Flight Operations 4

1.8.43 Air firing and bombing training.  Circuits and landings by S/L Garlick.

2.8.43      Bombing training, NFTs, dual circuits and landings.  20 aircraft detailed for ops against Hamburg.  2 aircraft failed to take off due to technical troubles.  12 aircraft detailed as markers and 6 on main force.  Moderate accurate predicted heavy flak to 20,000’.  No searchlights operating.  Thunderstorm with cloud up to 30,000’ in target area.  Results were not seen owing to cloud and were considered rather scattered.  All aircraft returned to base.

2/3 August 1943 Hamburg – Bomb Load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb unless stated

EE105L  W/C K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, P/O J.Keddie, Sgt R.J.Williams, F/Sgt E.H.Skinner, F/Sgt G.Lambert.  Up 2256  Down 0416.  Primary target abandoned – 20,000’.  Dark – thick cloud.  Bombed flak area.  No results seen.
ED814D  F/O R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, P/O F.W.Chandler, Sgts A.C.Newbegin, W.A.Halsey, R.C.Haviland, F/Sgt P.O.Bone.  Up 2258  Down 0415.  Hamburg abandoned owing to bad weather conditions.  15,000’.  Dark – thick cloud.  Bombed defended area believed Bremerhaven.  No results seen.
ED869S  W/C E.F.Nind, F/Sgt P.J.Roberts, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.M.Nelson, Sgt G.F.Gower, F/L L.G.Mussi, F/L McKinna.  Up 2302  Down 0358.  Primary abandoned.  Bombed gun position Wesermunde.  Dark.  10/10ths cloud 19,000’.  Unable to get through cloud and lightning.  Own bomb flashes and gun flashes seen.
ED938J  P/O J.F.Munro, F/O W.Riches (2nd Pilot), Sgt G.Winter (F/E), P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgts J.Wrigley, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2305  Down 0452.  Hamburg attacked on ETA.  15,000’  Dark 10/10ths cloud, visibility bad.  Scattered bombs on ETA.  Nothing seen.
ED839C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt W.N.Roberts (2nd Pilot), S/L K.J.Foster, Sgt S.J.Peek, F/L E.H.Parrott, Sgts D.E.Harvey, H.B.Stedman, F.Edwards.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Up 2315  Down 0400.  Hamburg not reached.  Furthest point Wesermunde.  19,000’.  Unable to get through thick cloud and lightning.  Port inner engine failed.  No results of bombing seen.
ED867Q  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, Sgts J.L.Gardner, J.Baker, S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Bomb load as Rodley.  Up 2316  Down 0405.  Hamburg not attacked.  Unable to penetrate cloud – icing and electric storms.  Compasses and W/T u/s.
JA715H  F/Sgt L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, P/O C.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2325  Down 0344.  Primary objective not attacked.  No TIs or route markers seen.  Weather bad.  19,000’.  Chased by fighter.  Gee u/s, API u/s, rear gunner’s turret u/s.  Intercom microphones froze up.
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 S/L Rodley.  Up 2327 Down 0435.  Weather conditions unsuitable on route to target.  Believed Nordhole bombed – no results observed.  Lightning lit up sky.
ED948W  F/O B.H.Berridge, P/O R.C.Swetman, W/O L.Bremner, F/Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, F/Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2335  Down 0502.  Hamburg attacked.  Lightning.  8/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA and glow from fires.  Glow in bomb sight when bombs released.
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.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2344  Down 0525.  Secondary target believed Bremen area attacked.  9/10ths cloud.  Visibility nil.  Lightning.  Thunderstorm, 20,000’.  Bombed heavily defended area.  Nothing seen.
JA846E  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.S.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O L.C.Jones (A/B), P/O A.N.Carlton (A/B), F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 2348  Down 0508.  Hamburg attacked.  13,500 feet.  Target identified by river and fires.  Bombed on fires, estimated position to be Hamburg.  Two very good fires going in dock area.  Bombing very scattered.
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 2350  Down 0457.  Believed Klashorne.  Impossible to get through cloud and lightning to primary objective.  Bombed area that was burning and giving off heavy smoke.  No markers seen.
ED870T  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, H.W.Clausen, T.E.Stamp, A.J.Croll, F.A.Hughes.  Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 10 x 500lb.  Up 2307  Down 0430.  Primary target not reached.  Bispingen believed reached.  Weather conditions impossible.  Aircraft heavily iced and losing height.  No results of bombing seen.
JA716V  F/L I.W.Covington, F/Sgt T.Lancashire, F/O J.L.Canham, F/Sgt S.Powell, Sgts S.S.Ramsden, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Bomb load as F/O Moodie.  Up 2311 Down 0455.  Possibly target Hamburg reached.  Weather bad, lightning practically continuous.  Bombed on ETA and light from yellow TI (believed).  Glow from fires.  No other results seen.
EE179U  F/O G.de Wesselow, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, T.L.Pritchard, C.Press.  Bomb load as F/O Moodie.  Up 2312  Down 0514.  Hamburg not reached.  Severe icing conditions.  Bombed anti-aircraft defences.  10/10ths cloud.  No markers or results observed.
EE176O  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.  Bomb load as F/O Moodie.  Up 2317  Down 0445.  Believed Hamburg attacked.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA.  No results seen except for some scattered bombing.
JA708Z  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stevens, C.Watson, W.A.Lang, F.Kirby.  Bomb load as F/O Moodie.  Up 2310  Down 0424.  Hamburg attacked.  No moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Visibility nil.  No markers seen.  Bombed on time run but nothing in bomb sight.  Big explosion seen at 0223 hours.
ED866P  F/Sgt H.A.Pond, Sgts E.J.Gillman, S.B.Stevenson, F/O V.C.Peters, Sgts T.M.Kenny, O.Ramsden, F/Sgt T.N.McGrath.  Bomb load as F/O Moodie.  Up 2316  Down 0438.  Hamburg abandoned.  Furthest point reached Brenhafen.  Icing, electrical storm and severe static.  Bombs jettisoned fused.  No results seen. 

3.8.43 Circuits and landing. No other flying.

4.8.43      Fighter affiliation and air tests.

5.8.43      Air firing, fighter affiliation.  Dual and solo circuits and landings.

6.8.43      All aircraft grounded for inspection for 3 to 4 hours by Station Engineer.  Five aircraft on Bullseye exercise at night.

7.8.43      Day cross countries and bombing practice.  5 aircraft detailed for ops, Milan being the target.  All aircraft were visual markers.  No cloud, no moon and visibility good.  Raid was concentrated and considered satisfactory.  Large explosions seen and big fires developing.  All returned to base. 

7/8 August 1943 Milan – Bomb Load 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb unless stated

JA916L  W/C K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, P/O J.Keddie, F/Sgt R.J.Williams, F/Sgt E.H.Skinner, F/Sgt G.Lambert.  Up 2127  Down 0508.  Primary objective Milan attacked.  10,000’.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Target identified visually in light of flares and red TI markers.  Bombed on red TI marker.  Fires from incendiaries seen developing as aircraft left target area.
JA857C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.E.Bell, S/L K.J.Foster, F/O L.S.Webb, Sgts C.T.Ambrose, A.J.Croll, F/L R.A.McKinna.  Up 2129  Down 0528.  Target Milan successfully attacked from 12,500’.  No moon.  Visibility good.  Target identified visually and red TI.  Bombed big building in bomb sight, near isolated red TI.  Big red explosion seen immediately after bombing.  Good concentration of fires – visibile about 80 miles away.
JA908N  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2131  Down 0521.  Milan attacked.  No moon.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  12,000’.  Bombed on centre of concentration of red and green TIs, overshot 4 seconds.  Fires average, rather scattered.  One column of smoke up to about 5,000’.
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 2134  Down 0536.  Primary target Milan bombed.  13,500’.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Red TI markers in bomb sight when bombs released.  One very large explosion seen at 0125.  Good fires raging as aircraft left target.
ED938J  F/O J.F.Munro, F/O W.Riches (2nd Pilot), P/O R.C.Swetman, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgts J.Wrigley, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2136  Down 0524.  Target Milan attacked.  Visiblity good except for smoke haze.  11,500’.  Single red TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Seven good fires seen increasing north of aiming point.  Glow seen from Alps on return journey.

8.8.43      Standown from operations.  Some flying training during the day.  

9.8.43      Various flights training during day.  20 aircraft detailed for ops tonight.  Owing to a cross wind leaving only the short runway, the aircraft and crews are to fly to Wyton to be briefed and bombed up.  Some of the aircraft were flown over and Lancaster ED948 F/O Berridge had an accident after landing, the undercarriage collapsing for reason at present unknown.  No one was injured.  Originally there were two targets to be attacked but later it was decided that the target at Mannheim was to be the only one.  Eight aircraft were detailed to make the raid, some being briefed at Bourn and the others at Wyton.  The raid was very successful from reports, explosions seen in built-up area, many fires starting.  The weather and visibility were good.  6/10ths cloud, tops 6,000’, no moon.  All aircraft returned to base.

9/10 August 1943 Mannheim – Bomb Load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb unless stated

JA846E  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.S.Dunning, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, P/O A.N.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Up 2319  Down 0438.  Primary objective Mannheim attacked.  18,800’.  Visibility good.  Bombed on concentration of yellow TI markers.  Fires well concentrated in target area.  Red explosion seen at 0126.
JA916L  W/C K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, P/O J.Keddie, F/Sgt R.J.Williams, F/Sgt E.J.Skinner, F/Sgt G.Lambert.  Up 2238  Down 0428.  Primary target Mannheim attacked.  20,000’.  7/10ths cloud.  Target identified by concentration of fires.  Bombed built up area but not pin-pointed.  A green TI had disappeared before bombing.  Large fires seen burning on both sides of river.
ED838J  P/O J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, F/O Chambers, Sgt K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Bomb load 1 x 4000lb 12 x 500lb.  Up 2245  Down 0405.  Target Mannheim bombed.  No moon.  7/10ths cloud.  17,000’.  Red TI in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Built up area identified visually.  Own bursts seen in built up area.  Large fires seen as aircraft left target.
ED939H or M  W/C R.C.Alabaster (Capt), F/O W.Riches (Pilot), Sgts G.Winter (F/E), H.W.Watts (Nav), K.H.Pack (A/B), J.Wrigley (W/Op), R.W.Lowe, F.C.Nordhoff.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2242  Down 0417.  Primary objective attacked.  8/10ths cloud.  No moon.  Visibility fair.  Bombed centre of large scattered group of red TI markers.  One explosion seen at 0130.
EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stephens, C.Watson, W.A.Lang, F.Kirby.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2243 Down 0413.  Mannheim successfully attacked.  19,000’.  6/10ths cloud.  Red TI marker in bomb sight when bombs released.  Own results not observed.  One large yellow explosion seen at 0137.  Very large fire seen in centre of marked area.
JA716V  F/L W.I.Covington, F/Sgt T.Lancashire, F/O J.L.Canham, Sgts S.Powell, S.S.Ramsden, F.Jackson, J.McKnight.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2228  Down 0422.  Target Mannheim attacked.  19,500’.  8/10ths cloud.  Red TI markers – centre of built up area – in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Many bursts seen around TI markers.  One big red explosion seen at 0130 near main railway yards.
ED567Q  F/O G.de Wesselow, Sgts Bamlett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, T.L.Pritchard, C.Press.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2240  Down 0432.  Mannheim attacked.  18,000’.  6/10ths cloud.  Visibility good.  Built up area identified visually.  Bombed built up area, ½ mile from red TI marker.  Numerous concentrations of fires developing as aircraft left target area.
ED879C or G  Sgts C.S.Chatten, C.Baumber, P/O L.R.Armitage, Sgts Standen, W.A.Reffin, O.Ramsden, L.V.Smith.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2237  Down 0402.  Target Mannheim attacked.  19,000’.  8/10ths cloud, visibility good.  Bombed on two red TI markers -  in bomb sight.  Many fires from incendiaries were starting up with cloud of smoke forming over built up area.
 
10.8.43    18 aircraft detailed for tonight’s operations.  Only 17 aircraft took off owing to a gunner in F/O de Wesselow’s crew refusing to fly because of domestic troubles.  The raid was against Nuremburg.  Only moderate flak which seemed ineffective was encountered.  Searchlights could not penetrate cloud which covered target area.  Visibility above cloud was good.  Two crews F/L Covington DFC  and P/O Baker are missing from this operation.  No news of them having been received since aircraft left base.  Lancaster JA715 P/O Brown was rendered CAT A.C. due to enemy flak.  The raid started off widely scattered.  Some markers believed to have fallen in the town and bombs were seen bursting in built up area.  12 aircraft were backers up and 5 nom-markers. 

10/11 August 1943 Nuremburg – Bomb Load 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb unless stated

JA708N  F/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2148  Down 0514.  Target Nuremburg attacked.  16,000’.  Half moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Target identified in light of white flares.  Bombed on centre of red TI markers.  No actual fires seen but glow under cloud observed on leaving.
JA751H  P/O K.Brown, Sgt M.Hogg, F/O F.N.Alexander, F/Sgt K.W.Knight, F/Sgt J.Curry, Sgt J.T.Sullivan, F/Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Bomb load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 500lb, 2 x 250lb incs.  Up 2157  Down 0434.  Primary oibjective Nuremburg attacked.  19,500’.  Visibility good.  8/10ths cloud.  Red and green TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  TIs and bombs seemed to be very scattered.  No results observed.
ED839C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt K.J.Bell, S/L K.J.Foster, S/L E.H.Parrott, Sgts C.T.Ambrose, A.J.Croll, F/O L.J.Williams.  Bomb load as P/O Brown.  Up 2155 Down 0439.  Primary Nuremburg bombed.  18,000’.  9/10ths cloud.  Half moon.  Bombed on centre of red TI markers – none actually in bomb sight.  One good fire burning and rising smoke pall.  Raid appeared scattered.
JA707K  F/L C.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/L G.C.Crockett, F/Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Bomb load as P/O Brown.  Up 2153  Down 0458.  Nuremburg attacked.  15,000’.  Half moon.  Visibility good above cloud.  Bombed on red and green TI markers in bomb sight.  Fires were spread over about 5 miles.  Early markers too scattered.
ED939M  P/O L.Baker, Sgt W.Vaughan, P/O G.W.Webb, Sgts A.Davie, J.Richards, M.Edwards, G.Lowden.  Bomb load as P/O Brown – aircraft and crew missing.
JA938J  F/O B.H.Berridge, Sgt P.H.Fryer, W/O L.Bremner, Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, F/Sgt W.Hill, F/O E.A.Adams.  Bomb load as P/O Brown.  Up 2201  Down 0427.  Primary objective Nuremburg attacked.  16,800’.  Half moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed centre of concentration of red TI markers – not in bombsight.  Some fires starting up but attack appeared scattered.
ED866F  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgts J.Nelson, J.Dunn?, J.Beesley, F/Sgt W.H.Layne, Sgts V.White, W.F.Coates.  Bomb load as P/O Brown.  Up 2203 down 0455.  Target Nuremburg attacked.  18,000’.  8/10ths cloud.  Visibility good above cloud.  Bombed on one red TI marker disappearing into cloud – in bomb sight.  Red explosion seen at 0122.  Nothing else seen.
EE168E?  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.  Bomb load as P/O Brown.  Up 2207  Down 0517.  Primary Nuremburg attacked.  20,000’.  9/10ths cloud.  Target identified by red TI markers and fires.  No TIs at time of bombing – bombed centre of group of scattered fires.  Cloud obscured further detail.
JA711Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, F/Sgt C.Neary, Sgt T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, A.L.Pole.  Bomb load as P/O Brown.  Up 2212 Down 0510.  Nuremburg attacked.  Medium light.  9/10ths cloud.  15,500’.  Target identified by glow from fires.  Bombed on fires burning below cloud.  Fires below cloud appeared scattered.
ED911E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/Sgt A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts W.Williams, J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Bomb load as P/O Brown.  Up 2210  Down 0544.  Target Nuremburg attacked.  Half moon.  9/10ths cloud.  Bombed on estimated centre of fires below cloud.  Only one TI seen (before bombing).  Occasional flashes below cloud but little else seen.
ED875R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, R.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, Sgts J.E.Gardner, J.L.R.Baker, S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Bomb load as P/O Brown.  Up 2217  Down 0537.  Primary objective attacked. 18,500’.  8/10ths clouds.  Target identified visually by rivers and burning fires.  Bombed on fires presumed to be target area.  No TIs seen.  Fires seemed scattered.
EE176O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, H.W.Clausen, T.E.Stamp, L.A.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Bomb load as
P/O Brown.  Up 2227  Down 0533.  Target Nuremburg attacked.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Target reached by ETA.  Target identified by glow from fires below cloud.  Glow in bombsight.  Only glow from fires seen.
JA716V  F/L W.I.Covington, F/Sgt T.Lancashire, F/O J.L.Canham, F/Sgt S.Powell, Sgts S.S.Ramsden, Sgts F.Jackson, J.McKnight. 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Up 2137 – aircraft and crew missing.
EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stevens, C.Watson, W.A.Lang, F.Kirby.  Bomb load as F/L Covington.  Up 2150  Down 0425.  Primary objective Nuremburg attacked.  17,000’.  8/10ths cloud.  Visibility good above cloud.  Bombed on centre of concentration of red TI markers in bombsight.  One or two small fires only seen.
ED870T  F/Sgt H.A.Pond, Sgts E.J.Gillman, S.B.Stevenson, F/O V.G.Peters, Sgts T.H.Kenny, O.Ramsden, T.H.McGrath. Bomb load as F/L Covington.  Up 2152  Down 0510.  Nuremburg target attacked.  Half moon.  5/10ths cloud.  18,000’.  Bombed on centre of red and green TI markers – in bombsight.  Scattered fires seen short of aiming point but cloud obscured detail.
ED950K  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.N.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, F.C.Nordhoff.  Bomb load as F/L Covington.  Up 2146  Down 0507.  Nuremburg bombed.  18,000’.  8/10ths cloud.  Visibility good above cloud.  Single red TI marker in bombsight at time of bombsight.  No results seen.
ED868A  Sgts C.S.Chatten, C.Baumber, P/O L.R.Armitage, Sgts Standen, W.A.Reffin, O.Ramsden, L.V.Smith.  Bomb load as F/L Covington.  Up ?  Down 0502.  Target Nuremburg attacked.  8/10ths cloud.  19,000’.  Bombed on centre of concentration of red TI markers.  Bombing appeared very scattered.  Nothing seen in way of results owing to cloud. 

