visibility was moderate.  One aircraft abandoned the mission at Mano, the rear turret being u/s.

16/17 January 1943 Berlin

W4153H  W/C G.D.Jones, Sgt R.E.Manvell, F/O P.D.Hallam, S/Lt D.S.Watt, F/O P.B.Ballantyne, F/L D.S.Mims, F/Sgt T.Goacher.  14 SBC.  Up 1647  Down 0023.  Primary Berlin target successfully bombed.  Visibility good.  Target in sights when bombs released.  Many fires seen, one particularly large in centre of target area.  Several very large explosions observed.  Fires seen from 60 miles.
R5896Y  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.L.Roberts, W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  14 SBC.  Up 1657  Down 2346.  Berlin successfully bombed.  Good visibility.  River Spree identified on run up.  Many fires and large explosions observed.  Glow of fires seen for many miles.
R5612R  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts W.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, L.Eaton, R.Muskett, R.Batson.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1655  Down 0110.  Alternative.  Aircraft would not climb so bombed at 14,000’, believed Berlin.  Several lakes and flares seen, own bombs seen to explode, other bursts seen.  Fires observed.
R5572F  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, P/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1643  Down 2355.  Primary Berlin target successfully bombed.  Own bomb seen to burst in built up area.  Other large bombs seen to explode but only one good fire seen.  Incendiaries seen burning in open country.
R5614G  F/Sgt V.R.Stephens, Sgts H.Kershaw, Trowsdale, T.S.Cumming, F.A.Thompson, W.F.Guy, F/O W.Kirkwood-Hackett.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1659  Down 0039.  No cloud but ground haze.  Believed primary target bombed.  Red marker flares over large built up area, this we bombed and own burst seen.  No fires observed.  Some flak encountered causing holes in fuselage.
R5917K  Sgts J.Lennox, S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, P.J.Martin, H.R.Page.  14 SBC.  Up 1641  Down 0044.  Primary Berlin bombed.  Definitely identified large built up area which we bombed.  Red marker bomb seen directly after.  Own bursts of incendiaries observed.  Red glow growing as we left target.
R5575L  Sgts G.H.Rowson, P.Lane, J.E.West, J.Bell, J.G.Brittain, G.Axup, Beebe. 14 SBC.  Up 1634  Down 0053.  Clear visibility but haze and smoke when we reached Berlin.  Marker green flares seen over target.  Built up area in sights when bombs released.  Own bursts not observed but many fires seen.  Opposition heavy and accurate over target.
W4175U  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardly, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P/O D.Rodger, Sgt W.Hussey.  14 SBC.  Up 1650  Down 2100.  Mission abandoned woing to rear turret being u/s – no oil in system.
W4355T  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts J.Pulford, W.Wishart, R.M.Nelson, W.Burr, P/O A.R.Poole, Sgt P.J.Thomas.  12 SBC.  Up 1720  Down 0019.  Believed primary objective bombed.  Bombed area where incendiaries were seen burning on ETA.  Marker bombs seen 4 minutes after bombing.  Own bursts not seen.  On leaving target, two largish fires were seen.
ED323O  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts K.W.Knight, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  14 SBC.  Up 1644  Down 0103.  Believed primary target bombed.  Bombed on marker flares from 24,000’.  Many fires seen but these gave appearance of being dummies.  Some opposition encountered.
R5889V  F/O I.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  14 SBC.  Up 1653  Down 0033.  Believed primary target bombed.  Bombed on white marker flares in large built up area.  Own incendiaries seen to ignite.  Saw three fires burning.  Some opposition encountered.
R5607X  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, F/Sgt W.Langworthy, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1651  Down 0007.  Primary target not positively identified.  No marker flares observed.  Bombed large built up area after passing over heavy defences.  Other bursts seen in same area.

17.1.43 14 Lancasters detailed to attack Berlin – 11 aircraft took off and successfully bombed the target.  Weather – moonlight and good visibility, slight haze.  Two aircraft returned early due to technical troubles and one aircraft, Sgt Rowson, is missing.  No news received after leaving base.  Aircraft diverted owing to weather on return.  Defence was heavier and many fighters seen.

17/18 January 1943 Berlin – 1 x 4000lb 8 SBC

W4153A  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, R.N.Daniels, W.Hussey.  Up 1648  Down 0137.  Berlin successfully bombed.  No cloud slight ground haze.  Magglesea lake, green marker and red flares enabled identification of target and built up area.  Saw fires just starting after unloading bombs.  Heavy flak encountered.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts W.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, L.Eaton, F/O D.Rodger, Sgt R.Batson.  Up 1714  Down 0135.  Primary target bombed.  Flares in target area.  Own bombs seen to straddle marshalling yards.  Fires observed over large area.  No help from PFF who apparently failed to locate target.  Completed return journey with 3 engines.
R5575L  Sgts G.H.Rowson, P.Lane, J.E.West, J.Bell, J.G.Brittain, G.Axup, Beebe. Up 1703 – aircraft and crew missing.
W4835H  W/C G.D.Jones, Sgt R.E.Manvell, F/O P.D.Hallam, S/Lt W.H.Lett, F/O P.B.Ballantyne, F/L D.S.Mimms, F/Sgt T.Goacher.  Up 1720  Down 1841.  Mission abandoned owing to rear turret deflector sight u/s and artificial horizon u/s.
R5896Y  Sgts A.Robinson, R.Harvey, C.P.Bigg, A.E.Groome, J.West, P.G.Nickerson, R.W.Rea.  Up 1700 down 0107.  Berlin successfully bombed.  Visibiloity good, some ground haze.  ETA, visual fix obtained Basselrot and built up area.  Own bombs seen to burst in built up area.  Scattered fires and incendiaries seen burning.
R5889V  P/O I.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 1710  Down 0130.  Primary Berlin bombed.  ETA.  Recognied features from previous night.  Own bombs seen to straddle built up area.  Fires observed starting over large area.  PFF failed to ignite target.
ED323O  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts K.W.Knight, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  Up 1708  Down 0110.  Primary Berlin bombed.  No assistance from PFF.  Own bombs released on built up area but results not observed.  Many sticks of incendiaries seen falling and some fires scattered over target area.
W4355T  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts J.Pulford, W.Wishart, R.M.Nelson, Burr, P/O A.R.Poole, Sgt P.J.Thomas.  Up 1717  Down 0122.  Primary Berlin attacked.  PFF late, we waited 20 minutes for them to catch up but none came.  Ground conditions made pin-pointing difficult.  Saw own bombs strike built up area.  No fires of note.  Defences were heavy.
W4575U  P/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, Griffiths, F/Sgt Birtwistle, Sgt W.Whiting.  Up 1719  Down 2110.  Mission abandoned owing to elevator trimmers u/s.  Freezing suspected.
ED425E  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, F/Sgt W.Langworthy, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1716  Down 0230.  Primary Berlin bombed.  Visibility fair.  Built up area identified by flares.  Own bomb seen to explode one mile west of aiming point.  Approximately 9 deep red fires seen.  Much heavy flak over target area.
R5572F  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, P/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1654  Down 0053.  Primary objective bombed.  Built up area identified by flares.  Own bomb burst observed in built up area.  Several sticks of incendiaries seen scattered over target. 

18.1.43 One aircraft to Marnham and return, and fighter affiliation carried out by flights.

19.1.43 4 aircraft detailed for ops – cancelled weather.

20.1.43 Fighter affiliation and NFTs.  4 aircraft for ops and cancelled.

21.1.43 High level bombing training – air firing and formation flying.  4 Lancasters took off to raid Essen – 3 successfully completed the task with cloud and ground haze.  One aircraft abandoned the mission owing to mechanical failure.

21/22 January 1943 Essen – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.L Roberts, W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1726  Down 1956.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  One 4000lb bomb brought back to base, remainder jettisoned safe.
R5490M  Sgts J.Lennox, S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, P.J.Martin, F/O W.Kirkwood-Hackett.  Up 1719  Dwon 2224.  Primary objective Essen successfully bombed.  Thin cloud and ground haze.  Bombed two miles short of red and white release point flares, no results seen.  Incendiries seen igniting but no fires observed.
W4835H  Sgts A.Robinson, R.Harvey, C.P.Bigg, D.H.Meade, J.West, P.G.Nickerson, P.W.Rea.  Up 1724  Down 2146.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Bombed red and white marker flares.  Own bombs seen to burst and large red glow of fire observed through haze.  Uneventful trip.
W4355T  F/O I.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 1729  Down 2218.  Bombed estimated target area.  Thick ground haze from 20,000’.  Bombed estimated position of release point flares.  Own bursts observed. Five red fires seen burning, two appeared to be large.  Some flak encountered.  

22/23.1.43 No flying – weather u/s.

24.1.43 Four aircraft detailed for ops – cancelled owing to weather conditions – 6 for high level bombing also cancelled.

25.1.43 10 aircraft for ops – later cancelled.  7 aircraft carried out night high level bombing and Bullseye training.

26.1.43 9 aircraft for ops – cancelled – weather u/s.

27.1.43 9 aircraft took off to attack dusseldorf.  8 aircraft claim to have bombed the target and one aircraft, Sgt Robinson and crew are missing.  Weather mainly 10/10ths low cloud, but several fires seen through the cloud.  5 more aircraft successfully mined the Nectarine area

27/28 January 1943 Dusseldorf – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

W4249L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/Sgt J.E.McAvoy, Sgts J.Keddie, R.J.Williams, F/O W.Kirkwood-Hackett, Sgt G.Lambert.  Up 1717  Down 2155.  Primary target Dusseldorf bombed.  Bombs released on marker flares.  Fires seen to start from own bomb bursts.  Many other bursts and photo flashes seen in area.  Good work by PFF on this trip.
ED425E  W/C G.D.Jones, Sgt S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, P.J.Martin, H.R.Page.  Up 1718  Down 2214.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Some low cloud.  Bombs released successfully on target area identified by marker bomb.  Quiet trip, little opposition.  This method of attack good in prevalent weather conditions.
W4135A  Sgts A.Robinson, R.Harvey, C.P.Bigg, A.E.Croome, J.West, R.Muskett, R.W.Rea.  Up 1720 – aircraft and crew missing.
ED323O  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts J.Pulford, W.Wishart, R.M.Nelson, Burr, P/O A.R.Poole, Sgt P.J.Thomas.  Up 1733 Down 2224.  Dusseldorf bombed.  PFF a little late but we eventually sighted marker bombs and released our own load on the second.  No ground detail could be seen owing to cloud but red glow was observed through cloud.
W4355T  P/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, M.Griffiths, F/Sgt Birtwistle, Sgt W.Whiting.  Up 1735  Down 2210.  Target Dusseldorf bombed.  Visibility good with some broken cloud.  Bombs released on marker bomb but results not seen.  Very quiet except over target.  Uneventful trip.
R5559W  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 1744 Down 2239.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Marker bombs seen.  Own bursts seen through cloud.  Red glow seen through clouds which increased as we left target area.  Straightforward trip.
R5614G  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgt P.L.Roberts, W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt Hunt, F/O F.G.G.Lush, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1726  Down 2205.  Primary Dusseldorf bombed.  Released own bomb on marker bomb.  No ground details observed.  Uneventful trip. 
R5607X  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts Parker, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  Up 1731  Down 2218.  Primary target bombed.  Released bomb where red and green markers were seen to disappear into cloud. Own burst observed.  Uneventful but successful trip.
R5612R  P/O I.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1737  Down 2200.  Dusseldorf successfully bombed.  Cloud over target.  Own bomb dropped on marker and seen to explode.  Many sticks of incendiaries seen burning.  Conditions were ideal for this method of bombing.

27/28 January 1943 Gardening – “Nectarine” Area – 5 mines

R5490M  F/O R.A.Moyle, Sgts W.H.Brunning, D.A.McLean, S/Lt D.S.Watt, Sgts F.J.Davey, P/O L.G.Mussi, Sgt V.Loar.  Up 1747  Down 2112.  Primary Nectarine garden successfully planted with veg.  Pin-pointed on Engleman Plat and made time run from there.
W4835H  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, D.H.Meade, J.Currey, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton. Up 1750  Down 2117.  Veg planted in Nectarine area.  Gee fix.
R5896Y  F/L Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1746  Down 2104.  Veg planted successfully in Nectarine area.  Dropped on Gee fix.
W4175U  Sgts D.J Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  Up 1718  Down 2051.  Veg successfully planted in Nectarine area.  Dropped on Gee fix.  Uneventful trip.
R5915Q  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  Up 1739  Down 2129.  Primary objective planted with veg.  Pin-pointed Engleman Platt and made time run from there.  

28.1.43 Day cross country.  7 aircraft detailed for ops and one aircraft on night training.  All cancelled – weather u/s.

29.1.43 High level formation and SABS bombing training.

30.1.43 13 Lancasters raided Hamburg.  6 of them completed their sorties by bombing the red and green release flares and two aircraft bombed the red markers.  4 aircraft abandoned the mission owing to technical failures.  One aircraft, F/O Moyle (Aus) and crew are missing.  Weather cloudy and ground haze.

30/31 January 1943 Hamburg

R5612R  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts R.M.Nelson, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 0011  Down 0318.  Mission abandoned owing to rear turret u/s.  8000lb jettisoned safe.
W4355T  P/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, Griffiths, F/Sgt Birtwistle, W.Whiting.  1 x 4000lb 10SBC.  Primary Hamburg target successfully bombed.  Cloud and ground haze.  Bombed on red and green release point flares.  Own bombs seen to burst.  Many fires observed and red glow seen from 60 miles away.
R5607X  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, P/O W.Langworthy, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, P/O A.R.Poole, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  (no times shown).  Prumary Hamburg successfully bombed.  Bombed red and green release point flares.  No results or ground detail observed.
W4175U  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, Viau, J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  1 x 4000lb.  Up 0005  Down 0244.  Mission abandoned over aerodrome owing to port outer boost u/s.
ED323O  F/L Bell,  Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  1 x 4000lb  10 SBC.  Up 0014  Down 0208.  Mission abandoned over base owing to intermittent drop in revs, oil pressure and boost u/s.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
R5915Q  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 2359  Down 0608.  Primary successfully bombed.  No cloud but considerable ground haze.  Bombed red and green release point flares.  No results of own bombs seen.  Several fires seen burning in target area.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts W.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, G.Eaton, R.Batson, F/O D.Rodgers.  1 x 4000lb  10 SBC.  Up 0002  Down 0307.  Mission abandoned owing to oxygen failure.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
ED425E  F.L.K.G.Tew, Sgt P.L.Roberts, W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  1 x 4000lb  10 SBC.  Up 0007  Down 0530.  Primary Hamburg target successfully bombed.  Some cloud when we bombed on red and green release point flares.  Own bursts not seen.  No fires had got properly started but many incendiaries observed burning.
R5614G  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, F/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 0004  Down 0556.  Hamburg successfully bombed.  Some cloud.  Bombed on red and green marker flares but no results observed.  Large fire seen through break in clouds.
R5917K  Sgts J.Lennox, S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, P.J.Martin, H.R.Page.  1 x 4000lb  10 SBC.  Up 0008  Down 0630.  Primary target bombed.  Saw and bombed red TI markers, also river and outline of town seen visually.  Own bombs seen to explode in built up area.  Large fires well scattered observed.
W4249L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/Sgt J.E.McAvoy, Sgts J.Keddie, R.J.Williams, F/O W.Kirkwood-Hackett, Sgt G.Lambert.  1 x 4000lb  10 SBC.  Up 0018  Down 0552.  Hamburg successfully bombed on 1st and 2nd markers.  Own bursts observed.  10 to 12 good fires burning in target area.  Glow could be seen for 150 to 200 miles.  First PFF short of approximate posts but early.
W4833H  F/O R.A.Moyle, Sgts W.H.Brunning, F.Spurr, G.J.Hunt, F.J.Davey, P.J.Thomas, V.Loar.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 2348 – aircraft and crew missing.
R5559W  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, D.H.Meade, J.Currey, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  1 x 4000lb  10 SBC.  Up 0009  Down 0650.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Some cloud.  Bombed on red and green marker flares and observed own bursts.  Fires seen as we left the target.  PFF were on time and their markers clearly seen.  Encountered only moderate flak. 

31.1.43 No flying – weather u/s

1.2.43 11 aircraft detailed for ops – later cancelled.  5 aircraft carried out night training.

2.2.43 9 Lancasters took off on op and one aircraft on night training.  The op was to attack Cologne.  All aircraft successfully reached and bombed the target.  One aircraft landed on return at Docking owing to loss of fuel due to damaged jettison pipe.  Bomb bursts and fires seen in target area.

2/3 February 1943 Cologne – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

R5889V  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P Baggs.  Up 1735  Down 2300.  Primary target Cologne successfully bombed.  Visibility good with slight ground haze.  Green and red markers in sights when bombs released.  River seen and believed identified visually.  Own bursts seen.  PFF right on time.
R5915Q  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, W.Hill.  Up 1803  Down 0026.  Cologne successfully bombed.  Bombed on red and green marker flares.  Fires seen in target area.  Little opposition encountered.  Completed return journey on three engines.
W4175U  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  Up 1809  Down 2302.  Primary bombed.  Ground haze.  Own bombs seen to burst and many other incendiaries and fires observed.  Hit by fire from own convoy or ground batteries on return, causing some damage.
W4200A  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, Standring, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  Up 1808  Down 2318.  Red and green marker flares seen and bombed over primary Cologne target.  Other bursts and many fires observed.  Built up area identified visually by light of fires.  Successful trip.
ED323O  F/L Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1807  Down 2252.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Clear but thick ground haze.  Bombed on red and green markers.  Own bombs seen to bursts and start fires.  One good fire well going and others starting.  These had taken good hold 15 minutes later.
R5559W  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts T.S.Cummings, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  Up 1813  Down 2310.  Primary objective Cologne bombed.  Thin cloud over target but green marker flares were just visible, these were bombed.  Own bursts not seen.  Red fires visible among sticks of incendiaries burning on ground.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts W.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, L.Eaton, R.Batson, F/O D.Rodger.  Up 1813  Down 2310.  Cologne successfully bombed.  Patchy cloud, thick ground haze.  Bombed on red marker flares, no results for own bombs seen.  Fires seen after leaving target.  PFF on time.
ED425E  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, F/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  Up 1827  Down 2331.  Successfully bombed primary target.  Bombed marker flares and bend in river identified visually.  Own bomb bursts seen.  Several fires observed in target area.
R5917K  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, P/O W.Langworthy, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, F/Sgt Birtwistle, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  Up 1820  Down 2326.  Primary target bombed.  Bombed on red marker flares.  Own bursts not seen.  Large fires seen burning in target area.  Flares also observed near target area which appeared to divert attack. 

3.2.43 Cross country and consumption tests.  5 Lancasters detailed to attack Hamburg, 4 of these claim to have bombed the target and one returned early owing to engine trouble.  Weather 10/10ths cloud at 15,000’.

3/4 February 1943 Hamburg – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

ED323O  F/L Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1809  Down 2334.  Primary target Hamburg successfully bombed.  Marker flares in sughts when load dropped.  Bursts not observed owing to cloud.  Lots of heavy flak encountered nearing and leaving target.  PFF flares were seen as briefed.
R5889V  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt Hill.  Up 1807  Down 2110.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble and DR compass u/s.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
R5490M  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, T.S.Cumming, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  Up 1812  Down 0004.  Whole cycle of flares seen in target area before reaching Hamburg but owing to lateness, release point flares had died down on run up and estimated position was bombed.  Uneventful trip.
W4825H  Sgts J.Lennox, S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, P.J.Martin, H.R.Page.  Up 1804  Down 2356.  Primary objective Hamburg successfully bombed.  Cloud over target area.  Bombed on marker flares.  Uneventful trip.
ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.L.Roberts, W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1800 Down 2349.  Primary target bombed.  Release point flares in sights when bombs dropped.  Two major and three smaller fires seen through cloud.  These developed and red glow could be seen after leaving target.  Heavy flak encountered.

4.2.43 Low flying attack on army exercise.  5 Lancasters detailed to attack Turin.  All aircraft successfully reached and bombed target.  Weather clear with slight ground haze.

4/5 February 1943 Turin – Bomb load 14 SBC

ED323O  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts T.S.Cummings, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  Up 1816  Down 0256.  Primary target Turin successfully bombed.  Smoke haze over target, otherwise clear.  Bombed on red marker flares, built up area identified visually.  Several fires were seen starting.
R5889V  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  Up 1806  Down 0203.  Primary objective successfully bombed.  Visibility good.  Bombed on red markers and saw own incendiaries burst across target.  No fires observed until aircraft was leaving area.
ED430C  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  Up 1809  Down 0209.  Primary Turin successfully attacked.  Clear.  Bombed estimated position where red marker flares had been burning.  Other bursts observed in target area.  2 or 3 red fires seen.
R5614G  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts W.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, L.Eaton, R.Batson, P/O D.Rodger.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1821 Down 0224.  Targte successfully bombed.  Clear – slight ground haze.  Built up area observed visually.  Bombed red marker flares.  Bomb seen to burst on cluster of buildings.  One large fire and lots of smaller fires seen in centre of town.
R5572F  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, R.Rae, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donaghue.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1813  Down 0157.  Target successfully bombed.  Bombed on three clusters of red marker flares.  One very large fire observed and many small scattered fires over target area.  Flak very poor. 

5.2.43   No flying – weather u/s.

6.2.43 Fighter affiliation – various training.

7.2.43 4 aircraft detailed to attack Lorient.  The op reported highly successful, weather good and target bombed with good results.  Many large fires observed in town and target area.

7/8 February 1943 Lorient

R5559W  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, R.Frank, A.W.Taylor, W.Lochrie.  14 SBC.  Up 1916  Down 0048.  Primary target Lorient successfully bombed.  Thin cloud.  Identified southern point of town visually.  Saw at least 15 good fires burning.  Bombs released and seen to burst in midst of fired area.  One very yellow fire seen.
R5889V  F/O I.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1757 Down 2351.  Primary target successfully attacked.  Clear, good visibility.  Visually pin-pointed target, saw and bombed on TI markers.  W/Op saw bombs burst.  Whole town covered with incendiaries.  Excellent trip and appeared effective.
ED430C  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, S/Lt W.H.Lett, Sgts J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1805  Down 2359.  Lorient successfully attacked.  Bombed on red TI markers but identified aiming point visually by rivers and docks.  Many fires seen burning in aiming point and in town.  Very successful trip.
W4249L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/Sgt J.E.McAvoy, S/L D.S.Watt, Sgt R.J.Williams, F/O W.Kirkwood-Hackett, Sgt G.Lambert.  1 x 4000lb  12 SBC.  Up 1759  Down 2345.  Primary target successfully bombed in good visibility.  Rivers and docks identified visually, bombed red TI marker.  Briliiance of flares spoilt observation of results.  Fires observed across  aiming point.

8.2.43 3 aircraft mined “Privet” area successfully.  Two aircraft night cross country.

8/9 February 1943 Gardening – Danzig Bay – 3 mines

ED323O  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts J.Pulford, W.Wishart, R.M.Nelson, Burr, P/O A.R.Poole, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 1700  Down 0335.  Veg successfully planted in primary garden.  Visibility good.  Positively identified mouth of the Vistula and made time run from there.  No opposition encountered.
ED430C  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.L.Roberts, W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1645  Down 0235.  Privet garden successfully planted with veg.
W4825H  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, F/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  Up 1652  Down 0240.  Primary garden successfully planted with veg.  Low cloud.  Area identified visually by coast outline in Hela Bay.  Mines released in allotted position.

9.2.43 3 aircraft detailed for ops – later cancelled.  Bullseye exercise.  ED588 F/O Clayton, on landing ran off the runway and damaged the aircraft.

10.2.43 5 aircraft for ops – later cancelled.

11.2.43 Day cross country and air tests.  5 Lancasters detailed to attack Wilhelmshaven.  4 aircraft successfully completed task and one aircraft returned early owing to a technical failure.

11/12 February 1943 Wilhelmshaven – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

W4355T  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, Sgt J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  Up 1726  Down 1843.  Mission abandoned owing to oil leak in starboard inner engine.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
R5915Q  P/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, Griffiths, F/Sgt R.Birtwistle, Sgt W.Whiting.  Up 1747  Down 2232.  Primary Wilhelmshaven target successfully bombed.  Some cloud.  Bombed centre of marker flares.  Bomb flashes seen through cloud.  Terrific fires seen.  One terrific explosion seen from 100 miles away.
W4285H  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.Rea, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donaghue.  Up 1745  Down 2227.  Primary objective successfully attacked.  Bombed on release point flares.  Red glow seen through cloud.  One particularly large flash observed.
ED425E  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts W.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, L.Eaton, R.Batson, P/O D.Rodger.  Up 1741  Down 2218.  Wilhelmshaven successfully attacked.  Cloud over target.  Bombed on TI flares.  Glow seen through cloud which may have been fires burning.  Much larger glow observed when aircraft was 80 miles away.
R5889V  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgts J.Dean, Trowsdale, J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  Up 1743  Down 2246.  Wilhelmshaven successfully bombed.  Saw and bombed red and green marker flares.  Own bursts not observed.  Yellowish red glow seen through cloud.  Two large flashes observed later.  PFF flares were widely scattered. 

12.2.43 No flying – weather u/s.

13.2.43 Fighter affiliation.  14 Lancasters detailed for ops.  12 aircraft successfully attacked Lorient under good weather conditions.  Numerous fires seen.  2 aircraft returned early owing to technical failures.

13/14 February 1943 Lorient

ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.L.Roberts, W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1917  Down 0123.  Lorient successfully bombed.  Very clear, visibility good.  Target pin-pointed visually.  Own bombs seen to explode, ¼ mile north of aiming point.  Fires seen.  Flak over target was visible from English coast.
W4249L  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, R.Frank, A.W.Taylor, W.Lochrie.  14 SBC.  Up 1849  Down 0147.  Primary Lorient target successfully bombed.  Visibility good, very clear.  Pin-pointed target visually – rear gunner saw bombs explode on aiming point.  Many large fires observed.
R5483D  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, Trowsdale, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  14 SBC.  Up 1910  Down 0203.  Primary objective attacked.  Visibility good but much smoke from fires over target.  Target identified visually.  Saw own bombs explode on aiming point.  Whole town seen to be covered with large fires.
R5915Q  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/O W.Kirkwood-Hackett.  14 SBC.  Up 1845  Down 0115.  Lorient successfully bombed.  Smoke haze over target.  River and outline of town easily identified visually.  Own bomb bursts seen.  Whole town seen to be ablaze on both sides of river.  Glow visible from English coast.
ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, W.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  14 SBC.  Up 1911  Down 0154.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Identified river visually.  Bombs dropped on town but own bursts not seen.  Whole town was well alight but there appeared to be none on the aiming point.
W4157K  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, Parker, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  14 SBC.  Up 1857  Down 0156.  Lorient successfully bombed.  No cloud but smoke from fires.  Pin-pointed on river and town which was identified visually.  Did time run from there as aiming point was not seen.  Town area well alight.
W4887N  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  14 SBC.  Up 1900 Down 0050.  Primary target successfully attacked.  No cloud, some haze.  Pin-pointed river, bombed town just south of aiming point.  Own bursts not seen.  Many large fires observed.  Fires visible 50 miles away.
W4555T  F/L Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  14SBC.  Up 1902  Down 0120.  Lorient successfully attacked.  Visibility good.  Identified town visually.  Bombed on aiming point but own bursts not seen.  Whole town seemed to be a mass of fire.
R5559W  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgt J.Pulford, P/O P.D.Hallam, Sgts R.M.Nelson, Burr, P/O A.R.Poole, P/O L.G.Mussi.  14 SBC.  Up 1921  Down 2059.  Mission abandoned – rear turret u/s.  Bombs jettisoned live.
R5889V  F/O I.Covington, Sgt R.Thompson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 1907  Down 0105.  Primary objective successfully attacked.  Target identified visually.  Pin-pointed down river bend.  Own bomb bursts seen.  Many fires around target and in town.  Defences strengthened since last attack.  Fighters in evidence.
W4825H  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, F/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  14 SBC.  Up 1909  Down 0141.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Considerable smoke haze.  Identified small island south of target.  Bombed estimated aiming point.  Incendiaries seen to burst.  Whole town was well alight and fires observed after leaving French coast.
R5572F  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.Rae, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donaghue.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1925  Down 0035.  Lorient successfully attacked.  Smoke haze over target.  Pin-pointed target visually.  Incendiaries in large concentration observed.
R5612R  P/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, Griffiths, F/Sgt R.Birtwistle, W.Whiting.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1924  Down 0213.  Over target area was coned by 5 – 6 searchlights – took violent evasive action.  Pulled aircraft out of dive but was again picked up by two searchlights.  Were losing height so let bomb go.
R5607X  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, P/O W.Langworthy, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks. 1 x 8000lb.  Up 1922  Down 2144.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  Bomb jettisoned safe.

14.2.43 14 Lancasters detailed for night ops.  13 aircraft successfully raided Milan in good weather.  13 photos were also taken and two plotted within 2000 yards of the target.  1 aircraft returned early owing to technical failure.  Operation was highly successful.

14/15 February 1943 Milan

W4825H  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, R.Frank, A.W.Taylor, W.Lochrie.  14 SBC.  Up 1830  Down 0353.  Primary Milan target successfully bombed.  Visibility good except for smoke haze.  Target identified visually.  Bombed where red markers had been burning.  Own bomb bursts seen.  Lots of good fires observed.
R5915Q  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, Dillon.  14 SBC.  Up 1827  Down 0332.  Milan successfully attacked.  Bombed approximate centre of TI Markers.  Target also identified visually by light of white flares.  14 large fires were seen burning.
W5917K  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, Trowsdale, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P Baggs.  14 SBC.  Up 1827  Down 0352.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Clear, some smoke base.  Bombed centre of TI markers.  Plenty of fires observed.
R5483D  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  14 SBC. Up 1910  Down 2129.  Mission abandoned due to W/T failure.  Bombs jettisoned.
ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, W.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.              1 x 4000lb 6 SBC.  Up 1850  Down 0318  Milan successfully bombed.  Visibility good except for smoke haze.  Bombed marker flares and identified visually.  Several large fires seen.  Glow from fires seen 120 miles away.     
W4197A  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, S/Lt D.S.Watt, Sgts J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  1 x 4000lb 4 SBC.  Up 1846  Down 0431.  Primary objective successfully attacked.  Good visibility.  Bombed on TI markers.  Built up area identified visually.  Own bursts seen.  Half the town seemed well alight.
ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.L Roberts, W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  1 x 4000lb 4 SBC.  Up 1844  Down 0340.  Primary target attacked.  Good visibility.  Visually pin-pointed target.  Bombed on built up area and TI markers which were both in sights.  Target area a mass of flames.  An excellent raid.
W4355T  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgt J.Pulford, F/O P.D.Hallam, Sgts R.M.Nelson, Burr, P/O A.R.Poole, P/O L.G.Mussi.  1 x 4000lb 4 SBC.  Up 1924  Down 0403.  Milan successfully attacked.  Clear visibility and moonlight.  Bombed on TI markers.  Many bursts seen.  About 20 large red fires observed burning in town.  Attack appeared to be well concentrated.
W4249L  P/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, Griffiths, F/Sgt R.Birtwistle, Sgt W.Whiting.  1 x 4000lb 6 SBC.  Up 1850  Down 0318.  Milan successfully bombed.  Clear except for ground smoke haze.  Built up area identified visually.  Bombed red TI markers.  Own bursts seen.  Several fires seen starting when we ran in – these had become good fires after bombing.
W4887N  F/L J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, S/Lt Lett, Sgts E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, F/Sgt E.Speight.  1 x 4000lb 4 SBC.  Up 1853  Down 0316.  Milan successfully bombed.  Identified town visually.  Bombed on TI markers, many bursts seen.  Fires in built up area.
ED430C  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, P/O W.Langworthy, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  1 x 4000lb 6 SBC.  Up 1855 Down 0415.  Primary objective successfully attacked.  Bombed built up area thought to be aiming point.  Marker flares in same area.  Many bursts seen.  A concentration of 20 big fires observed in south section of town.  Good raid.
R5614G  Sgts J.Lennox, S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, White, H.R.Page.  1 x 4000lb.  Up 1848  Down 0433.  Attack successfully carried out on Milan target.  Built up area and TI markers in sights when bomb released.  Many bursts seen in target area.  Many large fires seen in town and visible for 120 miles.
R5772V  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.Rae, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donaghue.  1 x 4000lb 4 SBC.  Up 1914  Down 0310.  Milan successfully attacked.  Clear, bright moonlight.  Bombed on marker flares and saw own bursts by main highway in built up area.  No fires seen as we were one of first on target.  Bang on trip but PFF were late.
R5559W  F/O I.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunne, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  1 x 4000lb 4 SBC.  Up 1907  Down 0304.  Primary target successfully attacked.  Saw and bombed on red TI markers.  Own bursts were seen.  At least 40 good fires observed burning around TI markers.  Fires visible 100 miles away.  Successful trip – conditions ideal.

15.2.43 Stand down today – no flying.

16.2.43 8 Lancasters for ops tonight.  All successfully attacked Lorient in good weather.  Many fires seen.  On return to base W4197A was badly damaged when the aircraft swung off the runway, trying to  avoid overshooting.  The undercarriage collapsed.  No one was injured.

16/17 February 1943 Lorient – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

W4887N  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, F/L J.Grieves, Sgts E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, F/Sgt E.Speight.  Up 1844  Down 0118.  Primary Lorient target successfully attacked.  Visibility good.  Bombed on TI markers and confirmed visually that these were in correct position.  3 or 4 fires were starting as we left target.
ED430C  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgts P.L.Roberts, D.A.McLean, W/O H.C.Boyd, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1846  Down 0104.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Clear visibility.  Bombed on TI markers but target identified visually.  Aiming Point covered with incendiaries.  Many bursts and fires seen in area.
W4355P  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  Up 1859  Down 0115.  Lorient successfully attacked.  Clear – bright moonlight.  Bombed on TI markers, own bursts not observed.  Defences over target appeared to be more concentrated than in previous raid.
R5889V  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.L Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  Up 1851  Down 0100.  Primary Lorient successfully bombed.  Clear – moon.  TI markers in sights when bombs released but target also identified visually.  Many bursts seen.
R5915Q  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, R.Frank, A.W.Taylor, W.Lochrie.  Up 1855 Down 0129.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Bombed TI markers which were confirmed visually as being in correct position.  Stick of incendiaries seen to straddle town.
ED591M  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, F/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  Up 1849  Down 0035.  Lorient successfully bombed.  Easily identified aiming point, both rivers being clearly visible.  Flares laid across aiming point were bombed.  Own bursts seen near aiming point.
R5917K  Sgts J.Lennox, S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts J.F.Jordan, H.R.Page, White.  Up 1848  Down 0137.  Lorient successfully attacked.  Bombed red TI markers which were in sights.  Sticks of incendiaries seen across aiming point.  One very large explosion seen.
W4197A  W/C G.D.Jones, Sgt J.A.Peel, F/O P.D.Hallam, S/Lt W.H.Lett, W.Burr, F/L D.S.Mims, P/O A.R.Poole.  Up 1905  Down 0040.  Primary Lorient target successfully attacked.  Clear, bright moonlight.  TI markers confirmed visually.  Incendiaries seen scattered in town.  Bursts seen after we had bombed.  Opposition was negligible.

17.2.43 The following message received from AOC 5 Group “The last attack on Milan was one of the most concentrated attacks which Squadrons of the Group have yet carried out – 14 Aiming Point pictures have so far been recorded with another 28 within the  target area and many further ones showing a mass of fires have yet to be plotted.  One squadron have achived the record with 6 Aiming Point photos.  All crews deserve the highest praise.  Again it shows that the squadrons in the Group beat all others.  If squadrons can maintain the standard I am certain it will have profound effect on the whole war.”  No flying today – ops stand down.

18.3.43 Air Chief Marshal Sir Edgar Ludlow-Hewitt KCB,CMG,DSO,MC, Inspector-General of the RAF, visited the station today.  7 aircraft detailed for ops – all successfully attacked Wilhelmshaven.  On return all aircraft diverted to Topcliffe.

18/19 February 1943 Wilhelmshaven – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

ED323O  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, P/O W.Langworthy, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  Up 1819  Down 2358.  Primary Wilhelmshaven successfully bombed.  Visibility fair with some ground haze.  Pin-pointed built up area visually.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Own bomb bursts seen.  Opposition ineffective.
R5917K  Sgts J.Lennox, S.W.Archer, P/O R.Quinn, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts W.F.Guy, H.R.Page, White.  Up 1828  Down 2358.  Primary target successfully attacked.  Bombed on TI markers and identified target visually.  Own bombs seen to burst in target area.  Other bursts seen.
ED430C  Sgts K.Brown, H.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, Parker, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  Up 1836  Down 2337.  Wilhelmshaven successfully attacked.  Good visibility.  Target identified visually.  Second lot of markers seen over target which we bombed.  4000lb bomb seen to burst on docks.  Very good trip.
W4249L  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.Rae, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donaghue.  Up 1842  Down 2315.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Good visibility.  Harbour sighted visually.  Bombed on red marker flares.  Own 4000 pounder seen to explode.  Dock area well alight.
ED425E  Sgts W.S.Treacy, W.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 1838  Down 0001.  Primary target successfully attacked.  Good visibility.  Docks identified visually, markers on target were additional guide.  Own bombs seen to explode with target in sights.  Many large fires seen burning.
W4355T  F/O I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 1840  Down 2326.  Wilhelmshaven successfully attacked.  Visibility good.  Visual on target with assistance of marker flares, which were right on aiming point.  Saw own 4000 pounder burst.  About 20 big fires observed in dock area.  PFF good.
R5552P  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F.Dillon.  Up 1832  Down 0010.  Primary target successfully bombed in good visibility except for ground haze.  Centre of marker flares bombed but docks were pin-pointed visually.  Many explosions and nine big fires observed.  A good trip. 

19.2.43 6 Lancasters detailed to attack Wilhelmshaven. All aircraft attacked the target and fires were seen.  Weather, haze and low cloud 5-10/10ths.  One aircraft also on night cross country and one on night bombing.

19/20 February 1943 Wilhelmshaven

R5483D  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1806  Down 2240.  Primary target bombed.  13,000’.  Industrial haze.  Bombed on TI markers which were very scattered.  No results from own bombs seen.  Scattered fires observed.  Hit by flak over target, missing mid gunner who kept very calm.
ED591M  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, F/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1801  Down 2213.  Wilhelmshaven successfully bombed from 13,000’.  Thin cloud.  Bombed on red TI markers.  North of town identified visually through thinner cloud.  3 fires and many scattered incendiaries seen burning.
R5607X  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts Knight, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, F/Sgt E.Speight.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1833 Down 2234.  Primary objective successfully attacked.  18,000’.  Ground haze.  Ran down coast, identified visually, until it became obscured.  Bombed estimated centre of markers.  One large and other fires seen in target area.
R5915Q  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.L.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1808  Down 2229.  Primary target attacked from 15,000’.  Very hazy with cloud.  Bombed on red TI markers, flash seen under cloud.  No ground detail observed.
R5612R  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, R.Frank, A.W.Taylor, W.Lochrie.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1818  Down 2245.  Wilhelmshaven attacked from 15,000’.  Cloud over target area.  Pin-pointed coast visually just north of target.  Bombed on red markers, own bomb bursts seen.  One large and many smaller fires seen.
ED423O  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgt J.Pulford, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts R.N.Nelson, W.Burr, P/O A.R.Poole, P/O L.G.Mussi.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1813  Down 2221.  Primary target attacked from 13,000’.  Thin cloud.  Centre of TI markers in sights which we bombed.  No results or other detail observed.

20.2.43 Some day training.

21.2.43 7 Lancasters detailed for ops and some for training during the day.  All aircraft successfully attacked Bremen.  Weather 10/10ths cloud over target area.  Aircraft diverted on return, 1 to Eastmore, one to Topcliffe, 4 to Aclington and 1 to Middleton St George.

21/22 February 1943 Bremen – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

ED425E  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, Parker, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Poyton.  Up 1854  Down 2356.  Attack carried out from 18,000’.  Bombed on red TI markers seen through cloud.  No results observed.
ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, H.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 1850  Down 2358.  Bremen attacked from 17,000’.  Cloud over target.  Sky flares seen which we bombed – flare in sights.  No results observed.
W4355T  F/O I.W.Covington, J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 1841  Down 2339.  Bremen attacked from 20,000’.  Cloud over target.  Sky marker flares seen and bombed.  Flares in sights.  No ground detail observed.
W4249L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/Sgt J.E.McAvoy, F/L J.A.Grieves, Sgts W.F.Guy, A.Channon, G.Lambert.  Up 1848  Down 2345.  Believed Bremen attacked.  20,000’ – cloud.  Flares and TI markers in sights.  Bombs seen to explode through cloud.  Gained no impression of attack owing to cloud.  Defences were not opened up until bombs were dropped.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, P/O R.P.Clayton, Sgts A.Westwell, G.Johnson, F/Sgt Mort, Sgt R.Batson, P/O D.Rodger.  Up 1855 Down 0002.  Bremen attacked from 18,000’.  Cloud over target.  Sky marker flares seen but bombed on TI markers.  Markers in sights.  Bomb flash seen.  Glow of good fire seen through cloud.  Uneventful trip.
R5917K  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, R.Rae, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donaghue.  Up 1904  Down 2340.  Bremen attacked from 18,000’.  Much cloud over target.  Bombed sky marker flares which were in sights.  No results observed.
ED323C  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt A.Innes, P/O W.Langworthy, Sgt J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  Up 1852  Down 0027.  Bremen target attacked.  Cloud over target.  Big red TI marker seen through cloud.  Flashes of explosions seen through cloud.  If PFF bombed, so did we. 

22.2.43 No flying, weather misty.  4 aircraft return from diversion.

23.2.43 No flying, weather hazy.

24.2.43 No flying, weather hazy.  10 aircraft detailed for ops – later cancelled.

25.2.43 9 aircraft detailed to attack Nuremburg.  All aircraft reported successful bombing of the target.  Thick haze was encountered over the target area.  Two aircraft also on night bombing.

25/26 February 1943 Nuremburg

ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, H.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1929  Down 0254.  Nuremburg successfully attacked from 9,500’.  No cloud but strong ground haze.  Bombed on first TI markers to go down.  Not able to see ground detail owing to haze.  PFF were late.  Port inner engine went u/s on return trip.
ED323C  F/L Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillen, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1941  Down 0319.  Nuremburg attacked from 10,000’.  Considerable ground haze.  Cluster of red and green TI markers in sights which we bombed.  Good number of fires in area.  PFF about 20 minutes late.
R5896Y  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1948  Down 0327.  Nuremburg bombed from 9,000’.  Ground haze.  No cloud.  Bombed frist red TI markers.  No fires or ground detail observed while over target – fires and explosions seen after leaving.  Little opposition.
W4355T  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, W.Hill.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1954  Down 0303.  Nuremburg bombed from 9,000’.  No cloud – ground haze.  Bombed of centre of TI markers.  Fires seen through ground haze.  Very straightforward trip.
R5917K  P/O J.Lennox, P/O R.P.Clayton, F/O P.D.Hallam, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts W.F.Guy, H.R.Page, E.White.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1937  Down 0342.  Primary objective Nuremburg attacked from 11,000’.  Considerable ground haze.  Bombed centre of TI markers.  4000 pounder appeared to land on green TI marker.  PFF were late and several aircraft bombed before they arrived. 
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts W.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, F/O P.B.Ballantyne, Sgt R.Batson, P/O D.Rodger.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1942  Down 0337.  Nuremburg attacked from 10,000’.  No cloud but hazy.  Bombed green TI markers, no results seen.  Built up area identified visually.  Large fires, presumably factory, burning fiercely.  PFF timing very late.
R3552P  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/Sgt J.E.McAvoy, S/Lt D.S.Watt, Sgts Williams, T.Skinner, G.Lambert.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1952  Down 0257.  Primary target attacked.  Considerable ground haze.  Bombed between two green markers.  No results observed but several bursts seen.  PFF were late.
R5614G  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, T.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, F/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1945  Down 0313.  Nuremburg attacked from 9,000’.  Much ground haze.  Bombed first red TI markers to be dropped.  Bomb fell north of TI marker which lit up built up area.  Believed to be the first aircraft to bomb.
R5612R  F/O J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, S/Lt W.H.Lett, Sgts E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2005  Down 0331.  Primary target attacked.  Much ground haze.  Bombed on cluster of green TI markers.  No ground detail picked out.  Long factory type of building seen to burst into flames followed by large explosion.  Some aircraft failed to wait for PFF.

26.2.43 11 Lancasters detailed to Cologne.  All successfully reached and bombed the target in reasonably clear weather.

26/27 February 1943 Cologne

R5614G  F/L Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1913  Down 2327.  Cologne bombed from 20,000’.  No cloud, slight ground haze.  Bombed on red and green TI markers.  No results from own bombs seen.  Good number of fires in target area.
W4887N  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt A.Innes, P/O W.Langworthy, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1824  Down 0003.  Primary objective attacked from 20,000’.  Clear – ground haze.  Bombed centre of green TI markers.  One area, east of town seen to be well alight.  Many other fires in centre of town and others starting.
R5896Y  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1853  Down 2342.  Primary target successfully attacked from 20,000’.  Smoke and ground haze.  Bombed cluster of green TI markers but target also identified visually.  Many bursts and fires seen in target area.  Opposition was light.
R5915Q  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1822  Down 2358.  Cologne successfully bombed from 18,000’.  Many bursts seen after we had released bombs on cluster of green TI markers which were in sights.  Many good fires seen.  If PFF found the right spot, a successful trip.
R5483D  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/Sgt J.E.McAvoy, Sgts W.Standring, Peters, T.Skinner, G.Lambert.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1838  Down 2312.  Cologne attacked from 21,000’.  No cloud, slight ground haze.  Bombed estimated centre of cluster of TI markers.  Fires seen burning to north of town.  Incendiaries seen burning inside and outside target area.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts W.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, F/O P.B.Ballantyne, Sgt R.Batson, P/O D.Rodger.  1 x 4000lb 12  SBC.  Up 1834  Down 0017.  Primary objective successfully attacked.  20,ooo’.  Some haze.  Bombed centre of green TI markers.  4000 pounder seen to burst in built up area.  Good trip if PFF were accurate.
ED425E  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, G.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, F/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1840  Down 2323.  Primary target Cologne attacked from 20,000’.  No cloud, slight ground haze.  Bombed on green TI markers.  Target identified visually.  11 fair size fires seen burning.
W4825H  P/O J.Lennox, P/O R.P.Clayton, F/O P.D.Hallam, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts W.F.Guy, H.R.Page, H.White.  1 x 4000lb  12 SBC.  Up 1828  Down 0013.  Target Colgone attacked.  Clear with ground haze from 19,000’.  Target observed visually but bombed centre of green TI markers.  No fires seen.  PFF were dropping their flares all over the place.  Very little opposition.
R5917K  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, J.L.Gardner, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1847  Down 0030.  Primary objective attacked from 20,000’.  No cloud, ground haze.  Saw red TI markers from a distance but bombed on green TI markers by the time aircraft reached target.  Approx 12 good fires starting in target area.
R5612R  F/L J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts Cummings, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1844  Down 2350.  Cologne attacked.  Reasonably clear, some smoke and ground haze.  Bearing taken on red markers.  Released bomb on concentration of green TI markers.  Target identified visually.  Large scattered fires seen burning.
R5572P  Sgts W.S.Treacy, H.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1905  Down 2347.  Primary objective Cologne attacked.  Bombed on cluster of green TI markers but no results observed.  Several fires seen starting in target area. 

27.2.43 Two aircraft detailed and successfully laid mines in “Nectarine” Area.  Weather fine but hazy.

27/28 February 1943 Gardening – “Nectarine” Area – 6 mines

R5483D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.H.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, Bone .  Up 1848  Down 2243.  Primary target successfully planted with veg.  No cloud but very hazy.  Pin-pointed from western tip of Juist.  Veg landed in correct position.  Uneventful trip.
W4825H  Sgts A.Innes, R.Unwin, C.E.Bellamy, H.M.Frew, A.S.Adger, L.A.Horne, J.Little.  Up 1852  Down 2358.  Nectarine garden successfully planted with veg.  600’, no cloud but hazy.  Made time run from Juist.  Pin-pointed and laid mines in correct position.  Uneventful trip.

28.2.43 10 aircraft detailed to attack St Nazaire.  All aircraft successfully bombed the target and many fires were seen.  One very large explosion was observed.  Weather fine with considerable ground haze.

28 February/1 March 1943 St Nazaire

ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts W.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, F/O P.B.Ballantyne, Sgt R.Batson, P/O D.Rodger.  1 x 4000lb 12  SBC.  Up 1818  Down 2352.  Primary objective St Nazaire attacked from 14,000’.  Clear with ground haze.  Bombed red TI markers.  Several large explosions observed.  Many good fires burning in town.  Successful raid.
R5614G  P/O P.M.Anderson, Sgts R.C.Swetman, T.I.Williams, F.J.Jones, F/O F.G.G.Lush, Sgt A.Channon, F/O T.Trilsbeck.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1819  Down 2334.  Primary target attacked from 13,000’.  No cloud, ground haze and smoke.  Coast line identified visually.  Bombed on green TI markers which were in sights.  One large fire seen and others were starting.
R5917K  P/O J.Lennox, Sgt S.W.Archer, F/O P.D.Hallam, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts Ramsden, H.R.Page, E.White.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1821  Down 0031.  St Nazaire bombed from 14,000’.  Clear but suspected smoke screen.  Bombed on green TI markesr.  Target seemed late in waking up.  Few fires seen starting which increased as we reached French coast.
ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, H.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1825  Down 2355.  Primary target attacked.  Much ground haze, no cloud.  Bombed on red and green TI markers.  Ground detail not clear enough observe results or pin-point.  Bursts seen and fires observed developing.
ED425E  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, F/L J.A.Grieves, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  1 x 4000lb 12  SBC.  Up 1831  Down 2344.  Primary objective successfully attacked from 13,500’.  Consdierable ground haze.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sights.  Coast line identified visually.  Number of small fires seen which increased as we left.
ED323O  F/L Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  1 x 4000lb  12 SBC.  Up 1842  Down 0009.  St Nazaire attacked from 15,000’.  Bombed cluster of green TI markers.  Visual of coast line.  Raid was concentrated and many fires were developing well.  Tail of aircraft collapsed on landing.
W4887N  F/L J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, S/Lt W.H.Lett, Sgts E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, F/Sgt E.Speight.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1843  Down 2338.  St Nazaire successfully attacked.  14,000’, smoke haze.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Saw 4000 pounder but just west of it.  Good concentration of fires seen and developing.  Many explosions observed.
R5552P  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1833  Down 0026.  Primary objective attacked from 13,000’.  No cloud but large amount of smoke and ground haze.  Identified river visually and bombed on red and green TI markers.  Many fires seen getting a good hold.  Hit by flak but carried on.
R5896Y  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, W.Brierley.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 1840  Down 0005.  Primary attacked from 15,000’.  Considerable ground haze.  Bombed centre cluster of green TI markers.  One very large explosion observed followed by flames.  Sticks of incendiaries seen to straddle town.
R5607K  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, P/O W.Langworthy, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1838  Down 0035.  Primary St Nazaire successfully attacked.  Ground haze made worse by smoke screen.  Saw and bombed red TI marker flares.  Own bomb burst observed.  One particularly large flash and many fires observed.

1.3.43 11 Lancasters detailed to bomb Berlin.  9 aircraft reported successfully bombing the target or target area and many good fires were seen, the glow from which was visible 150 to 200 miles away.  Weather was fine with no cloud and only slight haze.  One aircraft abandoned the mission due to technical failure and one aircraft, with Sgt Innes and crew are missing.

1/2 March 1943 Berlin

(listed as Pilot, F/E, Nav, A/B, W/Op, MG, RG.)

ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 1854  Down 0145.  Primary target Berlin successfully attacked from 19,000’.  Good visibility.  No cloud.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sights.  15 big fires were well concentrated in built up area.  Glow of fires seen from 70 miles away.
R5896Y  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, E.L.Cohn, J.L.Gardener, J.L.Hannah, Strange, J.Brierley.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 1859  Down 2158.  Mission abandoned due to technical failure.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
R5915Q  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 1852  Down 0204.  Berlin attacked in good visibility, slight ground haze, at 18,500’.  Centre of TI markers in sights when we bombed, river identified visually.  Numerous fires seen in target area.  Fires seen from 70 miles away.
R5552P  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, Bane.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 1850  Down 0234.  Primary objective bombed from 16,000’.  No clud.  Bombed on green TI markers which were in sights but bursts from our own bombs seen.  Flames from fires seen 100 miles away.  Flak in port wing.
R5490B  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts J.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, F/O P.B.Ballantyne, Sgt R.Batson, F/O D.Rodger.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 1906  Down 0139.  Berlin successfully attacked.  Slight haze over target.  Identified built up area and river visually.  Bombed cluster of red and green TI markers.  Many bursts and fires observed.  Glow of fires seen 150 miles from target.
ED425E  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/Sgt J.E.McAvoy, F/L J.A.Grieves, Sgts Williams, A.Channon, G.Lambert.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 1847  Down 0110.  Primary target attacked from 21,000’.  Good visibility.  Target identified by bend in river.  Cluster of TI markers in sights when we bombed.  4000 pounder seen to explode.  29 fires counted in target area.  Raid well concentrated.
R5617K  Sgts K.Brown, H.Hogg, F.H.Alexander, J.Roche, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 1856  Down 0134.  Berlin successfully bombed from 20,000’.  Visibility good.  Bombed on red TI markers when in sights.  15 good fires seen.  Glow of fires seen from Hanover.  Flak over target was moderate.  Better raid than previous time.
W4825H  Sgts A.Innes, R.Unwin, C.E.Bellamy, H.M.Frew, Adger, L.A.Horne, J.Little.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 1849 – aircraft and crew missing.
R5612R  F/L J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts F.J.Jones, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1903  Down 0152.  Berlin attacked from 20,000’.  Visibility good – some smoke haze.  Bombed on cluster of red and green TI markers which were in sights.  Too mnay fires to count – concentrated in target area.  Glow of fires seen from Bremen.
R5607X  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgts J.Dean, Williams, J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1905  Down 0158.  Primary target bombed from 20,000’.  Clear except for slight haze.  Built up area identified visually.  Bombed on cluster of red TI markers which were in sights.  Own bomb seen to burst.  Many fires counted.
R5914G  P/O K.Lennox, Sgt S.W.Archer, F/O P.D.Hallam, F/Sgt D.King, Sgts Ramsden, H.R.Page, E.White.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1855 Down 0209.  Berlin successfully attacked.  Weather perfect except for slight haze.  Bomb seen to burst when released on cluster of red and green TI markers.  Widespread fires whole and well alight. 

2.3.43 One aircraft detailed to lay mines in Deodars Area.  The trip was reported as successful and uneventful but marred by poor visibility.

2/3 March 1943 Gardening in “Deodars” Area – 4 mines

R5490B  F/Sgt W.McLoud, Sgts P.J.Horsham, S.Trowsdale, B.L.May, Thompson, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  Up 1929  Down 0527.  Mines successfully laid in Deodars area.  No cloud, very hazy.  Pin-pointed Cordouan Island and made time run from there.  Uneventful trip. 

3.3.43 11 aircraft detailed to bomb Hamburg.  8 aircraft attacked the town and all but one crew saw the marker bombs.  Many good fires were observed and the glow was visible some distance from the target.  One aircraft bombed a last resort, Friedrichskoog owing to technical failure.  Two aircraft jettisoned jettisoned bombs and returned due to technical failures.  No cloud but considerable ground haze over the target.

3/4 March 1943 Hamburg – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

R5483D  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/Sgt J.E.McAvoy, F/L J.A.Grieves, Sgt Williams, F/O T.Trilsbeck, Sgt G.Lambert.  Up 1923  Down 2340.  Hamburg bombed from 18,000’, misty haze up to 16,000’, smoke on ground.  Bombed centre cluster of red TI markers to south fo fire area.  12 good fires counted which later appeared to be merging into one.
ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.J.Roberts, W/O H.C.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, Sgts Daniels, W.T.Saunders.  Up 1904  Down 0009.  Primary objective attacked.  No cloud, visibility about 20 miles.  Bombed centre of TI markers, dock area identified visually.  Several fires observed.  Trip according to plan.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts J.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, F/O P.B.Ballantyne, Sgt R.Batson, F/O D.Rodger.  Up 1908 Down 2336.  Last resort – believed Friedrichskogg attacked from 19,000’.  No cloud – rather hazy.  Estuary of Elbe visually identified and estimated position of Friedrichskogg bombed.  4000 pounder seen to burst and start fire.
R5917K  P/O K.Lennox, Sgt S.W.Archer, F/L P.M.Cutting, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts Ramsden, H.R.Page, E.White.  Up 1902  Down 0013.  Hamburg attacked.  Clear of cloud but hazy at 18,000’.  Bombed centre of red and green TI markers.  Only a few scattered fires seen.  Activity over target was not too great.
ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 1906  Down 2039.  Mission abandoned owing to technical failure.  Bombs jettisoned live.
R5552P S/L E.F.Nind, Sgt J.Pulford, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts R.N.Nelson, W.Burr, P/O A.R.Poole, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 1925  Down 2144.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned.
W4355T  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgts A.Wood, W.A.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1910  Down 2358.  Hamburg attacked from 18,000’.  No cloud, visibility fair. TI markers ahd burnt out by the time the aircraft reached the target area.  We therefore bombed south of the area covered with fire.  Fires were many.  Black smoke spread over whole area.
W4200W  F/L J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts Jones, E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, E.Speight.  Up 1927  Down 0021.  Primary target attacked at 17000’ but slight haze.  No TI markers seen.  Bombed southern edge of fires started by previous aircraft.  Believed part of dock area identified visually on run in.  Fires rather scattered.
R5896Y  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgts J.Dean, Williams, J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, A.McAlhone, F/Sgt Birtwistle.  Up 1922 Down 0006.  Hamburg attacked from 19,000’.  No cloud but slight haze.  Bombed on centre of green TI markers which were in sights.  Rear gunner saw flash from own bombs.  Many large fires spread over target area.  Great concentration of searchlights.
R5915Q  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 1919  Down 2349.  Primary target attacked from 17,000’.  No cloud but ground haze hid everything.  Bombed centre cluster of green TI markers.  Flash from bombs seen.  Many good fires seen.  Glow of fires seen from 85 miles.

R5490B  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, R.Frank, A.W.Taylor, Whiting.  Up 1917  Down 0023.  Hamburg attacked 17,000’.  No cloud.  Green TI markers confirmed by outline of River Elbe – this we bombed and observed own burst.  Number of good fires.  We bombed late in attack.  Ground detail obscured by smoke from fires. 

4.3.43 Stand down today.  No flying.

5.3.43 12 Lancasters detailed to attack the Krupps Works at Essen.  All aircraft reported successfully having attacked the target or target area and all crews agreed the raid was well concentrated.  There were many large fires and explosions, smoke reaching a height of 6,000’.  Weather was fine but hazy.