11.8.43 Standown from operations.

12.8.43    18 aircraft and two reserves have been detailed for operations.  One aircraft detailed for blind marking, 2 aircraft visual marking, 12 aircraft backers up and 3 non-markers.  All aircraft took off to attack Milan.  One aircraft returned early.  The raid seemed to be well concentrated and if TIs were in correct position the raid should have been a complete success.  Opposition was very poor – no cloud over target and visibility was very good.  Fires gave off good glow visible from beyond Turin.  Windows were also dropped.  All 17 aircraft returned safely to base. 

12/13 August 1943 Milan – Bomb Load 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 1 x 1000lb

JA846M  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt F.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.N.Carlton, F/O E.A.Adams (A/B2), F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Up 2105  Down 0530.  Target Milan attacked.  13,500’.  No cloud.  Some haze.  Target identified visually and by red TI markers.  Bombs dropped north of aiming point on red TIs.  Own bombs were seen to burst.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, P/O F.P.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair,  S/L R.A.McKinna.  Bomb load 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Up 2123  Down 0523.  Primary Milan bombed.  12,000’.  No cloud.  Visibility moderate.  Bombed on concentration of red TI markers which covered town.  20 to 30 large well concentrated fires observed.
JA916L  F/L O.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/L G.C.Crockett, F/Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, F/Sgt W.St C. Hebb.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2117 Down 0516.  Target Milan attacked.  12,000’.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Built up area visually identified.  Aiming point in bombsight at time of bombing on red TI.  Fires well concentrated and visible 70 miles away.
ED938J  P/O J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, F/L Chambers, Sgt K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2119  Down 0525.  Primary objective bombed.  14,000’.  No cloud.  Visibility.  Bombs released on yellow TIs and visually.  Own bomb bursts seen in centre of town.  Fires just starting up round red TI markers.
ED874K  P/O K.Brown, Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/Sgt K.W.Knight, F/Sgt J.Curry, Sgt J.T.Sullivan, F/Sgt W.T.Saunders.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2128  Down 0513.  Milan attacked.  13,000’.  Moon, no cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed visually and by red TI markers which were in bomb sight.  Own bombs seen to burst.
JA708Z  S/L E.E.Rodley, G/C N.H.Fresson, Sgt K.J.Bell, S/L K.J.Foster, S/L E.H.Parrott, Sgt C.T.Ambrose, F/O L.J.Williams, Sgt A.J.Croll.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2134  Down 0549.  Target Milan bombed.  14,000’.  Thin cloud, hazy.  Yellow TI markers in sight when bombs released.  Extensive concentration of fires in centre of town.
ED814D  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgts W.N.Roberts, A.S.Palmer, F/O F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt W.A.Halsey, Sgt R.C.Haviland, F/Sgt P.O.Bone.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2125  Down 0535.  Target Milan attacked.  14,000’.  ¾ moon.  No cloud but ground haze.  Bombed yellow and red TI markers, overlapping in bomb sight.  Own results not seen.  Large concentration of fires – glow seen from Turin.
ED866P  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgt J.Beesley, F/Sgt W.H.Layne, Sgt V.White, F/O L.G.Mussi.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2130  Down 0519.  Primary objective attacked.  10.500’.  Bright moon.  Smoke and haze over target.  Bombs released on yellow TI markers.  Fires well concentrated particularly in north of town.  Fires visible from the Alps.
ED875R  Sgts D.A.Montgomery, G.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.L.R.Baker, Sgts S.N.Neill, R.K.Baggs.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2132  Down 0545.  Milan bombed.  18,000’.  Moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Bombed between two green TI markers in bomb sight.  Early on target – nothing startling in way of fires.
ED950X  P/O K.Fairlie, F/O Cameron (2nd Pilot), Sgts W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes. Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2135  Down 0552.  Primary target Milan bombed.  14,600’.  No cloud, haze.  Bombed on yellow and green TI markers.  Heavy smoke obscured target area.  Fires well concentrated and visible 80 miles away.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.A.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2145  Down 0532.  Target Milan bombed.  14,000’.  Moon light, thin layer cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed concentration of red and green markers.  Smoke and fires observed.
ED168B  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.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2139  Down 0558.  Milan attacked.  Moon, no cloud.  Visiblity good.  14,000’.  Bombed on green TI markers in bomb sight.  Fires and smoke seen over whole of target area.
ED953W  F/O B.H.Berridge, F/Sgt Roberts, W/O L.Bremner, F/Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, F/Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2117  Down 0537.  Target Milan attacked.  10,000’.  Small amount of cloud.  Bombed on centre of town over green TI markers which were in bomb sight.  Extensive large red fires observed.  Own TIs fell in centre of fire area.
JA711Y  F/Sgt V.D.Evans, F/Sgt C.Neary, Sgts T.J.Lightfoot, G.E.Edgecombe, F.Martin, F.R.Higgins, McGrath.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2137  Down 0556.  Primary objective Milan attacked.  4/10ths cloud.  Visibility moderate.  Built up area visually identified.  Bombed on yellow and green markers, overlapping in bomb sight.  Good fires started among fires with huge explosions.
EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stevens, D.E.Harvey, W.A.Laing, F.Kirby.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage,  Up 2141  Down 2310.  Mission abandoned – navigator sick, returned early.
EE176O  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, E.O.Charlton, J.Kenny, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, Sgt F.Edwards.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2109  Down 0507.  Milan attacked.  14,000’.  Moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Built up area identified visually.  One red TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Fires were getting good hold.  One particularly large explosion seen west of aiming point.
EE105E  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, F.C.Nordhoff.  Bomb load as S/L Garlick.  Up 2114  Down 0540.  Objective Milan bombed.  12,300’.  Moon.  No cloud over target but thunderstorm to east.  Able to see buildings and railway station.  Bombed on centre of two lines of red TIs.  Whole town seemed well alight.
ED870T  F/Sgt J.H.Saxton, Sgts P.H.Fryer, F.H.Baker, J.C.Rees, C.Watson, J.J.Zunti, W.E.Coates.  Bomb load as S/L Garlick.  Up 2121  Down 0543.  Primary objective Milan attacked.  14,000’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Bombed on yellow TI markers falling in fire area.  Large explosion seen at 0149.

13.8.43    Standown from operations.  Flying clothing parade and sort out in the afternoon.

14.8.43    9 aircraft and two reserves detailed for ops against a target at Milan.  Two aircraft on visual marking, 5 aircraft B/U and one non-marker.  The raid was considered very successful with no cloud over target.  There was ground haze and moonlight.  Defences slightly increased since previous raid.  Fires were seen.  One aircraft returned early after crossing the French coast due to engine trouble.

14/15 August 1943 Milan – Bomb Load 10 flares, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb unless stated

JA846M  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.S.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Up 2129  Down 0545.  Target Milan attacked.  No cloud, visibility hazy.  11,700’.  Target located by H2S.  Bombs hung up over target but were jettisoned before recrossing the Alps.  Flares appeared to be well placed.  A large fire seen.
JA916LF/L O.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/L G.C.Crockett, F/Sgt P.Scott, P/O L.G.Mussi (A/B 2), F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgts W.Wilkes, W.St C.Hebb.  Bomb Load as F/L Eaton-Clarke.  Up 2132  Down 0530.  Primary objective Milan attacked.  Full moon, no cloud, hazy.  9,000’.  Target identified visually.  Own bombs seen to burst on aerodrome buildings.  Aerodrome and works seen to be on fire.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, Sgt N.Cohen, F/L J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  Bomb load as F/L Eaton-Clarke.  Up 2136  Down 0540.  Breda Works Aerodrome (Milan) bombed.  10,000’.  Thick haze.  Target identified visually and bursts on aerodrome seen.  Fires seen starting up.  One buildings in works seen to disintegrate.
EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stevens, D.E.Harvey, W.A.Lang, F.Kirby.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Up 2136  Down 0550.  Target Milan (works and aerodrome) attacked.  Bright moon, no cloud, visibility hazy.  15,000’.  Built up area visually identified.  Bombed on yellow TI markers.  One very big fire seen in bombed area and smaller scattered ones.
ED950X  P/O K.Fairlie, F/Sgt Penny (2nd Pilot), Sgts C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombes.  Bomb load as F/L Mackenzie.  Up 2138  Down 0523.  Primary objective bombed.  15,300’.  Visibility good but hazy.  Target identified by markers and visual.  Bombed between two red TI markers in bomb sight.  Many bursts seen in target area and fires were burning.
JA857G  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, Sgts W.Williams, J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Bomb load as F/L Mackenzie.  Up 2139  Down 0102.  Returned early owing to port outer engine becoming u/s.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgt J.Brett, F/Sgt R.G.Christie, Sgts J.D.Bradford, H.A.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Bomb load as F/L Mackenzie.  Up 2141  Down 0522.  Milan attacked.  Moonlight, no cloud, ground haze.  15,700’.  Target identified visually and by TI markers.  Bombs released on yellow TI markers.  Big explosion seen in north of town at 0125.  8 big red fires seen.
JA711Y  P/O K.Brown, Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/O Griffiths (Nav 2), F/Sgt K.W.Knight, Sgts J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Bomb load as F/L Mackenzie.  Up 2143  Down 0535.  Target Milan bombed.  No cloud but ground haze.  14,000’.  Bombed on concentration of yellow and green TIs in built up area.  Many other bursts seen.
JA707V  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, E.O.Charlton, C.Watson, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, Sgt M.Edwards.  1 x 4ooolb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2127  Down 0525.  Primary target Milan attacked.  12,000’.  Moonlight, no cloud, hazy.  Saw railway station illuminated by red TIs – we bombed with both in sights.

15.8.43    Training carried out and standown from operations.

16.8.43    Some training flights in the morning.  In the afternoon all aircrews were paraded, after which all NCOs changed quarters in order that A,B, and C Flights should be allotted sites 1,2 and 3 respectively.

17.8.43    Cross countries, air firing and bombing.  20 aircraft detailed for ops and 2 aircraft reserve.  Three aircraft did not take off.  One returned early from the operation due to instrument failures.  The remaining 16 aircraft attacked the target at Peenumunde in the Baltic.  Weather was fine with small patches of cloud over the target area.  Numerous bomb bursts were seen and buildings burning.  Fires were seen in the distance on return.  Many enemy fighters seen.  All our aircraft returned safely to base.

17/18 August 1943 Peenemunde – Bomb Load 16 Flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb unless stated

JA846M  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.S.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Up 2046  Down 0406.  Target Peenemunde attacked.  Full moon.  No cloud, smoke haze.  13,500’.  Visually by coast and river and red TIs.  Bombs released on concentration of red and yellow markers.  Two very large explosions observed.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, F/Sgt E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair, Sgt G.W.Wood.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Up 2108  Down 0358.  Primary target bombed.  11,700’.  Moonlight.  6/10ths cloud.  Green TI markers in bombsight at time of bombing.  Smoke and cloud obscured ground detail.  Red glow visible fro one hour after leaving target.
JA958K  F/L O.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/L G.C.Crockett, F/Sgt P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, Sgt W.Wilkes, F/Sgt W.St C.Hebb.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2148  Down 0424.  Peenemunde attacked.  12,000’.  Full moon, patches of cloud – thick in places, hazy.  Green TIs in bombsight at time of bombing.  Own results not seen but many other bursts observed in marked area.  Glow of fires seen.
ED938J  P/O J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgts Campbell (A/B 2), Underwood, K.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2048  Down 0337.  Peenemunde attacked.  13,000’.  Moon obscured by thin cloud.  Smoke haze or screen.  Target identified by coast line.  Bombed on yellow and green TIs.  No results seen owing to smoke.
EE107F  P/O K.Brown, Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, Sgt Graham (Nav 2), F/Sgt K.W.Knight, Sgts J.Curry, J.T.Sullivan, W.T.Saunders.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2100 Down 0428.  Primary objective attacked.  15,000’.  Bright moonlight, little cloud.  Yellow TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Several fires burning – glow visible 50 miles away.
JA923H  W/C E.F.Nind, F/O Stevens (2nd Pilot), P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.M.Nelson, Sgt G.F.Gower, F/O E.A.Adams, F/O L.G.Mussi.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2055  Down 0013.  Task abandoned.  Compasses inaccurate and navigation aids u/s.
ED869S  F/O R.A.Fletcher, Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, Sgt J.Beesley, F/Sgt W.H.Layne, Sgts W.A.Laing, H.R.Page.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2105  Down 0355.  Target Peenemunde attacked.  Moon, no cloud, visibility good.  14,000’.  Bombed centre of cluster of red TI markers.  Own bombs appeared to fall on railway.  Smoke screen prevented observation of ground results.  Fire glow seen.
ED839C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt K.J.Bell, S/L K.J.Foster, S/L E.H.Parrott, Sgt C.T.Ambrose, F/O L.J.Williams, Sgt A.J.Croll.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2107  Down 0408.  Primary target Peenemunde attacked.  14,500’.  Some cloud, visibility good apart from smoke screen.  Bombed on TI markers.  Flash from own bombs seen in midst of TIs.  Reflection fo fires seen under cloud.
ED814D  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt W.A.Halsey, Sgt R.C.Haviland, F/Sgt P.O.Bone.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2115  Down 0412.  Primary target bombed.  Little cloud, visibility good apart from smoke screen.  12,500’.  Bombed on red TIs  - in bomb sight.  No ground detail visible.  Glow from fires seen 100 miles away.
JA711Y  F/O B.H.Berridge, Sgt O.Ramsay, W/O L.Bremner, F/O Griffith (Nav 2), F/Sgt W.Parker, F/Sgt A.E.Flowerday, F/Sgt W.Lochrie, F/Sgt G.Pearce.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2117  Down 0349.  Target Peenemunde attacked. 5,500’.  9/10ths cloud patchy.  Bombs released on concentration of red TI markers.  Cloud obscured most detail.  Big orange explosion seen at 0034.
ED950X  P/O K.Fairlie, Sgts C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombs.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2119  Down 0419.  Primary objective bombed.  12,500’.  ¾ moon.  10/10ths cloud (thin layer).  Bombed on concentration of green TI markers – none actually in bomb sight.  Results difficult to observe owing to thin cloud and smoke.
ED875R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, Sgt G.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.L.R.Baker, Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2128  Down 0417.  Peenemunde attacked.  Full moon, no cloud.  Visibility good.  11,000’.  Bombed cluster of red TIs.  Own bombs seen to burst in marked area.  Big explosion seen at aiming point “B” at 0039 hours.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts Roberts (2nd Pilot), J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.A.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Bomb load as P/O Munro.  Up 2130  Down 0422.  Primary target “B” bombed.  Full moon.  10/10ths thin cloud over target.  Bombs released on concentration of red and green TI markers.  Big explosion seen at 0048 and several fires observed.
EE179U  F/O G.de Wesselow, Sgts Bamblett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, C.Harris, O.Press.  1 x 400lb 96 x 40GP.  Up 2103  Down 0352.  Primary target “F” attacked.  16,000’.  Moonlight, clear over target, cloud to east.  Visually saw road and buildings of sleeping quarters – these were bombed with green TIs in bomb sight.
ED870T  Sgts J.H.Saxton, P.H.Fryer, F.H.Baker, J.C.Rees, C.Watson, J.J.Zunti, W.E.Coates.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Up 2144  Down 0433.  Primary target attacked.  Bright moonlight, target partly obscured by smoke.  14,500’.  Bombed green TIs – not acyually in bomb sight.  Fries seen burning round yellow TIs.  Glow from fires visible 100 miles away.
JA707V  F/Sgt H.A.Pond, Sgts E.J.Gillman, S.B.Stevenson, F/O V.C.Peters, Sgts T.M.Kenny, O.Ramsden, T.N.McGrath.  1 x 4000lb, 96 x 40lb GP.  Up 2057  Down 0437.  Primary target Peenemunde attacked.  13,500’.  Moon, 4/10ths cloud.  Bombed centre of concentration of green TI markers.  Own bombs seen to burst in aiming point “E” area.  Fires just beginning to take hold.
EE105Q  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, A.E.Carlton, N.Cohen, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, Sgt M.Edwards.  Bomb load as F/Sgt Pond.  Up 2050  Down 0400.  Peenemunde.  15,400’.  Moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Built up section visually identified.  Bombed cluster of green TIs, none actually in bomb sight.  Raid appeared to develop at later stage.
EE176O  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, F.C.Nordhoff.  Bomb load as F/Sgt Pond.  Up 2102  down 0430.  Target Peenemunde attacked.  Moonlight.  3/10ths cloud.  12,000’.  Red TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Smoke screen obscured ground detail except for yellowish glow from fires.  