5/6 March 1943 Essen – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.J.Roberts, W/O H.G.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/O F.G.G.Lush, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1842  Down 2319.  Primary target Essen attacked from 20,000’.  7/10ths cloud.  Bombed red TI markers, no ground detail visible.  Fires visible, concentrated and increased as we left target.
R5917K  P/O K.Lennox, Sgt R.C.Swetman, F/L P.M.Cutting, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts S.S.Ramsden, H.R.Page, E.White.  Up 1848  Down 2359.  Primary target Essen attacked from 19,000’. No low or medium cloud but hazy.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sights.  Large number of separate fires seen close together.  One very large explosion observed.
R5914G  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clarke, Sgts R.Rae, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donoghue.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1849  Down 2343.  Essen attacked 21,000’.  Clear with ground haze.  Bombed red TI markers which were in sights, own bomb seen to burst.  Fires so concentrated they appeared as one.  Colossal red explosion seen in target area.  Glow of fires seen 150 miles away.
R5607X  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1846  Down 2326.  Essen – Krupps target bombed.  20,000’.  No cloud.  Bombed on TI markers.  Many concentrated fires.  Surprising lack of defences.
R5490B  F/Sgt W.McLoud, Sgts P.J.Horsham, S.Trowsdale, B.L.May, F/Sgt L.E.Thompson, F/Sgt T.Goacher, Sgt J.Baker.  Up 1853  Down 2347.  Primary objective attacked.  No cloud but considerable ground haze.  Time run from yellow markers.  Bombed on red and green markers.  Many fires and several explosions observed.  Quiet trip.
W4200W  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgt J.Pulford, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts Nelson, W.Burr, P/O R.A.Poole, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 1845  Down 2331.  Primary target attacked.  21,000’.  Thin cloud at 10000’.  Bombed centre cluster of red TI markers.  Approximately 25 good fires, one very large.  Glow of fires visible from Dutch coast.
W4355T  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1841  Down 2336.  Krupps works Essen attacked.  21,000’.  Clear but smoke from fires.  Bombed on green TI markers.  Own bombs seen to burst among concentrated fires.  One very large explosion observed on leaving target.
R5612R  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts J.F.Gardner, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Dillon.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1851  Down 2312.  Primary objective attacked.  22,000’ clear, no cloud.  Bombed red TI markers which were in sights.  One very large explosion seen.  About 30 fires counted as aircraft was about to leave target area.
R5896Y  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, F/Sgt J.A.McAvoy, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, Freedman, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  Up 1857  Down 2322.  Primary target Essen bombed.  No cloud much smoke haze.  Time run from yellow markers.  Bombed on red TI markers.  One very large fire with flames 2000’ high ssen.  Many other large fires.  Every indication that industrial area was bombed.
R5915Q  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 1835  Down 2316.  Krupps workd Essen attacked from 19,000’.  Thin cloud, much smoke haze rising in columns.  Bombed green TI markers.  Bombs seen to burst and cause big yellow flash.  Many fires observed.  One large explosion seen on leaving target.
R5483D  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, R.Frank, A.W.Taylor, W.Lochrie.  Up 1847  Down 0001.  Primary objective bombed.  18,000’, thin cloud and haze.  No TI markers after making run from yellow Tis.  Bombed farthest edge of fires.  Large number of concentrated fires observed.
ED430C  F/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, M.Griffiths, F/Sgt R.Birtwistle, Sgt W.Whiting.  Up 1858  Down 2339.  Essen attacked 19,000’.  Clear with industrial haze.  Fires made red TI markers difficult to see.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sights.  Own bombs seen to burst among fires.  Very concentrated fires.  Large explosion seen.  

6.3.43 11 aircraft for ops – later cancelled.  One aircraft on night training.

7.3.43 12 aircraft for ops – later cancelled.

8.3.43 12 Lancasters detailed to attack Nuremburg.  10 aircraft reported success.  PFF markers were scattered, there being three distinct concentrations, most of the crews bombed the largest cluster.  Numerous scattered fires were reported, some being particularly good.  Two aircraft returned early owing to technical failures.

8/9 March 1943 Nurnburg – Bomb laod 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

R5483D  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/O Crockett (Nav 1), F/Sgt J.A.McAvoy (Nav 2), S/Lt D.S.Watt, Sgts Williams, Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 1932  Down 0255.  Primary target Nurnburg attacked from 10,500’.  Clear, broken cloud.  Saw built up area by light of green flashes.  Bombed on green TI markers.  Own results not seen.  One bomb seen to explode in railway yard.  Many fires seen.
ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, F/O Robertson, W/O H.G.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1928  Down 0309.  Primary objective attacked 12,000’, visibility moderate.  Bombed cluster of green TI markers which were in sights.  PFF not so good – TI markers very scattered.  Bomb bursts seen in built up area.  Some good fires.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts J.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, F/O P.B.Ballantyne, Sgt R.Batson, F/O D.Rodger.  Up 1933  Down 0308.  Nurnburg attacked from 12,500’.  Clear.  Bombed cluster of green TI markers in sights.  Built up area observed by light of illuminations.  Numerous good fires, one very big blaze to south east of town.
ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 1937  Down  0246.  Target Nurnburg attacked.  Clear with ground haze at 13,000’.  TI markers widely scattered, bombed on centre of 4 green TIs.  One very large explosion and scattered fires observed.  Not a good effort – PFF duff.
R5490B  F/Sgt W.McCloud, Sgts P.J.Horsham, Cohn, B.L.May, F/Sgt L.E.Thompson, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  Up 1930  Down 2133.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned.
W4355T  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1935  Down 0317.  Nurnburg bombed from 14,000’.  No cloud, visibility moderate.  Very scattered TI markers seen.  Bombed largest cluster of green TI markers.  Some fires.  Raid was all over the place.
W4175U  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgt J.Pulford, P/O F.G.Rumbles, Sgts R.N.Nelson, W.Burr, F/Sgt T.Goacher, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 1939  Down 0312.  Nurnburg attacked 12,000’.  Clear with slight ground haze.  Centre cluster of green TI markers bombed.  Several large fires seen scattered over a large area.  Suspected enemy of using decoy TI markers just before zero hour.
R5896Y  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, F/L P.M.Cutting, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, Freedman, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  Up 1925  Down 0324.  Primary objective attacked.  13,000’.  Clear, slight haze.  Saw built up area.  TI markers were very scattered.  Bombed green TI markers which were in sights.  Bomb bursts seen in built up area.  25 fires counted.  Lack of concentration.
W4200W  F/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, M.Griffiths, F/Sgt Birtwistle, Sgt W.Whiting.  Up 1924  Down 0320.  Nurnburg target bombed.  Clear with ground haze at 13,000’.  Bombed centre of cluster of green TI markers, own bombs seen to burst.  Bombs seen to land in railway siding.  Numerous scattered fires in target area.
R5915Q  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 1922  Down 2131.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned and seen to burst.
R5607X  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, R.Frank, A.W.Taylor, Baggs.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1920  Down 0303.  Primary objective attacked.  13,000’.  Clear – hazy.  Built up area observed visually.  Bombed on green TI markers.  Number of good fires seen, one particularly large one.
R5914G  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.Rae, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donoghue.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1927  Down 0250.  Nurnburg attacked.  Clear with slight ground haze at 14,000’.  Released in cluster of green TI markers which were in sights.  No results seen.  Several scattered fires.  Markers were dropped haphazardly.  Fighter opposition round flares.

9.3.43 9 Lancasters detailed to attack Munich.  9 aircraft successfully attacked target.  Many fires reported, one particularly large in the south east of Munich.  Most crews report having seen a very large explosion followed by fire and smoke.  One aircraft returned early due to technical failure after jettisoning bombs.  10.3.43      Three Lancasters detailed to lay mines in Privet Area and one in Spinach Area.  All report successful laying of mines.  Weather was fine with good visibility.

9/10 March 1943 Munich

ED430C  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.Rae, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donoghue.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.Up 2047  Down 2021.  Mission abandoned over aerodrome due to technical trouble.  Bombs jettisoned and seen to explode.
W5609S  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts A.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2100  Down 0451.  Primary target Munich attacked.  14,000’, clear, visibility good.  Markers had burnt out by the time aircraft reached the target.  Bombed the centre of area where fires were observed burning.  Numerous scattered fires.  One particularly large explosion.
R5612R  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, R.Frank, A.W.Taylor, Dillon.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2045  Down 0358.  Munich attacked from 17,000’.  Slight ground haze.  Too late for TI markers so bombed built up area where fires were burning.  One very large explosion seen as we approached target.  Few scattered fires.
R5917K  F/Sgt W.McLeod, Sgts P.J.Horsham, Cohn, B.L.May, F/Sgt L.E.Thompson, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2045  Down 0358.  Munich bombed.  Late going in to target, no markers were observed.  Bombed area of concentrated fires.  One particularly large explosion was seen in target area.
W4200W  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2042  Down 0404.  Primary target attacked from 11,000’.  Much smoke from fires in target area.  Bombed on cluster of green TI markers which were in sights.  Very violent explosion seen at 00.17 hours.  Concentrated fires seen.
ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.J.Roberts, W/O H.G.Boyd, Sgt D.A.McLean, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 2043  Down 0408.  Munich bombed from 9,000’.  No cloud but hazy.  Bombed on cluster of green TI markers which were in sights.  Two very large explosions seen.  Many scattered fires observed.
W4926Z  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts J.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, F/O P.B.Ballantyne, Sgt R.Batson, F/O D.Rodger.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2049  Down 0415.  Primary target Munich bombed.  13,000’.  Layer of thin cloud.  No TI markers were burning while we over target so bombs were released on centre of fire area.  Haze obscured ground detail.  Several scattered fires.  One large explosion.
R5552P  F/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, M.Griffiths, F/Sgt Birtwistle, Sgt W.Whiting.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 2051  Down 0512.  Munich attacked from 14,000’.  Belt of smoke haze.  Arrived late on target, no TI markers seen.  Bombed centre of fires which were in sights.  Number of small fires blending into one seen.  Searchlights active and heavy flak.
R5896Y  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, F/L P.M.Cutting, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, Freedman, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 2052  Down 0411.  Primary objective attacked.  Clear – visibility good.  Time run from lake green TI markers.  One green marker in sights when we bombed.  About 32 scattered fires counted.  One particularly large fire followed by big explosion.
ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.Brantignham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, Baggs.  1 x 4000lb 10 SBC.  Up 2102  Down 0353.  Munich bombed.  13,000’.  2/10ths cloud, visibility good.  Built up area identified visually by light of flares.  Bombed centre cluster of green TI markers.  Concentrated fires and one very large orange flash observed.

10/11 March 1943 Gardening in “Privet” Area – 4 mines

W4355T  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1756  Down 1933.  Mission abandoned over aerodrome owing to technical failure.  Vegetables jettisoned safe.
R5896Y  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/Sgt J.A.McAvoy, Lt D.S.Watt, Sgts Williams, Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 1828  Down 0424.  Mines laid in Priver area from 800’.  No cloud, dark, visibility good.  Mouth of Vistula identified.  Mines not seen.
ED591M  Sgts K.Brown, H.Hogg, F.H.Alexander, J.Roche, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  Up 1804  Down 0356.  Primary target reached, mines dropped in allocated position from 800’.
R5483D  F/Sgt W.McLeod, Sgts P.J.Horsham, Cohn, B.L.May, F/Sgt L.E.Thompson, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  Up 1759  Down 0413.  Primary Privet garden successfully planted with vegetables.  Identified mouth of Vistula and made time run from there.  No cloud, visibility good.  

11.3.43 12 Lancasters detailed to bomb Stuttgart.  9 aircraft report bombing the target.  Bombing  did not appear to be too concentrated, though some good fires were seen.  Weather over target was good, there being no cloud but some haze.  One aircraft bombed a last resort target owing to engine trouble.  This target was an airfield and bursts were believed to have been on runways.  Two aircraft returned early due to technical failure.

11/12 March 1943 Stuttgart – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

R5552P  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgts P.J.Roberts, D.A.McLean, F/Sgt D.B.King, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 2003 Down 0214.  Primary target Stuttgart attacked.  11,000’, clear but hazy.  Identified built up area visually.  Bombed on cluster of green TI markers which was in sights.  Fires beginning to start.  PFF were late.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts J.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, G.Johnson, F/O P.B.Ballantyne, Sgt R.Batson, F/O D.Rodger.  Up 2004  Down 0212.  Stuttgart bombed from 13,000’.  Clear with ground haze.  All TI markers were out, bombed centre of fires which were in sights.  Nothing remarkable in the way of fires but target turned redder as we were leaving.
W4355T  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1948  Down 0227.  Primary target attacked from 14,000’.  Clear.  Visibility quite good.  Bombed centre cluster of green TI markers which were in sights.  Own bomb bursts seen.  Fires began to develop as aircraft left target.
R5607X  F/L J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, P/O F.G.Rumbles, S/Lt Lett, Sgts E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, F/Sgt E.Speight.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2031  Down 0245.  Stuttgart attacked.  13,000’.  Considerable ground haze and smoke haze.  No TI markers when in position to bomb.  Bombed where markers were last seen.  No ground detail seen.  About 12 good fires counted.
R5896Y  P/O M.R.Cuelenaere, Sgt J.Dean, F/L P.M.Cutting, Sgts J.H.Clay, G.F.Gower, Freedman, F/Sgt H.Weeks.  Up 2005  Down 0223.  Stuttgart attacked from 14,000’.  Slight ground haze.  TI markers widely dispersed.  Bombed centre of green markers and own bursts observed.  Very few fires.  Quiet uneventful trip – very easy target.
R5490B  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.Rae, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donoghue.  Up 1949  Down 0207.  Primary objective attacked.  14,000’.  Clear, slight ground haze.  Green markers in sights when we bombed.  About 6 fires counted in south east part of town, black smoke in SSW part of town.
R5483D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 1931  Down 0243.  Stuttgart attacked in good weather from 13,500’.  Visual identification of green markers which were in sights and which we bombed.  Good covering of scattered fires and smoke.  Some accurate flak over target.
ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 1944  Down 2307.  Mission abandoned due to rear turret u/s.  Bombs jettisoned.
W4926Z  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 1942  Down 0220.  Primary target attacked.  Visibility good.  Built up area identified visually by light of flares.  Bombed single TI marker in sights.  Own bursts seen.  6 pr 7 red fires counted.  Trip as anticipated.  Nothing unusual to report.
R5915Q  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, S.S.Ramsden, A.W.Taylor, Dillon.  Up 1941  Down 0107.  Last resort, believed aerodrome attacked at 49.05N 05.09E.  Cloudy with ground haze.  Saw lights believed aerodrome.  Bombs believed to have fallen on aerodrome.  Starboard engine u/s and unable to maintain height – bombed first suitable target.
R5609S  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgt J.Pulford, F/Sgt J.A.McAvoy, Sgts R.Nelson, W.Burr, P/O A.R.Poole, P/O L.G.Mussi.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2002  Down 2301.  Mission abandoned due to wireless system u/s.  Bomb jettisoned.
R5612R  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts A.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1939  Down 0236.  Primary target Stuttgart attacked.  13,000’.  Clear, slight ground haze.  All TI markers had gone out when we were ready to bomb.  Bomb released on edge of fire area but not seen to burst.  Hardly enough PFF markers. 

12.3.43 11 Lancasters detailed to bomb Essen.  7 aircraft report successful bombing of the target and large fires and one outstanding explosion were seen.  Weather was good with ground haze.  One aircraft (Sgt Plaunt) is missing.  Three aircraft returned earky due to technical failures.

12/13 March 1943 Essen – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

W4355T  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgts A.Wood, J.W.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1859  Down  2329.  Primary target Essen attacked from 20,000’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sights.  Very large concentration of fires round TI markers.  Opposition over target was intense.
W4200W  F/L J.L.Munro, P/O Weight (2nd Pilot), P/O F.G.Rumbles, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, F/Sgt E.Speight.  Up 1905  Down 2347.  Essen successfully bombed.  18,000’.  Visibility good except for smoke haze.  Red TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Large concentration of fires round red TI markers.  All appearance of very satisfactory raid.
R5483D  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, P/O Pratt (Nav 2), Sgts R.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 1903  Down 2325.  Primary objective attacked.  Clear but slight haze at 20,000’.  Bombed centre of green TI markers, own 4000 pounder seen to burst.  5 large fires and about 30 smaller ones counted.  Good concentrated raid.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts J.Radcliffe, A.Westwell, Ball (Nav 2), G.Johnson, L.Eaton, R.Batson, F/O D.Rodger.  Up 1909  Down 2351.  Primary target Essen bombed.  20,000’.  Clear but hazy.  Red TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Very large explosion seen immediately after bombing.  Target area well covered with fires.  Other terrific explosions seen.
R5896Y  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 1910  Down 2337.  Primary target Essen attacked.  17,000’, very clear.  Bombed on red TI markers, own bursts not seen.  One large explosion and many very large fires burning as we left target.  Flames seen from dutch coast.  Good trip.
R5490B  F/Sgt W.McLeod, Sgts P.J.Horsham, E.L.Cohn, B.L.May, F/Sgt L.E.Thompson, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  Up 1908  Down 2202.  Mission abandoned over aerodrome owing to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned.
ED425E  Sgts K.Brown, H.Hogg, F.H.Alexander, D.Meade, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  Up 1911 Down 2046.  Mission abandoned over aerodrome.  Starboard engine u/s.  Bombs jettisoned.
ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 1913  Down 2322.  Target Essen attacked.  18,700’.  No cloud.  Visibility fairly good.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sights.  Large concentration of fires, two particularly large.  Fires visible from Dutch coast.  Heavy opposition.
R5917K  Sgts A.Johnson, J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.Rae, Peters, R.N.Daniels, M.T.O’Donoghue.  Up 1916  Down 2050.  Mission abandoned over aerodrome due to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned.
R5607X  Sgts D.C.Plaunt, T.L.Williams, P/O A.J.Smith, Sgts J.L.Viau, W.Burr, A.W.Taylor, Dillon.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1907 – aircraft and crew missing.
W4926Z  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, P/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, Strange, Brierley.  Up 1915  Down 2342.  Primary target Essen bombed.  18,000’.  No cloud but haze and smoke.  Red TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Built up area visually identified by light of fires.  Great concentration of fires.  Heavy flak over target.   

13.3.43 One Lancaster detailed to lay mines in Silverthorn II area.  The mission was successfully completed in good weather.  The remainder of the Squadron stood down with the exception of two crews on training flights.

13/14 March 1943 Gardening in “Silverthorne” Area – 6 mines

R5917P  P/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, P/O E.G.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, P/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.Hebb.  Up 1955  Down 0225.  Vegetables successfully planted in allotted position.  No cloud, visibility good and light.

14.3.43 12 Lancasters detailed for ops – later cancelled.

15.3.43 12 Lancasters detailed for ops – later cancelled.  Training was carried out.

16.3.43 There was a stand down but training flights were carried out.

17.3.43 12 Lancasters detailed for ops – later cancelled.  Training was carried out.

18.3.43 As 17.3.43.

19.3.43 No ops today.  Some training flights.

20.3.43 No ops.  Low level formation training flights and night cross country flights carried out.

21.3.43 No ops – high and low level formation training flights carried out.

22.3.43 12 aircraft detailed for ops (St Nazaire).  One (F/O Weight) returned early on account of engine trouble. All other aircraft claimed to have reached and bombed the target area.  Bright moonlight with good visibility.  All aircraft but one landed away from base.

22/23 March 1943 St Nazaire – bomb load 11 x 1000lb unless stated

W4249L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, Sgts Keddie, Williams, Skinner, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 1901  Down 2355.  St Nazaire attacked from 11,000’.  Clear with slight ground haze.  Bombed on green TI markers which were in sights.  Own bomb bursts seen.  Bombed too early to see any fires.  Light flak encountered.
ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgt P.J.Roberts, W/O H.G.Boyd, F/L J.A.Grieves, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1908  Down 0004.  Primary objective successfully attacked.  Moonlight.  Slight cloud and ground haze.  11,000’.  Identified river visually and bombed on TI markers.  Own explosions seen.  Fires were starting as we left area.  PFF very good.
ED430C  F/O J.V.McCarthy, Sgts J.Radcliffe, D.A.McLean, G.Johnson, L.Eaton, R.Batson, F/O D.Rodger.  Up 1910  down 2356.  St Nazaire bombed.  11,500’, scattered cloud with some ground haze.  Aiming Point not seen, position identified by river mouth.  Fires and red glow seen in area of Aiming Point “C” which we bombed.  Uneventful trip.
R5483D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgts A.S.Palmer, F.H.Alexander, A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 1906  Down 0013.  Primary target bombed.  10,500’, bright moonlight, slight ground haze.  Identified River Loire, bombed in first of TI markers.  Fires starting up as we left target.  Light accurate flak over target.  1 x 1000lb hung up.
R5552P  F/O R.E.Weight, Sgts K.F.Green, E.F.Ball, R.J.Whatley, A.Kemp, L.C.Fisk, J.Tongue.  Up 1907  Down 0001.  Mission abandoned due to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned except for 3 x 1000lb which hung up.
R5917K  F/O B.S.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O E.G.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, P/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 1907  Down 0001.  Primary objective St Nazaire attacked. 10,000’.  Moonlight, clear except for ground haze.  Visually identified docks and river; bombed on TI markers.  Some fires in target area.  Bombing appeared fairly concentrated.
W4355T  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgts A.Wood, W.A.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1913  Down 0040.  Primary objective attacked.  Moonlight, slight cloud and ground haze.  Bombed on TI markers and own bomb bursts observed.
W4175U  F/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.Peel, P/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, M.Griffiths, F/Sgt R.Birtwistle, Sgt W.Whiting.  Up 1919  Down 2357.  Target st Nazaire bombed.  Clear with ground haze.  Some patches of low cloud at 11,000’.  Bombed on green TI markers which were in sights.  Own bomb bursts observed.  Very few fires seen.
R5896Y  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 1920 (no down time shown).  Primary objective attacked.  9,500’.  No cloud, slight haze, full moon.  Docks identified visually.  Area around Aiming Point “C” seen in sights and bombed.  Own bursts seen.  Fires seen to start in area Aiming Point “C”.
W4932N  Sgts A.Reilly, G.C.Grainger, P/O C.W.Hammond, F/O R.J.Hopps, Sgts H.Horne, R.L Griffiths, F.Fisher.  Up 1911  Down 2345.  St Nazaire attacked from 10,000’.  Slight haze otherwise clear.  Position estimated by red TI markers and bombed.  Own bomb bursts seen.  Uneventful trip.
R5614G  F/Sgt W.McLeod, Sgts P.J.Horsham, E.L.Cohn, B.L.May, L.E.Thompson, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1916  Down 2349.  Primary target St nazaire attacked.  11,500’.  Thin cloud, some ground haze.  River identified visually.  Many markers seen in dock area.  Gee fix obtained at time of bombing.  Fire seen in dock area, others starting up.
R5609A  F/L J.L.Munro, Sgt F.E.Appleby, F/O F.G.Rumbles, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts E.Pigeon, W.Howarth, F/Sgt Broomfield.  Up 1917  Down 0005.  Primary target bombed.  Visibility fair with some ground haze.  Dock area seen visually and recognised.  Markers not seen but bombs released on main dock.  Other bursts seen.   

23.3.43 No ops.  Cross countries carried out by 4 crews.

24.3.43 10 aircraft detailed for ops – later cancelled.

25.3.43 As 24.3.43.

26.3.43 8 Lancasters detailed for ops – Duisburg.  7 aircraft claimed to have bombed marker flares.  One aircraft bombed concentration of flak and searchlights.  Weather was 10/10ths cloud over target.  PFF appeared to have gone astray.  No results were observed.

26 March 1943 Duisburg – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

R5612R  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1850  Down 2329.  Last resort attacked from 20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  No TI flares observed.  Nothing seen apart from flak and searchlights, this we bombed.  Estimated that we were near target.
R5614G  F/Sgt W.McLeod, Sgt P.J.Horsham, F/Sgt R.W.Gillespie, Sgts B.L May, Ramsden, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1852  Down 2344.  Duisburg attacked by Wanganui technique.  18,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Target identified by red and green TI marker flares which we bombed.  No ground detail observed.
W4175U  F/O P.H.Norton, Sgts J.Peel, Eayes (Nav 1), F/O G.C.Francis (Nav 2), Sgts J.Metcalfe, M.Griffiths, F/Sgt R.Birtwistle, Sgt W.Whiting.  Up 1853  Down 2347.  Primary objective attacked by Wanganui technique.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on red and green markers.  No results seen.
ED425E  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgts A.S.Palmer, W.Wishart, A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 1902  Down 2350.  Estimated Duisburg target attacked.  10/10ths cloud at 18,000’.  Timed run made from green markers.  No release point markers seen.  Bombed estimated position of markers.  Nothing observed.
W4249L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgts F.Dolby, J.J.Mansfield (Nav 1), P/O J.E.McAvoy (Nav 2), Sgts J.Keddie, R.J.Williams, E.H.Skinner, Lambert.  Up 1859  Down 2337.  Primary objective attacked from 20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Red and green warning flares seen and two release point markers.  Bombed estimated position of release point flares which had gone by the time aircraft reached position.  Only saw flash of 4000 pounder.  Failure of PFF.
ED588H  Sgts K.Brown, H.Hogg, F.H.Alexander, D.Meade, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  Up 1901  Down 2320.  Duisburg bombed 20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Warning flares seen from which we made time run and bombed.  Flash of 4000lb bomb only seen.
R5754A  Sgts W.S.Treacy, G.W.Armstrong, G.Brantingham, F/Sgt D.B.King, Sgts W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 1908  Down 2328.  Duisburg attacked.  10/10ths cloud.  19,000’.  Bombed the only concentration of red and green markers seen.  No results observed.
W4355T  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennet, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 1905  Down 2335.  Primary target Duisburg attacked.  18,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Red and green steady flares seen, these were in sights when bombs released.  At least three other aircraft bombed same area.  Heavy flak encountered.

27.3.43 11 aircraft detailed for ops over Berlin.  9 aircraft claim to have reached and bombed the target.  Two aircraft abandoned mission owing to lack of oxygen and engine trouble.  Weather was ideal over the target.

27/28 March 1943 Berlin – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

W4355T  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgts A.Wood, W.A.Gillin, E.H Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 2021  Down 0315.  Berlin attacked 20,000’.  Clear over target.  TI markers clearly seen.  Centre of cluster of green markers in sights when we bombed.  Many other bursts seen.  One big explosion seen as we were on our way out.
R5896Y  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts A.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 2016  Down 0300.  Primary objective Berlin bombed.  No cloud, some haze.  20,000’.  Bombed on cluster of TI markers (mostly green) in sights.  Raid seemed slow in developing but aircraft were piling in as we left.  Fires were developing.
ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgts P.J.Roberts, W.Wishart, F/Sgt D.B.King, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 2017  Down 0245.  Berlin attacked.  Clear over target at 20,000’.  Green TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Own bomb bursts observed.  Many fires were seen to break out and an orange glow was visible through cloud as we left target.
ED754A  Sgts W.S.Treacy, R.C.Swetman, G.Brantingham, P/O R.Davidson, Sgts W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 2023  Down 0248.  Primary objective attacked.  20,000’, slight layer cloud.  Centre of concentration of TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Many other bursts seen.
ED588H  Sgts K.Brown, H.Hogg, F.H.Alexander, D.Meade, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  Up 2026  Down 0304.  Berlin target bombed.  Thin layer cloud 20,000’.  Green TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Several other bursts seen.  Route tricky between Bremen and Hanover where flak was heavy.
R5483D  P/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, P/O J.E.McAvoy, Sgt Keddie, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2028  Down 2254.  Mission abandoned.  Lack of oxygen – Rear Gunner passed out – bombs jettisoned.
W4932N  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2023  Down 0313.  Berlin attacked from 20,000’.  Patchy – 3/16ths cloud.  Bombed on centre cluster of green TI markers which were in sights.  Two large red fires seen on leaving target.  Many aircraft were coned in concentration of searchlights.
R5917K  F/O B.S.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O E.G.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2034  Down 0318.  Primary objective successfully attacked.  Clear over target.  Bombed on centre of concentration of green TI markers which were in sights.  Many fires burning in target area.  Flak encountered at Bremen.
W4200W  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townley, A.C.Hayes, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2050  Down 2159.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned.
R5614G  F/Sgt W.McLeod, Sgt P.J.Horsham, F/Sgt R.Gillespie, Sgts B.L.May, Ramsden, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2033 Down 0308.  Primary target Berlin attacked.  5/10ths cloud at 20,000’.  Ground haze.  Bombed on red and green TI markers.  Bombing was well concentrated round markers.  Heavy flak over target area.

R5609S  F/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, F/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, M.Griffiths, F/Sgt R.Birtwistle, Sgt W.Whiting.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2032  Down 0321.  Berlin objective attacked.  No cloud other than cirrus over target.  Bombed on green TI markers.  Suggest that when medium cloud expected PFF should use flares instead of TI markers. 

28.3.43 3 aircraft were detailed for ops – St Nazaire.  Two aircraft reached and successfully bombed the target in good weather.  The third aircraft, captained by F/O Weight, is missing.

28/29 March 1943 St Nazaire – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

W4355T  F/O S.E.Harrison, Sgts W.H.Siddons, A.C.Hayes, J.Metcalfe, A.J.Ward, F/L D.S.Mims, F/Sgt T.Goacher.  Up 2002  Down 0047.  St Nazaire attacked from 12,000’.  Clear, slight ground haze with smoke screen over town.  Red and green TI markers seen.  Red TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Town well covered by fires visible from French coast.
ED754A  P/O E.E.Weight, Sgts K.F.Green, E.F.Ball, R.J.Whatley, A.Kemp, L.C.Fisk, J.Tongue.  Up 1957 – aircraft and crew missing.
ED588H  Sgts G.W.Armstrong, E.Bellis, J.J.Mansfield, David, R.J.Williams, P/O S.Blackhurst, A.Laing.  Up 2000  Down 0136.  Primary objective St Nazaire bombed.  12,000’.  Good visibility – very clear.  Whole town detail obliterated by smoke screen.  Bombed on TI markers in sights.  Glow of fire concentrated in town area.

29.3.43 9 Lancasters detailed for ops – Berlin.  8 aircraft reached the target and bombed the PFF markers.  Weather conditions good.  The remaining aircraft, captained by F/O Norton, crashed near the aerodrome on return.  All the crew were killed.  It is presumed that this aircraft successfully bombed the target.