18.8.43    Air test, no further flying.

19.8.43    Air firing, NFTs.  21 aircraft detailed for ops which were later cancelled.

20.8.43    Day cross countries and special bombing training.  Bullseye exercise at night cancelled.

21.8.43 Air test, no other flying – weather unfit.

22.8.43    Bombing and Y exercises.  Air firing and high level bombing.  14 aircraft detailed for ops, also 2 reserve aircraft.  One aircraft did not take off, the remaining 13 aircraft attacked Leverkusen near Cologne.  Weather was fine over England but 8-10/10ths cumulous over the target.  Bombs were dropped on glow of fires through the cloud, no results seen.  One aircraft returned early owing to compass and repeater failures.  All returned safely to base.  Special Order of the Day by Air Commodore D.C.T.Bennett CBE, DSO, Commanding Path Finder Force “To all ranks of the PFF.  On the 15th August 1942, five squadrons, each representing a group in Bomber Command, assembled on allotted aerodromes to form the PFF.  In one year the PFF has played a large part in showing the enemy how effective bombing can be as a direct means of breaking his morale and thereby winning the war.  It is conceivable that he can crack up tomorrow.  On the other hand his Gestapo rule may make it possible for him to continue indefinitely.  Bombing is our most rapid and effective method of preventing his continued struggle but only if it is effective.  The PFF have done much but they must do more.  The quality of our bombing is in your hands.  Keep at it and good luck to you all.”

22/23 August 1943 Leverkusen – Bomb load 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb unless stated

EE105E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, F/Sgt W.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Up 2120  Down 0207.  Leverkusen attacked.  18,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Visibility nil on ground.  Bombed on ETA and glow from red TI below cloud.  Area heavily defended.  Only red glow under cloud observed.
ED950X  P/O K.Fairlie, F/Sgt Penny (2nd Pilot), Sgts C.E.Addison, W.G.Clutterbuck, K.Prouten, F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombs.  Up 2124  Down 0204.  Leverkusen area.  10/10ths cloud.  Visibility fair, 13,500’.  Bombed on ETA and glow of fires seen below cloud.  Only fire glow seen, no other results, no markers.
ED869P  F/L R.A.Fletcher, F/O Stevens (2nd Pilot), F/Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, F/Sgt J.Beesley, W/O W.M.Layne, F/Sgt F.White, F/Sgt H.R.Page.  Up 2131  Down 0214.  Target Leverkusen attacked.  18,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA and red glow which might have been fire or TI marker.  Glow of scattered fires only seen.
EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stevens, Dawkins, W.A.Lang, F.Kirby.  Up 2129  Down 0220.  Primary target Leverkusen attacked.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA and glow.  Only glow from incendiaries observed.
EE105Q F/L D.I.Jones, Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, Sgt F.Strange, F.Sgt J.Burke.  Up 2135  Down 0150.  Leverkusen area.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA.  Nothing seen owing to cloud except occasional sight of Rhine.
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 2139  Down 0211.  Target Leverkusen bombed.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA.  No markers seen.  No results seen.
EE176O  F/O D.Moodie, sgts L.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, H.W.Clausen, T.E.Stamp, L.A.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Up 2137  Down 0227.  Leverkusen area attacked.  19,500.  9/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA and faint glow under cloud.  On leaving target scattered fires were seen along track fro about 25 miles.
ED870T  F/Sgt J.H.Saxton, Sgts P.H.Fryer, F.H.Baker, J.C.Rees, C.Watson, J.J.Zunti, W.E.Coates. Up 2140  Down 0024.  Mission abandoned owing to compass failure and all repeaters.
JA707V  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, A.E.Charlton, Gadsby, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, Sgt F.Edwards.  1 x 4000lb 6 x 1000lb.  Up 2112  Down 0159.  Leverkusen area.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA and possible reflection of red TI markers.  After leaving target very scattered bombing could be seen below cloud. Over an area of 10 miles, some 30 miles.
EE179U  F/O G.de Wesselow, Sgts Bumblett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, C.Harris, O.Press.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 2 x 500lb.  Up 2114  Down 0144.  Leverkusen area attacked.  18,000’.  4/10ths cloud.  Bombed on red and green TI markers, two greens overlapping in bomb sight.  Two very good explosions observed.  No fires seen.
ED814D  Sgts C.S.Chatten, C.Baumber, P/O L.R.Armitage, Sgts Standen, Cowen, F/Sgt J.R.Kraemer, Sgt L.V.J.Smith.  Bomb load as F/O de wesselow.  Up 2131  Down 0219.  Leverkusen area.  18,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on ETA and what was assumed to be a red TI marker under cloud.  Several scattered fires seen on leaving target.
ED948W  F/O A.W.Cameron, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/O J.B.Griffith, Sgts G.D.Nicholl, N.Cohen, P/O W.W.oods, Sgt M.Sharp.  Bomb load as F/O de Wesselow.  Up 2126  Down 0225.  Primary objective Leverkusen attacked.  19,000’.  ¼ moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombs released on fires under cloud and defended area – coincided with ETA – no markers seen.  Very scattered fires observed on leaving.
ED839C Sgts W.N.Roberts, J.D.Tinsdeall, S.J.Peek, P/O L.C.Jones,  Sgts D.E.Harvey, H.B.Stedman, J.R.Chapman.  Bomb load as F/O de Wesselow.  Up 2133 Down 0230.  Leverkusen area.  16,700’.  8/10ths cloud.  Bombed on fires seen through breaks in cloud and ETA.  Fires in bomb sight.  Bursts seen in centre of fires aimed at.  Three large scattered fires seen. 

23.8.43    21 aircraft and one reserve have been detailed to operate against Berlin. Early briefing and take off at 0815 hours.  21 aircraft took off, 2 aircraft abandoned their sorties, in one case the rear turret was u/s and in the other the mid upper gunner was very sick.  All the remaining aircraft attacked the target at Berlin.  Large area of fires seen in target area after bombing and were well concentrated.  Moon was just rising – no cloud and visibility good.  W/Cmdr Burns DFC was selected and acted as Master of Ceremonies over the target.  Bundles of windows were dropped.  P/O Fairlie and crew failed to return.  Sgt Chatten was attacked by enemy intruder when over Norfolk and was shot down, the aircraft catching fire.  All the crew baled out except for the mid upper F/S Kraemer (Aus) whose body was found later in the wreckage.  Sgt Chatten landed safely, but was wounded from gunshot in the leg and ribs and was taken to Ely Hospital – he is progressing favourably.  The remainder of the crew baled out safely and were uninjured beyond minor bruises.  P/ Dawson was hit by enemy flak which damaged his aircraft.  The brake pressure which was damaged caused the aircraft to overshoot beyond the roadway and into a cornfield on landing.  The undercarriage did not collapse and there were no injuries, but the aircraft was made Cat A.C. The remaining aircraft landed safely at base.  The raid was considered very successful – much damage reported.

23/24 August 1943 Berlin – Bomb Load 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb

JA846M  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, G/C N.H.Fresson (2nd Pilot), F/O Cameron (3rd Pilot), Sgt G.S.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, Newman.  Up 2015  Down 0305.  Primary objective Berlin attacked.  20,000’.  No moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Dropped 4 reds on aiming point by use of Nav aids “Y” which were working well.  3 other reds fell at same time.  Concentration was maintained as aircraft left.  Too early for results to be observed.
JA916L  W/C K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, P/O J.Keddie, W/O R.J.Williams, Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O O.Lambert.  4 x TI, 1 x 4, 2 x 1000lb.  Up 2019  Down 0347.  Primary Berlin attacked.  No cloud, visibility good.  18,500’.  Target found by ETA.  H2S faulty over target.  Own bombs seen to burst but thought to be well west of aiming point.  Large area of fires seen in target area after bombing.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt Penny (2nd Pilot), F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, W/O E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Up 2147  Down 0321.  Primary Berlin attacked.  Dark, no cloud, visibility fair.  18,000’.  Bombed centre of concentration of red TIs – none actually in bomb sight.  Incendiaries and fires well concentrated.
JA923H  F/L K.Brown, Sgt Miller (2nd Pilot), F/Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/O Webb, F/Sgt J.Curry, F/Sgt J.T.Sullivan, W/O W.T.Saunders.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2057  Down 0356.  Berlin bombed.  ¼ moon, no cloud, smoke haze.  20,000’.  Bombs released between two green TI markers – not actually in bomb sight.  Well concentrated fires starting up.  Two large explosions at 0010 and 0014.
JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, F/Sgt W.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2030  Down 0333.  Target Berlin attacked.  Moon just rising.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed on red and green TI markers which were “bang on” target.  No red spot fires seen.  Fires were starting up as aircraft left target.
JA966S  W/C E.F.Nind, F/O Stevens (2nd Pilot), P/O Brown, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.M.Nelson, Sgt G.F.Gower, F/O E.A.Adams, F/L L.G.Mussi.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2034  Down 0328.  Berlin attacked.  19,000’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Target identified visually and by TI markers.  Bombed on red TIs – in bomb sight.  No red spot fires seen, own brought back.  Fires not started – none seen.
ED938J  F/L J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgt Underwood, F/Sgt K.S.Bennett, W/O W.Hill.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2036  Down 0309.  Berlin target bombed.  18,500’.  No cloud, very hazy.  Bombed centre of concentration of red TIs – in bomb sight.  Big red explosion seen at 0111.  Big fires seen – smoke visible from coast on way back.
JA958K  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.Burke.  Bomb load as S/L Suavage.  Up  2036  Down 0312.  Primary target bombed.  20,000’.  No moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Bombed cluster of red TIs – none in bombsight.  Fires had not started up while over target but were seen later from Baltic coast.
ED814D  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.C.Newbegin, W/O W.Halsey, Sgt R.C.Haviland, W/O P.O.Bone.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2040  Down 0317.  Target Berlin attacked.  19,000’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Target identified visually.  Bombed concentration of red TI markers, not in bomb sight.  Red spot fires brought back, none seen.  Too early on target for results.
ED950X  P/O K.Fairlie, Sgt C.E.Addison, S/L Forrest, S/L E.H.Parrott, Sgts F.Ball, A.J.Cossins, G.Coombs.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2038 – aircraft and crew missing.
ED869P  F/L R.A.Fletcher, F/Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sht J.Dunn, F/Sgt J.Beesley, W/O W.M.Layne, F/Sgt V.White, F/Sgt H.R.Page.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2044  Down 0336.  Bombed Berlin.  ¼ moon, no cloud, visibility good.  19,000’.  Bombed centre of cluster of green TIs surrounded by reds – none actually in bomb sight.  One large explosion at 2152.  Huge smoke pall as aircraft left.
JA708E?  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.A.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2049  Down 0345.  Primary Berlin attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud, smoke from fires obscured parts of target area.  Bombed green TI (overshot 2 seconds).  Large orange explosion at 0011.  Numerous well concentrated fires seen and visible from 100 miles.
ED875R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, Sgt G.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.L.R.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2046  Down 0325.  Berlin attacked.  19,500’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Target identified visually and by markers.  Bombed in cluster of red and green TIs.  Large explosion seen at 2355.  Fires were getting a good hold.
EE176O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Calusen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, L.A.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2051  Down 0351.  Target Berlin attacked.  No cloud, visibility good.  Target identified by TIs and visually.  Bombed centre of concentration of green TI markers – in bomb sight.  Many good fires burning.
EE107F  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.T.Pratt, R.Marshall, W.Stevens, Dawkins, W.A.Lang, F.Kirby.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2042 Down 0343.  Primary Berlin bombed.  19,500’.  Little moonlight.  No cloud, visibility good.  Bombed centre of green and red TIs – none actually in bomb sight.  Great mass of fires seen over large area.
ED870T  F/Sgt J.H.Saxton, F/Sgt P.H.Fryer, F/Sgt F.H.Baker, Sgts J.C.Rees, C.Watson, J.J.Zunti, W.E.Coates.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2053  Down 0353.  Berlin attacked.  19,000.  ¼ moon.  No cloud, visibility good.  Bombed concentration green TI markers – not in bomb sight.  No red spot fires seen.  Large fires burning in marked area.
EE105Q  Sgts C.S.Chatten, C.Baumber, P/O L.R.Armitage, Sgts Standen, W.A.Reffin, F/Sgt J.R.Kraemer, Sgt L.V.Smith.  1 x 4000lb, 9 x 500lb.  Up 2015  Down 0300 (approx – shot down).  Berlin bombed.  19,000’.  No cloud.  Slight haze.  Bombed centre of three red TI markers.  Built up area and big white buildings were seen visually.  Bombs believed on aiming point.  Fires seen after bombing, numerous and well concentrated and visible about 40 miles away.  On reaching English coast were shot down by an intruder.  All safely baled out except mid upper gunner who was killed.  Captain received leg injuried.  Aircraft a total loss.
JA707V  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, A.E.Charlton, Gadsby, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, Sgt F.Edwards.  Bomb load as Sgt Chatten.  Up 2022  Down 0314.  Target Berlin attacked.  18,300’.  No cloud, ground haze.  Illuminated buildings and roads visually identified.  Bombed estimated centre of red and green TIs.  Fires seen starting up.
EE179U  F/O G.de Wesselow, Sgts Bamblett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, C.Harris, O.Press.  Bomb load as Sgt Chatten.  Up 2025  Down 2209.  Mission abandoned.  Mid upper gunner sick.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
ED839C  Sgts W.N.Roberts, J.D.Tinsdeall, S.J.Peck, P/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, H.B.Stedman, J.R.Chapman.  Bomb load as Sgt Chatten.  Up 2032  Down 2242.  Mission abandoned.  Rear turret u/s.  Burst oil pipe, bombs jettisoned safe.      

24.8.43    Standown from ops – no flying.

25.8.43    Weather unfit for flying.

26.8.43    Weather unfit for flying.

27.8.43    22 aircraft and one reserve detailed for ops tonight.  1 aircraft, F/L Jones did not take off due to last minute failures.  There was not enough time left to transfer to the reserve aircraft.  The remaining 21aircraft took off to attack a target at Nurnburg.  No moon, no cloud, visibility haze and smoke.  Bombs were seen to burst in built up area – fires were beginning and glow was seen from about 100 miles away.  F/Lt Robertson and crew and F/Sgt Pond and crew failed to return – the remaining aircraft returned safely to base.  Intense flak was directed at markers.  Red Star vereys were shot off by enemy fighters who seemed to do this on sighting or attacking bombers.  Many aircraft were seen to fall at target and as far as Mannheim on return.

27/28 August 1943 Nuremburg – Bomb Load 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb

JA846M  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgts Miller (2nd Pilot), G.S.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, sgt E.Hambling, S/L R.A.McKinna.  Up 2101  Down 0424.  Target Nuremburg attacked.  No cloud, visibility good.  14,000’.  Target found by “Y” equipment.  First on scene, no markers seen.  Bombed on built up area.  Own bombing results not seen.  Red TI seen.  Incendiaries starting to fall on leaving target.
JA923H  F/L K.Brown, F/Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/O Webb, F/Sgt J.Curry, F/Sgt J.T.Sullivan, W/O W.T.Saunders.  Bomb load as F/L Eaton-Clarke.  Up 2104  Down 0405.  Nuremburg attacked.  16,500’.  No moon, no cloud, visibility.  Bomb sight not used.  Red TIs and built up area visually bombed.  Own bombs seen to burst in built up area.  Too early to see results or fires.
JA916L  W/C K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, P/O J.Keddie, W/O R.J.Williams, W/O E.H.Skinner, W/O O.Lambert.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Up 2123  Down 0339.  Primary Nuremburg attacked.  17,500’.  Haze and smoke.  Park, river and lake by “Y” aids.  Bombed near river in centre of town.  One large explosion east of twon (believed gasometer) at 0047.  Fires were raging as aircraft left target.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, W/O E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Up 2141  down 0449.  Nuremburg bombed.  18,000’.  No cloud, no moon.  By Nav aids “Y” bombed workshops and railway marshalling yards and built up area.  No results seen.
JA958K  F/L O.B.Robertson, Sgt W.G.Peel, F/L E.G.Crockett, W/O P.Scott, F/O J.C.Frizzell, F/Sgt W.Wilkes, F/Sgt W.St C.Hebb.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2143 – aircraft and crew missing.
JA966S  W/C E.F.Nind, F/O Steven (2nd Pilot), P/O Brown (3rd Pilot), P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.M.Nelson, Sgt G.F.Gower, F/O E.A.Adams, F/L L.G.Mussi.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2115  Down 0411.  Primary objective Nuremburg attacked.  18,000’.  No cloud, no moon.  Hazy.  Bombed on concentration of red and green TI markers – in bomb sight.  Saw several 4000 pounders burst within circle of red and green TIs.
JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, F/Sgt W.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2122  Down 0433.  Target Nuremburg attacked.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Bombed concentration of red, green and yellow TIs and on instructions from MC.  One red in bomb sight.  Own results not seen.  Fires just beginning.
ED938J  F/L J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgt Underwood, F/Sgt K.S.Bennett, W/O W.Hill.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2124  Down 0348.  Nuremburg bombed.  13,000’.  No clud but smoke haze.  Built up area identified visually.  Centre of five red TI markers in bomb sight when bombs released.  Several large fires seen on leaving – visible about 100 miles away.
EE186B  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.C.Newbegin, W/O W.Halsey, F/Sgt G.W.Wood, W/O P.O.Bone.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2126  Down 0356.  Primary target Nuremburg.  18,000’.  Visibility good.  Bombed between groups of red and green TIs – none actually in bomb sight.  Little seen in way of results.
ED869P  F/L R.A.Fletcher, F/Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, F/Sgt J.Beesley, W/O W.M.Layne, F/Sgt F.White, F/Sgt H.R.Page.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2150  Down 0351.  Target Nuremburg bombed.  Some haze and smoke over target area.  15,500’.  Bombed red and green TI (not in bomb sights) and on MC instructions.  Several fires seen, one particularly large, in centre of red TIs.  Glow seen 100 miles away.
ED875R  F/O B.H.Berridge, Sgt O.Ramsay, W/O L.Bremner, W/O W.Parker, W/O A.E.Flowerday, W/O W.Lochrie, W/O G.Pearce.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2135  down 0401.  Nuremburg attacked. 15,000’  Little cloud.  Bombed centre of concentration of green TIs.  Built up area seen in light of photoflash.  Two very large explosions seen.  Two or three fires at west edge of target area.
ED839C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, W/O D.W.Burt, Sgts H.Bryson, E.F.Bryan, W/O Harris.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2137  down 0449.  Target Nuremburg attacked.  18,500’.  No cloud.  Visibility.  Bombed concentration of red and green TI markers – in bomb sight.  Fires taking hold on leaving target.
EE176O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, L.A.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2132  Down 0441.  Primary objective Nuremburg bombed.  16,000’.  No cloud, some haze.  Bombed centre of concentration of green TIs.  Scattered fires seen in southern part of town.  Red spot fires brought back – none seen.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.A.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Bomb load as S/L Suavage.  Up 2145  Down 0444.  Nuremburg attacked.  No cloud, visibility good.  16,700’.  Bombed concentration of green TIs, right on target.  Own results not seen.  Several good fires burning and glow cloud be seen from 100 miles away.
ED870T  F/Sgt J.H.Saxton, F/Sgt P.H.Fryer, F/S F.H.Baker, Sgts J.C.Rees, C.Watson, J.J.Zunti, W.E.Coates.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2147  Down 0415.  Target Nuremburg bombed.  18,000’.  Ground haze.  Bombed centre of cluster of green TIs – in bomb sight.  Six large fires raging to west of town.  Red spot fires brought back – none seen.
JA707V  F/Sgt H.A.Pond, Sgts E.J.Gillman, J.E.Rainsford, F/O V.C.Peters, Sgts T.M.Kenny, O.Ramsden, F/Sgt T.N.McGrath.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Aircraft and crew missing.
EE179U  F/O G.de Wesselow, Sgts Bamblett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, sgts F.White, Newman, O.Press.  1 x 4000lb, 9 x 500lb.  Up 2056  Down 0359.  Nuremburg target attacked.  18,000’.  No cloud.  Visibility good.  Targte visually identified.  Bombed on concentration of red and green markers.  Visually identified marshalling yards.  Own 4000 pounder seen to burst.
ED948W  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, F.C.Nordhoff.  Bomb load as F/O de Wesselow.  Up 2128  Down 0419.  Nuremburg attacked.  16,500’.  2/10ths cloud.  Ground haze.  Target identified visually by river.  Concentration of red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Five separate fires taking hold on leaving target.

JA711Y  F/O A.W.Cameron, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/O J.B.Griffith, Sgts G.D.Nicholl, N.Cohen, P/O W.Woods, Sgt M.Sharp.  Bomb load as F/O de Wesselow.  Up 2109  Down 0407.  Primary objective attacked.  No cloud.  Ground haze.  Bombed centre of cluster of green TI markers, one overlapping in bomb sight.  Five large fires seen on leaving.
JA963Q  Sgts J.A.Penny, R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, J.N.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, P/O P.W.Bates, P.W.Dries.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2110  Down 0407. Nuremburg target bombed.  No moon, no cloud, smoke haze.  18,000’.  Factory buildings  identified visually.  Bombed between two concentrations of red and yellow TIs.  Believed bombs fell south of the river.  Big long fire seen on leaving.
EE107F  P/O W.H.Roberts, Sgt J.D.Tinsdeal, S/L K.J.Foster (Capt), Sgt S.J.Peek, P/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, H.B.Stedman, J.R.Chapman.  Bomb load as S/L Sauvage.  Up 2117  Down 0436.  Nuremburg attacked.  No cloud, visibility fair.  16,500’.  Built up area identified visually.  Bombed centre of group of red TI markers, one red in bomb sight.  On target too early for results to be apparent. 

28.9.43 No flying – stand down from operations 

29.8.43 Bourn aerodrome will be unserviceable on the 30th August for approximately 4 days owing to the runways being reconditioned.  It is therefore necessary for the squadron to operate from other airfields during this period.  Each Flight will constitute a separate detachment under the Flight Commander who will act as the detachment commander as follows:-

“A” Flight                       W/Cmdr Burns DFC                         RAF Gransden Lodge

“B” Flight                                W/Cmdr Nind                         RAF Graveley

“C” Flight                              W/Cmdr Alabaster                  RAF Oakington

Aircraft and crew took off from Bourn this morning for their respective airfields.  Duty was carried out according to plan.  No ops detailed.  

30.8.43 Squadron detachments were detailed to put on 16 aircraft for ops.  1 aircraft did not take off – remaining 15 aircraft attacked Munchengladbach.  No moon and 10/10ths cloud (cumulus) up to 6,000’.  Visibility good above cloud over target area.  Some fires seen to start but very little result could be seen owing to cloud.  All aircraft and crews returned to their respective bases.

30/31 August 1943 Munchen Gladbach – Bomb load 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 2 x 500lb

ED938J  F/L J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgt J.N.Underwood, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, W/O W.Hill.  Up 0024  Down 0342.  Target Munchen attacked.  17,000.  9/10ths cloud.  Bombed on glow from red TI marker which was in bomb sight.  One big blue/white explosion at 0202.  No results observed owing to cloud.
JA846M  F/L B.H.Berridge, Sgt C.Baumber, W/O L.Bremner, P/O Carlton, W/O A.E.Flowerday, W/O W.Lochrie, W/O G.Pearce.  Bomb load as F/L Munro.  Up 0025  Down 0344.  Munchen.  17,700’.  8/10ths cloud.  No moon.  Bombed on red TI marker through break in cloud.  No results observed owing to cloud.
JA715X  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Peck, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, F.C.Nordhoff.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Up 0041  Down 0443.  Munchen attacked.  17,800’.  No moon.  3/10ths cloud.  Bombed centre of three red TI markers – in bomb sight.  Several good fires seen – rather scattered.
JA711Y  F/O A.W.Cameron, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/O J.B.Griffith, Sgts G.D.Nicholl, N.Cohen, P/O W.Wood, Sgt M.Sharp.  Bomb load as F/O Riches.  Up 0045  Down 0423.  Target Munchen attacked.  17,000’.  Very thick cloud and smoke over target area.  Centre of a few green TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Every appearance of fires below cloud and smoke.
JA708Z  Sgts J.A.Penny, R.T.Fathers, J.R.Cowen, J.Graham, J.N.Campbell, F/O P.W.Bates, Sgt P.W.Dries.  Bomb load as F/O Riches.  Up 0048  Down 0416.  Munchen bombed.  No moon.  8/10ths cloud.  Bombed centre of concentration of red and green markers – none actually in bomb sight.  One big explosion at 0220.  Many fires observed.
ED839C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, W/O D.W.Burt, Sgt H.Bryson, W/O A.J.Harris, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 2 x 500lb.  Up 0042  Down 0334.  Primary objective attacked.  19,000’.  8/10ths cloud.  Bombed on one red TI marking burning on ground in bomb sight.  One large explosion at 0204 – clouds lit up by bright flash.  Nothing else seen.
ED814D  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.C.Newbegin, W/O W.Halsey, F/Sgt Woods, W/O P.O.Bone.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 0046  Down 0417.  Munchen.  18,500’.  8/10ths cloud.  One red TI marker in bombsight at time of releasing bombs.  Glows of fires observed.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgt J.Brett, F/Sgt R.G.Christie, Sgts J.D.Bradford, H.A.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 0052  Down 0420.  Primary target bombed – Munchen.  No moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on glow from fires reflecting through cloud – in bomb sight.  Glow from fires only results seen.
JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.P.Pepper, F/Sgt W.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, C.J.Billows, T.Hesselden.  Bomb load as S/L Rodley.  Up 0035  down 0400.  Munchen attacked.  8/10ths cloud.  No moon.  Bombed on red TI markers – in bomb sight.  Own results not observed.  Several fires seemed to be taking hold.
EE107F  Sgts W.N.Roberts, J.D.Tinsdeal, Peck, P/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, J.R.Chapman, H.B.Stedman.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Up 0041  Down 0427.  Target Munchen bombed. 15,000’.  8/10ths cloud.  Bombed on fires south of concentration of TI markers.  Area seemed well on fire, definite results not seen.
ED869P  F/L R.A.Fletcher, F/Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J,Dunn, F/Sgt J.Beesley, W/O W.M.Lyne, F/Sgt F.White, F/Sgt H.R.Page.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 2 x 500lb.  Up 0023  down 0357.  Munchen.  17,500’  No moon, no cloud.  Bombed centre of red TIs.  Several fires seen taking hold and 4000 pounder seen to burst.
EE176O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, L.A.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Bomb load as F/L Fletcher.  Up 0044  Down 0429.  Target munchen.  6/10ths cloud.  17,500’.  Bombed on red TIs.  Own results of bombing not seen.  Several fires seen burning.
ED870T  F/Sgt J.H.Saxton, F/Sgt P.H.Fryer, F/Sgt F.H.Baker, Sgts J.C.Rees, C.Watson, J.J.Zunti, W.E.Coates.  Bomb load as F/L Fletcher.  Up 0047  Down 0415.  Munchen.  16,500’.  9/10ths cloud visibility.  Target founf by ETA and concentration of fires.  No TIs seen at time of bombing.  Bombed on light of fires.  Good fires were burning.
EE179U  F/O G.de Wesselow, Sgts bamblett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, Newman, O.Press.  Bomb load as F/L Fletcher.  Up 0052  Down 0441.  Munchen.  16,500’.  No moon, no cloud.  No TIs seen.  Bombed on concentration of fires.  Fires burning really well on leaving target.
ED935?W  Sgts J.A.Miller, P.E.?White, D.F.Evans, P.H.Hurst, G.N.Brown, T?Williams, F.G. Thomas.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Up 0047  down 0446.  Munchen 20,000’.  No moon, no cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed concentration of red TI markers – not in bomb sight.  Own bombs seen to burst.  Large number of scattered fires observed on leaving target.

31.8.43    Squadron detachments again detailed 20 aircraft for ops.  The target was an area in Berlin.  Weather was 9/10ths cloud, visibility good, no moon.  Bombs were dropped as detailed but too early for many results to be seen.  Incendiaries were seen burning and scattered fires started.  Moderate heavy flak rather more than on previous raid, when eased off searchlight and fighter co-operation was attempted.  Many enemy aircraft seen.  4 aircraft and crews returned early., 3 due to crew personnel being sick and one due to mid upper turret u/s and intercom u/s.  W/C Burns DFC and crew are missing, no news since being received.  The remainder all returned to their bases.  S/L Rodley’s aircraft had the bomb aimer’s panel shattered and a hole in the rear of the fuselage at Malenburg.

31 August/1 September 1943 Berlin _ Bomb Load 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb unless stated

JA846M  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.S.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, G.Croll.  Up 2004  down 0314.  Primary objective Berlin attacked.  10/10ths cloud.  Target located by Nav aid “Y”.  19,000’.  Unable to confirm aiming point owing to cloud.  Few scattered red TIs seen to fall.  Cloud obscured results.
JA923W  F/L K.Brown, F/Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, P/O Webb, F/Sgt J.Curry, F/Sgt J.T.Sullivan, W/O W.T.Saunders.    Up 2008  Down 0319.  Target Berlin attacked.  18,500’.  8/10ths cloud.  Bombed red TIs actually in bomb sight.  Incendiaries and 4000 pounders seen bursting.  Some scattered fires.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, W/O E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair, F/Sgt S.H.?Ward.  Up 2006  Down 0308.  Berlin bombed.  5/10ths cloud.  No moon.  19,000’.  Targte bombed by Nav aid “Y”.  Bombs released on aiming point.  Too early on target for results.
JA916L  W/C K.H.Burns, P/O E.G.Dolby, P/O J.E.McAvoy, P/O J.Keddie, W/O R.J.Williams, W/O E.H.Skinner, W/O O.Lambert.  Up 2037 – aircraft and crew missing.
JA966S  W/C E.F.Nind, P/O P.J. Roberts, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.M.Nelson, Sgt Gadsby, F/O E.A.Adams, F/L L.G.Mussi.  Up 2013  Down 0318.  Target Berlin bombed.  18,500’.  Considerable medium cloud.  No moon.  Visibility moderate.  Bombed centre point between two red TI markers.  Unable to observe results owing to cloud.
ED839C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, W/O D.W.Burt, F/Sgt H.Bryson, W/O A.J.Harris, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan.  Up 2019  Down 0313.  Target Berlin attacked.  9/10ths cloud.  Visibility good.  19,000’.  Bend in river identified visually.  Bombed between two red TS – not actually in bomb sight.  No results seen – too early and cloud.
JA857G  F/L B.H.Berridge, Sgt C.Baumber, W/O L.Bremner, S/L Georgeson, W/O A.E.Flowerday, F/O Williams, W/O G.Pearce.  Up 2017  Down 0327.  Primary objective Berlin attacked.  15,500’.  8/10ths cloud.  Target identified by red TIs and river.  Bombed on red TIs – in bomb sight.  Incendiaries seen burning with few small fires starting.
ED869P  F/L R.A.Fletcher, F/Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, F/Sgt J.Beesley, W/O W.M.Layne, F/Sgt F.White, F/Sgt H.R.Page.  Up 2018  Down 0311.  Berlin target bombed.  18,000’.  9/10ths cloud.  Bombed centre of cluster of red TI markers, overlapping in bomb sight.  Too early fro results to be observed.
ED938J  F/L J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, P/O A.H.G.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgt J.N.Underwood, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, W/O W.Hill.  Up 2018  Down 0254.  Primary target bombed. No moon.  7/10ths cloud, some haze.  17,000’.  4 red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Nothing seen in way of results.
JA963Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.Burke.  Up 2020  down 0303.  Berlin target attacked.  18,000’.  No moon, 9/10ths cloud.  Got glimpse of built up area through cloud.  Bombed centre point between two concentrations of red TIs.  Results not observed owing to cloud.
ED868A  F/Sgt L.Stevenson, Sgt J.Brett, F/Sgt R.G.Christie, Sgts J.D.Bradford, H.A.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2022  Down 2214.  Mission abandoned owing to mid upper turret u/s.
ED875R  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, L.A.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Up 2019  Down 0320.  Primary target Berlin attacked.  6/10ths cloud.  Bombed one red TI marker in bomb sight.  Glow from fires through cloud only result observed.
JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, S/L K.J.Foster, F/Sgt W.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, C.J.Billows, T.Hesselden.  Up 2036  Down 2251.  Mission abandoned – mid upper gunner sick.
ED870T  F/Sgt J.H.Saxton, F/Sgt P.H.Fryer, F/Sgt F.H.Baker, Sgts J.C.Rees, C.Watson, J.J.Zunti, W.E.Coates.  Up 2030  Down 2240. Mission abandoned – navigator and rear gunner sick.
ED197U  F/O G.de Wesselow, Sgts Bamblett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, Newman, Pratt.  Up 2033  down 0336.  Primary objective Berlin bombed.  19,500’.  No moon, no cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed concentration of red TI markers.  Results of own bombs not seen.  Scattered fires seen over wide area.
JA715X  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Peck, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, F.C.Nordhoff.  Up 2028  Down 0344.  Target Berlin attacked.  9/10ths cloud at 18,000’.  Bombed centre of concentration of green TI markers.  Obviously some very good fires under cloud.
EE107F  Sgts W.N.Roberts, J.D.Tinsdeal, S.J.Peak, P/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, J.R.Chapman, H.B.Stedman.  1 x 4000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Up 2012  Down 0331.  Berlin attacked.  18,000’.  7/10ths cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed concentration of red TI markers.  A few scattered glows seen under cloud.
JA711Y  F/O A.W.Cameron, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/O J.B.Griffith, Sgts G.D.Nicholl, N.Cohen, P/O W.Webb, Sgt M.Sharp.  Bomb load as Sgt Roberts.  Up 2014  Down 2212.  Mission abandoned – navigator unfit.
JA708Z  Sgts J.A.Penny, R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, J.N.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, P/O Bates, Sgt P.W.Dries.  Bomb load as Sgt Roberts.  Up 2014  Down 0300.  Target Berlin bombed.  No moon.  8/10ths cloud.  18,000’.  One red TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own bombs fell south-east of main concentration.  No results seen owing to cloud. 
ED953W  Sgts J.A.Miller, R.White, D.F.Evans, P.H.Hurst, G.N.Brown, T.E.Williams, F.G.Thomas.  Bomb load as Sgt Roberts.  Up 2012  Down 0305.  Berlin.  18,000’.  No moon, 6/10ths cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed on red TI markers – not acutallu in bomb sight.  Flash of bombs seen through cloud – nothing else.    