29/30 March 1943 Berlin – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

W4249L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, F/Sgt J.E.McAvoy, Sgts J.Keddie, R.J.Williams, E.H.Skinner, O.Lambert.  Up 2141  Down 0452.  Berlin attacked from 19,000’.  No cloud, slight ground haze.  Bombed on red concentration of red TI markers.  Target in bomb sights.  Own bombs seen to explode.  Scattered fires seen.
ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgts P.J.Roberts, W.Wishart, F/Sgt D.B.King, F/Sgt P.G.Cross, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 2146  Down 0507.  Primary objective attacked.  Clear, good visibility.  21,000’.  Built up area observed by light of TI markers.  Red TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Other bursts seen.  Good fires going when we left.
W4355T  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgts A.Ward, W.A.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 2155 Down 0442.  Berlin bombed.  19,000’.  Thin low cloud about 3/10ths.  Identified lake.  Red and green markers flares seen, bombed red markers.  No results of own bombs seen.  One very large explosion seen in target area.
R5483D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, P/O F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2158  Down 0438.  Primary target attacked.  18,500’, good visibility.  Bombed centre of cluster of red TI markers which were in sights.  Other bomb bursts seen.  Fighter and flak opposition encountered.
W4175U  F/O P.H.Norton, Sgt J.A.Peel, F/O G.C.Francis, Sgts W.Standring, R.Frank, F/Sgt R.Birtwistle, W.Whiting.  Up 2151  Down 0445.  Presumed mission completed.  Aircraft crashed near aerodrome just prior to landing.  Crew killed.
W4932N  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2156  Down 0428.  Primary target Berlin attacked.  20,000’, no cloud, good visibility.  Red TI markers seen over lake which was identified visually.  Large built up area also seen by light of markers which we bombed.  Fires developing well.
ED323O  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2200  Down 0445.  Berlin successfully attacked.  No cloud, strong ground haze.  19,000’.  Lake identified visually, confirmed by red TI markers.  Several large roads seen.  Markers in sights when we bombed.  Fires starting up as we left.
R5612R  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts A.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2202  Down 0506.  Primary objective attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud.  Slight ground haze.  Lake identified visually.  Centre of cluster of TI markers in sights when we bombed.  About 15 good fires seen, developing well as we left target.

30.3.43 No ops on this date.  No training flights owing to the weather.

31.3.43 No ops on this date.  Training cancelled due to the weather.

1.4.43 Four night cross country training trips completed.

2.4.43 One aircraft detailed for ops – St Nazaire – sortie was successful.  Another aircraft, Sgt Armstrong, detailed to mine Gronie River, returned early owing to rear turret being u/s. Two aircraft detailed for night cross countries – 1 aircraft carried out the duty, the other aircraft had port/outer u/s.

2/3 April 1943 St Nazaire – Bomb load 11 x 1000lb

R5896Y  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt M.I.Robertson, P/O N.J.Davidson, F/Sgt W.N.Layne, Sgt E.White, F/Sgt D.W.Bale.  Up 2010  Down 0129.  Primary target St Nazaire attacked from 15,000’.  Clear, visibility good.  Smoke screen over target, red TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Observed two large fires as we left target.  Much light flak over target.

2/3 April 1943 Gironie River (Gardening) – Load 6 mines

ED430C  Sgts G.W.Armstrong, E.Bellis, J.J.Mansfield, David, R.J.Williams, P/O S.Blackhurst, Sgt A.Laing.  Up 2013  Down 2333.  Mission abandoned owing to compass being u/s.  Mines jettisoned safe.

3.4.43 12 Lancasters detailed to raid Essen.  All aircraft claimed to have reached and bombed the target or target area, which seemed successful and concentrated.  Several large fires were observed from the Dutch Coast on return and large explosions seen over the target.  No cloud but ground haze.  Defences reported to have increased.  Approximately 250 searchlights.

3/4 April 1943 Essen – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

R5433D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 1912  Down 0016.  Essen attacked from 20,000’.  No cloud, slight ground haze.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sights.  Many fires well concentrated and appeared better than last raid.  Fires visible from Dutch coast.
ED538H  Sgts K.Brown, H.Hogg, F.H.Alexander, T.Roche, J.Curry, J.Freedman, L.C.Boyton.  Up 1914  Down 2345.  Primary objective Essen bombed.  Clear, slight cloud at 21,000’.  Bombed centre of concentration of red TI markers which were in sights.  Other bomb bursts seen, many fires observed which were visible from Dutch coast.
W4355T  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgts A.Wood, W.A.Gillin, E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 1916  Down 0010.  Primary objective attacked 21,000’.  No cloud, ground haze.  Bombed on one red TI marker which was in sights.  Bursts seen in target area.
W4932N  F/O S.E.Harrison, Sgts W.H.Siddons, A.C.Hayes, J.Metcalfe, A.J.Ward, F/L D.S.Mims, F/Sgt T.Goacher. Up 1917  Down 2343.  Primary target bombed.  22,000’  No cloud, ground haze.  Bombed red TI markers which were in sights.  Other bomb bursts seen.  Only two small fires seen while over target but these developed as we left area.
ED781Z  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 1920  Down 2352.  Primary objective Essen attacked from 20,000’.  No cloud, slight ground haze.  Canal north of Essen identified visually.  Confirmed by cluster of TI markers in sights which we bombed.  Fires increasing as we left target area.
ED425E  F/L K.G.Tew, Sgts P.J.Roberts, Macfarlane, J.Nelson, G.F.Gower, F/Sgt L.D.Blin, Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Up 1923  Down 2354.  Primary target Essen bombed.  Clear, slight ground haze.  21,000’.  Bombed between two green TI markers.  Number of fires seen, including 2 - 3 good ones.  Glow of fires visible 20 miles off Dutch coast.
W4249L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, Sgts J.Keddie, R.J.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 1918  Down 2348.  Primary target Essen attacked from 21,000’.  Visibility fairly good with ground haze.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sights.  Fairly concentrated, lots of fires seen.  Explosions seen.  Flak heavy around target.
R5917K  W/C G.D.Jones, Sgt R.C.Swetman, F/L P.M.Cutting, F/O E.H.Parrott, Sgts Peters, W.Lochrie, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 1929  Down 0003.  Essen successfully attacked from 20,000’.  Clear over target, some smoke haze.  Bombed green TI markers which had been seen to fall at side of red.  Concentration of fires over fairly large area.
R5572F  F/Sgt W.McLeod, Sgt P.J.Horsham, F/Sgt R.Gillespie, Sgts B.L.May, L.Ramsden, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  1 x 8000lb  Up 1928  Down 0029.  Essen.  No cloud – slight haze.  19,000’.  Bombed centre of cluster of three green flares.  Own bomb bursts seen.  Fires very well concentrated and were visible from Dutch coast.  Raid appeared to be better than previous one on this target.
R5614G  Sgts W.S.Treacy, N.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1922  Down 2357.  Primary objective successfully attacked.  18,500’, slight haze.  One red and one green TI marker in sights when we bombed.  Own results not observed.  Fires fairly concentrated.  One very large explosion seen at 22.10 hours.
R5609S  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1927  Down 0019.  Primary target Essen bombed.  Clear – smoke and ground haze.  19,000’.  Centre of triangle formed by one red and two green TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Many bursts seen.  One very large fire.  Other fires visible from Dutch coast.
R5612R  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts A.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 1931  Down 0006.  Essen attacked from 20,000’.  Clear, weather good over target, some ground haze.  Bombed on cluster of TI markers which were in sights.  One terrific explosion observed (larger than a 8000 pounder).  Very large fires.

4.4.43 11 Lancasters took off to raid Kiel.  All aircraft reached the target and bombed on TI markers in cloud.  Reflections of numerous fires seen beneath the clouds.  Crews report some opposition over the target but the effect of this was minimised by weather conditions.

4/5 April 1943 Kiel – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

R5483D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2056  Down 0151.  Primary objective Kiel attacked.  18,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed estimated position of TI markers.  Red glow seen through clouds.  No ground detail visible.  Disappointing raid.
ED583H  Sgts K.Brown, H.Hogg, F.H.Alexander, T.J.Roche, J.Curry, F/Sgt Broomfield, Sgt L.C.Boyton.  Up 2103  Down 0232.  Target Kiel bombed.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on one red TI marker.  Red glow seen through cloud.  12 miles north of Heligoland one Lancaster fired a short burst at us.  Disappointing trip.
R5572F  F/Sgt W.McLeod, P.J.Horsham, F/Sgt R.Gillespie, Sgts B.L.May, L.Ramsden, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2057  Down 0245.  Primary target Kiel attacked.  17,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed estimated position of green TI marker which had disappeared into cloud as we reached position.  Glow seen below cloud.  Flares too numerous near coast – tend to aid fighters.
ED425E  Sgts W.S.Treacy, N.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 2059  Down 0225.  Target Kiel bombed.  18,000’, 10/10ths cloud.  Bombed estimated position of one green TI marker.  Glow seen through cloud.
R5612R  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts A.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2105  Down 0218.  Kiel attacked.  9/10ths cloud, 19,000’.  Bombed estimated position of two green TI markers which disappeared into cloud.  Glow seen through cloud.
W4249Y  F/O S.E.Harrison, Sgts W.H.Siddons, A.C.Hayes, J.Metcalfe, A.J.Ward, F/L D.S.Mims, F/Sgt T.Goacher.  Up 2116  Down 0219.  Primary objective Kiel bombed.  18,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on estimated position of green Ti marker which disappeared into cloud as we reached bombing position.  Fires reflected through cloud.
W4355T  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt N.I.Robertson, P/O N.J.Davidson, F/Sgt W.N.Layne, Sgt E.White, F/Sgt D.W.Bale.  Up 2109  Down 0229.  Target Kiel attacked.  18,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed estimated position of TI markers seen through cloud.  Orange glow reflected below cloud.  Opposition heavy but not troublesome over target area.
R5614G  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2115  Down 0206.  Primary objective attacked.  14,000’.  10/10ths cloud, no breaks.  Bombed estimated position of green TI markers. Glow of fire seen beneath cloud.
R5917K  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2101  Down 0236.  Kiel target bombed.  10/10ths cloud at 18,000’.  Bombed estimated position of green TI markers.  White recce flare also in sights.  Five large glows seen below cloud.  Would suggest raid not too successful.
ED781Z  Sgts D.L.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  Up 2115  Down 0200.  Primary target Kiel attacked.  18,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Estimated position of green TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Fires reflected through cloud.
W4932N  Sgts A.Reilly, R.Gibson, P/O C.W.Hammond, F/O R.J.Hopps, Sgts H.Horne, R.L.Griffiths, J.Freedman.  Up 2111  Down 0213.  Primary objective Kiel attacked.  18,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed estimated position of red TI markers. Glow of fires seen through cloud.  No results seen owing to cloud.  Uneventful trip.    

5.4.43 No flying.  Two Freshmen detailed for mining – cancelled owing to bad weather.

6.4.43 Day bombing and cross countries.  The aircraft detailed for Bullseye completed the duty.

7.4.43 No flying – strong gales.

8.4.43 Day bombing training.  9 Lancasters detailed for ops – Duisburg.  Aircraft bombed on markers and returned.  Weather bad.

8/9 April 1943 Duisburg – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

W4249L  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt Webb (Nav2), Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2049  Down 0131.  Returned early from Egmond on account of rear gunner being sick.
ED430C  F/Sgt W.McLeod, P.J.Horsham, F/Sgt R.Gillespie, Sgts B.L.May, L.Ramsden, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  Up 2048  Down 0214.  Primary target Duisburg attacked from 20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA and red and white glow which was thought to be PFF flares.  Concentration of flak over target.
W4932N  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, G.P.Baggs.  Up 2051  Down 0231.  Primary target bombed.  19,000’  10/10ths cloud.  ETA, last definite fix on Dutch coast over Egmond.  Bombed on ETA.  Nothing seen.
R5889V   F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts A.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 2053  Down 0221.  Believed Duisburg attacked.  10/10ths cloud at 20,000’.  Bombed on ETA.  No release point flares seen.  Nickles also dropped.  Nothing seen owing to cloud.
ED785Z  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2055  Down 0149.  Believed primary target bombed.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Made time run from Position X and bombed on concentration of flak coming from Duisburg.  Weather very duff, no TI markers or results seen.
ED323O  Sgts J.F.Munro, V.Baker (shown as J.Baker in ORB blvd in error), A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt Hill.  Up 2047  Down 0236.  Believed primary target Duisburg attacked.  21,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on time run fromlast turning point after Gee fix.  No PFF flares of any kind seen.  Other aircraft appeared to be bombing same area.
W4355T  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt N.I Robertson, P/O N.J.Davidson, F/Sgt W.N.Layne, Sgt E.White, P/O D.W.Bale.  1 x 4000lb.  Up 2058  Down 0240.  Beleievd Duisburg bombed.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA and concentration of flak fire.  One red flare seen astern after bombing.  No results seen.
ED425E  Sgts W.S.Treacy, L.Stevenson, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 2056  Down 0218.  Believed primary objective attacked.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on time run after Gee fix.  No release point flares seen.  No results seen.
ED588H  Sgts K.Brown, H.Hogg, F.H.Alexander, R.G.Christie (Nav 2), T.J.Roche, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  Up 2059  Down 0225.  Primary target Duisburg bombed.  21,000’.  10/10ths cloud, bombed on green TI flares which were in sights.  Nickels also dropped.  No results seen.

9.4.43 NFTs and bombing training.  5 Lancasters again attacked Duisburg.  Successfully completed trip and returned to base.  Weather bad.  Also two night cross countries carried out.

9/10 April 1943 Duisburg – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

R5917K  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, W.Lochrie.  Up 2117  Down 0058.  Duisburg attacked from 18,500’.  10/10ths thin cloud.  Saw two TI markers which seemed 10 miles apart.  Bombed on glow of green TI markers which was in sights.  Own 4000 pounder and other bursts seen.
ED588H  F/Sgt W.McLeod, Sgt P.J.Horsham, F/Sgt R.Gillespie, Sgts B.L.May, J.Curry, F/O E.A.Adams, Sgt J.Baker.  Up 2017  Down 0054.  Primary objective Duisburg attacked.  18,000’.  6/10ths thin layer cloud.  Bombed on steady red flare.  Fires seen through cloud.  Big explosion seen on leaving target.
ED425E  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 2020  Down 0047.  Target Dusiburg attacked.  18,000’.  10/10ths thin cloud.  Saw red steady flare.  Bombed on glow from green TI marker which was in sights.  Several bursts seen.  One very big explosion observed.
ED781Z  F/O S.E.Harrison, Sgts W.H.Siddons, A.C.Hayes, J.Metcalfe, A.J.Ward, F/L D.S.Mims, F/Sgt T.Goacher.  Up 2019  Down 0043.  Duisburg bombed.  22,000, thin layer cloud 10/10ths.  One green TI marker in sights when we bombed.  No fires but other bursts were seen through cloud.
R5889V  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  Up 2024  Down 0042.  Primary objective Duisburg attacked.  10/10ths cloud at 22,000’.  Bombed on green TI markers in sights.  Red glow seen through thin layer cloud.

10.4.43 9 Lancasters detailed to attack Frankfurt.  All aircraft except one with port/inner u/s, successfully completed the task.  Weather 10/10ths cloud.

10/11 April 1943 Frankfurt – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

R5917K  F/L I.W.Covington, J.H.Mason (2nd Pilot), F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts A.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 0012  Down 0603.  Believed Frankfurt attacked.  16,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Time run from position E where green steady flares were seen, bombed on estimated position from there.  Spent ten minutes over target but no PFF markers were seen.
W4249L  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt N.I.Robertson, F/O N.J.Davidson, F/Sgt W.N.Layne, Sgt E.White, P/O D.W.Bale.  Up 0010  Down 0614.  Frankfurt attacked from 16,000’, 10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on glow of release point flares which were in sights.  No results observed owing to cloud.
ED781Z  Sgts D.L.Jones, V.Baker, A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 0021  Down 0555.  Believed target Frankfurt attacked.  10/10ths cloud, 15,000’.  No release point flares seen over target.  Bombed on area of concentrated flak and ETA from position E.  No results observed.
ED588H  Sgts K.Brown, Stephenson, F.H.Alexander, T.J.Roche, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  Up 0023  Down 0206.  Mission abandoned owing to engine trouble.  Bombs jettisoned.
ED425E  F/O S.E.Harrsion, W.H.Siddons, A.C.Hayes, J.Metcalfe, A.J.Ward, F/L D.S.Mims, F/Sgt T.Goacher.  Up 0014  Down 0558.  Believed target Frankfurt attacked.  10/10ths cloud at 16,000’.  Two red TI markers seen but had disappeared into cloud when we reached bombing position.  Bombed red glow.  Some aircraft were bombing 10 miles north of us.
ED323O  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 0016  Down 0620.  Believed Frankfurt bombed.  15,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on red glow of TI markers.  Bombing very scattered.  PFF flares were seen presumably being jettisoned off English coast.
W4932N  Sgts A.Reilly, R.Gibson, P/O C.W.Hammond, P/O R.J.Hopps, Sgts H.Horne, R.L.Griffiths, F.Fisher.  Up 0019  Down 0607.  Believed Frankfurt attacked.  15,000.  10/10ths cloud.  Red glow in sights when we bombed.  Bombing scattered over large area.  No ground detail possible owing to  cloud.
ED814E  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O E.G.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.Lochrie.  Up 0027  Down 0606.  Primary objective Frankfurt attacked.  15,800’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on TI release point flares (red with green stars).  No results observed except for orange glow through clouds.

11.4.43 Day training and one aircraft on night training.

12.4.43 10 Lancasters detailed for ops – later cancelled.

13.4.43 11 Lancasters detailed to attack Spezia, Italy.  All claim to have reached the target area but visibility was hampered by smoke and haze, making pin-pointing difficult.  Fires appeared to be taking hold in the town and some aircraft identified war vessels and bombed them, definite results being observed.  6 aircraft landed away from base, namely Mid Wallop (1), Wormwell (1), Exeter (1) and Tangmere (3).

13/14 April 1943 Spezia – Bomb load 4 x 1000lb 5 SBC unless stated

W4249L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgts Stevenson (2nd Pilot), F.Dolby (F/E), P/O J.E.McAvoy, Sgts J.Keddie, T.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2027  Down 0514.  Primary target Spezia attacked.  10,000’.  No cloud but large amount of smoke and haze.  Visually identified Basin No 1 and buildings alongside outer port, also saw white flares across and which we bombed.  Scattered fires seen.
R5483D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgts A.S.Palmer, R.G.Christie (Nav 1), F/O F.W.Chandler (Nav 2), Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2028  Down 0810.  Spezia bombed.  Visibility fair, rather hazy at 8,000’.  Identified target visually.  Aiming Poimt in sights when we bombed.  Town well covered by fires, large fire round San Vito Basin.  Unable to identify any shipping.
ED591M  Sgts W.S.Treacy, N.Eardley, G.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 2033  down 0643.  Believed primary objective attacked at 8,000’.  No cloud but large amount of smoke and haze.  Nothing definite identified owing to haze.  Bombed on estimated position of aiming point.  Stayed over target 20 minutes.  Nothing seen.
ED816U  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts A.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 2036  Down 0636.  Primary target bombed.  Visibility good – with ground haze and smoke.  Pin-pointed Palmeira and base of fires and smoke in town.  Ship seen burning along outer dock.  Town well ablaze.  Opposition was meagre.
ED323O  Sgts J.F.Munro, J.Thomas (2nd Pilot), A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2030  Down 0540.  Spezia attacked from 8,000’.  No cloud but hazy.  White flares seen over the outer port.  Six runs made on battleships but smoke obscured Air Bomber’s view.  Bombed Basin No 1 arsenal.  Built up area in sights.  Many fires in town.
W4355T  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  Up 2049  Down 0611.  Primary target Spezia bombed.  No cloud, very hazy ay 8,000’.  Visually outlined docks.  One large ship bombed SE of aiming point and incendiaries were dropped on same runover town area.  Many fires seen.  One ship outside outer port appeared to be alight.
ED781Z  Sgts D.J.Jones, M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2058  Down 0625.  Primary objective Spezia attacked.  7,500’.  No cloud, haze and smoke from fires.  Pin-pointed Palmeira Island.  Identified docks and outer port visually.  Bombed two large ships in outer port with Hes.  Incendiaries dropped in town area.  Many woods well alight.
ED814E  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O E.G.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, P/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.Lochrie.  4 x 1000lb 7 SBC.  Up 2041  Down 0625.  Primary target Spezia bombed.  8,000’, hazy.  Identified Palmeira Island visually and made time run to town area.  Town of Spezia in sights and well covered with incendiaries.  Unable to identify any shipping owing to thick haze.
ED588H  Sgts K.Brown, V.Baker (2nd Pilot), H.Hogg (F/E), F.H.Alexander, Lt D.S.Watt, Sgts J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  4 x 1000lb 7 SBC.  Up 2043  Down 0708.  Spezia target attacked.  No cloud but much smoke – 8,000’.  Aiming point in sights – bombed two large ships with HEs.  One ship at least probably hit.  Scattered fires observed in town area.  Best fires were in docks west of target.
ED425E   F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.H.Mason (2nd Pilot), F/Sgt M.I Robertson, S/Lt W.H.Lett, F/Sgt W.N.Layne, Sgt E.White, P/O D.W.Bale.  4 x 1000lb 7 SBC.  Up 2039  Down 0658.  Believed primary target attacked.  Weather clear but ground obscured by smoke. Timed run from Palmeira Island, but even east coast line was obscured by smoke.  Bombs dropped on fires and ETA from Palmeira.  Bursts seen through smoke.
R5917K  Sgts G.W.Armstrong, E.Bellis, J.J.Mansfield, David, R.L.Williams, P/O S.Blackhurst, Sgt A.Laing.  6 x 1000lb.  Up 2046  Down 0637.  Primary objective bombed.  8,000’ – no cloud.  Bombed battleships in outer port, seen by light of white flares.  No results observed.  At least two good fires seen in town area. 

14.4.43 6 Lancasters detailed to attack Stuttgart.  Two aircraft did not take off owing to the sickness of the captains in both cases.  The remaining four aircraft claim to have reached and bombed the target.  The raid has the appearance of being  a very successful effort.  Weather clear.

 14/15 April 1943 Stuttgart – Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

ED816Z  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts P.J.Roberts, W.Wishart, R.M.Nelson, G.F.Gower, F.Sgt W.Broomfield, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 2218  Down 0422.  Primary objective Stuttgart attacked 15,000’.  Fine, hazy and smoke.  Made run towards three green TI markers which had gone by the time aircraft reached target.  Faint green TI in sights when we bombed.  Good concentration of fires seen.
ED591M  F/L R.C.Bell, Sgt A.Wood, F/Sgt W.A.Gillin, Sgts E.H.Moore, F.A.Thompson, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Up 2214  Down 0441.  Stuttgart target bombed.  16,000’.  Clear, large amount of smoke.  Bombed green glow of burnt out TI marker.  Target seemed a mass of fires, with 6 particularly large ones.  Good raid if PFF were accurate.
W4932N  Sgts A.Reilly, R.Gibson, P/O C.W.Hammond, F/O R.J.Hopps, Sgts H.Horne, R.L.Griffiths, F.Fisher.  Up 2222  Down 0436.  Primary target Stuttgart attacked.  Fine, hazy from smoke of fires.  Bombed on green TI markers.  Large concentration of fires in target area.  Appeared to be a good effort with PFF well on time.
R5612P   F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts A.J.Goad, C.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  1 x 8000lb.  Up 2232  Down 0429.  Primary objective bombed.  15,000’.  Clear, some haze.  Saw and bombed on green TI markers which were in sights.  Whole town seemed to be well alight.  Raid seemed concentrated on western half of town.  Good track marking.

15.4.43 Bomber Command has ordered the move of this squadron from Woodhall to RAF Station Bourn (satellite to Oakington) with effect from 17 April.  The squadron is to move all personnel, aircraft, MT and technical equipment on charge, complete to establishment WAR/BC/249A under arrangements made by HQ 5 Group in conjunction with No 8 (Path Finder Force) Group.  The advance party by rail under P/O Pratt, moved off today, also all stores and equipment were loaded onto transport and sent by road to Bourn.  The officer i/c reported by phone that everything was in order on arrival at Bourn.

16.4.43 No flying.  Some equipment still being transported to Bourn.

17.4.43 The main party, under the command of F/L Holden, moved off by rail to Bourn.  W/C G.D.Jones DFC, Squadron Commander, travelled by road, also did F/L L.G.Hind, Sqaudron adjutant, and P/O Henry, i/c secret and confidential documents.

18.4.43 The airborne party under the command of S/L Burns DFC, consisting of 15 Lancaster aircraft and crews, arrived at Bourn airfield today, having flown from Woodhall in formation.

19.4.43 One more aircraft arrived today from Woodhall.

20.4.43 The rear party arrived by road today under the command of P/O Hodkinson.  Also S/L Nind reported to the Squadron Commander after completing the final handover at Woodhall.  The move is now complete except for one Lancaster  under  major repair and the groundcrew.

21.4.43 Night flying tests carried out.  Night cross countries cancelled.  Bad weather.  The Squadron is now under training for Path Finder Force operations.

22.4.43 5 aircraft and crews carried out night cross countries.

23.4.43 No flying – strong gales.

24.4.43 Air tests – ops detailed and cancelled owing to bad weather.  3 aircraft carried out night cross countries but were recalled later.

25.4.43 No flying today.

26.4.43 8 Lancasters detailed to raid Duisburg – weather clear over target route and some cloud over target.  Large number of searchlights, moderate barrage.  All sorties successfully completed.

26/27 April 1943 Duisburg – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 6 x 500lb

ED814D  Sgts V.Baker, W.Vaughan, F/Sgt C.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Up 2352  Down 0448.  Primary target Duisburg attacked.  20,000’. 4/10ths cloud.  Rhine identified visually.  Red and green markers seen and bombed.  Own bursts not observed but other bursts seen.  Attack developed slightly.
ED867F  Sgts L.Stevenson, J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2335  Down 0436.  Primary objective Duisburg bombed.  20,000’.  Clear over target.  Bombed between red and green markers.  Own bursts not seen but fires spread rapidly immediately afterwards.  Glow from fires seen 100 miles away.
ED869S  Sgts J.H.Mason, T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  Up 2336  Down 0454.  Target Duisburg attacked.  10,000’.  7/10ths drifting cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed on two red TI markers.  Fires catching hold as we left target.  Bursts seen among fires.
ED816U  Sgts A.Reilly, R.Gibson, M.MacFarlane, E.Bloomfield, H.Horne, R.? Griffiths, F.Fisher. Up 2339  Down 0502.  Target Duisburg.  20,000’.  Fall of red and green TI markers.  Was about to make circuit of target waiting for yellow Tis, was coned and hit by flak.  Load jettisoned live.  Fires becoming concentrated.
ED878K  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, P/O J.C.Frizzell, W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2342  Down 0423.  Primary objective Duisburg attacked..  20,000’.  3/10ths cloud.  Bombed on red and green target indicators already down.  Own bursts not seen.  Appearance of oil fires with heavy black smoke.
ED875R  Sgts D.Montgomery, J.R.Thomas, E.L.Cohn, J.F.Gardener, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Up 2345  Down 0449.  Primary Duisburg bombed.  Clear over target at 19,000’.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Many incendiaries seen burning and big explosions well concentrated.  Fires taking hold when leaving seen from 80 miles away.
ED882H  F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.R.Rae, O.B.Peters, R.N.V.Daniels, M.T.O’Donoghue.  Up 2349  Down 0434.  Duisburg.  Some cloud.  Searchlights and flak very active long before any Tis fell.  We bombed on first TI markers dropped.  Enemy fighters active.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts G.L.Ramsay, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, A.J.Harris.  Up 2334  Down 0510.  Primary objective Duisburg attacked.  20,000’.  Clear over target.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sights.  Really good fires going as we left target area.  Two exceptionally big explosions seen.

27.4.43 Ops detailed and cancelled, also night cross countries cancelled – bad weather.

28.4.43 Day bombing training carried out and 7 aircraft carried out night cross countries.

29.4.43 Previous night cross countries diverted to various bases and returned today.

30.4.43 7 Lancasters detailed to attack Essen.  10/10ths cloud and heavy barrage encountered.  6 aircraft successfully completed sorties, one aircraft returned early owing to technical trouble.

30 April/1 May 1943  Essen – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 6 x 500lb

ED911E   Sgts G.W.Armstrong, E.Bellis, J.J.Mansfield, P.Scott, N.I.Williams, P/O S.Blackhurst, Sgt A.Laing.  Up 0010  Down 0536.  Primary objective Essen attacked from 20,000’.  10/10ths cloud over target.  Saw all flares as predicted.  Bombed on red and green TI markers.  No results of own bombs observed.  Glow of fires seen under cloud.
ED875R  Sgts D.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.F.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Up 0012  Down 0330.  Mission abandoned owing to GEE failure.
ED839C  F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.R.Rae, O.B.Peters, R.H.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donoghue.  Up 0014  Down 0537.  Essen attacked from 21,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Saw red and green warning flares also Release Point flares.  Bombed on white flare.  Bright glow observed under cloud about five minutes after bombing.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts G.L.Ramsay, H.F.Daniels, Burt(?), H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, A.J.Harris.  Up 0020  Down 0442.  Essen bombed.  10/10ths cloud at 21,000’.  Saw flares as predicted.  One red with green stars in sights when we bombed.  Flash seen under cloud.  Not known whether glow under cloud was fires or searchlights.
ED878K  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt C.Neary, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.G.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 0022 Down 0510.  Essen attacked 20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Flares seen.  Bombed on red with green stars in sights.  Other bursts seen.  Glow beneath cloud believed fires.
ED867F  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.F.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 0027  Down 0442.  Primary target Essen attacked.  10/10ths cloud at 20,000’.  Red and green flares seen – regularly renewed.  Bombed on red and green.  Definite glow of fires seen below cloud.
ED882H  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, P.David, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, L.C.Boyton.  Up 0032  Down 0459.  Primary objective Essen attacked.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  No expected coloured flares observed.  Bombed on one white flare which was still burning.  One vivid flash and explosion seen at 0258 below cloud. 