1.9.43 Standown from operations

2.9.43 Weather unfit for training – a few air tests only.

3.9.43 Runways at Bourn now serviceable – all detachments returned this morning to base from Oakington, Graveley and Gransden.  Twenty aircraft detailed for operations against Berlin.  All aircraft took off and 18 aircraft attacked the target.  Weather was cloudy en route – target area was only clear gap.  Early aircraft could see red TIs in good cluster and some fires already taking hold.  The attack is considered well concentrated and fires were seen by crews homeward bound from 200 miles away.  Defences were moderate and quickly died away and then many searchlights were operating in conjunction with fighters.  Two aircraft returned early, one with oxygen supply u/s and another due to rear gunner’s oxygen supply failing, rendering him unconscious.  After jettisoning bombs, a TI exploded, causing fire in bomb bay which was eventually put out and the aircraft landed safely.  Sgt Nordhoff, the rear gunner of F/O Riches crew, was killed by cannon fire from an enemy fighter when over the target.  Rear turret and hydraulic system were rendered u/s through damage caused by the fighter.  All aircraft returned safely to base. Sgt Nordhoff’s body is resting at Oakington and will be conveyed by rail to Liverpool for private funeral. 

3/4 September 1943 - Berlin

JA923H  F/L K.Brown, F/Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/O L.S.Webb, F/Sgt J.Curry, F/Sgt J.T.Sullivan, W/O W.T.Saunders.  Up 1959  Down 0427.  4TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Primary target Berlin attacked.  18,000’.  Clear sky, vis good.  Bombed cascading red TI markers – not actually in bomb sight.  No fires when aircraft went in – too early but big explosion seen at 2215.
EE105E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, F/Sgt F.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.Billows.  Up 1955 Down 0421.  4 TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Berlin attacked.  17,500’.  No cloud, no moon, vis good.  Bombed on red TI marker.  One large fire seen in northern part of town, several smaller scattered ones over target area.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/O H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, W/O E.Wheeler, F/O J.E.Blair, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2220  Down 0351.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 1 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Primary objective bombed.  19,000’.  Clear sky, visibility.  Bombed on concentration of red and green TI markers.  Saw own bombs burst in built up area.  Too early on target to see results but some fires starting up.
ED839C  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, W/O D.W.Burt, F/Sgt H.Bryson, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O A.J.Harris.  Up 2013  Down 0422.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Berlin attacked.  17,000’. A little broken cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed centre of cluster of red and green TIs.  One large explosion seen at 2320 hours.  A good mixture of TIs and fires observed.
ED938J  F/L J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, P/O A.Spencer, P/O E.J.Suswain, Sgt J.Underwood, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, W/O W.Hill.  Up 2015   Down 0334.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Primary target bombed.  20,000’.  Vis good.  No cloud, no moon.  Built up area identified visually.  Bombed concentration of red TI markers – in bomb sight.  Fires fast gaining hold – glow could be seen as aircraft approached Sweden.
ED869P  F/L R.A.Fletcher, F/Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, F/Sgt J.Beesley, W/O W.H.Layne, F/Sgt V.White, F/Sgt H.R.Page.  Up 2019  Down 0343.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Berlin attacked.  No moon, no cloud, slight haze.  19,000’.  Bombed on red TI marker over built up area – in bomb sight.  While over target fires just starting up – glow seen on approaching Sweden.
ED814D  W/O L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Chnistie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2022  Down 0429.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Target Berlin bombed.  18,000’.  No cloud, no moon, vis moderate.  Bombs released on concentration of cascading red TI markers.  Big explosion at 2333 hours.  Well concentrated fires in marked area.
ED953W  F/L B.H.Berridge, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, W/O L.Bremner, W/O W.Parker, W/O A.R.Flowerday, F/O L.J.Williams, W/O G.Pearce.  Up 2020  Down 0343.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Berlin.  No moon, no cloud, vis good, 16,000’.  Concentration of red and green TI markers in bomb sight at time of releasing bombs.  Big explosion seen at 2323 hours.  Good fires starting up.
JA936Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, F/L A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.R.Burke.  Up 2030  Down 0425.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  No cloud, visibility hazy, 18,000’.  Target identified by red TIs and river.  Bombed red TIs – in bomb sight.  Large explosions seen in target area.  Fires beginning well.
EE176O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.E.Melbourne, J.T.Bundel, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, L.A.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Up 2026  Down 0436.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Target Berlin bombed.  No cloud, thin haze, 18,500’.  Bombed one red TI marker – in bomb sight.  Many fires just beginning.  Good results imminent well among markers.
JD857G  P/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, F.C.Nordhoff.  Up 2032  Down 0410.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Primary target attacked.  16,500’.  Nil cloud, vis poor.  Bombed on estimated centre of target area as judged by glow of fires.  No markers seen.  Bomb bursts and glow of many fires seen.
JA966S  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, Sgts W.S.Bamlett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgt F.White, F/Sgt J.Woods, Sgt O.Press.  Up 2035  Down 0019.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Mission abandoned – rear gunner unconscious due to oxygen failure.
ED870T  P/O G.D.Nicholl, Sgts P.Cassidy, A.E.Gadsby, P/O R.Baht, Sgts H.J.Lewis, H.T.Finch, J.Brown.  Up 2007  Down 0359.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Target Berlin attacked.  16,000’.  Clear sky, vis good.  Red TI markers in sight at time of bombing.  Own results not seen.  Large explosion observed among markers.  Many good fires – glow visible 200 miles away.
ED875R  2nd Lt J.E.Russell, Sgt H.J.Lazenby, 2nd Lt R.Wright, F/Sgt L.W.Golden, Sgts J.P.Dow, B.W.Bark, F/Sgt R.H.Marston.  Up 2034  Down 0441.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Berlin bombed.  Clear sky, some haze.  20,000’.  Target identified by red TIs and bend in river.  Bombed cluster of red TIs – in bomb sight.  Fires and explosions seen among red markers.
JA711Y  F/O A.W.Cameron, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/O J.B.Griffith, Sgts J.C.Nicholl, N.Cohen, P/O W.Woods, Sgt M.Sharp.  Up 2055  Down 0400.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  18,000’.  No cloud, vis hazy.  No TIs seen until after bombing.  Bombed fires and incendiaries.  Own 4000 pounder seen to burst among fires.  Large and small fires observed.
ED107F  Sgts W.N.Roberts, J.D.Tinsdeal, S.J.Peck, P/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, H.B.Stedman, R.J.Chapman.  Up 2005  Down 0421.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Target Berlin bombed.  16,500’.  No cloud, vis good.  Bombed between two red TI markers not actually in bomb sight.  Own results not seen.  Several fires seen from run out north.
EE168B  S/L K.J.Foster (Capt), F/O C.T.Wilson (Pilot), Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O G.G.Watling, Sgts L.C.Jones, G.Harper, H.Pleydell.  Up 2003  Down 0357.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Primary target Berlin attacked.  18,000’.  No moon.  3/10ths cloud.  Bombed on centre of concentration of red and green TI markers not actually in bomb sight.  Good concentration of large fires going well.
EE179U  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgts W.C.Gadsby, J.J.Zunti, K.D.Newman.  Up 2011  Down 0433.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Target Berlin.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  17,000’.  Bombed concentration of red and green TIs in bomb sight.  Bombing seen to be in built up area.  Good fires beginning – one large and well concentrated.
JA708Z  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, P.W.Dries, P/O O.J.Bates.  Up 2009  Down 0413.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 1000lb.  Target Berlin attacked.  18,000’.  Little thin cloud.  Visibility fair.  Bombed on red TIs – own results not seen.  No fires seen – aircraft too early on target for results.
JA715Y  Sgts J.I.Miller, R.E.White, L.B.Evans, P.H.Hurst, J.E.Brett, T.K.Williams, F.C.Thomas.  Up 2024  Down 2225.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Mission abandoned.  Mid upper gunner’s electrical suit u/s and rendered unconscious.     

4.9.43 Standown from operations today.

5.9.43 19 aircraft detailed to attack Mannheim – 15 of which successfully attacked the primary target and 4 returned early due to various technical failures.  Weather – clear sky, visibility good, some haze.  Bombing was concentrated and well placed.  Fires seen to be taking hold and were visible for 100 miles on route home.  The raid is considered to be well placed and effective.  Defence, heavy flak moderate and some searchlight cones over town.  Many enemy aircraft seen and several aircraft seen to fall in flames.  All aircraft returned safely to base.

5/6 September 1943 - Mannheim

JA923H  F/L K.Brown, F/Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, P/O L.S.Webb, F/Sgt J.Curry, F/Sgt J.T.Sullivan, W/O W.T.Saunders.  Up 1934  Down 0129.  1 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Mannheim attacked.  17,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Target identified by H2S.  Built up area and river visually identified.  Bombed on cascading red TI marker.  Fires starting up and visible 40 miles away.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, Sgt W.G.Waller, F/L H.A.Htichcock, S/L R.A.McKinna (AB), F/O F.B.Burbridge (AB), W/O E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 1949  Down 0202.  3 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Primary objective Mannheim attacked.  No cloud, smoke haze.  Target identified visually and by H2S.  Bombed cascading TI, own results not seen.  Bomb bursts but fires had not started.
ED871W  F/L B.H.Berridge, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, W/O L.Bremner, W/O W.Parker, W/O A.R.Flowerday, F/O L.J.Williams, W/O G.Pearce.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Up 1950  Down 0152.  Target Mannheim bombed.  15,400’.  Clear sky, some ground haze.  Ground detail identified visually.  One green TI in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own results not seen.  Big red/yellow explosion seen at 2304 hours.  Fires starting and increasing.
JB174S  W/C E.F.Nind, P/O P.J.Roberts, P/O W.Wishart, P/O R.N.Nelson, F/Sgt G.F.Gower, F/O E.A.Adams, F/O L.G.Mussi.  Up 1955  Down 0208.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Mannheim attacked.  Clear sky, ground haze, 16,000’.  Built up area seen in light of flares and fires.  Bombed on cluster of green TI markers – bomb bursts and explosion seen at 2301.  Many well concentrated fires observed.
JB117K  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, P/O D.W.Burt, W/O H.Bryson, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O A.J.Harris.  Up 1958  Down 0159.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Target Mannheim attacke.  19,000’.  No moon, no cloud.  Visibility good.  Bombed on three yellow TI markers – in bomb sight.  Large explosion seen at 2304.  Very good fires observed around marked area.
ED869P  F/L R.A.Fletcher, F/Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, F/Sgt J.Beesley, W/O W.H.Layne, F/Sgt V.White, F/Sgt H.R.Page.  Up 2003  Down 2228.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Mission abandoned – port outer engine u/s.
JB119L  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgt R.C.Pike (not actually shown in ORB),F/Sgt J.C.McLeish, Sgts A.M.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  Up 1959  Down 0220.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Mannheim bombed.  18,000’.  No cloud, slight ground haze.  Red, yellow and green markers seen.  Aircraft caught by master searchlight just before bombing.  Bombed estimated cluster of TIs.  Three explosions seen.  Fires well concentrated.
JA963Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, F/L A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.R.Burke.  Up 2002  Down 0214.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  18,000’.  No cloud, slight haze.  Target identified by TI concentration and built up area (visually).  Bomb bursts and good fires observed.  One large arrange explosion seen and glow visible 100 miles away.
ED868A  W/O L.Stevenson, Sgts J.Brett, R.G.Christie, J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2006  Down 0210.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Target Mannheim bombed.  Very thick cloud.  Visbility moderate.  River clearly seen.  20,000’.  Bombed on cluster of green TI markers – in bomb sight.  Many other bursts seen.  Some very good fires seen in marked area.
JA960E  F/L D.Mackenzie, Sgts J.D.Brett, R.Marshall, W.Stevens, A.Hunter, W.Lang, K.Kirby.  Up 2000  Down 2301.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Mission abandoned – r/t depreciated elevation u/s.
EE176O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.E.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, L.A.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Up 2005  Down 0222.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Target Mannheim attacked.  17,300’  No cloud, hazy.  Centre of concentration of green TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Black smoke observed east of marked area.
EE179V  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, E.O.Charlton, F.Dawkins, F/Sgt E.Ball(?), F/Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 2009  Down 0225.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  18,500’.  Smoke over target.  No cloud.  Bomb between two green TI markers – not actually in bomb sight.  Two big orange explosions at 2324 and 2326 hours.
JA846M  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgts W.C.Gadsby, M.Sharp, K.D.Newman.  Up 1938  Down 0155.  1 x 4000lb, 9 x 500lb.  Mannheim bombed.  18,500’.  No cloud, vis hazy.  River seen.  Bombed cascading Red TI marker -  not actually in bomb sight.  Bombs not seen to explode.  One very big explosion seen – fires just starting.
JA715X  Sgts J.A.Penny, R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, P/O C.Bates, Sgt P.W.Dries.  Up 2010  down 2220.  1 x 4000lb, 9 x 500lb.  Mannheim attacked.  Starboard outer engine caught fire.
ED839C  Sgts W.N.Roberts, J.D.Tinsdeal, S.J.Peek, P/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, H.B.Stedman, R.J.Chapman.  Up 1948  Down 0216.  1 x 4000lb, 9 x 500lb.  Primary target Mannheim bombed.  15,000’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Bend in river visually seen.  Bombed centre of cluster of red TIs – bombs fell north west of railway marshalling yards.  Large area covered by fires and developing well.
ED168D  S/L K.J.Foster (Capt), P/O C.T.Wilson (Pilot), Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O E.G.Watling, Sgts L.C.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1943  Down 0144.  1 x 4000lb, 9 x 500lb.  Mannheim attacked.  19,000’.  No cloud, vis good.  Long bend in river seen.  One yellow TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Many bursts but not own seen.
JA938J  Sgts J.A.Miller, R.E.White, D.V.Evans, P.H.Hurst, E.L.Brown, T.E.Williams, F.C.Thomas.  Up 1941  Down 2241.  1 x 4000lb, 9 x 500lb.  Mission abandoned – r/t elevation and depression u/s.
JA711Y  2nd Lt J.E.Russell, Sgt H.J.Lazenby, 2nd Lt R.Wright, Sgts L.W.Golden, J.R.Dow, H.Bark, F/Sgt R.H.Marston.  Up 1944  Down 0229.  1 x 4000lb, 9 x 500lb.  Mannheim attacked.  No cloud, visibility good.  16,500’.  River, bridges and built up area identified visually.  Bombed built up area with red TIs in bomb sight.  Fires starting up as aircraft left target.
JA708L  P/O G.D.Nicholl, Sgts P.Cassidy, A.C.Gadsby, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgts E.J.Lewis, J.Brown, H.G.Finch.  Up 1951  Down 0205.  1 x 4000lb, 9 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  No cloud, slight ground haze.  Target area visually seen.  Green TI in bomb sight when we bombed.  Fires beginning well.  Big bright red fire on west bank of river visible 100 miles away.    

6.9.43      17 aircraft detailed for operations against Munich.  2 aircraft were withdrawn due to rear gunner being sick and engine trouble in the other aircraft.  One aircraft returned early, the navigator being sick – oxygen supply u/s.  The remaining 14 aircraft attacked Munich but owing to 9/10ths medium cloud, tops 12-14,000’ – vis moderate, the results of bombing were generally unobserved.  Reflection below cloud was seen of some HE bursts and glow of scattered fires.  Moderate H/F inaccurate and many searchlights illuminating cloud.  Fighters were very active.  F/Lt Berridge’s aircraft was damaged by enemy flak.  Enemy aircraft made paths of three lines of seven flares each at regular spaces denoting route taken by bombers.  One aircraft landed at Upper Heyford, the remainder returned safely to base.