1.5.43 No flying – weather unfit.

2.5.43 Day bombing training.  Ops detailed and cancelled.

3.5.43 High level bombing during day.  Ops detailed and cancelled.

4.5.43 10 Lancasters detailed to raid Dortmund.  All successfully bombed target or target area.  Aircraft were diverted owing to bad weather on return.  Lancaster ED880, Sgt Reilly, crashed at Waterbeach.  The crash was due to overshoot in bad weather, the aircraft eventually colliding with a dispersed Stirling aircraft.  Sgt Reilly was killed.  Sgt Gibson, Sgt MacFarlane and F/O Hopps were transferred to Ely suffering from multiple injuries.  The remainder of the aircrew only suffered minor injuries and shock. 

4/5 May 1943 Dortmund – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 6 x 500lb, 2 x 250lb

ED874L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, P/O J.A.McAvoy, Sgts Keddie, T.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2159  Down 0313.  Primary objective Dortmund attacked from 15,000’.  No moon, no cloud, good visibility.  Bombed on green TI markers which were in sights.  Own bursts not distinguishable.  One large explosion and fires observed.
ED839C  F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.R.Rae, O.B.Peters, R.H.V.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donoghue.  Up  2201  Down 0146.  Returned early due to engine trouble.  Bombed last resort, Texel, north of aerodrome on return journey with feathered engine.  Flashes of own bomb bursts seen.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts G.L.Ramsay, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, A.J.Harris.  Up 2207  Down 0338.  Target Dortmund attacked.  Clear, good visibility except for ground haze over target and bombed on green TI markers.  Reds were seen to be falling regularly after bombing.  Flak opposition encountered.  Hole on port wing tip.
ED878K  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/Sgt A.Tomlinson, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2203  Down 0355.  Dortmund attacked 20,000’, clear.  Bombed on green TI markers.  Saw built up area in photo flash.  After our bombing saw 4000 pounder burst on top of green.
ED911E  Sgts G.W.Armstrong, H.Bellis, J.J.Mansfield, P.David, S.S.Ramsden, P/O S.Blackhurst, Sgt A.Laing.  Up 2209  Down 0333.  Primary target Dortmund bombed.  19,000’ clear, slight ground haze.  Built up area observed visually by light of flares.  Bombed on TI markers as attack developed.  One big explosion with brilliant light seen.
ED870T  Sgts J.F.Munro, H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2211  Down 0436.  Dortmund attacked.  Visibility good at 20,000’.  Target identified by red and green markers.  Bombs released in centre of group of red TI markers, in sights at bombing.  Large gas holder seen to blow up.  Extensive fires observed covering a large area.
ED875R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.E.Gardener, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  Up 2205  Down 0356.  Primary target Dortmund bombed.  20,000’, clear with slight ground haze.  Bombed on green TI markers.  Reds fall after bombing.  On leaving target saw many HE bursts and one enormous explosion.  Glow of fires seen 140 miles.
ED814D  Sgts J.Thomas, C.J.Hanrahan, A.? Farrell, E.Bloomfield, W.E.Doyle, L.Beard, R.Bromley(?).  Up 2214  Down 0352.  Target Dortmund attacked.  20,000’, clear.  Bombs aimed at centre of cluster of several green TI markers.  Selector switch accidently knocked off before bombing.
ED862P  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, P/O H.A.Hitchcock, P/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, P/O J.F.(?) Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2213  Down 0412.  Primary objective Duisburg attacked.  Clear, 20,000’.  Bombed on centre of concentration of green TI markers.  One big explosion observed.  Good glow of fires seen.
ED880N  Sgts A.Reilly, R.Gibson, M.MacFarlane, F/O R.J.Hopps, Sgts H.Horne, R.L.Griffiths, F.Fisher.  Up 2216  Down 0410.  Dortmund  20,000’ clear.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Aircraft crashed on landing at Waterbeach after receiving diversion instructions from base.  Sgt Reilly (Capt) killed and three other members of the crew injured.

5.5.43 The Squadron is now forming a third flight and by 15th May will have 15 Lancasters 1E and 6 Lancasters 1R.  The Squadron will from now be working under Establishment WAR/BC/310 dated 1/1/43 for GD Branch and WAR/BC/298 dated 20/4/43 for ground crews only.  Day bombing training today and aircraft returned from diversion.

6.5.43 Day bombing training.

7.5.43 Day cross country and fighter affiliation carried out.  Ops cancelled.

8.5.43 No flying – weather bad.

9.5.43 Ops detailed, also night cross countries, later cancelled due to bad weather.

10.5.43 No flying – bad weather and heavy gales.

11.5.43 Ops detailed also night cross countries – cancelled, bad weather.

12.5.43 12 aircraft detailed to attack Duisburg.  S/L Burns DFC and Sgt Treacy dropped markers.  The raid was very successful and many fires were seen.  Defences seemed to break down judging from the flak and searchlights.  Many night fighters were seen.  All aircraft returned safely to base.  This raid was equal in tonnage of bombs to the 1000 aircraft raids previously.  Night training was cancelled.

12/13 May 1943 Duisburg – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 8 x 5000lb unless stated

ED870T  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgts J.R.Thomas (2nd Pilot), K.Fairlie (F/E), F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, G.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 2333  Down 0422.  Primary target Duisburg attacked.  18,000’.  Moon, no cloud, visibility good except for slight ground haze.  Cluster of three red TI markers in sights when we bombed.  No fires while over target but glow seen when 40 miles away.
ED878K  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt C.W.Wood.  Up 2340  Down 0406.  Duisburg attacked.  Moonlight, no cloud, visibility very good.  Target identified visually and by TI markers.  Bombed on red TI markers.
ED862P  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt M.I.Robertson, Sgt J.F.Beesley, F/Sgt W.N.Layne, Sgts E.White, Page.  Up 2340  Down 0406.  Duisburg attacked.  19,000’.  Moonlight, no cloud, visibility good.  Target identified visually and by TI markers.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Saw two big explosions.  Fires seen on leaving target.
ED882H  Sgts K.Brown, A.G.Jones (2nd Pilot?), M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, K.W.Knight, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, W.T.Saunders.  Up 2342  Down 0413.  Duisburg target bombed.  Half moon, visibility good except for ground haze.  Junction of Ruhr and Rhine identified visually.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sights.  One large explosion in target area.  Fires got going as we left.

ED928B  Sgts G.W.Armstrong, E.Bellis, A.J.Silk, P.David, S.S.Ramsden, P/O S.Blackhurst, Sgt A.Laing.  Up 2350  Down 0411.  Dusiburg bombed, 20,000’.  No cloud, good visibility, slight ground haze.  Red TI markers in sights when we bombed.  Saw several 4000 pounder bursts.  Channel of fires observed as if petrol had ignited.
ED816U  Sgts D.J.Marks, D.C.Fentiman, P/O C.W.Hammond, Sgts J.A.Dunbar, D.McDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2336  Down 0352.  Primary objective attacked.  Moon.  Cloudless sky, good visibility, ground haze.  Only two red TI markers visible when we bombed.  Own bursts observed.  One large explosion and fires observed 50 miles away.
ED911E  Sgts V.Baker, W.Vaughan, C.W.Webb, A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Up 2346  Down 0432.  Target Duisburg attacked.  19,000’.  Moon, good visibility.  Bombed on red and green TI markers which were in sights.  Two bigh explosions seen.  Many red fires going well which increased as we left target.
ED814D  Sgts L.Stevenson, J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.C.Pugh.  Up 2343  Down 0425.  Primary target bombed.  Good visibility, slight ground haze.  River identified visually.  Bombed on red TI markers.  One big and series of small explosions observed.  Fires increasing as we left target area.
ED870?O  Sgts J.H.Mason, T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  Up 2345  Down 0439.  Primary target Duisburg bombed.  20,000’, moonlight, good visibility except for ground haze.  Bombed on red TI markers.  One big explosion seen.  Fires and other bursts observed.
ED917C  Sgts J.Thomas, C.J.Hanrahan, A.H.Farrell, E.Bloomfield, W.E.Doyle, L.Beard, R.Bromley.  Up 2348  Down 0356.  Returned early owing to intercom going u/s.  Bombs jettisoned and seen to explode on hitting the sea.
ED874L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, Sgts J.Keddie, T.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 0015  Down 0446.  Bomb load 6 x 250TI Green, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 500lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Duisburg attacked, 17,000’.  Moonlight, good visibility.  Buildings identified visually.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Own green TIs slightly overshot red and disappeared into smoke.  Fires and incendiaries burning near TIs.
ED867F  Sgts W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, G.F.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 23337  Down 0443.  Bomb load 6 x 250TI Green, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 500lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Duisburg bombed.  Half moon, no cloud, hazy.  Bombed on centre of red TI markers in bombsight.  One large explosion seen.  Fires were growing as we left target and glow could be seen from Rotterdam.

13.5.43 9 Lancasters detailed for ops.  7 aircraft took off to raid Pilsen, 2 aircraft were unable to take off, one being bogged down and the other u/s with engine trouble.  From accounts the raid was very successful and weather good.  6 out of 7 obtained photographs.  All aircraft returned safely to base.  5 aircraft also carried out night cross countries.

13/14 May 1943 Pilsen

ED867F  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgts F.Dolby (F/E), C.A.Jones (F/E), W/C Alabaster, Sgts J.Keddie, T.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2144  Down 0500.  Bomb load 5 x 4 white flares, 4 x 250TI Red, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Primary target Pilsen attacked.  13,000’.  Half moon.  Excellent visibility.  Target identified visually and by white flares.  Bombs released on factory, north of railway running through works.  Own bursts definitely in factory area.
ED862P  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt M.I.Robertson, Sgt J.F.Beesley, F/Sgt W.N.Layne, Sgts E.White, H.R.Page.  Up 2139  Down 0503.  Bomb load 2 x 250TI Red, 2 x 250TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Primary target Pilsen bombed.  13,000’.  Good visibility except for smoke haze.  Target visually seen.  Red TI markers in sights when bombs released.  One big explosion observed close to marker.
ED878K  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J,Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, G.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 2133  Down 0436.  Bomb load 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Primary target Pilsen bombed.  13,000’, moonlight, no cloud, hazy.  Bombed on centre of cluster of red TI markers.  No ground detail observed, area covered by pall of thick smoke.  Bomb flashes seen.
ED928V  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt K.Fairlie, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt C.W.Wood.  Up 2141  Down 0509.  Bomb load 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Target Pilsen attacked.  Good visibility.  Centre of cluster of 5 Red TI markers in sight when we bombed.  Several bursts seen but smoke obscured further observation.  Vague glow visible on leaving target area.
ED875H  Sgts D.J.Marks, D.C.Fnetiman, F/O C.W.Hammond, Sgts J.A.Dunbar, D.McDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2135  Down 0451.  Bomb load 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Primary bombed from 13,000’.  Moonlight, no cloud.  Smoke screen obscured whole of target area.  Bombs released on centre of concentration of red TI markers.
ED911E  Sgts V.Baker, W.Vaughan, F/Sgt C.W.Webb, Sgt A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Up 2137  Down 0524.  Bomb load 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Target Pilsen attacked.  No cloud, hazy.  13,000’.  Visually identified tall chimney and row of long buildings just before bombing.  Red TI markers in sights when bombs released.  First bombs down were right on red TIs.
ED870O  Sgts J.H.Mason, T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  Up 2143  down 0520.  1 x 400lb, 6 x 500lb.  Primary objective Pilsen attacked.  13,000’.  No cloud, hazy.  No ground detail identified.  Bombed between two rows of red TI markers, no results seen owing to smoke.  Concentrated red glow observed.

14.5.43 No flying – stand down from ops.

15.5.43 “C” Flight has been formed today making the Squadron now into three flights.  High level bombing and night cross countries carried out.

16.5.43 High level bombing and fighter affiliation during day, Bullseye exercise and night cross countries.

17.,5.43 High level bombing and Bullseye exercise carried out.

18.5.43 Day cross country and fighter affiliation, high level bombing and seafiring carried out.

19.5.43 Fighter affiliation and seafiring.  Night flying tests, beam approaches, night cross countries.

20.5.43 No flying – weather u/s.

21.5.43 Fighter affiliation and high level bombing during day.

22.5.43 Fighter affiliation and air firing carried out.

23.5.43 15 Lancasters detailed to attack Dortmund.  3 of these aircraft were Path Finders.  The raid was concentrated – weather clear but dark.  All aircraft returned safely to base.

23/24 May 1943 Dortmund – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 7 x 500lb unless stated

ED839C  F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.R.Rae, O.B.Peters, R.M.V.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donoghue.  Up 2236  Down 0254.  Primary objective Dortmund attacked.  19,000’ clear, dark, visibility good.  Bombed on centre of cluster of red and green TI markers.  Incendiaries and HE bursts seen.
ED867F  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2238  Down 0106.  Mission abandoned.  Rear gunner and Bomb Aimer intercom u/s.
ED940N  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.C.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2240  Down 0300.  Primary target Dortmund attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud, clear.  Released bombs on red TI markers which were in sights.  Own bursts not observed.  One particularly large explosion seen after leaving target.
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, Sgt R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2242  Down 0256.  Dortmund attacked.  19,500’.  Moon just rising, no cloud, clear.  Ground visible.  Red TI in sight when we bombed.  Incendiaries seen to burst each side of red TIs.  Other HE bursts seen.  Fires starting up with smoke.
ED862P  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt M.I.Robertson, Sgt J.F.Beesley, F/Sgt W.N.Layne, Sgts E.White, H.R.Page.  Up 2314  Down 0318.  Target Dortmund bombed.  20,000’. Moon rising, no cloud but target obscured by smoke.  Red and green TI markers in sight when we bombed.  One big red explosion seen on west side of target.  Terrific smoke up to 10,000’.
ED917G(?)  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgts M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2308  Down 0325.  Dortmund bombed.  19,000’.  5/10ths low cloud and smoke haze.  Bombed on well concentrated green TI markers, where HE explosions were seen.  One big explosion seen but nothing large in the way of fires.
ED923V  Sgts D.J.Marks, D.C.Fentiman, F/O C.W.Hammond, Sgts J.A.Dunbar, D.McDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2318  Down 0328.  Primary target Dortmund bombed.  Moon just rising.  No cloud.  Smoke haze.  16,500’.  Bombed on green and where red markers had fallen.  Fires seemed to be well concentrated judging by dense red smoke.
ED875R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  Up 2311  Down 0338.  Dortmund attacked.  No cloud, much smoke haze.  Bombed where red TI markers had been seen going down in distance.  Glow of fires observed with large explosion at 0135 hours.  Fires going well as we left target.
ED873O  Sgts J.H.Mason, T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  Up 2316  Down 0342.  Primary target Dortmund bombed.  19,500’.  Moon just rising, much smoke haze.  Bombed on centre of 3 green TI markers.  Several fires seen in target but nothing unusual about their size or colour.
ED868A  Sgts L.Stevenson, J.Brent, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2320  Down 0346.  Target Dortmund attacked.  No cloud, good visibility.  Red and green TI markers seen, green in sight when we bombed.  Own results not seen.  Good fires were going at time of bombing, one extra large fire seen.
ED911F  Sgts A.C.Jones,W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts R.F.Standen, J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Up 2326  Down 0332.  Bomb load 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Dortmund bombed 20,000’.  No cloud, good visibility.  Red and green TIs seen.  Bombed on green TIs as red were fading out.  Small fires and one large fire with large columns of smoke observed before leaving target.
ED939M  Sgts K.Fairlie, C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  Up 2323  Down 0420.  Bomb load 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Primary objective Dortmund attacked.  18,500’.  Moonlight, no cloud, visibility good.  Bombed on green TI markers which were in sights.
ED874L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy (Nav), W/O W.J.Stephens (Nav), Sgts J.Keddie, T.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2244  Down 0250.  Bomb load 1 x lb TI green, 4 x TI green, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Dortmund bombed.  18,000’.  Clear.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Sticks of incendiaries and bombs seen to burst ¼ mile SW of target.  Number of incendiaries seen 4 to 5 miles north of red.  1 x 1000lb hung up – brought back.
ED882H  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, K.W.Knight, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, W.T.Saunders.  Up 2302  Down 0321.  1 x 1lb TI green, 4 x TI green, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Dortmund attacked.  19,700’.  Moon just rising, no cloud but smoke haze.  Target lit up by fires.  Bombed on red TI markers which were in sight.  Saw own green TI burst.  Masses of fires and smoke observed.
ED938J  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgts H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2328  Down 0351.  Bomb load 1 x 1lb TI green, 4 x TI green, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Dortmund bombed.  20,000’.  No cloud, visibility poor due to smoke haze.  Target identified by markers and fires.  Bombed red TI markers.  Glow from fires seen from Zuider Zee.  Target area covered with fires and smoke.      

24.5.43 No flying today.

25.5.43 16 aircraft detailed for ops – Dusseldorf.  Weather was poor and hazy.  All aircraft returned safely to base.  6 aircraft acted as Path Finders.

25/26 May 1943 Dusseldorf – Bomb Load 6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb unless stated

ED862P  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt M.I.Robertson, Sgt J.F.Beesley, F/Sgt W.N.Layne, Sgts E.White, H.R.Page.  Up 2255  Down 0307.  Primary target Dusseldorf attacked.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Visibility very poor.  Made run from yellow TI.  No markers visible.  No results seen except for faint glow.
ED938J  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgts H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2326  Down 0342.  Dusseldorf attacked.  17,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  2 green TI markers in sight when we bombed.  Several fires seen to spread around aiming point.
ED882H  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, K.W.Knight, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, W.T Saunders.  Up 2339  Up 0344.  Target Dusseldorf bombed.  20,000’.  7/10ths cloud.  Bombed on three green TI markers, believed dummy and light of fire.  No smoke or red glow observed only whitish light.
ED839C  F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, Sgts R.M.Nelson, O.B.Peters, R.N.V.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donoghue.  Up 0001  Down 0358.  Primary target Dusseldorf attacked.  Visibility poor and hazy.  Bombed between two clusters of green TI markers.  One concentration of six small fires observed.
ED923V  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, G.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 2352  Down 0420.  Bomb load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Dusseldorf attacked.  21,000’.  Clear over target.  Visibility fair.  Bombs released on two green TI markers.  Own results not seen.
ED875R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.L.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Up 0005  Down 0405.  Bomb load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective Dusseldorf bombed.  3/10ths cloud.  Visibility moderate, hazy, 20,000’.  Bombed between two green TI markers.  Hole one foot square in starboard mainplane.  Returned on three engines.
ED870T  Sgts D.J.Marks, D.C.Fentiman, F/O C.W.Hammond, Sgts J.A.Dunbar, D.McDonald, L.L.Davis, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2256  Down 0326.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Target Dusseldorf attacked.  17,000’.  9/10ths cloud.  Bombs seen to explode below cloud.  No green or red markers observed.  Made run from Position A and dropped bombs at end.  No results seen except for glow under cloud.
ED940N  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts G.L.Ramsay, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, R.C.Haviland, A.J.Harris.  Up 2324  Down 0352.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Dusseldorf attacked.  16,500’.  Visibility moderate.  Centre point of four green TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Fires observed very widely dispersed.
ED948V  F/O B.H.Berridge, Sgt R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2305  Down 0143.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Returned early due to oxygen failure.  Bombs jettisoned.  Furthest point reached – 10 miles west of Southwold.

ED928B  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, P/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2302  Down 0319.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Dusseldorf attacked.  10/10ths cloud, poor visibility.  20,000’.  Released bombs after timed run from Position A.  No green or red markers seen.  Red glow 30 miles from target was only result observed.
ED867F  W/C G.D.Jones, Sgt C.Neary, F/L J.P.McMillan(?), F/L F(?)H.Parrott, F/Sgt A.Tomlinson, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2312  Down 0323.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Target Dusseldorf attacked.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Visibility bad.  Centre of three green TI markers in sight when we bombed.  Nothing else seen.  Yellow TI dropped behind us on way home.
ED873O  Sgts J.H.Mason, T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  Up 2310  Down 0331.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Primary objective Dusseldorf attacked.  21,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Visibility bad.  Bombed between two green TI markers.  No results could be seen.
ED917Q  Sgts J.Thomas, C.J.Hanrahan, A.H.Farrell, E.Bloomfield, W.E.Doyle, L.Beard, R.Bromley.  Up 2309  Down 0355.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Target Dusseldorf bombed.  19,500’.  6/10ths cloud.  Bombed on concentration of green green TI markers.  Good number of fires seen burning including what appeared to be one very large one.
ED868A  Sgts L.Stevenson, J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2341  Down 0348.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Dusseldorf attacked.  21,000’.  Thin cloud.  Moderate visibility.  Bombed centre of green TI markers as one red was seen to burn out.  Glow of fires seen under cloud but nothing else visible.
ED911E  Sgts A.C.Jones, W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts R.F.Standen, J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Up 2359  Down 0336.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Primary target Dusseldorf attacked.  15,000’.  Hazy.  Red TI marker in sight when bombs released.  Too much smoke and haze for further observation.  Glow of fires seen as leaving target area.
ED816U  Sgts K.Fairlie, C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  Up 2355  Down 0412.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Target Dusseldorf bombed.  18,500’.  Clear over target.  Two red TIs on ground and one going down.  Red and green in sight when bombs released.  Widely spread fires observed.  

26.5.43 15 aircraft detailed for ops – cancelled later.

27.5.43 16 aircraft detailed for ops, 8 aircraft being Path Finders were later cancelled and one aircraft did not take off owing to turret being u/s.  The remaining 7 aircraft attacked Essen which was considered  well concentrated in good weather.  All aircraft returned to base.

27/28 May 1943 Essen – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 6 x 500lb

ED867S  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts M.I.Robertson, W.Wishart, R.H.Nelson, G.F.Gower, F/O E.A.Adams, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 2238  Down 0348.  Primary target Essen attacked.  19,500’. 8/10ths cloud, visibility poor.  Red with green and white flare TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Good concentration of fires seen burning around markers and one very large.
ED870T  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgts M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2240  Down 0337.  Target Essen bombed.  Special experienced crew.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Visibility nil downwards.  Sky marker in sight when bombs released.  Glow of fires seen through cloud.  Saw large explosion ahead in target area.
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, Sgt R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2244 Down 0332.  Primary objective Essen attacked.  18,500’.  6/10ths cloud.  Visibility poor.  No sky markers burning at time of bombing, some dropped immediately afterwards.  Timed run from Position B.  Concentration of fires seen burning.
ED866G(?)  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts G.L.Ramsay, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, R.C.Haviland, A.J.Harris.  Up 2248  Down 0352.  Essen attacked.  20,000’.  Thin layer of cloud, visibility moderate.  Red and white sky marker in sight when bombs released.  One very large fire seen, naked flame to good height.  One large explosion and other fires observed.
ED816U  Sgts J.H.Mason, T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  Up 2250  Down 0342.  Target Essen bombed.  6/10ths cloud.  Visibility fair.  20,000’.  Bombed on two white and one red sky markers, not actually in sight.  One large red fire observed and others starting up as we left target.
ED868A  Sgts L.Stevenson, J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2246  Down 0327.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Essen attacked.  20,000’.  Patchy cloud, visibility fair.  Bombed on release point flares, no sky markers seen.  Good concentration of fires observed on leaving.  Fires illuminated ground detail.
ED911E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts R.F.Standen, J.Samsam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Up 2252  Down 0331.  Primary target Essen attacked.  19,000’.  Thick cloud.  Bombed on red, green and white sky markers which were in sight.  Own results not observed.  One very large fire and numerous small ones seen. 

28.5.43 One aircraft on dusk and dark landings – duty carried out.

28/29 May 1943 Wuppertal – Bomb Load 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb unless stated

ED917Q  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgts M.Hemming, A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2210  Down 0246.  Wuppertal attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud, visibility good, slight ground haze.  Bombed between red and green TI markers.  Built up area identified visually.  Own TIs seen to burst.  One big blaze and other fires starting.
ED923V  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.R.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, G.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 2242  Down 0331.  Primary target Wuppertal attacked.  18,500’.  Visibility good.  Bombed on red TI markers but own results not observed.  Many bomb bursts seen from other aircraft.  Good fires seen and well concentrated in marked area.
ED839C  F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, F/L Parrott(?), Sgts O.B.Peters, R.N.V.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donoghue.  Up 2249  Down 0323.  Target Wuppertal bombed.  19,500’.  Visibility good, smoke haze.  Bombs released on red TI markers.  Much smoke and many explosions observed.  A dozen good red fires seen with others starting up.
ED869S  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts M.T.Roberts, W.Wishart, R.H.Nelson, G.F.Gower, F/O E.A.Adams, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 2300 down 0434.  Wuppertal attacked.  18,700’.  Dense smoke.  Bombs released on centre of cluster of green TI markers.  Own bursts not observed but many others seen in target area.  Many big fires raging – well grouped round marked area.
ED862P  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt M.I.Robertson, Sgt J.F.Beesley, F/Sgt W.N.Layne, Sgts E.White, H.R.Page.  Up 2302  Down 0327.  Target Wuppertal attacked.  19,800’.  Smoke and haze.  Green TI markers in sights at time of bombing.  One big red explosion seen at 0116 and another on leaving., many big fires raging.
ED870T  Sgts D.J.Marks, D.C.Fentiman, F/O C.W.Hammond, Sgts J.R.Dunbar, D.McDonald, A.Dvais, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2304  Down 0427.  Primary objective Wuppertal attacked.  17,000’.  No cloud.  Bombs released on estimated centre of green TI markers.  One colossal fire seemed spread over whole of target width.  One huge explosion at 0114.  Three other explosions followed.
ED871K  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2308  Down 0425.  Target Wuppertal bombed.  18,500’.  Smoke haze.  Light from fires lit up target.  Red TI in sight when bombs released.  Large reddish/orange explosion seen at 0134.  Mass of fires seen with smoke up to 10,000’.  Fires visible at 40 miles away.
ED867F  P/O W.S.Treacy, Sgts M.Eardley, G.F.Brantingham, A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 2201  Down 0334.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Wuppertal target attacked.  17,800’.  Visibility good.  Red TI markers in sights when bombs released.  Own aircraft hit by incendiaries from aircraft above.  Buildings could be clearly seen in blaze of fires.
ED940N  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Weller, F/O A.H.Hitchcock, F/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2204  Down 0306.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Primary target Wuppertal attacked.  20,000’.  Visibility good.  Red TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Several red fires going and were visible 40 miles away.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgt G.L.Ramsay, W/O H.Boyd, Sgts D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, R.C.Haviland, A.J.Harris.  Up 2225  Down 0428.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Wuppertal bombed.  14,000’.  Visibility good, some haze.  Red TI markers in sights when bombs released.  Own bomb bursts seen and many others also.  Fires were numerous with great palls of smoke.
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, Sgt R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2210  Down 0238.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Target Wuppertal bombed.  18,400’.  Good visibility.  Red TI markers in sight when load released.  Many incendiaries and other explosions observed.  Many red fires seen, one yellowish one resembled a gas holder explosion.

ED938J  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgts H.Townsley, A.Spencer, E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2208  Down 0256.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Target Wuppertal attacked.  19,600’.  Visibility good.  Built up area identified visually.  Bombs released on red TI markers.  9 or 10 fires seen getting a good hold.  One large explosion seen at 0055 hours.
ED882H  Sgts K.Brown, M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, K.W.Knight, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, W.T.Saunders.  Up 2215  Down 0251.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Primary objective Wuppertal bombed.  19,500’.  Good visibility.  Built up area visible.  Two red TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Six large fires were going in marked area.  Much smoke obscured everything.
ED816U  Sgts J.Thomas, C.J.Hanrahan, F/O C.W.Hammond, Sgts E.Bloomfield, W.E.Doyle, L.Beard, R.Bromley.  Up 2212  Down 0350.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Primary target Wuppertal attacked.  19,500’.  No cloud.  Smoke and haze.  Bombs released on cascade of red and green TI markers.  Own results not observed.  Number of small fires seen.
ED939M  Sgts L.Baker, W.Vaughan, F/Sgt C.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Up 2219  Down 0410.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Target Wuppertal attacked.  18,500’.  Hazy and smoke.  No results of own bombing seen when load released on red and green TI markers (in sight).  Great columns of smoke over target area.
ED911E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts R.F.Standen, J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Up 2217  Down 0317.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Wuppertal bombed.  17,000’.  Thin cirrus above.  Hazy.  Built up area visually identified.  Two red TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Own results not observed.  Seven big fires and several explosions seen on run out.
ED928B  Sgts G.W.Armstrong, E.Bellis, J.J.Mansfiled, P.David, S.S.Ramsden, F/O S.Blackhurst, Sgt A.Laing.  Up 2221  Down 0335.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Wuppertal attacked.  19,000’.  Good visibility.  Bombs released on red TI markers.  Whole town appeared to be circled with red fires.  One large explosion with vivid red flames rising to 3,000’ to 4,000’.  Much smoke.
ED953Y  Sgts V.D.Evans, R.F.Stewart, T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  Up 2206  Down 0300. 1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Target Wuppertal attacked.  18,500’.  Very thin cloud.  Built up area visually identified.  Bombs released on red TI markers which were in sights.  Many fires and huge red glow visible for about 100 miles.
ED950X  Sgts K.Fairlie, C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cousins, G.Coombes.  Up 2223  Down 0312.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Primary target Wuppertal attacked.  15,500’.  No cloud, slight haze.  Bombed on red TI markers but own results not seen.  Several bursts seen in marked area.  Large concentration of fires going well on leaving marked area.    

29.5.43 19 aircraft raided Wuppertal and returned safely to base.  Raid was largely successful, weather good and little defence.  7 aircraft acted as Path Finders.

30.5.43 No flying today.

31.5.43 High level bombing during day.  One aircraft carried out circuits and landings.

1.6.43 Training during day – no flying

2.6.43 Air tests carried out, no other flying – weather bad.

3.6.43 No flying – weather bad, heavy rain and thunder storms.

4.6.43 17 aircraft detailed for ops, cancelled later.  Night flying tests carried out.

5.6.43 10 aircraft for ops, cancelled later.

6.6.43 12 Lancasters detailed for ops.  Night flying tests carried out and some day training.  Ops cancelled before briefing.

7.6.43 Some day training.  19 aircraft and 2 reserves detailed for ops tonight.  Over target bad weather setting in, ops were cancelled just before take off.

8.6.43 Air tests, no other flying.  Stand down from ops.  Fighter affiliation applied for but fighter aircraft did not turn up.

9.6.43 19 aircraft detailed for ops.  Day training carried out.  Ops cancelled after briefing due to weather.

10.6.43 Day training and fighter affiliation carried out.

11.6.43 17 aircraft detailed for ops and 2 on night training.  Training and fighter affiliation was carried out during the day.  Night training was cancelled – weather report for route was bad.  8 aircraft attacked Munster and the remaining 9 aircraft attacked Dusseldorf.  Reports show that the raid was highly successful.  All aircraft returned to base.

11/12 June 1943 Munster – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC

ED868A  Sgts L.Stevenson, J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2308 Down 0356.  Primary objective Munster attacked.  15,000’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Yellow TIs and roads round old city visually identified.  Bombed on visual identification of castle area.  A few small fires seen just starting up.
ED873O  Sgts J.H.Mason, T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  Up 2315  Down 0407.  Target Munster bombed.  15,000’.  Half moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Built up area seen in light of flares.  Bombed on centre of red TI markers.  Canal seen after bombing.  Good fires and big explosion seen at 0206 after leaving.
ED816U  Sgts J.Thomas, C.J.Hanrahan, F/O C.W.Hammond, Sgts E.Bloomfield, W.E.Doyle, L.Beard, R.Bromley.  Up 2313  Down 0400.  Primary target Munster attacked.  No cloud, smoke haze. 16,000’.  River, lake and buildings seen in light of flares.  Red TIs in sight when bombs released.  About 5 small fires seen as we left target area.
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, P/O R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2317  Down 0352.  Target Munster attacked.  15,000’.  Half moon, nl cloud.  Built up area identified visually (south part of town near railway station) by light of flares.  No markers in sight when bombs released.  Fires taking hold on leaving.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts G.L.Ramsay, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, A.J.Harris.  Up 2319  Down 0402.  Munster bombed.  16,000’.  Very light, no cloud, visibility good.  Target identified by yellow markers and visually.  Bombed on yellow markers.  Fires had not started but aircraft was one of first arrivals.
ED939H(?) F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, F/Sgt G.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Up 2326  Down 0414.  Primary objective attacked.  15,500’.  Munster.  No cloud, visibility good.  Built up area and marshalling yards visually identified.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Good concentration of incebdiaries and fires starting up on west side of town.
ED939Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, Sgts R.F.Steward, T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  Up 2326  Down 0417.  Primary target Munster bombed.  11,000’.  Visibility good.  Centre of cluster of yellow TI markers in sight at time of bombing.  Caught in searchlight for 3 minutes and attacked by enemy aircraft.  About 12 small fires starting up as we left.
ED950X  Sgts K.Fairlie, G.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  Up 2324  Down 0423.  Target Munster attacked.  Visibility good, no cloud.  16,000’.  Saw built up area and canal by light of flares.  2 red TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Several fires starting up as we were leaving.    

11/12 June 1943 Dusseldorf – Bomb Load 5 TIs, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb

ED923V  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgts J.L.Thomas, J.P.McMillin, R.J.Goad, G.T.Ambrose, H.Walters, G.Partos.  Up 2249  Down 0305.  Primary objective Dusseldorf attacked.  Half moon.  2/10ths cloud.  Ground haze.  Built up area identified visually.  No TIs seen on approaching.  Bombed built up area.  Some fires seen going well and were spreading as we left.
ED874L  S/L K.H.Burns, Sgt F.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, Sgts J.Keddie, T.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2257  Down 0307.  Very average.  Patches of low cloud.  19,400’.  Saw built up area.  Red TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Several aircraft within 200 feet of our own.
ED839C  F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, W/C R.C.Alabaster, Sgts R.R.Rae, O.B.Peters, R.N.V.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donoghue.  Up 2304  Down 0314.  Target Dusseldorf bombed.  19,000’.  Half moon.  3/10ths cloud – gap over target.  Bombs released on red and green TI markers.  4000 pounders seen bursting in midst of fires which were gaining in strength.
ED940N(?) F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Weller, P/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2306  Down 0329.  Primary target Dusseldorf bombed.  20,000’.  Moderate visibility.  Ground haze.  Bombs released on red TI markers.  A mass of red fires were under way.  6 large ones burning across TIs.  Glow seen from Dutch coast.
ED814D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2310  Down 0345.  Target Dusseldorf attacked.  20,000’.  Moderate visibility.  3/10ths cloud.  Red TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Fires seen to be well alight and glow visible half way back to coast.
ED871K  P/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, P/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Ip 2330  Down 0334.  Primary objective Dusseldorf bombed.  15,500’.  Hazy with patches of cloud.  Aimed at centre of concentration of green TI markers.  Street seen in light of flares.  Numerous white and red fires seen starting up.
ED917Q  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2340  Down 0359.  Dusseldorf attacked.  20,000’.  Much smoke.  River identified with fires seen burning on either side.  Red TIs in sight when bombs released.  Many concentrations of fires with huge pall of smoke.
LM314R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, C.P.Baggs.  Up 2342  Down 0350.  Target Dusseldorf bombed.  19,000’.  Smoke haze.  Bombs released on red and green TI markers which were in sight.  About 6 large red fires could be seen through dense pall of smoke.  One large explosion at 0200 hours.
ED938J  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgt H.Townsley, P/O A.Spencer, Sgts E.J.Susuwain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2335  Down 0410.  5 TIs, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Dusseldorf attacked.  20,000’.  Target lit up by fires but covered by pall of smoke.  Green TI markers in sight at time of releasing bombs.  Very well concentrated fires with large columns of black smoke.  

12.6.43 17 aircraft detailed for ops.  High Level Bombing training during day.  Target raided was Bochum.  The raid was successfully completed although there were many reports of other aircraft being very close on run in to target.  One aircraft, F/Sgt Thomas is missing – no news received since aircraft left base.  Weather was fine and moonlight.

12/13 June 1943 Bochum – Bomb Load 4 x TIs, 1 x 4000lb, 8 x 500lb unless stated

ED874L  S/L K.H.Burns, P/O F.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, Sgts J.Keddie, T.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2243  Down 0355.  Primary target Bochum attacked.  19,600’.  Half moon.  7/10ths cloud.  Bombs released on red TI markers.  Well concentrated sticks of incendiaries round markers.  One big explosion seen.  Attack appeared to be starting well.
ED940N  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Weller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2244  Down 0345.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Primary objective Bochum attacked.  20,000’.  5/10ths cloud.  Bombs released on red TI markers.  One terrific explosion seen before bombing at 1021 hours.  Many bursts seen with fires taking hold.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts C.Neary, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.H.Bryan, A.J.Harris.  Up 2245  Down 0338.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Target Bochum attacked.  19,500’.  8/10ths cloud.  Visibility moderate.  Bombs released on red TI markers.  Own results not observed.  One big explosion seen in target area at 0122 hours.
ED839C  F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.Boyd, Sgts R.R.Rae, S.S.Ramsden, R.N.V.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donoghue.  Up 2257  Down 0328.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Target Bochum bombed.  19,800’.  Moon.  8/10ths cloud.  Visibility moderate.  Red TI markers in sight when bombs released.  One very big explosion seen at 0127, some fires just starting up.
ED814D  P/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2259 Down 0415.  Primary Bochum attacked.  Bright, some cloud over target area.  20,000’.  Bombs released on red TI markers and fires.  Glow from fires seen through cloud east of TIs.  Cloud obscured ground detail.
ED938J  P/O J.F.Munro, F/L A.Eaton-Clarke (2nd Pilot), Sgt H.Townsley (F/E), P/O A.Spencer, Sgts E.J. Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2256  Down 0342.  Bochum attacked.  20,000’.  Bright and cloudy.  Red TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Own results not observed.  Cloud obscured ground detail.  One big flash seen through cloud on run up.
ED871K  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2307  Down 0408.  Target Bochum bombed.  20,000’.  5/10ths cloud.  Moon and northern lights.  Bombs released on concentration of green TI markers.  First half of attack seemed well concentrated with good fires round reds.
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, Sgt J.Nelson, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2308  Down 0402.  Primary target Bochum attacked.  18,000’.  Half moon.  8/10ths cloud.  No gorund detail visible.  Green TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Good concentration of fires round red TI markers.  Attack seemd to fall off.
EE107F  2nd Lt W.S.Treacy, Sgt M.Eardley, P/O G.F.Brantingham, Sgts A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 2312  Down 0420.  Target Bochum bombed.  Thin low cloud.  Visibility good.  19,000’.  No TIs visible at time of bombing.  Bombs released on concentration of fires.  No definite target marked.  Own greens brought back.
ED953Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, W/C R.C.Alabaster (Capt), Sgts T.J.Lightfoot (Nav), G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  Up 2247  Down 0350.  Target Bochum attacked.  20,000’.  Moonlight.  Thin layer cloud.  Bombed on red and green TI markers.  Good concentration of incendiaries developing into carpet of fire.  Other fires quite 2 miles in extent seen ending at markers.

ED950X  Sgts K.Fairlie, C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  Up 2250  Down 0324.  Primary objective Bochum bombed.  20,000’.  Bright moon, thin layer of cloud.  Red Ti markers in sight when bombs released.  Own results not observed.  Numerous fires seen.
ED939M  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, F/Sgt G.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Up 2252  Down 0355.  Target Bochum bombed.  19,500’.  Moonlight, 8/10ths cloud.  Bombs released on red and green TI markers, not in bomb sight.  Hundreds of incendiaries seen burning.
ED873O  F/Sgt J.H.Mason, Sgts T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  Up 2254  Down 0358.  Bochum target bombed.  19,000’.  Moonlight, 5/10ths cloud.  Bombed between two red TI markers.  Own results not seen.  Several fires seen.  Cloud obscured more ground detail.
ED816U  F/Sgt J.Thomas, Sgt C.J.Hanrahan, F/Sgt M.I.Robertson, Sgts E.Bloomfield, W.E.Doyle, L.Beard, R.Bromley.  Up 2304.  Aircraft and crew missing.
LM314R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L Cohn, J.E.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Up 2301  Down 0334.  Target Bochum attacked from 20,500’.  First TIs seen had every appearance of being dummies.  Bombs later released on green TI markers which were in sight.  Huge explosion seen at 0126.  Fires seen starting up under cloud.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2255  Down 0416.  Primary objective reached and bombed.  20,000’.  Very light, thin cloud.  Red TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Large number of red fires observed in target area.
ED928B  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2314 Down 0405.  Bochum attacked.  20,000’.  Visibility hazy, thin cloud.  Bombed between two red TI markers which were in sight.  Very little detail observed but glow of some fires was seen.

13.6.43 High Level Bombing training carried out.

14.6.43 Beam training and air firing during day.

15.6.43 Beam and bombing training.  Bullseye detailed but cancelled due to weather.

16.6.43 13 aircraft detailed to attack Cologne.  All aircraft returned safely to base except one which returned early owing to oxygen failure.  Results of bombing show they were scattered due to bad visibility.  Many enemy fighters reported, S/L Burns DFC being attacked by three FW190s, putting his aircraft category AC.  One other aircraft was damaged by flak.  One aircraft carried out night cross country.

16/17 June 1943 Cologne – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC

ED874L  S/L K.H.Burns, G/C Willet(2nd Pilot), P/O F.Dolby (F/E), P/O J.E.McAvoy, Sgts J.Keddie, T.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2230  Down 0331.  Target Cologne attacked.  20,500’.  Full moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Area identified by skymarkers.  Bombed on markers but not in bomb sight.  Little results could be seen.
ED871K  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett (Nav), S/L Foster (Nav), Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2234  Down 0250.  Target Cologne attacked.  Full moon.  7/10ths cloud.  Visibility good above cloud.  15,000’.  Flares were too scattered.  Bombs released on concentration of incendiaries with flak around.  Bomb bursts and possibly fires seen under cloud.
EE107F  2nd Lt W.S.Treacy, Sgt M.Eardley, P/O G.F.Brantingham, Sgts A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 2232  Down 0253.  Primary objective Cologne attacked.  20,000’.  Full moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Red markers with green stars in sight when load released.  Nothing seen in the way of ground detail.
ED948W  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts C.Neary, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.H.Bryan, A.J.Harris.  Up 2222  Down 0307.  Target Colgone bombed.  20,000’.  Full moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Cluster of three red markers bombed, not in sight.  No definite results seen owing to cloud.
ED866G  F/O B.H.Berridge, P/O R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2238  Down 0305.  Cologne attacked.  Visibility good above cloud.  Full moon.  20,000’.  One skymarker in bomb sight when load released.  No fires seen.
ED814D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt H.E.Mort, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2236  Down 0238.  Target Cologne attacked.  20,500’.  Full moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Made run from green steady but no markers seen at end of run.  Bombed on glow from fires below cloud.  Glow from a few scattered fires seen.
ED923V  F/L I.W.Covington, Sgt J.L.Thomas, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgts R.J.Goad, G.T.Ambrose, Davis, G.Partos.  Up 2242  Down 0256.  Cologne attacked.  7/10ths cloud.  20,000’.  Made timed run from green steady flares.  Red and green skymarkers in sight when bombs released.  Nothing seen.
LM314R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.L.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Up 2245  Down 0248.  Target Cologne bombed.  7/10ths cloud.  21,000’.  Bombed flare markers.  One large explosion seen under cloud at 0111.  Marker flare aircraft seen to bomb same position.
ED911E  P/O G.W.Armstrong, Sgts S.E.Bellis, J.J.Mansfield, P.David, R.J.Williams, P/O S.Blackhurst, Sgt A.Laing.  Up 2247  Down 0302.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Target Cologne attacked.  21,000’.  Full moon.  8/10ths cloud.  Bombs released on red and green stars which were in sight.  No fires seen except for vague glow under clouds.
ED862P  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2255  Down 0030.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Cologne attacked.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Visibility good above cloud.  Red and green star markers in sight at time of our releasing bombs.  Large white flash lit up sky at 0116 hours.
ED953Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, W/C R.C.Alabaster (Capt), Sgts T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  Up 2251  Down 0108.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Mission abandoned owing to oxygen system failure.
ED939M  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, F/Sgt G.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Up 2257  Down 0247.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Target Cologne attacked.  Full moon.  8/10ths cloud.  Green glow through cloud assumed to be TI, this we bombed.  No other markers seen before bombing.  Red glow on south-west edge of target area on leaving.
ED873O  F/Sgt J.H.Mason, Sgts T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  Up 2253  Down 0323.  Primary target Cologne bombed.  20,000’.  8/10ths cloud.  Centre of concentration of red and green markers in sight when bombs released.  Other bursts seen.   

17.6.43 No day flying.  Bullseye exercise carried out at night.

18.6.43 No flying – weather u/s.

19.6.43 1 aircraft on day training.  No other flying due to weather.

20.6.43 8 aircraft for ops but cancelled before briefing.

21.6.43 15 aircraft detailed for ops.  All attacked target Krefeld successfully and returned safely to base.  Visibility was good with ¾ moon and only a small amount of cloud.  Bombing was concentrated and towards the end of the raid, large and fierce fires were reported.

21/22 June 1943 Krefeld – Bomb Load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb unless stated

ED882H  P/O K.Brown, F/L G.Eaton-Clarke (2nd Pilot), Sgts M.Hogg (F/E), F.N.Alexander, K.W.Knight, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, W.T.Saunders.  Up 2308  Down 0316.  Primary objective Krefeld attacked.  18,500’.  Moonlight.  5/10ths thin cloud.  Smoke haze.  Saw and bombed on red TI markers which were in sight.  One 4000 pounder seen to explode.  Only carpet of incendiaries observed.
ED871K  F/O C.B.Robertson, F/L J.L.Moore(2nd Pilot), Sgt W.G.Peel (F/E), F/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2310  Down 0307.  Primary target Krefeld attacked.  19,500’.  5/10ths cloud, ¾ moom.  Two red TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Two very large explosions seen at 0135.  A few fires were seen starting up.
ED869S  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts Robertson, W.Wishart, F/L Sanderson (2nd Nav), Sgts R.M.Nelson, F/Sgt A.Tomlinson, F/O E.A.Adams, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 2345  Down 0337.  Target Krefeld bo,bed.  19,200’.  Visibility good.  Bombs released on concentration of red TI markers.  Fires were seen to be well concentrated around markers.  Glow could be seen from coast.
LM314R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, P/O W.J.Hills(2nd Nav), Sgts j.l.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Up 2347  Down 0345.  Target Krefeld attacked.  Smoke from fires, otherwise visibility good.  Bombs released on centre of cluster of green TI markers.  Tremendously concentrated fires. 
ED862P  Sgt D.J. Marks, F/O L.G.Rembridge (2nd Pilot), F/O G.N.Hammond, Sgts J.A.Dunbar, D.McDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2349  Down 0410.  Primary objective Krefeld attacked.  16,700’.  Visibility good, ¾ moon.  Centre of green TI markers in sight when load released.
ED875O or C?  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts G.L.Ramsay, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, M.D.Horner. Up 0004  Down 0358.  Target Krefeld bombed.  No cloud.  Slight smoke haze.  18,500’.  Bombs released on centre of concentration of green TI markers.  Big concentration of several acres of fires observed round target area.
ED948V  F/O B.H.Berridge, F/L F.P.Seward (2nd Pilot), P/O R.C.Swetman (F/E), W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 0024  Down 0356.  Primary target Krefeld attacked.  18,000’.  ¾ moon.  No cloud, much smoke.  Bombs released on centre of cluster of green TI markers.  Many firs observed all over target area, also huge pall of smoke.
ED928B  P/O G.W.Armstrong, Sgts S.E.Bellis, J.J.Mansfield, S/L Foster (2nd Nav), Sgts P.David, R.J.Williams, P/O S.Blackhurst, Sgt A.Laing.  Up 2312  Down 0304.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Target Krefeld attacked.  20,000’.  Visibility good above thin cloud.  Bombs released on two red TI markers which were in sight.  Incendiary fires only observed.  Side window fractured by flak.
ED953Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, W/C R.C.Alabaster (Capt), Sgts T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  Up 2320  down 0320.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Primary objective Krefeld bombed.  Moonlight.  3/10ths cloud.  Visibility good.  20,000’. Two red TI markers burning on ground in sight when bombs released.  Good concentration of incendiaries burning but no big fires seen.
ED938J  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, F/Sgt G.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Up 2322 down 0313.  1 x 4000lb, 12 SBC.  Primary Krefeld bombed.  20,000’.  5/10ths and cloudy.  Bombs released on red TI markers seen cascading through thin cloud.
LM322U  F/Sgt J.H.Mason, Sgts T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb. Up 2316  Down 0307.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Krefeld attacked.  20,000’.  6/10ths cloud, moonlight.  Visibility good.  Two red TI markers burning on ground in sight when load released.  Own bursts observed close to red markers.  Too early for observing other results.
ED950X  P/O C.Shnier(?), Sgt A.H.Gibbons, F/O F.S.Pratt, P/O P. de Villiers, Sgt P.Evans, F/Sgy B.Knoesen, Sgt D.E.Croft.  Up 2351  Down 0353.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Target Krefeld bombed.  19,000’.  3/10ths cloud.  Smoke cloud.  Bombs released on green TI markers burning on ground in sight at time.  Big area of fierce fires burning around marked area.  Raid well concentrated.
ED814D  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgts R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  Up 2353  Down 0401.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Primary objective Krefeld attacked.  20,000’.  ¾ moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Three red TI markers seen burning on run up, these were bombed.  Own results not observed.  Whole area appeared as onelarge fire.
ED911E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts Williams, J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Up 2353  Down 0350.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Primary objective Krefeld attacked.  18,500’.  Moon, no cloud, some smoke.  One red TI marker in sight when bombs released.  Fires seen burning well with smoke up to 16,000’.  Well concentrated attack.
ED107F  2 Lt W.S.Treacy, Sgt M.Eardley, P/O G.F.Brantingham, Sgts A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 0002  Down 0340.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Primary target Krefeld attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud, ¾ moon.  Visibility good.  Bombs released on green TI markers.  Large red fires with billowing smoke up to 12,000’ observed.    

22.6.43 17 aircraft detailed for ops.  Target was Mulheim.  Raid was quite successful and several large explosions were reported.  Weather was good.  1 aircraft, Captain P/O Armstrong, failed to return.  No news received after aircraft left base.

22/23 June 1943 Mulheim – Bomb Load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb unless stated

EE105L  S/L K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, Sgts J.Keddie, T.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2300  Down 0305.  Primary target Mulheim attacked.  20,000’.  Moon.  9/10ths cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed on single red TI marker which was in bombsight at time of releasing bombs.  One terrific explosion at 0123 hours.  Fires starting up.
ED871K  F/O C.B.Roberston, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.St C.Hebb, W.Wilkes.  Up 2302  Down 0305.  Target Mulheim attacked.  5/10ths cloud.  Some haze.  Two green TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Good concentration of fires round markers were taking good hold.  Two colossal explosions observed at 0122 hours.
EE107F  2nd Lt W.S.Treacy, Sgt H.Eardley, P/O G.F.Brantingham, Sgts A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  Up 2304  Down 0308.  Primary objective Mulheim attacked.  Rising moon, no cloud, some haze.  Bombs released on one red TI marker which was in bombsight.  Fires just starting all around aiming point.
ED869S  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts P.J.Roberts, W.G.Wishart, R.M.Nelson, G.F.Gower, P/O E.A.Adams, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 2313  Down 0331.  Target Mulheim bombed.  Low cloud over target area.  Visibility poor.  19,800’.  Load released on single red TI marker.  Some good red fires were seen starting up.  A large explosion seen at 0128 hours on way in.
ED882H  P/O K.Brown, Sgts M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, K.W.Knight, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, W.T.Saunders.  Up 2316  Down 0339.  Primary objective Mulheim attacked.  19,000’.  Half moon, visibility good.  Thin cloud.  Bombs released on cluster of green TI markers.  Own results of own bombs seen.  Seven good fires observed, well alight.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts Ramsay, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, L.L.Davis.  Up 2318  Down 0344.  Target Mulheim bombed.  Rising moon, thin stratos.  Visibility good.  19,000’.  Bombs released on concentration of three green TI markers.  Very large fires observed in target area.
ED917Q  F/Sgt D.J.Marks, Sgt C.V.King, F/O G.N.Hammond, Sgts A.Dunbar, D.McDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2327  Dwon 0354.  Primary target Mulheim attacked.  17,000’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Two red TI markers in bombsight when bombs released.  Fires were spreading around the marked area and were well concentrated.
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, P/O R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2329  Down 0345.  Mulheim attacked from 18,000’.  Moon just rising.  No cloud, visibility good.  Bombs released on concentration of green TI markers.  Own results not seen.  Numerous fires joining together.
LM314R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Up 2352  Down 0349.  Target Mulheim bombed.  19,000’.  No cloud, slight haze and smoke.  Red TI markers in bombsight when bombs released.  Own bombs seen to burst.  Good concentration of fires around markers.  Explosion at 0140 in middle of fires.  Krefeld seen still smouldering.
LM323U  F/L F.P.Seward, Sgt B.H.Lewis, F/L E.Sanderson, F/O E.E.Lawton, F/Sgt K.I.Smith, Sgts A.Monaghan, M.D.Horner.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2256  down 0340.  Primary objective Mulheim bombed.  20,000’.  Thin cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed on red TI marker on ground.  Slight overshoot possible.  Own results not seen.  One good fire observed.
ED928B  P/O G.W.Armstrong, Sgts S.E.Bellis, J.J.Mansfield, P.David, R.J.Williams, P/O S.Blackhurst, Sgt A.Laing.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2250.  Aircraft and crew missing.
ED814D  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgts R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Robertson.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2250  Down 0326.  Target Mulheim attacked.  20,000’.  Slight cloud.  Visibility good.  No results of own bombing seen when released on red TI markers.  Many fires beginning to start up.
ED911E  F/L J.L.Moore, F/Sgt R.A.Kerckhove, W/O H.Boyd, P/O W.J.Stephen, Sgts N.Horne, R.L.Griffiths, J.Darroch.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2354  Down 0335.  Primary target Mulheim attacked.  3/10ths cloud, 20,000’.  Slight haze.  Red TI marker on ground in bombsight when bombs released.  Only small fires seen while over target but red glow in ? over target after leaving.
ED953Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, Sgts C.Neary, T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2258  Down 0254.  Primary objective Mulheim attacked.  19,300’.  5/10ths thin cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed on single red TI marker.  One big orange red fire appeared suddenly in target area at 0122 hours.
ED950X  P/O C.Shnier, Sgt A.H.Gibbons, F/O F.S.Pratt, P/O P.de Villiers, Sgt P.Evans, F/Sgt B.Knoesen, Sgt D.E.Croft.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2246  Down 0302.  Target Mulheim bombed 19,000’.  6/10ths cloud.  Very hazy.  Bombs released on red TI marker.  A 4000 pounder seen to explode near red TI marker.  Big red fires in target area.  Glow seen from coast.
ED938J  W/C R.C.Alabaster (Capt), F/L A.Eaton-Clarke (Pilot), Sgt G.S.Dunning (F/E), P/O L.Beeney (Nav), P/O A.N.Carlton (AB), FSgt G.K.Smith, E.Hambling, J.Williamson.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2248  Down 0322.  Primary objective Mulheim bombed.  20,000’.  Rising moon, visibility good.  Bombs released on cascading red TI marker.  Nine big fires observed.
ED862P  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, F/Sgt G.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, M.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2320  Down 0314. Primary target Mulheim attacked.  3/10ths broken cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombs released on one red TI marker.  Results of own bombs not seen.  One huge explosion seen.  Some red fires seen starting up.

23.6.43 Practice bombing carried out.

24.6.43 14 aircraft detailed to attack Elberfeld.  Sgt Montgomery returned early – ASI u/s.  Remiander bombed target, large fires developed which were reported to be seen from the Dutch coast.  A dark night but visibility was good with little cloud.  1 aircraft, F/L Moore is missing.  No news received.  The Squadron Navigation Officer was in the missing aircraft.

24/25 June 1943 Elberfeld – Bomb Load 5 x TI, 1x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb unless stated

ED871K  P/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett (Nav1), Sgts R.Marshall (Nav 2), P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C Hebb.  Up 2249  Down 0311.  Primary target Elberfeld attacked.  18,500’.  Dark.  Visibility good.  Bombed on red TI marker.  Built up area visually identified and 4000 pounder observed to burst in midst.  Fires were starting to develop.
ED869S  S/L E.F.Nind, Sgts P.J.Roberts, W.G.Wishart, R.M.Nelson, G.F.Gower, F/O E.A.Adams, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 2251  Down 0322. Target Elberfeld attacked.  19,000’.  Broken cloud in Ruhr area.  Dark.  Red TI marker burning on ground in bombsight when load dropped.  Well concentrated fires seen in marked area.  One big explosion at 0117 hours.
ED862P  F/Sgt D.J.Marks, Nelson, F/O G.N.Hammond, Sgts J.A.Dunbar, D.MacDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2302  Down 0342.  Target Elberfeld bombed.  18,000’.  4/10ths cloud.  Visibility good.  Some ground haze.  Bombed on one red TI marker first cascading and then burning on ground.  Good fires seen but not round TIs.
EE174W  F/O B.H.Berridge, P/O R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2311  Down 0344.  Primary objective Elberfeld attacked.  17,000’.  Dark.  Visibility fair, smoke.  Bombed on red TI markers seen to cascade but lost in fires.  Concentration of red and orange fires in target area.  Smoke rising to 14,000’.
LM314R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, Beesley, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs. Up 2307  Down 0103.  Mission abandoned owing to airspeed indicator u/s.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
LM324U  F/L F.P.Seward, Sgt B.E.Lewis, F/L E.Sanderson, P/O E.E.Lawton, F/Sgt K.I.Smith, Sgts A.Monaghan, M.D.Horner.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2235  Down 0331.  Primary target Elberfeld bombed, 17,300’.  Dark, broken cloud.  Visibility good.  Red TI markers in bombsight when bombs released.  Seven 4000 pounders seen to burst causing fires.  Good fires increasing with intense smoke as we left target.
ED966G (Blvd 866)  W/C Alabaster (capt), F/L A.Eaton-Clarke (Pilot), P/O L.Beeney (Nav), P/O A.N.Carlton (AB), F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, J.Williamson.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2231  Down 0328.  Primary objective Elberfeld attacked.  20,000’.  Broken cloud.  Built up area identified visually.  Bombed TI markers.  Seemed to be a lot of incendiaries.  Fires seen getting a good hold as we left target area.
EE107F  2nd Lt W.S.Treacy, F/L D.Mackenzie (2nd Pilot), Sgt H.Eardley, P/O G.F.Brantingham, Sgts A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2222  Down 0316.  Target Elberfeld attacked.  20,000’.  5/10ths cloud.  Visibility good.  One red TI marker in bombsight when load released.  Too early to form opinion but no results observed except for burning incendiaries.
ED939M  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, F/Sgt G.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2240  Down 0335.  Elberfeld attacked.  20,000’.  Clear.  Visibility fair.  Bombs released on centre of cluster two red and one green TI markers, in bombsight.  Great fires in target area.  Tremendous blaze could be seen from Antwerp.
ED950X  Sgts K.Fairlie, C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cousins, G.Coombes.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2243  Down 0320.  Primary objective Elberfeld attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud.  Slight haze.  One red TI marker in bombsight when bombs released.  Own results not seen.  One large patch of fire seen burning with pall of smoke to 2,000’.  Fires could be seen from Antwerp.
ED911E  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgts R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2238  Down 0309.  Target Elberfled bombed 20,000’.  No cloud but hazy.  One red TI marker in bombsight when load released.  Many fires could be seen burning in target area as we left.
ED873O  P/O C.Shnier, Sgt A.H.Gibbons, P/O F.S.Pratt, P/O P.de Villiers, Sgts P.Evans, D.E.Croft, F/Sgt B.Knoesen.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2245  Down 0314.  Primary target Elberfeld attacked.  18,000’.  Dark, no cloud, hazy.  Bombs released on red TI marker.  One 4000 pounder believed seen to explode.  Big explosion seen at 0109 hours.  Some red fires developing amongst markers.
ED953Y  F/L J.L.Moore, F/Sgt R.A.Karckhove, S/L J.P.McMillin, P/O W.J.Stephen, F/Sgt A.Tomlinson, Sgts J.W.Darroch, L.L.Davis.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2245  Down 0314.  Aircraft and crew missing.
LM327B  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, Sgts G.S.Dunning, T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2247  Down 0350.  Target Elberfeld bombed.  19,500’.  No cloud.  No moon.  Visibility good.  One red TI marker in bombsight when load released.  Fires were brilliant and were illuminating interior of aircraft on leaving. 