6/7 September 1943 - Munich

JA846M  F/L K.Brown, F/Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/O L.S.Webb, F/Sgt J.Curry, F/Sgt J.T.Sullivan, W/O W.T.Saunders.  Up 1947  Down 0315.  16 flares, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Primary objective Munich attacked.  No moon.  Target located by H2S.  Bombed on built up area – that and river seen visually.  Fires just starting up and glow visible 40 miles away.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/L H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, W/O E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 2006  Down 0323.  4 flares, 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Target Munich attacked.  17,500’.  9/10ths cloud.  Bombed on red TIs – bombs believed to have fallen near aiming point.  River and bridge seen on leaving target.  Glow from fires reflected through cloud.
JB117K  S/L E.E.Rodley, Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, W/O D.W.Burt, F/Sgt H.Bryson, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O A.J.Harris.  Up 2007  Down 0327.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Munich attacked.  19,000’.  6/10ths cloud.  Bombed on cluster of red TI markers seen to cascade through cloud.  Some scattered fires seen later.  Raid did not appear to be concentrated.
ED871?  F/L B.H.Berridge, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/O G.W.Borthwick, W/O W.Parker, W/O A.Flowerday, F/O T.Williams, W/O G.Pearce.  Up 2009  Down 0410.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Target Munich attacked. 14,000’.  5/10ths cloud.  One red TI in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Reflection of bomb bursts seen through cloud.  Fair concentration of small fires in marked area.
JB174S  W/C E.F.Nind, P/O P.J.Roberts, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.M.Nelson, F/Sgt G.F.Gower, F/O E.A.Adams, F/L L.G.Mussi.  Up 2011  Down 0443.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Primary target Munich attacked.  9/10ths cloud.  14,000’.  Bombed on two red TI markers cascading into cloud.  Only some scattered fires observed.
JA963Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.R.Burke.  Ip 2015  Down 0332.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  14,000’.  6/10ths cloud.  Concentration of red and green TIs bombed – in bomb sight.  Many searchlights active below cloud.  Nothing seen owing to cloud.
ED869P  F/L R.A.Fletcher, F/Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, F/Sgt J.Beesley, W/O W.H.Layne, F/Sgt V.White, F/Sgt H.R.Page.  Up 2017  Down 0335.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb,  2 x 1000lb.  Munich attacked.  18,000’.  8/10ths cloud.  Bombed reflection of red and green TI markers.  Cloud obscured all details.
JD119L  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, P/O B.J.Starie, Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.C.McLeish, Sgts A.Barrowman, A.E.Roberts.  Up 2019  Down 0354.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Target Munich bombed.  18,000’.  8/10ths cloud.  Light from searchlights and fires were only visible direct indication of target.  Bombed red and yellow TIs cascading through cloud.  Own TIs brought back.  Glow of scattered fires seen.
JA960E  F/L D.Mackenzie, F/Sgt J.T.Pratt, Sgts R.Marshall, W.Stevens, A.Hunter, W.A.Lang, K.Kirby.  Up 2013  Down 0427.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Primary target bombed.  6/10ths cloud.  19,000’.  Bombed one red TI marker – in bomb sight.  Own TIs brought back.  Fires appeared to be starting up.
ED868A  W/O L.Stevenson, Sgt J.Brett, F/Sgt R.G.Christie, Sgts J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 2020  Down 0345.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Target Munich attacked.  6/10ths cloud.  19,000’.  Bombed red and green TIs in built up area – in bomb sight.  Glow of fires seen burning under cloud.
EE179U  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, E.O.Charlton, F/Sgt F.Dawkins, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 1950  Down 0330.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Primary objective Munich attacked.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Much searchlight activity under cloud.  Bombed on one red TI marker – in bomb sight.  No results observed owing to cloud.
JA938J  F/O A.W.Cameron, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/O J.B.Griffith, F/O W.A.Colson, Sgt N.Cohen, P/O W.Woods, Sgt M.Sharp.  Up 1955  Down 2354.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Target Munich abandoned.  Returned early from Rheims owing to oxygen failure.  Bombs jettisoned and seen to explode.
EE176O  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgts W.C.Gadsby, L.A.Drummond, K.D.Newman.  Up 2000  Down 0343.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Munich bombed.  18,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  One red TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Large explosion seen after bombing.  One or two scattered fires seen - cloud obscured detail.      
ED870T  2nd Lt J.E.Russell, Sgt H.J.Lazenby, 2nd Lt R.Wright, F/Sgt L.W.Golden, J.P.Dow, E.W.Bark, F/Sgt R.H.Marston.  Up 2001  Down 0440.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Target Munich attacked.  18,000’.  6/10ths cloud.  Red and yellow TIs in bomb sight when bombs released.  Aircraft early on target, thick cloud – nothing seen to report.

JA708Z  P/O G.D.Nicholl, Sgts P.Cassidy, A.E.Gadsby, P/O R.E.Baht, Sgts H.J.Lewis, J.Brown, H.T.Finch.  Up 2004  Down 0357.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Primary target Munich.  9/10ths cloud.  19,000’.  Bombed centre of cluster of red TIs – in bomb sight.  Bomb bursts seen under cloud.  Smoke pall rising.  Many fires seen over wide area.

7.9.43 Standown from operations.  Some training in afternoon.  Weather fine.

8.9.43 18 aircraft detailed for ops which were later cancelled owing to adverse weather report en route.

9.9.43 17 aircraft detailed for operations.  Cancelled just before take off.  F/Sgt Penny and crew crashed when landing from a test flight.  One of the tyres burst causing the undercarriage to collapse.  Two of the crew were slightly injured.

10.9.43 No flying.  Weather unfit.  Organised games for aircrew in the afternoon.

11.9.43 weather still unfit.

12.9.43 No operations.  Some tests and BAT training.

13.9.43 Some training otherwise weather unfit.  Standown from operations.

14.9.43 Standown from ops.  Training programme for flights covering “Y” training, SBA, gunnery and bombing.  All duties carried out.

15.9.43    Training programme cancelled for today owing to 16 aircraft being detailed for operations tonight.  16 aircraft took off to raid the rubber works at Montlucon, France.  Visibility was good, quite a large amount of cloud over target.  Bombing rather scattered, bursts seen between oil tanks and gasometers.  Factory chimneys were identified and fires were soon starting and increasing in volume during first 10 minutes and later a major fire giving out flame and dense smoke.  The raid was considered very successful from reports.  Defences less than negligible.  All aircraft returned to base.

15/16 September 1943 – Montlucon

JA923H  F/L K.Brown, F/Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/O L.S.Webb (AB1), F/Sgt K.A.Jolley (AB2), F/Sgt J.Curry, F/Sgt J.T.Sullivan, W/O W.T.Saunders.  Up 2054  Down 0155.  1 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  5,000’.  Moonlight.  10/10ths cloud above.  Factory identified visually.  Own TIs brought back.  Own bombs seen seen to hit factory.  Bombing well concentrated on target at first, scattered later.
JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, F/Sgt F.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.Billows.  Up 2051  Down 0228.  1 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Target Monlucon attacked.  12,000’.  9/10ths cloud.  Bombed by H2S.  Marking TIs were scattered around target area – reflection of bomb bursts seen through cloud.  Thick black smoke rising to 12,000’.
JA846M  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, F/O J.B.Nicolls (2nd Pilot), Sgt F.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Up 2101  Down 0215.  3 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Montlucon bombed.  Moonlight.  5/10ths cloud.  Bombed between two red and two green TI markers – in bomb sight.  No results of own bombing seen.  Many bursts and fires seen with yellow flame and much black smoke.  Target well alight.
JB117K  S/L E.E.Rodley, F/L J.W.Pelletier (2nd Pilot), F/Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, P/O D.W.Burt, F/Sgt H.Bryson, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O A.J.Harris.  Up 2059  Down 0210.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 3 x 5oolb.  Target Montlucon attacked.  5,300’.  Small patches of cloud over target.   Bright moonlight.  Works and river identified visually.  Two green TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Three large fires seen in target area.
JA711Y  F/L B.H.Berridge, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, W/O L.Bremner, P/O R.M.Nelson, W/O A.R.Flowerday, Sgt W.J.Whitbread (blvd should be Whitehead), W/O G.Pearce.  Up 2102  Down 0200.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Primary target attacked.  5,000’.  Moon light.  10/10ths cloud above.  Target identified visually and burning TIs.  Bombed on yellow and green TIs – in bomb sight.  Burning fires observed.  Black smoke column.
JA963Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.R.Burke.  Up 2105  Down 0204.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Montlucon.  Moon light.  5/10ths cloud.  4,500’.  Bombed on stick of green TIs cascading – own bombs seen to burst across TI greens.  Whole target appeared to be one large fire emitting thick black smoke.
JB119F  F/L D.Mackenzie, F/Sgt J.T.Pratt, Sgts R.Marshall, W.Stevens, A.Hunter, F/O L.J.Williams, Sgt K.Kirby.  Up 2110  Down 0207.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 100lb, 3 x 500lb.  Primary objective Montlucon attacked.  7,000’.  9/10ths cloud.  Moonlight.  Ground detail identified visually.  Bombed on red and green TIs cascading into cloud – red in bomb sight.  Fires were taking hold with smoke up to 8,000’.
EE179U  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, Sgts W.S.Bamlett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgt F.White, F/O E.A.Adams, F/L L.G.Mussi.  Up 2142  Down 0222.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Target Montlucon attacked.  6,000’.  Moon obscured by cloud.  Bombed on yellow TI – in bomb sight.  Large orange explosion seen after bombing.  Column of black smoke up to 8,000’.
EE176O  2nd Lt J.E.Russell, Sgt H.J.Lazenby, 2nd Lt R.Wright, F/Sgt L.W.Golden, Sgts J.P.Dow, E.W.Bark, F/Sgt R.H.Marston.  Up 2114  Down 0220.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Montlucon bombed.  5,000’.  Moon light.  6/10ths broken cloud.  Target identified by great column of black smoke and visually.  Bombed on red TI – in bomb sight.
JB174S  P/O J.D.Nicoll, Sgts P.Cassidy, A.E.Gadsby, P/O R.E.Baht, Sgts E.J.Lewis, J.Brown, H.T.Finch.  Up 2118  Down 0238.  11 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Primary target Montlucon.  5,ooo’.  Bright moon light, 8/10ths cloud.  Visually identified river.  Bombs released on green TI markers.  Scattered fires observed with big column of black smoke.
JB221W  F/O A.W.Cameron, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/O J.B.Griffith, Sgts J.? Nichol, N.Cohen, F/O W.Woods, Sgt M.Sharpe.  Up 2116  Down 0235.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Target Montlucon attacked.  9,000’.  Moonlight.  6/10ths cloud.  Bombed on green TI – own bombs seen to explode in factory area.  Big fires seen in marked area with great column of black smoke rising to 14,000’.
JA908N  G/C N.H.Fresson, P/O P.J.Roberts, S/L K.J.Foster, F/O W.A.Colson, F/Sgt C.T.Ambrose, F/Sgt A.J.A.Croll, S/L R.A.McKinna.  Up 2108  Down 0150.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 100lb, 5 x 500lb.  Primary target Montlucon attacked.  4,800’.  10/10ths cloud above.  Target identified visually in light of flares.  Green and yellow TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own bombs seen to burst on target between oil tank and gasometer some 200 yards north of factory chimneys.  Other bursts in target area observed.
ED937J  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, P.W.Dries, W.D.Ogilvie.  Up 2042  Down 0158.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Target Montlucon attacked.  4,600’.  10/10ths cloud.  Target identified visually and by flares.  TI green in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own bursts not seen but many others observed.  Small fires just starting up.
ED875R  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgts W.C.Gadsby, L.A.Drummond, K.D.Newman.  Up 2045  Down 0218.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb,  5 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  Moonlight.  5,000’.  10/10ths cloud above.  Bombed on concentration of green and red TIs – greens in bomb sight.  Own results not seen.  Scattered fires and black smoke observed.
EE107L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.S.Borthwick, P/O E.G.Watling, Sgts L.C.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 2056  Down 0225.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Montlucon bombed.  6,500’.  9/10ths cloud above.  Target identified visually.  Bombed on one red TI – in bomb sight.  Good fires burning with smoke up to 10,000’.
EE868A  P/O E.F.McEgan, Sgt F.A.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/O J.V.Tyler, F/L A.Chambers, Sgts W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 2048  Down 0243.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Primary Montlucon attacked.  10,500’.  6/10ths cloud.  Bombed on red and green TIs – in bomb sight.  Own bombs not seen to burst.  Deep orange fires burning with much black smoke.  TIs very scattered. 

16.9.43 15 aircraft detailed for ops later being reduced to 4 non-markers.  Training flights during the afternoon.  The four aircraft attacked the marshalling yards at Modane in the Alps.  The raid was carried out very successfully in good weather with no flak or searchlights reported.  All aircraft identified visually the TIs as being well placed and concentrated.  Bomb flashes lit up valley and target details could be identified.  All aircraft returned safely to base.

16/17 September 1943 - Modane

EE938J  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, P.W.Dries, W.D.Ogilvie.  Up 2007  Down 0312.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Primary target Modane attacked.  Bright moonlight.  No cloud, vis good.  13,000’.  Marshalling yards identified visually.  Bombed on green TIs – in bomb sight.  Many bomb bursts seen.  Mountains obscured ground detail after run over target
ED875R  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgts W.C.Gadsby, L.A.Drummond, K.D.Newman.  Up 2011  Down 0315.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Modane bombed.  Moonlight.  Clear sky, vis good.  14,000’.  Target identified visually and red markers – bombs released on red TIs.  Many bomb bursts seen.  One fire seen near TIs.  Bursts well concentrated.
EE107L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O E.G.Watling, Sgts L.C.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 2001  Down 0315.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Target Modane attacked.  Moonlight, clear sky, vis good.  14,000’.  Target identified by red markers and marshalling yards visually.  Red TIs in bomb sight when bombs released.  Many bursts and one large fire seen.
ED868A  P/O E.F.McEgan, Sgt F.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, P/O J.V.Tyler, F/L A.Chambers, Sgts W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 2013  Down 0306.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Primary objective Modane attacked.  Moonlight, clear sky, visibility good.  15,000’.  Marshalling yards and bridge over river seen visually in light of markers.  Bombed red and green TIs – in bomb sight.  Other bomb bursts seen.

17.9.43 Air firing, HL Bombing and “Y” training carried out.  Bullseye exercise dropping flares was carried out, at night.

18.9.43 HL Bombing, fighter affiliation and “Y” cross country training carried out in the morning.  At 1415 hours all aircrews were paraded on the airfield in front of the watch office and inspected by Group Capt N.H.Fresson.  2nd Lieut J.E.Russell USAAF and 2nd Lieut R.Wright USAAF, late of 57 squadron, were presented with the DFC medals by the AOC 8 Group, Air Commodore D.C.T.Bennett CBE DSO.

19.9.43 HL Bombing, “Y” cross countries and fighter affiliation carried out.

20.9.43 No operations – training and lecture in the afternoon.

21.9.43 Various training carried out. 

22.9.43       “Y” cross countries, SBA, fighter affiliation and bombing training.  20 aircraft detailed to attack a target at Hanover and three aircraft to attack Oldenburg.  Three aircraft failed to attack Hanover, F/O Moodie dropping bombs on Emden, having oxygen failure.  G/C Fresson jettisoned bombs owing to electrical failure, bombs were forced off by hand; and F/S Roberts jettisoned, port inner being u/s also bomb sight u/s.  The attacks were made in good visibility.  Very little flak reported but many enemy fighters about.  Attacks reported scattered but all in built up area.  Numerous fires developing.  All aircraft and crews returned safely to base.  