25.6.43 1 bombing practice carried out to test Mk XIV bomb sight on climbing runs.

26.6.43 Air firing and bombing practices.  Also beam flying.

27.6.43 Number of training exercises carried out.  Bombing and beam approach also several short cross countries during which Flight Engineers practised flying the aircraft, W/Ops using GEE and Bomb Aimers navigating etc.

28.6.43 Some beam flying and tests during morning.  14 aircraft detailed for ops.  1 aircraft abandoned mission – Sgt Montgomery – CS Unit of port outer u/s.  Target was Cologne.  Mainly 10/10ths cloud and bombing was carried out by means of sky markers.  Glow of fires seen through cloud.  1 aircraft failed to return – F/L Seward – no news received since aircraft left base.

28/29 June 1943 Cologne – Bomb Load – 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb unless stated.

ED869S  S/L E.F.Nind, P/O G.de Wesselow (2nd Pilot), Sgts P.J.Roberts, W.G.Wishart, R.M.Nelson, G.F.Gower, F.Strange, P/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 2246  Down 0321.  Primary objective Cologne attacked.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on  ETA.  No markers observed until well after bombing.  Own TIs not dropped.  No ground results observed.
ED882H  P/O K.Brown, Sgts M.Hogg, F.N.Alexander, K.W.Knight, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, W.T.Saunders.  Up 2249 Down 0312.  Target Cologne attacked.  9/10ths cloud.  20,000’.  No markers seen until after bombing.  Bombed by ETA.  Cloud prevented all ground observation.
ED938J  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgt H.Townsley, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, Sgts E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2304  Down 0340.  Target Cologne bombed.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Dark.  No markers seen until immediately after bombing.  Bombed on ETA.  TIs brought back as briefed.  No ground results observed.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts Ramsay, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, A.J.Harris.  Up 2308  Down 0330.  Primary objective Cologne bombed.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombs released on sky and ground TI markers which were in bombsight.  No results seen owing to cloud.
ED870T  F/Sgt D.J.Marks, Sgts Palmer (2nd Pilot), P.Crow, F/O G.N.Hammond, Sgts J.A.Dunbar, D.MacDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2327  Down 0411.  Target Cologne attacked.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  One red TI marker in bombsight when bombs released.  Big widespread fires definitely going under cloud, with thick black oily smoke coming up to 6,000’.
EE174F  F/O B.H.Berridge, P/O R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2324  Down 0413.  Cologne objectice attacked.  17,400’.  10/10ths cloud.  Single sky marker in bombsight when bombs released.  No ground markers visible.  Glow from fires visible.
LM314R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, S.Carlyle (2nd Nav), F.T.Williams, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Up 2330  Down 0154.  Mission abandoned.  Constant speed unit port outer u/s.
EE172O  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, S/L K.J.Foster, Sgts J.F.Beesley, W.H.Layne, E.White, H.R.Page.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2252  Down 0400.  Primary objective Cologne attacked.  19,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Visibility nil.  Bombs released on sky markers.  Nothing in bombsight.  Aircraft was early on target and no fires or explosions were observed.
LM323U  F/L F.P.Seward, Sgt B.E.Lewis, F/L E.Sanderson, F/O E.E.Lawton, F/Sgt K.I.Smith, Sgts A.Monaghan, M.D.Horner.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2251.  Aircraft and crew missing.
ED939M  W/C R.C.Alabaster (Capt), F/L A.Eaton Clarke (Pilot), P/O L.Beeney, P/O A.N.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, J.Williamson.  1 x 4000lb  12 SBC.  Up 2255 Down 0337.  Target Cologne bombed.  20,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Ground visibility nil.  Nothing in bombsight.  Bombs released between two red TI markers.  One big red explosion seen at 0200 hours followed by glow in the sky.
ED953Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, Sgts G.S.Dunning, T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2302  Down 0419.  Primary target Cologne attacked.  7/10ths cloud.  Red abd green stars and white flares in bombsight when load released.  Numerous fires in target area and others seen 5 or 6 miles away.
EE168B?  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgts R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2257  Down 0357.  Target Cologne attacked.  20,000’.  10/10ths low cloud.  White flare in bombsight when load released.  Flashes from 4000 pounders seen below cloud.  Smoke also observed rising through cloud.
EE107F  2nd Lt W.S.Treacy, F/L D.Mackenzie (2nd Pilot), H.Eardley, P/O G.F.Brantingham, Sgts A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2259  Down 0322.  Primary target Cologne attacked.  10/10ths cloud.  Ground visibility poor.  20,000’.  Two red TI markers in bombsight when bombs released.  Own results not observed.  No indications of ground detail.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Malaber, T.G.Pugh.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2304  Down 0315.  Target Cologne bombed.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombs released on one red TI marker – in sights at time of bombing.  Ground results completely obscured by cloud.     

29.6.43  One cross country and some beam flying carried out.

30.6.43 Some beam approach training, bombing and air firing.

Appendix                 On 16th four aircraft and crews were detailed to Scampton, the captains being F/L Sauvage, F/L Rodley, P/O Jones and P/O Munro.  On night of 17th a practice in target illuminating and marking by those crews in preparation for a special mission was carried out.  On 20th the attack was executed, the target being the radio location factory at Friedrichshaven.  The area was successfully illuminated by flares and TIs being dropped, one by F/L Sauvage, marked the centre of the target and was then bombed by the Main Force.  The 4 aircraft had to make several runs through opposition of searchlights and flak, all 4 being hit.  When the attack was concluded, the force proceeded to Maison Blanche near Algiers.  On 23rd Spezia was attacked on the return journey.  F/Ls Sauvage and Rodley were unable to participate owing to the unserviceability of their aircraft.  P/Os Jones and Munro successfully illuminated the area with flares and good bombing followed.  A heavy explosion took place, believed to be an oil or petrol dump.  F/L Sauvage and F/L Rodley were able to return 2 days later via Gibralter.

20/21 June 43 Friedrichshaven (from Scampton) – Bomb Load 2 x TI, 32 flares, 2 x 500lb unless stated

ED868A  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgt H.Townsley, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, Sgts E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2145  Down 0745.  Target Friedrichshaven attacked.  11,000’.  No cloud.  Visibilty excellent.  Target identified visually in light of flares.  Made first run over target dropping flares.  Bombs were dropped during another run over target on concentration of green target indicators.  Bombing was well concentrated on target.  Own 4000 pounder seen to burst right on sheds.  Landed at Maison Blanche.
ED870T  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  (Time not known).  Friedrichshaven attacked.  Further details not known.  Crew being on leave and Navigator’s log book not available.
ED940N  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, P/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, P/O J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  6 x TI, 16 flares, 8 x 500lb.  Up 2155  Down 0804.  Target Friedrichshaven attacked.  Visibility perfect, no cloud.  9,000’.  Target identified visually by light of flares.  Flares, TIs and bombs dropped on marked area.  Bombs seen to fall on factory itself which soon became covered with smoke.  Landed at Maison Blanche.
ED839C   F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.Boyd, Sgts R.R.Rae, S.S.Ramsden, R.N.V.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donaghue.  6 x TI, 16 flares, 8 x 500lb.  Up 2145  Down 0755.  Primary objective Friedrichshaven bombed.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  10,500’.  Dropped red TI on first run.  On second run, green TIs and bombs were dropped on factory which could be clearly seen in light of flares.  Early bombing was very accurate but later became wild.  Landed at Maison Blanche.

23/24 June 1943 Spezia (from North African Base) – Bomb Load 8 x 500lb 6 SBC

ED836A  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgt H.Townsley, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, Sgts E.J.Suswain, S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 1940  Down 0412.  Target Spezia attacked.  Visibility poor with haze and smoke.  15,000’.  Target identified by headland of Palmaria in light of flares.  Harbour of Spezia seen in light of flares.  Target in bombsight but own results not seen.  One large explosion seen in north-east corner of harbour.
ED870T  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 1955  Down 0409.  Primary target Spezia bombed.  12,000’.  No cloud but heavy smoke screen.  Harbour identified visually by aid of flares.  Own bombs not seen to burst.  One very large explosion seen at 2346 hours in target area.  Believed to be oil storage dump.  Flak and searchlights more numerous than on previous visit.

1.7.43 Day training carried out.  Cross country, Beam approach and six fighter affiliation exercises.

2.7.43 More fighter affiliation and other day training carried out.

3.7.43 Bombing and beam flying in morning.  18 aircraft detailed for ops.  Cologne attacked very successfully, there being no cloud with good visibility.  The river and target were identified visually in most cases and the bombs were well placed.  Large fires and explosions ensued.  One aircraft, F/O Rembridge failed to return, nothing was heard from aircraft since it left base.

3/4 July 1943 Cologne – Bomb Load 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb unless stated

EE176N  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2245  Down 0340.  Target Cologne attacked.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  19,500’.  Bombs released on single red TI marker in bombsight with slight overshoot as briefed.  Own green seen on red.  One huge explosion at 0143.  Fires starting.
EE105L  F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clarke, Sgts R.R.Rae, F.Peters, R.N.V.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donaghue.  Up 2251  Down 0335.  Primary objective Cologne bombed.  19,500’.  No cloud.  Hazy.  Target identified by red TI markers and river.  Bombed on red TI marker (in sight) as briefed.  One large explosion seen which developed into huge fire.
ED870T  F/Sgt D.J.Marks, F/O A.B.Palmer (2nd Pilot), Sgt D.C.Fentiman, F/O G.N.Hammond, Sgts J.A.Dunbar, D.MacDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2249  Down 0402.  Primary target Cologne attacked.  16,500’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Target with river, town and bridges definitely identified visually.  Bombed on TI and visual.  Raid became concentrated as it progressed.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgts Ramsay, H.F.Daniels, D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, Harris.  Up 2255  Down 0354.  Cologne attacked.  No cloud, hazy.  19,000’.  Built up area identified visually.  Red TI marker in bombsight when load released.  Huge explosion at 0121 and fires covered a minimum area of 4 square miles and were going well.
ED953Y  P/O K.Brown, M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/Sgt K.W.Knight, J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, W.T.Saunders.  Up 2304  Down 0408.  Target Cologne bombed.  20,000’.  Hazy, no cloud.  Bombs released on cluster of green TI markers in bombsight.  Early on target but fires were developing.  Own results not seen.
ED814D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgts A.C.Newbegin, Stephens (AB2), Ramsden, R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2301  Down 0415.  Primary target Cologne attacked.  Little very thin cloud.  Visibility good.  19,500’.  Bombed on red TI and green burning on ground.  Fires seen burning around marked area.
ED869S  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, E.L.Cohn, J.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Up 2310  Down 0420.  Primary objective Cologne bombed.  19,500’.  No moon, no cloud, smoke haze.  Bombs released on two green TI markers, overshoot two seconds as briefed.  Fires appeared to cover large area.
ED939M  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, F/Sgt G.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Up 2312  Down 0424.  Primary target Cologne attacked.  18,500’.  Smoke haze.  Target well lit up when aircraft arrived.  Red TI markers in bombsight when load released.  Big white explosion near centre of aiming point at 0155.
EE174W  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.S.Dunning, P/O L.Beeney, P/O A.N.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, J.Williamson.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2218  Down 0406.  Target Cologne attacked.  19,700’, haze and smoke.  No cloud.  Red TI marker in bombsight at time of bombing.  Smoke spread over whole area.  Large fires were getting well going as aircraft left target area.
ED950X  F/Sgt K.Fairlie, Sgts C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Coussins, G.Coombes.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2226  Down 0412.  Cologne attacked.  No cloud.  Ground haze and smoke.  18,000’.  Target identified by large fire area.  Red TIs were burning out when bombs released.  Large area of fires observed.
ED811K  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgt H.Townsley, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgts S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2247  Down 0337.  Primary Cologne bombed.  18,000’.  No cloud.  Visibility excellent.  Built up area visually identified in light of flares.  Red/green star marker in bombsight when load released.  Some fires starting.
ED862P  P/O C.Shnier, Sgt A.H.Gibbons, F/O F.S.Pratt, F/O P.de Villiers, Sgts P.Evans, D.E.Croft, F/Sgt B.Knoesen.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2234  Down 0315.  Target Cologne attacked.  17,800’.  No cloud but smoke haze.  Red TI burning on ground in bombsight when load released.  Big explosion seen at 0121.  Too early to observe definite results but bombing was well concentrated.
EE172O  F/Sgt J.H.Mason, Sgts T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.T.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2232  Down 0352.  Target Cologne attacked.  19,500’.  Visibility good.  Target identified by skymarkers and bend in river visual.  Only a white marker burning when aircraft arrived, this was bombed.  Big explosion at 0120 – huge belch of fire resulted.
EE917Q  P/O L.G.Rembridge, Sgt R.C.Golding, P/O W.J.Hills, P/O H.W.Parry, W/O G.R.Cobby, Sgts F.M.Lamb, A.Jones.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2235 – aircraft and crew missing.
EE168B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgts R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2241  Down 0344.  Primary objective Cologne attacked.  19,500’.  Hazy, no cloud.  River and bridge visually identified in flash of explosion.  Bombs released on red TI markers.  Numerous fires starting on leaving target with smoke up to 6,000’.
EE868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2239  Down 0329.  Cologne bombed.  20,000’.  No cloud but haze and smoke.  Built up area identified visually by light of flares.  One red TI marker in bombsight when bombs released.  Aircraft rather too early but fries were starting and bombing concentrated.
ED911E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper Sgts Williams, J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Primary target Cologne attacked.  18,000’.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Visual bend in river, bridges and town on which incendiaries were falling.  Bombs released on built up area and red TI – in sight.  Big concentration of fires.
EE107F  2nd Lt W.S.Treacy, M.Eardley, P/O G.F.Brantingham, Sgts A.Roche, W.A.Halsey, P.G.Nickerson, W.Hussey.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2242  Down 0322.  Primary objective Cologne bombed.  19,500’.  Hazy.  No cloud.  Red TI marker in bombsight when load released.  Large reddish explosion seen at 0137.  Fires and incendiaries seen burning. 

4.7.43 Stand down – no flying.

5.7.43 NFTs and beam flying in morning.  16 aircraft detailed for ops – later cancelled.

6.7.43 Day training carried out.  Air firing, BAT and overshoot procedure.  Some aircraft visited Docking to inspect ASRS equipment.

7.7.43 Some beam flying and several bombing exercises done.

8.7.43 Bombing and beam practice during NFTs.  16 aircraft detailed for ops.  Two markers were cancelled early.  The remainder attacked Cologne except P/O Jones who was forced to return early through faulty ailerons control.  Target was covered by cloud and bombing was carried out by means of sky marking.  Fires and explosions were seen through cloud.  F/L Eaton-Clarke’s aircraft was attacked by a night fighter a few minutes before reaching the target.  Several cannon shells hit the aircraft, wounding the rear gunner and damaging the starboard motors and aileron controls.  The fighter was evaded and the aircraft went on to bomb the target.  On the return journey the starboard motor caught fire.  Despite the difficulties in controlling the aircraft and damage to the undercarriage, the aircraft was successfully forced landed at Great Saling.  One othet aircraft, Captain F/O Palmer failed to return -  no news was received since aircraft left base.  The wounded air gunner, Sgt Williamson, was admitted to 121st Evacuation Hospital, Braintree, Essex.

8/9 July 1943 Cologne – Bomb Load 4 x TI, 1 X 4000lb, 5 X 1000lb

EE174W  W/C R.C.Alabaster (Capt), F/L A.Eaton-Clarke (Pilot), Sgt G.S.Dunning(FE), P/O A.N.Carlton (AB), Sgts S.Powell (AB2), F/Sgt K.I.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, J.Williamson.  Up 2248 (Down not shown). Primary target Colgone bombed.  20,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Red/green skymarker in bombsight at time of bombing.  One big explosion seen through cloud.  Cloud obscured further indications.  Attacked by enemy aircraft.
ED870T  F/Sgt D.J.Marks, Sgt D.C.Fentiman, F/O G.N.Hammond, Sgts J.A.Dunbar, D.MacDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2250  Down 0350.  Target Cologne attacked.  19,000’.  No moon, 10/10ths cloud.  Red/green skymarker in bombsight when bombs released.  One large explsion seen, light of which lasted 20 seconds.  No fires observed.
EE179U?  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2252  Down 0037.  Returned early. Mission abandoned due to aileron trouble.
ED862P  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt Dunn, Sgt J.F.Beesley, F/Sgt W.H.Layne, Sgts E.White, H.R.Page.  Up 2254  Down 0332.  Primary objective Cologne attacked.  19,500’.  ¼ moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed between two red/green skymarkers – not in bombsight.  Two big flashes probably from HE bursts giving yellow light at 0125.
ED814D    F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgts A.C.Newbegin, S.S.Ramsden, R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2256  Down 0403.  Target Cologne bombed.  ¼ moon.  10/10ths cloud.  20,000’.  Bombed on glow from skymarkers below cloud – nothing in bombsight.  Explosions seen under cloud also glow from fires.
EE959M  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, P/O C.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Up 2258  Down 0419.  Target Cologne attacked.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Target identified by glow from fires.  Glow in bombsight when bombs released.  One big explosion at 0123.
EE950X  P/O K.Fairlie, Sgts C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2300  Down 0352.  Target Cologne attacked.  20,000’.  ¼ moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombs released between two red/green skymarkers – not in sight.  One terrific explosion at 0122 hours.  Cloud prevented further observations.
ED953Y  P/O C.Shnier, Sgt A.H.Gibbons, S/L K.J.Foster, P/O P.de Villiers, Sgts P.Evans, D.E.Croft, F/Sgt B.Knoesen.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2302  Down 0338.  Primary objective Cologne attacked.  10/10ths cloud.  19,000’.  Bombed on ETA.  Only skymarkers went out before we could bomb.  Nothing observed owing to cloud.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgt S.Ramsay, P/O H.F.Daniels, Sgts D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, A.J.Harris.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2304  Down 0410.  Target Cologne bombed.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  One red/green skymarker in bombsight when bombs released.  One huge explosion occurred at 0112 hours.  Fires appeared to be well concentrated in neighbourhood of flares.
EE168B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgts R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC. Up 2306  Down 0408.  Cologne bombed. 20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombs released on red/green skymarkers.  One very large explosion seen through cloud at 0117.  Flash lit up whole of target area.
ED911E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts R.F.Standen, J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC. Up 2308  Down 0403.  Target Cologne bombed.  18,000’.  No moon.  10/10ths cloud.  One red skymarker in bomsight when load released.  Bomb bursts seen reflected though cloud.  Glow of fires seen below cloud on leaving target.
EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stephens, A.Hunter, W.A.Lang, K.Kirby.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2310  Down 0400.  Cologne attacked.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  ¼ moon.  Single red/green skymarker in bombsight when we bombed.  Too early on target to see results.  Cloud obscured all ground detail.
EE172O  F/Sgt J.H.Mason, Sgts T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.T.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2314  Down 0347.  Primary objective Cologne attacked.  19,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  On estimated position of skymarkers under cloud bombed – not in bombsight.  One large explosion seen but cloud obscured further detail.
ED923Y  F/O R.B.D.Palmer, Sgt C.V.King, F/O R.C.Datta, Sgts W.R.Stephens, A.R.Harris, D.C.Holding, D.Cameron.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2316 – aircraft and crew missing.

9.7.43 Beam flying and air firing done during NFTs.  Seven aircraft detailed to attack Gelsen – Kirchen.  One aircraft, F/Sgt Evans, returned early due to oxygen system u/s.  The remainder attacked through cloud by means of skymarkers.  Fires and one particularly large explosion seen.  One aircraft F/L Mackenzie, while taking violent evasive action received a near miss from heavy flak under the starboard wing, throwing the aircraft over on to its back in a vertical dive.  After losing height from 21,000’ to 9,000’, the pilot, assisted by the Flight Engineer, managed to level the aircraft and although engaged by predicted flak, got away from the target area and safely back to base.

9/10 July 1943 Gelsen-Kirchen – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb 12 SBC unless stated

EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgt J.T.Pratt, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts W.Stephens, A.Hunter, W.A.Lang, K.Kirby.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2308  Down 0441.  Primary target Gelsenkirchen attacked.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  ¼ moon.  Bombed on estimated centre of red/green markers.  One very big red explosion at 0140 hours.  Fires were just starting up in target area.
EE168B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgts R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  Up 2258  Down 0424.  Target Gelsen kirchen bombed.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Concentration of red/green skymarkers in bombsight at time of bombing.  One large flash below cloud at 0140 hours.  Glow from three big fires below cloud.
ED911E  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2303  Down 0430.  Gelsenkirchen attacked.  19,500’.  10/10ths cloud. ¼ moon.  Bombed on estimated centre of three red/green skymarkers.  One very large explosion at 0140 hours.  Glow of fires were spread around markers.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2305  Down 0420.  Primary objective Gelsenkirchen attacked.  10/10ths cloud.  ¼ moon.  Red and green skymarker in sight at time of bombing.  Sky lit up by big explosion for 3 – 4 seconds at 0134.
EE172O  F/Sgt J.H.Mason, Sgts T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2310  Down 0431.  Primary target Gelsenkirchen attacked.  19,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombs released between two red/green markers – not in bombsight.  Glow of fires seen through cloud.  Further observation impossible owing to cloud. 
ED933Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, Sgts Evans, T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2312  Down 0120.  Mission abandoned owing to oxugen system u/s.
ED938J  P/O C.Shnier, Sgt A.H.Gibbons, S/L K.J.Foster, P/O P.de Villiers, Sgts P.Evans, D.E.Croft, F/Sgt B.Knoesen.  1 x 4000lb 15 SBC.  Up 2300  Down 0428.  Target Gelsenkirchen attacked.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed position of red steady marker which had disappeared into cloud.  Two explosions at 0139 and 0140.  Several fires observed, one very large.

10.7.43 Only one flight carried out to Great Saling.

11.7.43 18 aircraft detailed for ops – cancelled before briefing.

12.7.43 19 aircraft detailed to attack Turin.  One aircraft, F/Sgt Evans suffered damage from unknown cause, possibly a collision and had to abandon mission.  Another jettison bombs and returned early owing to petrol shortage.  The remainder all attacked the target successfully.  The built up area and other landmarks being identified visually.  Fires were large and explosions seen in target area.  A circuitous route had to be followed and the aircraft left and returned to this country in daylight.

12/13 July 1943 Turin – Bomb Load – 2 x TI Red, 2 x LBTI Red, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 500lb

EE103L  S/L K.H.Burns, G/C A.H.Willetts (2nd Pilot), P/O E.G.Dolby, Sgts J.Keddie, R.J.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2213  Down 0818.  Bombed Turin.  No cloud, slight amount at haze at 15,000’.  Saw bridge over river and park.  Several fires seen in target area.  Unexploded shell about 75mm passed through fuselage and span of tailplane without exploding.
EE179U  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2236  Down 0646.  Bombed Turin from 13,000’.  Visibility good, no cloud.  Yellow flares bruning on ground from west to east across aiming point.  Fires and smoke well concentrated around aiming point.
ED839C  F/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, F/Sgt R.R.Rae, Sgts O.B.Peters, R.N.V.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donaghue.  2 flares green, 3 x TI Green, 1 x LBTI Green, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 500lb GP.  Up 2224  Down 0755.  3 xTI released over target.  Rest of bomb load hung up and was jettisoned some distance from target, so as not to mislead raid.  Saw one big fire ½ mile east of aiming point.
ED882H  P/O K.Brown, Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/Sgt K.W.Knight, Sgts J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, W.T.Saunders.  Bomb load as F/L Rodley.  Up 2245  Down 0809.  Target bombed from 15,000’.  Excellent visibility.  No cloud.  ½ moon.  HC bombs were seen exploding amongst TIs in built up area near centre of town.
EE107P  F/O C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, F/Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Bomb load as F/L Rodley.  Up 2243  Down 0834.  Bombed Turin from 13,000’.  Bombs fell in built up area in vicinity of aiming point.  Visibility good.  No cloud.  No results of bombing observed.
ED870T  F/Sgt D.J.Marks, Sgt D.C.Fentiman, F/O G.N.Hammond, sgts J.A.Dunbar, D.MacDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Bomb load as F/L Rodley.  Up 2230  Down 0831.  Turin bombed from 12,500.  Visibility fair.  Slight haze.  Bombed on red and green TI markers and target identified by north-east section of river and built up area.
ED869S  S/L E.F.Nind, G/C N.H.Fresson (2nd Pilot), Sgts P.J.Roberts, W.G.Wishart, P/O R.M.Nelson, Sgt G.F.Gower, S/L Allan, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Bomb load as F/L Rodley.  Up 2233 Down 0814.  Bombed Turin from 14,000’.  4000lb bomb seen to burst in built up area in immediate vicinity of aiming point.  Visibility good, moon low on horizon.  No cloud.  Bombed on red TI which was confirmed visually after bombing.
ED866G  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Bomb load as F/L Rodley.  Up 2222  Down 0750.  Turin bombed from 14,000’.  Bomb load dropped between bridge and railway terminus.  River, bridge, cathedral and railway and built up area observed clearly.  No markers in sight at time of bombing.  A very large white explosion followed by large fire in centre of target.
ED814D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgts A.C.Newbegin, S.S.Ramsden, R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Bomb load as F/L Rodley.  Up 2222  Down 0750.  Target bombed from15,000’.  Good visibility, ½ moon, no cloud.  Bombs dropped in centre of cluster of 3 red TIs.  Fires were widespread  with smoke pall to 3,000’.
ED862P  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgt J.Beesley, F/Sgt W.H.Layne, Sgts E.White, H.R.Page.  Bomb load as F/L Rodley.  Up 2220  Down 0811.  Bombed Turin visually by red TI ground markers and yellow TI.  Ground detail very clear.  Saw several bomb bursts, probably fromown aircraft.  On leaving target saw large fire starting in target area.
JA707W  P/O C.Shnier, Sgt A.H.Gibbons, S/L Georgeson, P/O P.de Villiers, Sgt P.Evans, D.E.Croft, F/Sgt B.Knoesen.  Bomb load as F/L Rodley. Up 2218.  Target bombed from 13,500’.  Target illuminated by flares.  Visibility good.  No cloud.  Red TI in bombsight at time of bombing.  Saw river and streets through columns of smoke in south-east area.  Incendiaries seen creeping towards north-west.
ED939M  F/Sgt V.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, P/O C.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Bomb load as F/L Rodley.  Up 2238  Down 0828.  Turin bombed from 15,000’.  Mid point of red TI is sight at time of bombing.  Visibility good.  No cloud.  Railway station seen.  Area around Tis covered with smoke from fires.  Damage to aircraft caused by incendiaries.
ED911E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts F.Williams, J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2231  Down 0847.  Bombs dropped on Turin which was well lit by flares.  Own bomb results not observed but saw number of big bursts around aiming point fromother aircraft.  Observed several big fires and many smaller ones starting.
EE172O  F/Sgt J.H.Mason, Sgts T.Harris, J.J.Waters, P/O A.A.Henry, Sgts H.F.Spence, V.A.Donaldson, W.H.Webb.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2229  Down 0753.  Owing to insufficient petrol decided to return on reaching Lake Arrnecy and jettisoned bombs.
ED853Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, F/Sgt C.Neary, Sgts T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2249  Down 0223.  Mission abandoned owing to aircraft being unmanageable due to controls becoming u/s.  This may have been due to a possible collision.  Bombs dropped safe.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, .J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2225 Down 0742.  Turin bombed from 17,500’. Built up area identified in light of flares.  On leaving target, large fires seen developing in built up area.  One Lancaster crossed nose of own aircraft below within 200 feet.
ED950X  P/O K.Fairlie, Sgts C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2235  Down 0740.  Target identified by red TI backed up by green and also by built up area, large oblong arena and river.  Rear gunner observed many explosions and many fires concentrated near TIs, and pall of smoke.
ED875R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grinager, E.L.Cohn, J.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  1 x 4000lb 12 SBC.  Up 2227  Down 0806.  Target not attacked.  When Lake Annecy was reached, heavy icing made it impossible to gain height, so returned to base.  Bombs jettisoned.

13.7.43 One airtest only carried out.

14.7.43 Some fighter affiliation and bombing done.

15.7.43    More fighter affiliation and bombing, also beam flying.

16.7.43 Some bombing, air firing and BAT during day.  One aircraft on Bullseye exercise, another on night bombing practice.

17.7.43 Bombing, BAT and fighter affiliation carried out.

18.7.43 Air firing only carried out.

19.7.43 More air firing, BAT and bombing practices.

20.7.43 16 aircraft for ops but cancelled early.

21.7.43 Stand down.

22.7.43 17 aircraft for ops – cancelled due to bad weather.

23.7.43 NFTs.  19 crews detailed for ops – cancelled due to weather conditions.

24.7.43 Day cross country and air firing practice carried out.  14 aircraft detailed as markers and three as Main Force, with aircraft reserve for ops.  Target attacked was Hamburg.  All successfully bombed the target area.  There was some ground haze over the target.  Many fires and bursts were seen.  Flak was heavy but moderate for Hamburg.  All aircraft returned safely to base.  The use of “windows” was made on this raid for the first time.