22/23 September 1943 - Hanover

JA923H  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, F/O J.H.Nicholls (2nd Pilot), Sgt G.E.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Up 1849  Down 0002.  16 flares white, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary target bombed.  19,000’.  No moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Fires burning well and raid appeared to be well concentrated.  120 bundles of windows dropped at 20,000’.  Bombed on H2S and visually.
JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, F/S gt F.T.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Up 1855  Down 2305.  8 flares white, 1 x TI red, 1 x 4000lb, 104 x 30lb incs.  Oldenburg bombed from 20,000’.  TIs cascaded and flares effective.  Red TIs all dropped on built up area.  No moon, no cloud but slight haze.  Too early on target to give any information on results.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/L H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, W/O E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 1840  Down 2355.  1 x TI green, 4 flares white, 1 x 1000lb, 216 incs.  Hanover attacked from 14,500’.  Target identified from fires only.  No cloud but slight haze.  Green TI concentration quite good.  Large area of fires seen creeping up from eastern side of target visible 15 minutes after leaving target – 70 miles away.
JB221W  F/L B.H.Berridge, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, W/O S.C.Bremner, P/O E.Osler (AB), F/L R.H.Watts (AB), W/O A.E.Flowerday, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, W/O G.Pearce.  Up 1850  Down 2358.  2LBTI Green, 2 x TI green, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  No moon, no cloud over primary target Hanover.  Bombs released from 14,300’.  4000lb bomb seen to burst near to yellow TI.  TIs well concentrated.
JA963Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.R.Burke.  Up 1851  Down 2349.  2LB, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover primary target identified by red TI and visually.  Built up area brilliantly lit up by flares and detail of town seen.  Markers seemed well placed.
JB119F  F/L D.Mackenzie, S/L Lawton (2nd Pilot), F/Sgt J.T Pratt, Sgts R.F.Marshall, J.G.Stevens, A.Hunter, M.Lang, K.Kirby.  Up 1853  Down 0010.  2LBTI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Bombs released on Hanover.  18,000’.  Visibility good.  Many bomb bursts seen in area of TI concentration which seemed very good.  Lancaster passed within 50 feet of aircraft.  Fires seen burning north wets and south east of aiming point.
JA708P  F/L R.A.Fletcher, F/Sgt J.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Dunn, F/Sgt J.F.Beesley, W/O W.H.Layne, F/Sgt V.White, F/Sgt H.R.Page.  Up 1856  down 2351.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover bombed from 19,500’.  Green TIs were not seen to cascade owing to searchlights and enemy action.  God concentration of fires seen on aiming point.  Lancaster seen over target with navigation light on.
ED868A  W/O L.Stevenson, Sgt J.Brett, F/Sgt R.G.Christie, Sgts J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 1857  Down 2345.  2LB, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover bombed and identified by bend in river and canal.  TI red seen to drop in Lake Steinelder.  3 Lancasters seen over target.  144 bundles of window dropped from 20,000’.
JB191B or D  F/O S.R.Dawson, sgt T.R.Shaw, F/O B.J.Starie, Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.C.McLeish, F/Sgt A.Barrowman, Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1901  Down 0025.  2LB, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover attacked.  20,000’.  Target lit up by flares, incendiaries and searchlights.  Fires burning well on target and visible 100 miles away.  Evasive action necessary to avoid searchlights.
JB220O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, F.A.Hughes, L.A.Drummond.  Up 1900  Down 2310.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary target not attacked due to oxygen failure.
EE179T  P/O D.A.Montgomery, Sgt G.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1902  Down 0016.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective Hanover attacked.  19,000’.  No cloud but slight ground haze.  Target lit up by flares.  Bombed on centre of concentration of red TI markers – in bomb sight.  Big fires increased as aircraft left target.
ED953X  2nd Lt J.E.Russell, Sgt H.J.Lazenby, 2nd Lt R.Wright, F/Sgt L.W.Golden, Sgts J.P.Dow, E.W.Bark, R.H.Marston.  Up 1903  Down 0006.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover bombed. No cloud, no moon, visibility good.  17,500’.  Target identified by green TI markers which we bombed.  Six large fires burning – visible 150 miles away on return.
JB189G  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, P/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1906 Down 0043.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  No cloud, no moon, visibility good.  19,200’.  Built up area identified visually in light of flares.  Bombed on cascading green TI markers – in bomb sight.  Bombs seen  to burst among fires.
JA190V  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, E.O.Charlton, F.Dawkins, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 1912  Down 0035.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover attacked.  19,600’.  Clear sky, much smoke.  Bombed on cascading green TI marker – in bomb sight.  Own results not seen.  Extensive fires seen in long line but no concentration.
JB232U  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, Sgts W.S.Bamlett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, J.J.Zunti, F/O G.Polson.  Up 1910  Down 0035.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary target Hanover bombed.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, slight haze.  Red TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own results not seen.  Several fires  burning with large column of smoke.
JB117C  P/O E.F.McEgan, Sgt F.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/O J.V.Tyler, Sgts A.K.Burrell, W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 1913  Down 0047.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover bombed.  19,500’.  Target well lit up by flares.  Junction of canal river seen visually.  Bombed on green TI marker – in bomb sight.  Fires visible from 70 miles away.
JB176K  S/L S.P.Daniels, F/Sgt J.K.Bell, S/L R.Ingalls, S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe. F/O C.E.Chetham, P/O R.J.Weller, F/L M.Bryan-Smith.  Up 1905  Down 0040.  6 x 2000lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  18,500’.  Clear sky, visibility good.  Target identified visually under red and green TI markers.  Bombed on cluster of green TI markers.  Bomb bursts seen among TIs.
ED814D  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, Sgts C.Baumber, S.J.Peck, P/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, H.B.Stedman, R.J.Chapman.  Up 1916  Down 2116.  6 x 2000lb.  Mission abandoned – port inner engine u/s.
EE107L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O E.G.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1920  down 0012.  3 x 2000lb.  Primary objective Hanover attacked.  19,000’.  Visibility.  Target well lit up by fires and flares.  Bombed centre of three green TI markers.  Carpet of fire was visible 100 miles away from target.
ED938J  P/O J.P.Billing, P/O R.C.Swetman, Sgt K.Moriarty, F/Sgt K.A.Jolley, Sgts J.M.Campbell, J.B.Findlay, R.B.Curtis.  Up 1846  down 0312.  1 x 4000lb, 132 x 30lb incs.  Hanover bombed.  19,000’.  No moon, no cloud.  Visibility.  Built up area visually identified in light of flares.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Other cookies seen to burst in built up area.
JA846M  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgt W.C.Gadsby, F/Sgt C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1915  Down 0030.  6 x 2000lb.  Target hanover attacked.  18,000’.  No cloud, slight hhaze.  One green TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Several large fires observed – glow seen from coast on way back.
JB218Z  G/C N.H.Fresson, F/Sgt A.Newell, S/L K.J.Foster, F/O W.A.Colson, Sgt C.T.Ambrose, S/L R.A.McKinna, F/Sgt A.J.Croll.  Up 1900 down 0007.  3 x 2000lb.  No attack made.  Steinluder lake clearly visible.  Red TI seen backed up by greens.  Built up area seen by light of flares.  Bursts seen among TIs.  Fires taking hold as aircraft left target.  Bombing circuit u/s.
JA711Y  P/O J.Roberts, F/Sgt S.R.Arter, Sgts R.Dudley, G.Young, H.J.Blower, W.A.Parsley, P.J.Marsh.  Up 1848  Down 2329.  1 x 4000lb, 132 x 30lb incs.  Primary target Hanover attacked.  20,000’.  Four red TIs seen to cascade.  Built up area and river seen.  3 red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.

23.9.43    F/O Wilson on NFT had trouble with undercarriage when coming in to land.  Aircraft was circled round the airfield for some while trying to lock the undercarriage.  Owing to operations taking place the aircraft was diverted to Newmarket where F/O Wilson carried out a successful landing without damage to aircraft.  Sixteen aircraft detailed to attack Mannheim and five aircraft on Darmstadt.  Both targets were successfully bombed – flak was negligible but many searchlights were operating with fighters.  Visibility was good.  Two crews are missing from the attack on Mannheim.  F/L Fletcher and crew and W/O Stevenson and crew.  S/L Foster and the Gunnery Leader S/L McKinna were with F/L Fletcher.  No news has been received since leaving base.  All other crews returned safely.

23/24 September 1943 – Mannheim

JA923H  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.E.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Up 1922  Down 0110.  4 x 4 flares, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target Mannheim attacked.  18,500’.  Clear sky, vis good.  First aircraft on target.  Target located by precision device.  No results of bombing seen owing to evasive action being taken.  Raid shaping well.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/L H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, W/O E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 1923  Down 0112.  4 flares, 3 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  11,500’.  Dark, no cloud, visibility good.  Town detail aeen in light of flares.  No TIs seen before bombing.  Centre of city in bomb sight at time of bombing.  No results seen owing to aircraft being coned for six minutes over target.
JA963Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.R.Burke.  Up 1934  Down 0052.  4 x TI, 1 x 4ooolb, 5 x 1000lb.  Primary target Mannheim attacked.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Target identified by junction of river, built up area and TIs.  One cascading green TI in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Too early on target for results.
JB117C  S/L E.E Rodley, F/Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, P/O D.W.Burt, W/O H.Bryson, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O A.J.Harris.  Up 1929  Down 0104.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Mannheim bombed.  No moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Bombed in centre of concentration of yellow and red TIs – in bomb sight.  Dummies appeared to be dropping in the south.  One very large fire seen on leaving, also much smoke.
JB221W  F/L B.H.Berridge, F/Sgt V.A.Davis,  W/O S.C.Bremner, W/O W.Parker, W/O A.E.Flowerday, F/Sgt W,Hill, W/O G.Pearce.  Up 1932  Down 0043.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target Mannheim attacked.  No moon.  1/10th cloud.  14,500’.  Bombed centre of concentration of red TI markers.  Good fires burning on leaving target area.
JA708P  F/L R.A.Fletcher, F/Sgt J.Nelson, S/L K.J.Foster, F/Sgt J.F.Beesley, W/O W.H.Layne, S/L R.McKinna, F/Sgt H.R.Page.  Up 1913  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Aircraft and crew missing.
JB115F  F/L D.Mackenzie, F/Sgt J.T.Pratt, Sgts R.F.Marshall, I.G.Stevens, A.Hunter, M.Lamg, K.Kirby.  Up 1956  Down 0055.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target Mannheim attacked.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, some ground haze.  Bombed on concentration of red and yellow TI markers – in bomb sight.  Some fires burning but nothing especially large.
ED868A  W/O L.Stevenson, Sgt J.Brett, F/Sgt R.G.Christie, Sgts J.D.Bradford, H.G.Mitchell, J.Mallaber, T.G.Pugh.  Up 1939.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.   Aircraft and crew missing.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, Sgt G.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1948  Down 0134.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Primary Mannheim bombed.  17,000’.  Clear sky, vis fair.  Centre of concentration of green TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Apart from carpet of incendiaries nothing much in way of fires.
JB191B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, F/O B.J.Starie, Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.C.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1946  Down 0122.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Mannehim attacked.  20,000’.  No cloud, ground haze.  Target well covered with all colour TIs and flares.  Three TI green in bomb sight when we bombed.  Target appeared to be a mass of fire.  Appeared excellent effort.
JB189G  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, P/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1944  Down 0139.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  No cloud, vis good.  18,600’.  Target identified visually.  Bombed between two groups of cascading green TIs – in bomb sight.  Several red medium fires seen burning.
JB174S  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgt W.C.Gadsby, F/Sgt C.J. Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1954  Down 0143.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target Mannheim bombed.  17,500’.  No moon, visibility good.  Bombed on centre of cluster of green TIs – in bomb sight.  Very large explosion seen at 2240 hours followed immediately by another.   
ED938J  P/O J.P.Billing, P/O R.C.Swetman, Sgt K.E.Moriarty, F/Sgt K.A.Jolley, Sgts J.M.Campbell,  J.B.Findlay, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis.  Up 1923  Down 0124.  4 x 2000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Target Mannheim attacked.  17,000’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Target identified visually.  Bombed concentration of red and green TI markers.  One large yellow explosion seen at 2149 hours.  Several fires taking hold.
JA711Y  P/O F.J.Roberts, F/Sgt S.R.Arter, Sgts R.Dudley, G.Young, H.J.Blower, T.Parsley, B.A.Marsh.  Up 1927  Down 0118.  4 x 2000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Primary target Mannheim bombed.  18,500’.  Clear sky, visibility good.  Target identified visually by light of flares.  No TIs seen – bombed visually.  Rather scattered fires seemed to be taking hold.
JB176K  S/L S.P.Daniels, F/Sgt J.K.Bell, S/L R.B.Ingalls, S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, F/O C.L.Chetham, F/L M.Bryan-Smith, P/O R.J.Weller.  Up 1924  Down 0058.  Mannheim attacked.  4 x 2000lb, 6 x 500lb.  19,000’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Target identified visually by junction in river and built up area.  Bombed on two red TIs – in bomb sight.  Many bursts seen and a mass of fires developing.
ED814D  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, Sgts C.Baumber, S.J.Peck, P/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, H.B.Stedman, R.J.Chapman.  Up 1032  Down 0136.  4 x 2000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Target Mannheim.  17,000’.  Clear sky, vis good.  Target idebntified visually.  Bombs hung up for 4 seconds and TIs not in bomb sight.  Built up area still in sights.  Several good red fires burning – glow seen 100 miles away.
 

23/24 September 1943 - Darmstadt

JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, F/Sgt F.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.Billows.  Up 1913  Down 0100.  8 flares, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 104 incs.  Target Darmstadt attacked.  18,500’.  Clear sky, visibility good.  Target located by precision device.  Built up area identified in light of flares.  Bombed visually – red TIs seen after bombing.  Gigantic explosion seen on leaving target.
EE107L  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts F.B.Gray, C.A.Johnson, H.Worsdale, N.G.Cameron, G.Woolf, G.E.Smith.  Up 1915  Down 0129.  1 x 4000lb, 158 incs.  Darmstadt attacked.  No moon, no cloud.  Visibility moderate.  16,800’.  Aiming point identified visually by light of flares.  Bombed visually – good concentration covered aiming point – both TIs and fires.  A good effort.
JB232U  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, Sgts W.S.Bamlett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgt F.White, F/Sgt A.J.Croll, F/O G.Polson.  Up 1917  Down 0126.  1 x 4000lb, 158 incs.  Target Darmstadt attacked.  17,000’.  No cloud, visibility good.  Target identified visually.  Bombed on red TI marker – in bomb sight and large factory seen in line.  Direct hits seen on factory.  6 good fires taking hold.
JB190V  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.E.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, T.E.Stamp, L.A.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Up 1919  Down 0115.  1 x 4000lb, 158 incs.  Darmstadt bombed.  16,000’.  No moon, no cloud.  Some haze.  Target identified visually and by red TIs.  Bombed red TIs – own cookie seen to burst in marked area.  Fires burning red on leaving target.
EE179T  2nd Lt J.E.Russell, Sgt H.J.Lazenby, 2nd Lt R.Wright, F/Sgt L.W.Golden, Sgts J.P.Dow, E.W.Bark, F/Sgt R.H.Martson.  Up 1920  Down 0106.  1 x 4000lb, 158 incs.  Target Darmstadt attacked.  16,000’.  Clear sky, slight haze.  Target identified visually.  Centre of built up area and flares in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Large explosion seen at 2134 hours.   Fires taking good hold.

24.9.43 No flying today.  Operational standown.

25.9.43 “Y” cross countries, fighter affiliation and bombing training.  12 aircraft detailed for ops, after time of take off being altered, the operation was cancelled.

26.9.43 High level bombing and “Y” bombing runs carried out.  22 aircraft detailed for operations – cancelled during briefing, the weather report being bad.

27.9.43 14 aircraft detailed to attack Hanover and 4 aircraft (one of which was cancelled) on Brunswick.  These targets were successfully bombed.  Visibility was good.  Many fires were seen by crews on return over enemy coast.  There was one early return – P/O Dawson reporting faulty rear turret.  All aircraft and crews returned safely to base.