24/25 July 1943 Hamburg – Bomb Load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb unless stated

ED862P  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgt J.Beesley, F/Sgt W.H.Layne, Sgts E.White, H.R.Page.  Up 2157  Down 0340.  Target Hamburg attacked.  14,000’.  ¼ moon.  Haze.  Built up area identified visually.  Mo markers seen.  Bombs released across aiming point.  Very large explosion seen at 0107 followed by black smoke.
ED870T  F/Sgt D.J.Marks, Sgt D.C.Fentiman, F/O G.N.Hammond, F/Sgt J.A.Dunbar, Sgts D.MacDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2200  Down 0343.  Hamburg, 15,000’.  ¼ moon.  Slight haze.  Visibility good.  Pin-pointed on docks and bombs released on aiming point just north of docks.  Own bombs seen to explode among warehouses.  Terrific explosion at 0107 hours.  Large fires.
ED871K  F/L C.B.Roberston, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, F/Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2159  Down 0409.  Primary objective attacked.  16,000’.  No cloud, very hazy.  Visually saw built up area and marshalling yards.  Aircraft hit on bombing run and caught in searchlights and violent evasive action was necessary.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgt Ramsay, F/Sgt H.F.Daniels, Sgts D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, Harris.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb 8 x 40GP.  Up 2210  down 0329.  Primary target Hamburg attacked.  17,000’.  No cloud, good light.  Visibility fair.  Target identified by built up area (visually) and yellow TIs.  One yellow in bombsight at time of bombing.  Red glow seen on leaving.
JA708Z  W/C K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, P/O J.Keddie, Sgts T.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Bomb load as F/L Wareing.  Up 2212  down 0326.  Target hamburg.  20,300’.  ¼ moon, ground haze.  Visibility poor.  Red and yellow TIs in target area.  One red TI in bombsight at time of bombing.  One large explosion seen near aiming point at 0107.  Many fires were starting.
EE176N  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Bobm load as F/L Wareing.  Up 2209  Down 0357.  Hamburg.  17,000’.  Light, 2/10ths cloud.  Visibility moderate.  Saw yellow and red TI.  Bombed on centre of concentration of red TI markers.  Very big flash seen at 0107 in concentration of TIs.
ED814D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgts A.C.Newbegin, W.A.Halsey, R.C.Chaviland, P.O.Bone.  Bomb load as F/L Wareing.  Up 2215  Down 0330.  Target Hamburg attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud, hazy.  Red and yellow TIs over target.  Bombed on two red TIs not in bombsight.  Large explosion and glow seen at 0107 lasting 40 seconds.  Attack well concentrated.
ED867Q  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgt M.hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Bomb load as F/L Wareing.  Up 2222  Down 0348.  Primary objective attacked.  20,000’  No cloud, hazy.  Target identified by built up area (visually), red and yellow TIs.  Bombs released on centre of cluster of red TIs.  Big explosion and fire at 0108.  Great pall of smoke.
ED882H  W/C R.C.Alabaster (Capt & Nav), F/L A.Eaton-Clarke (Pilot), Sgt G.S.Dunning, P/O A.N.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Bomb load as F/L Wareing.  Up 2232  Down 0404.  Hamburg attacked.  19,500’.  Visibility good except for smoke.  Target lit up by fires.  Bombs released on one red TI in bombsight.  Two very large fires seen with great pall of smoke
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, P/O R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Bomb load as F/L Wareing.  Up 2245  Down 0410.  Primary target Hamburg attacked.  16,000’.  Hazy.  Observed and bombed between two clusters of green TI markers, not in bombsight.  Good cluster of fires round markers.  Fires were spreading mainly to east.
ED938J  P/O K.Fairlie, Sgts C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  Bomb load as F/L Wareing.  Up 2253  Down 0414.  Hamburg attacked.  19,700’.  Haze and smoke covered target.  Target identified by green and red TI markers and fires.  Bombed on centre of cluster of green TI markers.  Good fires seen.  On leaving, smoke seen up to 18,000’ on north bank of river.
ED939M  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, P/O C.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Bomb load as F/L Wareing.  Up 2255 Down 0418.  Target Hamburg.  19,500’.  No cloud but haze and smoke.  Visually sighted river bank with junction of river of Elbe and built up area by light of flares.  Bombed on TI green.  Concentration of raging fires seen near to aiming point.
ED911E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts T.Williams, J.Sansam, W.A.Lang, C.J.Billows.  Bomb load as F/L Wareing.  Up 2247  Down 0422.  Hamburg.  17,000’.  ¼ moon.  Hazy.  One TI green in bombsight when bombs released.  Docks and river visible in light of fires.  One large explosion seen during bomb run.  Large concentration of fires.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Bomb load as F/L Wareing.  Up 2248  Down 0359.  Target Hamburg.  20,000’.  4/10ths cloud.  Haze and smoke.  Nothing visual.  Dying red TI marker in bombsight when bombs released.  Large number of big fires well concentrated.  Big explosion at 0137.
JA716V  F/L I.W.Covington, F/Sgt T.Lancashire, S/L K.J.Foster, Sgts S.Powell, O.Ramsden, F.Jackson, J.McKnight. 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 12 x 20 flares.  Up 2204  Down 3021.  Primary objective attacked.  18,000’  Visibility good.  Target identified by town and river (visually) and yellow TI markers.  Latter in bombsight when load released.  Many fires seen on leaving target.    
EE168B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgts R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 12 x 20 flares.  Up 2202  Down 0323.  Target hamburg attacked.  20,000’.  Dark.  No cloud, hazy.  Yellow TIs only observed on which we bombed.  Large yellow and red fires were seen in area north of flares, another particularly large fire starting up as we left.
EE172O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.E.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, H.W.Clausen, T.E.Stamp, F.A.Hughes, A.J.Croll. 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 12 x 20 flares.  Up 2207  Down 0358.  Target Hamburg.  18,000’.  Hazy.  River Elbe identified visually.  No markers in sight when bombs released.  One large explosion at 0107 followed by large fire.  

25.7.43 20 aircraft detailed to attack Essen, four of these were later taken off, leaving 9 as markers and 7 as Main Force.  One aircraft returned early owing to trouble, the remainder successfully bombed the target area.  Weather over the route was clear but smoke cloud to 20,000’ over Essen.  Heavy flak was intense in early stage, barrage form, but decreased towards end of attack.  Many enemy fighters about and several aircraft reported seen falling.  All aircraft returned safely to base.

25/26 July 1943 Essen – Bomb Load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb

ED866G  F/Sgt D.J.Marks, S/L J.M.Garlick (2nd Pilot), Sgt D.C.Fentiman, F/O G.N.Hammond, F/Sgt J.A.Dunbar, Sgts D.MacDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2205  Down 0225.  Target Essen attacked.  16,500’.  No cloud.  Hazy.  Bombed on red TI overshot 2 seconds – not in sight.  Big explosion at 0036 near concentration of TIs.
ED977Q  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, J.Brierley.  Up 2154  Down 0215.  Primary objective Essen attacked.  19,000’.  Hazy.  Medium cloud.  Built up area (factory buildings) identified by light of flares.  Bombed on 2 red TI markers in bombsight.  Glow of fires seen under cloud.
ED862P  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgt J.Beesley, F/Sgt W.H.Layne, Sgts E.White, H.R.Page.  Up 2202 Down 0220.  Essen attacked.  18,000’.  2/10ths cloud.  Ground haze.  Bombed on red TI marker – in bombsight.  Big explosion seen at time of bombing.  Smoke obscured ground detail over target.
ED814D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgts A.C.Newbegin, W.A.Halsey, R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2214  Down 0239.  Target Essen.  Visibility fair but hazy.  18,500’.  Bombed on centre of cluster of red TI markers in bombsight at time of bombing.  Many small fires merged into one.  Pall of black smoke up to 19,000’.
ED911E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts T.Williams, J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Up 2216  Down 0236.  Target Essen attacked from 17,000’.  No cloud but haze ans smoke.  Bombed on green TI marker on ground – not in bombsight.  Heavy columns of smoke over whole of target area.  Great concentration of fires.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Up 2218  Down 0230. Essen.  Thin cloud.  20,000’.  Target lit up by fires.  One red TI marker in bombsight at time of bombing.  Own bombs seen to explode.  Large number of well concentrated fires seen.  Large column of black smoke.
ED882H  W/C R.C.Alabaster (Capt & Nav), F/L A.Eaton-Clarke (Pilot), G.S.Dunning, P/O Charlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Up 2220  Down 0245.  Primary objective Essen attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud, visibility hazy.  Target identified by green TI and fires.  Bombed on green TIs but bombs hung up temporaray.  Fires seen from Dutch coast.  Very concentrated raid.
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, Sgt J.M.Anderson, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Up 2232  Down 0254.  Target Essen.  17,000’.  No cloud.  Visibility moderate.  Bombed on one red TI marker which was in bombsight.  Many fires and explosions seen.  One very big explosion seen at 0106.  Smoke pall up to 20,000’.
ED950X  P/O K.Fairlie, G/C N.H.Fresson (2nd Pilot), Sgts C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  Up 2234  Down 0252.  Essen attacked.  18,500’  Smoke over target and up to 22,000’.  Red TI marker in bombsight when bombs released.  Numerous fires in target area.  One gasometer seen to blow up – shape clearly seen.
JA711Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, F/Sgt C.Neary, Sgts T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, Sgt A.L.Pole.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2152  Down 0003.  Mission abandoned owing to intercom u/s and rear turret u/s.
EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stevens, W.A.Reffin, W.A.Lang, K.Kirby.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2222  Down 0104.  Mission abandoned – rear gunner’s Taylor suit u/s.
EE168B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgts R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2157  Down 0210.  Target essen attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud, no moon.  Visibility poor – hazy.  Bombs dropped on centre of cluster of red TI markers – in bombsight.  Many fires were starting and dense black smoke up to 12,000’ seen.
ED971K  F/L C.B.Robertson, Sgts C.S.Chatten (2nd Pilot), W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, F/Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2213 Down 0222.  Primary target bombed.  20,000’.  Thin cloud.  Visibility hazy.  One red TI marker in bombsight when bombs released.  One very large red explosion at 0039 just south-east of concentration of flares.
ED938J  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, P/O C.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2155  Down 0227.  Essen attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud, hazy and smoke.  Bombed on red and green TI markers not in sight – believe slight overshoot.  Well concentrated pattern of fires taking good hold and smoke up to 10,000’.
EE172O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.E.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, H.W.Clausen, T.E.Stamp, A.J.Croll, F.A.Hughes.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 100lb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2225  Down 0248.  Target essen.  18,500’.  Light cloud, slight haze.  Bombed on centre of concentration of green TIs – in bombsight.  Several medium fires seen on leaving target area.
JA716V  F/L I.W.Covington, F/Sgt T.Lancashire, F/O J.L.Canham, Sgts S.Powell, O.Ramsden, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2230  Down 0257.  Essen attacked.  Light cloud.  Visibility poor and hazy.  20,000’.  One red TI marker in bombsight when load released.  Many explosions and fires observed and great pall of heavy smoke up to 21,000’ seen.      

26.7.43 Day cross country carried out.  No further flying.

27.7.43 Day cross country, night flying tests and beam.  20 aircraft detailed for ops with two reserves.  Target being Hamburg. Another very heavy and successful attack.  The defences were stronger than previous raid but weather was good.  Many fires seen, some still burning from previous raid.  13 of these aircraft were markers and 4 Main Force.

27/28 July 1943 Hamburg – Bomb Load 1 x 4000lb 4 x 1000lb unless stated

JA708Z  W/C K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, P/O J.Keddie, Sgts R.J.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2202  Down 0331.  Primary target Hamburg attacked.  19,300’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Visually identified dock area confirmed by yellow TI.  Bombs released between two yellow TIs.  Fires started up after leaving.  Big explosion at 0100.
ED938S  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgt H.Townsley, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgts S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2200  Down 0320.  Hamburg attacked.  19,000’  No cloud.  Ground haze.  Bombed on centre of cluster of yellow TI markers, none in bombsight.  One big explosion at 0156.  Several fires seen among TIs with much smoke.
ED867Q  P/O D.I.Jones, Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/O T.Hodkinson, Sgts J.L.Hannah, F.Strange, F/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 2210  Down 0318.  Target hamburg, 19,000’.  Haze and smoke.  No cloud.  One yellow TI in bombsight when load released.  Own results not observed.  Fires scattered over target could be seen from 20 miles away.
ED839C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, F/Sgt R.R.Rae, Sgts O.B.Peters, R.M.V.Daniels, F/Sgt M.T.O’Donaghue.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Up 2225  Down 0325.  Primary objective attacked.  19,000’.  2/10ths thin cloud. One yellow Ti in bombsight at time of bombing.  One big explosion at 0103.  Fires were spreading.  96 bundles of “windows” dropped.
ED814D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgts A.C.Newbegin, S(?)Halsey, R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2211  Down 0343.  Hamburg.  19,500’.  Visibility fair.  Ground haze. No markers seen to cascade before bombing.  Bombs dropped on cluster of yellow TIs on ground.  Good concentration of fires observed with smoke up to 20,000’.
ED871K  F/L C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2203  Down 0340.  Target Hanburg bombed. 19,500’.  No cloud.  Visibiblity hazy.  Yellow TI markers in bombsight at time of bombing.  Two large explosions in centre of yellows at 0059.  Fires were going well.
EE186B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgt R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2215  Down 0325.  Primary objective Hamburg attacked.  20,000’.  Very little cloud – hazy.  Target identified by fires and built up area seen in flash.  Bombed centre of concentration of yellows – in bombsight.  Big explosion seen at 0102.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Chrtistie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2213  down 0335.  Hamburg attacked.  20,000’.  4/10ths light cloud.  Docks identified visually.  Bombed on yellow TI close to docks.  Fires fairly well concentrated and growing.  Smoke pall up to 8,000’. Big explosion at 0133.
ED870T  F/Sgt D.J.Marks, S/L J.M.Garlick (2nd Pilot), Sgt D.C.Fentiman, F/O G.N.Hammond, F/Sgt J.A.Dunbar, Sgts D.MacDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2220  Down 0358.  Hamburg bombed from 16,500’.  2/10ths cloud, visibility poor with thick haze or smoke.  Target identified by fires, yellow and green TIs.  Bombed on concentrated of yellow TIs.  Reddish orange fires merged into one seen 100 miles from target.
ED865R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, Sgts J.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Bomb laod as S/L Rodley.  Up 2218  Down 0337.  Hamburg.  19,700’.  No cloud.  Visiblity hazy.  Bombed on concentration of yellow and green TIs, own results not seen.  Large number of fires seen burning in marked area with great column of smoke.  Fires seen 170 miles away.
ED866G  F/L S.Wareing, Sgt Ramsay, F/Sgt H.F.Daniels, Sgts D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, A.J.Harris, E.F.Bryan.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2224  Down 0400.  Target Hamburg.  17,000’.  Little low cloud.  Hazy.  Target identified by fires and yellow TIs.  Bombed on 4 greens.  Very concentrated raid.  Huge fires with smoke which rose to 15,000’.
JA715H?  W/C R.C.Alabaster (Capt & Nav), F/L A.Eaton-Clarke (Pilot), Sgt G.S.Dunning, P/O A.N.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up  2222  Down 0405.  Primary target attacked.  3/10ths thin cloud.  20,000’.  Single green TI in bombsight at time of bombing.  Intense fires prevented observation of incendiaries on ground.  Fires extended all over target area.  Warehouses and silos outlined against blaze.
JA707W  F/O B.H.Berridge, Sgt J.M.Anderson, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgts W.Lochrie, F.Edwards.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2228  Down 0407.  Target hamburg.  16,000’.  Visibility fair but hazy.  Target identified by fires.  Bombed on cluster of green TIs. Red and orange fires with good hold spread over target area.
EE176M  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, P/O C.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, G.Lowden, M.Edwards.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2227  Down 0350.  Primary objective attacked.  No cloud.  Smoke haze.  Target lit up by fires.  Bombed on three green TIs overshot by 3 seconds.  Large explosion at 0133.  Dummy TIs were obvious – a deeper red and did not cascade like ours.
ED950X  P/O K.Fairlie, Sgts C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2233  Down 0412.  Hamburg attacked.  20,000’.  Visibility fair.  Fires and TIs lit up dock area.  Bombs released on yellow and green TIs – not in bombsight.  Raid well concentrated.  Huge fires and much smoke.
ED862P  P/O C.Shnier, Sgt A.H.Gibbons, S/L K.J.Foster (Nav), P/O Homersham (Nav 2), F/O P.de Villiers, Sgt P.Evans, F/Sgt B.Knoesen. Sgt D.E.Croft.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2241  Down 0410.  Target Hamburg attacked.  18,000’.  Mixture of smoke and cloud.  Target lit up by fires.  Bombed on green TI in midd;e of concentration of fires.  Fires well concentrated and spread over large area.
EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stevens, C.T.Ambrose, W.A.Lang, K.Kirby.  1 x 4000lb 10 x 500lb.  Up 2155  Down 0356.  hamburg.  20,000’.  No cloud.  Visibility poor with smoke and haze.  Bombed centre of five yellow TIs.  Yellowish red fires were well concentrated in target area.  One particularly large fire on west of town.
JA716V  F/L I.W.Covington, F/O G.de Wesselow (2nd Pilot), F/Sgt T.Lancashire, P/O W.G.Wishart, Sgts S.Powell, O.Ramsden, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Up 2158  Down 0325.  Primary target successfully attacked.  18,500’.  Hazy – no cloud.  Fires from previous raid were still burning.  Bombed centre of concentration of yellow markers.  One large explosion seen at 0059.
EE172O  P/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, H.W.Clausen, T.E.Stamp, A.J.Croll, F.A.Hughes.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Up 2204  down 0337.  Target Hamburg bombed.  16,000’.  No cloud, thick haze.  By ETA from yellow TI at point “A”.  Coned and attacked by enemy fighter.  Bombs dropped in fires already burning.  Evasive action threw us off course.
ED869S  F/Sgt J.H.Saxton, Sgts P.H.Fryer, F.H.Baker, J.C.Rees, C.Watson, J.J.Zunti, W.E.Coates.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Up 2206  down 0408.  Hamburg.  20,000’.  Visibility fair.  Bombed on estimated centre of cluster of green TI markers.  Good concentration of white fires turning red gaining hold.  Smoke up to 18,000’.        

28.7.43 Fighter affiliation and air tests carried out.

29.7.43 More fighter affiliation and air tests.  21 aircraft detailed to attack Hamburg again.  17 of these being markers 4 Main Force.  Weather hazy over Hamburg, searchlights very intense, signs of co-operation with enemy fighters.  Heavy flak less in evidence than on prebious raids.  All aircraft successfully located and bombed target except for two crews – P/O Shnier and F/Sgt Marks who are missing – no news received since leaving base.

29/30 July 1943 Hamburg – Bomb Load 6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb unless stated

JA708Z  W/C K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, P/O J.Keddie, Sgts R.J.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2209  Down 0332.  Target hamburg attacked.  18,500’.  No cloud, hazy.  Dock area lit up by flares and TIs.  Bombed on concentration of yellow and green TI markers.  Fires still burning from previous raid and new ones going well.
ED839C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, F/Sgt R.R.Rae, Sgts F.Peters, R.M.V.Daniels, S/L Allen.  Up 2213  Down 0322.  Primary objective attacked.  19,500’.  No cloud.  Visibility good. Bombed between two yellow TI markers.  Fires still burning from previous raid and new ones.  Large explosion at 0020.
ED814D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, P/O Smith, Sgts R.C.Haviland, P.O.Bone.  Up 2219   Down 0312.  Hamburg. 20,000’.  No cloud, hazy.  Bombed centre of concentration of about a dozen yellow TI markers – not actually in bombsight.  Good concentration of bombing.  Much smoke from whole of marked area.
JA707K  F/L C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, F/Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Up 2215  Down 0304.  Target hamburg bombed.  19,500’.  No cloud.  Haze.  Target identified visually.  Bombed on green and yellow TIs.  Own bombs seen to burst on aiming point.  Fires from previous raid still burning and new ones starting up.
EE168B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgts R.C.Pike, J.C.McLeish, A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  Up 2202  Down 0300.  Target Hamburg attacked.  20,000.  Fair visibility.  Target identified by light of fires.  Bombed on yellow TIs cascading.  Fires still burning from previous raid.
ED911E  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2211  Down 0325.  Primary objective attacked.  19,500’.  No cloud.  Target identified by light of flares and TIs.  Lake identified visually.  Bombed concentration of yellow and green TIs.  At target early but fires fromprevious raid were still burning.
ED869S  W/C E.F.Nind, Sgt P.J.Roberts, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.M.Nelson, Sgt G.F.Gower, F/L Mottram (?), F/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 2217  Down 0327.  hamburg attacked. No cloud, visibility fiar.  Ground haze.  Bombed centre of cluster of green TI markers – none actually in bombsight.  Terrific explosion at 0055.  Many new and old fires observed.
ED862P  F/S D.J.Marks, Sgt D.C.Fentiman, F/O G.N.Hammond, F/Sgt J.A.Dunbar, Sgts D.MacDonald, J.Cumming, P.H.Unwin.  Up 2228 – aircraft and crew missing.
ED875R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, J.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 2222  Down 0307.  Primary target Hamburg attacked.  19,500’. Hazy.  Bombed yellow TIs – not in bombsight.  Own bombs seen to explode on yellow TIs.  Numerous fires in target area.
EE107F  F/L S.Wareing, Sgt Ramsay, F/Sgt H.F.Daniels, Sgts D.W.Burt, H.Bryson, A.J.Harris, E.F.Bryan.  Up 2221  Down 0349.  Hamburg attacked.  18,500’.  Target covered with smoke.  Bombed on green TIs seen cascading .  Explosion seen at 0056.  Smoke obscured ground detail.
ED938J  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgt J.T.Pratt, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgts S.Nevard, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2223  Down 0345.  Target Hamburg.  19,500’.  No cloud, visibility poor.  Smoke haze.  Bombed between two green TI markers not in bombsight.  Huge column of smoke up to 10,000’ prevented observation of ground detail.
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, P/O R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgts W.Lochrie, F.Edwards.  Up 2230  Down 0346.  Hamburg attacked.  16,500’.  No cloud, smoky.  Bombed cluster of green TIs, none actaully in bombsight.  Saw many fires well under way with big smoke pall rising to 6,000’.
EE176M  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, P/O C.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, G.Lowden, M.Edwards.  Up 2243  Down 0354.  Primary objective bombed.  18,500’.  Smoke haze.  Target identified by TIs and fires.  Concentration of green TIs in bombsight when bombs released.  Large number of fires and bomb bursts seen in marked area.
JA711Y  P/O K.Fairlie, Sgts C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  Up 2245  Down 0336.  Hamburg.  18,000’.  No cloud, smoke haze.  Bombs released on yellow and green TIs – not in bombsight.  Large fires observed around target area.
JA846L?  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, F/Sgt C.Neary, W/C R.C.Alabaster, Sgts G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, A.L.Pole, F.R.Higgins.  Up 2254  down 0400.  Target Hamburg attacked.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed centre of three green TI markers – in bombsight.  Bomb bursts and large fires observed in marked area in centre of target.
EE172O  P/O C.Shnier, Sgt A.H.Gibbons, P/O Homersham(?), P/O P.de Villiers, Sgt P.Evans, F/Sgt B.Knoesen, Sgt D.E.Croft.  Up 2246 – aircraft and crew missing.
JA715H?  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgts C.S.Chatten (2nd Pilot), G.S.Dunning (F/E), T.J.Lightfoot, P/O A.N.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Bomb load as above + one flare.  Up 2256  Down 0403.  Target Hamburg attacked.  19,500’.  Visibility good.  One green TI marker in bombsight when bombs released.  Huge area of deep red fires in marked area and smoke pall up to 20,000’.
ED868A  S/L K.J.Foster, Sgts C.Baumber, L.R.Armitage, P/O C.W.Webb, Sgt W.A.Reffin, F/Sgt J.R.Kraemer, Sgt L.V.Smith.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Up 2150  Down 0315.  primary objective attacked.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Target identified by fires and yellow TIs.  Bombed centre of concentration of yellow TI markers – in bombsight at time.  Glow of fires round TIs.
EE179U  P/O G.de Wesselow, Sgts P.Crow, S.Carlyle, P/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, R.L.Pritchard, C.Press.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Up 2200  Down 0340.  Target Hamburg.  14,000’.  Visibility good.  Bombed on cluster of yellow and green TIs – none actually in bombsight.  Terrific red flash at 0049.  Fires well under way.
ED867Q  F/Sgt J.H.Saxton, Sgts P.H.Fryer, F.H.Baker, J.C.Rees, C.Watson, J.J.Zunti, W.F.Coates.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Up 2206  Down 0335.  Primary objective Hamburg attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud, slight haze.  Target lit up by fires.  Bombed on cluster of yellow TIs.  Own bombs seen to burst between yellow and green TIs.  White smoke seen up to 15,000’.
JA716V  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, H.W.Clausen, T.E.Stamp, A.J.Croll, F.A.Hughes.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Up 2204  Down 0337.  Hamburg.  18,500’.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Centre of green TIs in bombsight when load released.  Own results not observed.  Fires starting up by yellow TIs.           

30.7.43 One aircraft to Wyton and return – dual given to S/L Garlick.  20 aircraft detailed for ops – 7 of these cancelled later.  The attack was against Remscheid, 8 aircraft being markers and 5 Main Force.  The raid was successful, all aircraft having located and bombed the target.  Although the raid was on a smaller scale, later reports show town has been severely damaged.

30/31 July 1943 Remscheid – Bomb Load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb, 2 x 1000lb unless stated

JA846E  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.S.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.N.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Up 2155  Down 0305.  Primary objective Remsheid attacked.  19,000’.  No cloud, visibility excellent.  Bombed on red TI marker in bombsight.  Early on target and only incendiaries and TIs seen.
JA715H?  F/L S.Wareing, Sgt ramsay, F/Sgt H.F.Daniels, F/Sgt D.W.Burt, Sgts H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, A.J.Harris.  Up 2200  Down 0257.  Remscheid attacked.  18,500’.  Visibility good.  No cloud.  Bombed on red TI marker, overshot 2 seconds.  Own results not seen.  Target area well covered by fires.
JA708S  W/C K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, P/O J.Keddie, Sgt R.J.Williams, E.H.Skinner, G.Lambert.  Up 2215  Down 0230.  Remscheid target bombed.  19,500’.  No cloud, visibility fair.  Bombed on two red TI markers, 2 seconds overshoot.  Built up area observed while bombing.  One moderately large explosion seen at 0104.
ED839C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt L.Clark, F.Sgt R.R.Rae, Sgts O.B.Peters, R.N.V.Daniels, F/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 2217  down 0246.  Primary objective attacked.  19,500’.  Visibility good to moderate.  Bombed on red and green TI markers – one red in bombsight at time.  Fires were rather scattered with smoke pall up to 6,000’.
ED938S  P/O J.F.Munro, Sgt J.M.Anderson, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, F/Sgt Chambers, Sgt K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2214  Down 0255.  Target Remscheid attacked.  19,700’.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed centre of three red TI markers – in bombsight.  One large and several small fires observed.  Big explosion at 0111.
ED875R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, Sgts J.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 2223  Down 0310.  Remscheid bombed.  19,400’.  No cloud but ground haze.  Bombed on two green TI markers – not actually in bombsight.  Big explosion seen immediately after bombing.  One very large fire in middle of target area.
JA707K  F/L C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/O G.C.Crockett, F/Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Up 2222  Down 0306.  Primary target Remschied attacked.  Smoke haze.  19,400’.  Bombed centre of concentration of red and green TI markers – none actually in bombsight.  Fires were springing up but nothing big.  Large explosion at 0110.
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, P/O R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, Sgts W.Lochrie, F.Edwards.  Up 2224  down 0259.  Target remscheid attacked.  18,000’.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed on green TI markers which were in sights.  Own results not seen.  Raid appeared well concentrated with good fires going with quantities of smoke.
EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stevens, C.T.Ambrose, W.A.Lang, K.Kirby.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 96 incs.  Up 2202  Down 0315.  Primary objective bombed.  20,000’.  Visibility moderate.  Ground haze.  Bombs released on cluster of red TIs – none actually in bombsight.  One big fire in centre of town with plenty of smoke.
JA716V  F/L I.W.Covington, F/Sgt T.Lancashire, F/O J.L.Canham, Sgts S.Powell, O.Ramsden, F.Jackson, J.McKnight. 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 96 incs.  Up 2211  Down 0239.  Remscheid attacked.  19,900’.  No cloud.  Visibility moderate.  Ground haze.  Centre of concentration of  red and green TI markers in bombsight when load released.  One large explosion seen at 0110.
EE179U  P/O G.de Wesselow, Sgts P.Crow, S.Carlyle, P/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, T.L.Pritchard, C.Press.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 96 incs.  Up 2212  Down 0317.  Target Remscheid.  20,000’.  Slight ground haze.  Target identified by lgiht of fires.  Centre of concentration of fires in bombsight just short of red TI when we bombed.  Many big fires well concentrated.
ED867Q  F/Sgt J.H.Saxton, Sgts P.H.Fryer, F.H.Baker, J.C.Rees, C.Watson, J.J.Zunti, W.F.Coates.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 96 incs.  Up 2219  Down 0137.  Mission abandoned, navigator taken ill.
ED911E  Sgts C.S.Chatten, C.Baumber, L.R.Armitage, F/O L.S.Webb, Sgt W.A.Reffin, F.Sgt J.R.Kraemer, Sgt L.V.Smith.  1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 96 incs.  Up 2206  Down 0251.  Primary Remschied attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud.  Visiblity good.  Red TI in bombsight at time of bombing.  Own bursts not seen.  Large amount of brown smoke rising to 4,000’ seen on leaving target.

31.7.43 Day cross country carried out.  9 aircraft detailed for ops – cancelled due to adverse weather.