27/28 September 1943 – Hanover

JA846M  F/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.E.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, P/O A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt G.K.Smith, Sgts E.Hambling, P.A.Walder.  Up 1926  Down 0004.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  20,000’.  No moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Target located by H2S.  Aircraft was first to arrive on target.  Perfectly satisfied with identification of aiming point.  Markers and fires were well going on leaving.
JA940E  F/S A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, F/Sgt F.T.Williams, Sgts J.Sanasm, W.A.Lang, C.J.Billows.  Up 1928  Down 0018.  11 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  Slight haze otherwise dark.  Clear sky.  Railway junction in target area identified visually.  Bombed visually.  Aircraft among first on target and no results seen.  TIs got going as we left target.
JB176K  S/L S.P.Daniels, F/Sgt J.K.Bell,  S/L R.Ingalls, S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, F/O C.Chetham, P/O R.J.Weller, F/L M.Bryan-Smith.  Up 1932  Down 0020.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target hanover bombed.  20,000’.  No cloud but hazy.  Timed run from pin-point on Lake Steinhuder.  Target also identified visually.  Bombed centre of cluster of red TI markers.  Other bomb bursts seen.
JA965Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/S M.Hemming, P/O A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.R.Burke.  Up 1940  Down 0010.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover attacked.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud.  Visibility hazy.  Bombed centre of cascading red and green TI markers.  Fires were well concentrated and red glow could be seen from Zuider Zee.
JB221W  F/L B.H.Berridge, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, W/O L.Bremner, W/O W.Parker, W/O A.R.Flowerday, F/Sgt W.Hill, W/O G.Pearce.  Up 1938  Down 0011.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective Hanover attacked.  17,500’.  Clear sky – hazy.  Built up area identified visually bu light of flares.  3 red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Many bursts and fires seen among TIs.
JB117C  S/L E.E.Rodley, F/Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, P/O D.W.Burt, W/O H.Bryson, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O A.J.Harris.  Up 1936  Down 0007.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target hanover bombed.  18,500’.  No clud, no moon.  Visibility good.  Bombed on red and green TI markers – in bomb sight.  Fires could be seen beginning in built up area – glow seen later when crossing Holland.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, F/Sgt G.C.Granger, P/O E.J.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1941  Down 0035.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover.  19,500’.  No cloud, vis moderate.  Bombed centre of cluster of red TIs on ground.  Heavy explosion seen.  Good concentration of fires observed in marked area.
JB220O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.E.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, L.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Up 1945  Down 0025.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb. Primary target Hanover bombed.  Clear sky, hazy.  19,500’.  Cluster of green TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Many other bomb bursts seen.   Large and well concentrated fires observed.
JB238A  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt L.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.E.Newbegin, W/O W.Halsey, F/Sgt J.Woods, W/O P.O.Bone.  Up 1950  Down 0029.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover attacked.  19,500’. No moon, no cloud, visibility.  Centre of cluster of green TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Bombing seemed scattered.  Some very large fires observed with smoke pall developing.
EE197T  2nd Lt J.E.Russell, Sgt H.J.Lazenby, 2nd Lt R.Wright, F/Sgt L.W.Golden, Sgts J.P.Dow, E.W.Bark, R.H.Marston.  Up 1943  Down 0049.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  20,500’.  No moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Two green TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Large orange explosion seen at 2210 hours.  Some fires were burning.
JB232U  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, Sgts W.S.Bamlett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.a.Colson, Sgts F.White, F.R.Watson, F/O G.Polson.  Up 1948  Down 0046.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective Hanover bombed.  19,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Bombed on green TIs  - did time run from lake.  20 to 30 fires seen burning in target area.
JB174P  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgt W.C.Gadsby, F/Sgt C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1953  Down 0032.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover attacked.  19,200’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Bombed on centre of cluster of green TI markers.  Numerous fires seen burning among TIs with considerable smoke pall.
JB191L  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.R.Shaw, F/O B.J.Starie, Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.C.McLeish, F/Sgt A.Barrowman, Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1930  Down 2125.  6 x 2000lb.  Mission abandoned – r/t u/s.  Bombs jettisoned safe.
JA923H  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, P/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1934  Down 0022.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 2 x 500lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  19,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Target located by H2S and timed run as briefed.  Bombed visually but own results not seen.  On return glow of fires could be seen from Dutch coast.  

27/28 September 1943 – Brunswick

JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/L H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, W/O E.Wheeler, F/L J.E.Blair, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 1920  Down 0015.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Brunswick attacked.  18,500’.  Clear sky, visibility good.  Target located by precision device – built up area visually.  Bombed on red TIs.  Own results not seen.  Early on target – nothing in way of results seen.
EE117L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O G.G.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1918  Down 0038.  1 x 4000lb, 108 incs.  Target Brunswick bombed.  18,000’.  Clear sky, vis good.  Visually identified target – river and centre of town seen.  Bombed on red and green TIs – in sight.  Too early on target for results.
JB227J  P/O F.J.Roberts, F/Sgt S.R.Arter, Sgts R.Dudley, G.Young, H.J.Blower, B.A.Marsh, T.Parsley.  Up 1924  Down 0023.  1 x 4000lb, 1080 incs.  Brunswick attacked.  19,000’.  Clear sky , visibility good.  Built up area visually identified – cluster of red TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Fires were starting up as aircraft left target.

28.9.43 Training consisting of “Y” cross countries, bombing, fighter affiliation, air firing and blind approach was carried out. Operational standown.

30.9.43    “Y” training, bombing, fighter affiliation and beam approach training carried out.

1.10.43 13 aircraft detailed to attack target at Hagen.  Owing to 10/10ths cloud over the area this raid was hard to assess.  Defences were slight and most searchlights ineffective owing to cloud.  All aircraft and crews returned safely to base.  “Y” training, bombing and fighter affiliation were carried out in the earlier part of the day.

1/2 October 1943 - Hagen

JB299X  F/L B.H.Berridge, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, W/O S.C.Bremner, W/O A.Palmer, W/O A.E.Flowerday, F/S W.Lang?, W/O G.Pearce.  Up 1857  Down 2311.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target hagen attacked.  16,700’.  10/10ths cloud, no moon.  Arrived on target early and bombed on red TI.  Too early to report on development of raid.
ED814D  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt L.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.E.Newbegin, W/O W.A.Halsey, F/Sgt J.Woods, W/O P.O.Bone.  Up 1906  Down 2347  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hagen.  18,500’.  10/10ths cloud, no moon.  Bombed on reflection of green TI markers below cloud.  Cloud obscured target and results.
JB190V  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, E.O.Charlton, F/Sgt F.Dawkins, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 1859  Down 2349.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective bombed.  18,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Dark.  Green TIs seen to cascade into cloud.  Bombed between two red TI markers – in bomb sight.  Nothing seen in way of fires or bursts.  Large blue flash seen at 2103 hours.
JB220O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.E.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, L.A.Drummond, F.A.Hughes.  Up 1904  Down 2324.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary target Hagen attacked.  17,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on one green TI – in bomb sight.  No results seen.
JA963Q  P/O G.D.Nicholl, Sgts P.Cassidy, A.E.Gadsby, P/O R.E.Baht, Sgts E.J.Lewis, J.Brown, H.T.Finch.  Up 1907  Down 2353.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hagen attacked.  19,500’.  No moon, 10/10ths cloud.  Bombed between two green TI markers.  Own greens seen to cascade and ignite.  Big explosion seen at 2103.  Confused glow seen below cloud.
JB238A  P/O E.F.McEgan, Sgt F.A.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/O J.V.Tyler, Sgts J.J.Johnson, W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 1905  Down 0008. 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hagen attacked.  20,000.  Dark.  10/10ths cloud.  Green TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own TIs seen to cascade reflecting glow of fires in cloud.
JB227J  P/O J.P.Billing, P/O R.C.Swetman, F/Sgt J.E.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt L.Curtis, Sgt J.B.Findlay.  Up 1905  Up 2331.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hagen attacked.  18,000’.  Dark.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on one red TI marker – in bomb sight.  Own TIs seen to cascade and ignite.  Flash of big explosion seen at 2104 hours.  Fires seen from 80 miles away.
EE117L  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts F.B.Gray, G.A.Johnson, H.Worsdale, N.G.Cameron, G.Woolf, G.E.Smith.  Up 1909  Down 0010.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hagen bombed.  16,500’.  Dark, 10/10ths cloud.  Visibility good above cloud.  Bombed on two cascading green TI markers – in bomb sight.  Large blue flash seen at 2109 hours.  Glow of fires could be seen to be merging.
JA746M  P/O F.J.Roberts, F/Sgt S.R.Arter, Sgts R.Dudley, G.Young, H.J.Blower, T.Parsley, P.J.Marsh.  Up 1903  Down 2356.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  18,500’.  10/10ths cloud thinning.  Bombed between two green TIs.  Own TIs seen to cascade and ignite.  General vague coloured glow seen below cloud.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, Sgts W.J.Whitbread, S.J.Peak, P/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, H.B.Stedman, R.J.Chapman.  Up 1853 Down 2338.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target hagen.  Vis good apart from 10/10ths cloud.  19,000’.  One red TI in sight on bombing. No results observed.
JA908N  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.A.Smith, P/O R.Easson, F/Sgt K.A.Jolly, Sgt J.E.Gardner, Sgts A.Whitehead, W.D.Ogilvie.  Up 1856  Down 2340.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary target Hagen.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud, dark.  Bombed on red TI.  Bomb flashes seen below cloud.  Nothing else seen.
JB174P  P/O K.Painter, Sgts T.Deacon, R.C.Saunders, J.E.Bacon, T.Andrews, S.F.Hone, D.W.Angell.  Up 1900  Down 2355.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hagen bombed.  18,000’.  No moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on centre of glow of green TI cascading through cloud.  Glow below cloud could be seen for 50 miles.
JB218Z  G/C N.H.Fresson, F/Sgt A.J.Newell, S/L D.K.Allport, F/O W.A.Colson, F/Sgt C.T.Ambrose, Sgt A.J.Croll, F/L M.Bryan-Smith.  Up 1852  Down 0001.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hagen attacked.  16,000’,  Dark, 10/10ths thick cloud.  One red TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Large blue flash seen at 2103 lasting 3 seconds and lit up whole of sky.  Nothing further observed.  

2.10.43    21 aircraft were detailed to attack the target of Munich. Visibility was good and early reports states that the attack was well concentrated.  Generally the raid has left the crews with a feeling of satisfaction.  All aircraft returned safely.

2/3 October 1943 - Munich

JA846M  S/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.E.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, F/L A.E.Carlton, W/O G.K.Smith, F/Sgt E.Hambling, Sgt P.A.Walder.  Up 1852  Down 0159.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Munich attacked.  19,000’.  No moon, no cloud.  Slight haze.  Built up area visually observed.  Centre of yellow TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Good fires were burning among markers on leaving target.
JA923H  F/L K.Brown, F/Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/O L.S.Webb, F/Sgt J.Curry, F/Sgt J.T.Sullivan, W/O W.Saunders.  Up 1854  Down 0157.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Munich.  Clear sky, no moon, ground, haze.  18,500’.  Target located by “Y” aids.  Built up area identified visually.  No TIs seen before bombing.  Own TIs seen to ignite.  Large pall of smoke developing as aircraft left target.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/L H.A.Hitchcock, F/O F.P.Burbridge, W/O E.Wheeler, Sgt W.D.Ogilvie, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 1914  Down 0220.  4 x TI, 1 x $000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Primary objective Munich attacked.  18,500’.  No cloud.  Target located by H2S.  Built up area seen visually.  Bombs dropped blind.  One large explosion seen at 2238 in middle of TIs.  Fires were burning well after target was left.
JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, F/Sgt F.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.J.Billows.  Up 1853  Down 0218.  11 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Munich bombed.  14,800’.  Some haze, no moon, no cloud.  Marshalling yards east of town visually identified.  Red TI in bomb sight on bombing.  On leaving target good fires were observed and glow could be seen 100 miles away.
JD119F  F/L D.Mackenzie, F/Sgt J.T.Pratt, Sgts R.F.Marshall, I.G.Stevens, A.Hunter, M.Lang, K.Kirby.  Up 1858  Down 0226.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, haze.  Bombed on centre of cluster of red TIs.  Some good red fires were seen starting up covering a large area.  Early on target.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, F/Sgt G.C.Granger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1906  Down 0258.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Munich attacked.  Dark, no cloud.  18,000’.  Bombed centre of concentration of red TI markers.  Good fires appeared to be going well in marked and incendiaries as aircraft left target.
JB176K  S/L S.P.Daniels, F/Sgt J.K.Bell, S/L R.Ingalls, S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, F/O C.S.Chettham, Sgt H.B.Stedman, F/L M.Bryan-Smith.  Up 1901  Down 0310.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Primary target Munich bombed.  19,000’.  Dark, no cloud, much haze.  Time run from lake.  Target well lit up by flares – bombed on concentration of red and green TIs.  Fires were burning well and glow could be seen far from target.
JB299X  F/L J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, F/O R.Easson, W/O W.Parker, Sgt J.H.Underwood, F/Sgt W.Hill, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett.  Up 1904  Down 0249.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Munich bombed.  Dark, no cloud, ground haze.  18,000’.  One red TI in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Rather early on target to see results.  Six fires were seen later merging into one.
JB300D  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt L.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.E.Newbegin, W/O W.A.Halsey, F/Sgt J.Woods, W/O P.O.Bone.  Up 1907  Down 0253.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Munich attacked.  Clear sky, vis good.  19,000’.  Bombed centre of cluster of red TIs in bomb sight.  Own bursts not seen.  Many well concentrated fires were burning well.
JB220O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.W.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, J.A.McGregor, F.A.Hughes.  Up 1908  Down 0228.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Centre of cluster of red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Fine display of fires observed – one particularly large – well among TIs.
JB232U  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, Sgts W.S.Bamlett, S.Carlyel, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, P/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1909 Down 0305.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Munich.  19,500’.  Dark.  No cloud, hazy.  Target identified visually.  Bombed red TI markers – in bomb sight.  Raid developing well – chiefly west bank of river and marshalling yards area.  Eight big fires burning.
EE179T  2nd Lt J.E.Russell, Sgts H.J.Lazenby, Saunders, F/Sgt L.W.Golden, J.P.Dow, E.W.Bark, F/Sgt R.H.Marston.  Up 1905  Down 0231.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Munich attacked.  17,500’.  Clear sky, vis good.  Centre of cluster of green TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own TIs seen to cascade and ignite.  Many fires burning and incendiaries rapidly as aircraft left target.
JB221W  F/O A.W.Cameron, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/O J.B.Griffith, Sgts J.C.Nicol, N.Cohen, F/O W.Woods, Sgt M.Sharp.  Up 1912  Down 0307.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Primary target Munich bombed.  17,000’.  Clear sky, ground haze.  Target identified by fires.  Bombed on cluster of green TIs – in bomb sight.  Own 4000 pounder seen to explode on western edge of fire concentration.
EE107L  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts S.B.Gray, E.A.Johnson, H.Worsdale, N.G.Cameron, G.Woolf, G.E.Smith.  Up 1910  Down 0234.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Munich bombed.  No cloud, dark.  Smoke haze.  17,000’.  Time run from lake.  Target well lit with TIs.  Bombed centre of green TIs – in bomb sight.  Several fires burning later merging into one.  Red glow.
JB227J  P/O J.P.Billing, Sgts S.A.Smith, K.E.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, Sgt J.D.Findlay.  Up 1911  Down 0300.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  18,000’.  Ground haze, no moon, no cloud.  Bombed centre of concentration of red TIs – in bomb sight.  Own greens seen to cascade.  Bomb bursts were concentrated but fires were scattered.
JB190V  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, E.O.Charlton, F.Dawkins, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 1859  Down 0245.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target Munich bombed.  18,900’.  Dark, clear sky, vis good.  Target located by “Y”.  Bombed visually – sights not used.  Usual spread back of incendiaries but less than usual.  One large red fire in progress.
JB238A  P/O E.F.McEgan, Sgt F.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/Sgt J.V.Tyler, Sgts J.J.Johnson, W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 1900  Down 0303.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Primary target Munich.  19,000’.  Industrial haze, no cloud.  Target located by H2S and seen visually.  Bombed concentration of red and yellow TIs.  Several fires burning well in marked area.
JB191B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, F/O B.J.Starie, Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt R.C.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1856  Down 0255.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target Munich.  19,000’.  No cloud, slight haze.  Target located by H2S.  Bombs dropped blind.  Good and numerous red fires were well going towards end of raid and explosions could still be seen.
JB189G  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, P/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1900 Down 0243.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Primary objective Munich bombed.  Haze over target area.  No moon, no cloud, 18,500’.  Target located by “Y” – sights not used.  Bombed on centre of 3 yellow TIs.  Too early for results but smoke pall beginning to rise.
JA963Q  P/O G.D.Nicoll, Sgts P.Cassidy, A.E.Gadbsy, P/O R.E.Baht, F/Sgt E.J.Lewis, Sgts J.Brown, H.T.Finch.  Up 1903  Down 0235.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Munich attacked.  Clear sky, no moon, slight haze.  19,000’.  Target located by H2S and seen visually.  Too early on target for results but several fires were starting up.  Fires were also burning at Friedriecshaven.

JA711Y  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, R.J.Cowen, F/Sgt R.S.Mortham, Sgt P.W.Dries.  Up 1902  Down 0247.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target Munich bombed.  20,000’.  No cloud, dark, hazy.  Yellow TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Many bomb bursts seen.  Too early for results but one large red fire had started.      

3.10.43  No flying.  Operational stand down.

4.10.43 22 aircraft were detailed for operations, 16 to attack Frankfurt and 6 to attack Ludwigshaven.  Both attacks were successfully carried out.  Three aircraft made early returns, all reporting engine trouble.  One aircraft failed to return – Captain F/L Brown.

4/5 October 1943 – Frankfurt

JA923H  F/L K.Brown, F/Sgt M.Hogg, P/O F.N.Alexander, F/O L.S.Webb, F/Sgt J.Curry, F/Sgt J.T.Sullivan, W/O W.Saunders.  Up 1830.  2 x TI, 8 flares, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Aircraft and crew missing
JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, F/Sgt F.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.Billows.  Up 1832  Down 0011.  11 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Frankfurt attacked.  16,000’.  No cloud, some haze.  Target identified visually.  Aiming point clearly seen.  Too early on target for observation of results.  A few fires were burning as aircraft left target.  Large orange explosion seen.
JB190V  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, E.O.Charlton, F.Dawkins, E.Bark, F.Edwards.  Up 1843  Down 0019.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Frankfurt.  16,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Built up area visually identified.  Two red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Numerous fires well concentrated.  Glow visible 100 miles away.
JB176K  S/L S.P.Daniels, F/Sgt J.K.Bell, S/L R.B.Ingalls, S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, F/O C.S.Chettam, F/L M.Bryan-Smith, F/Sgt J.B.Findlay.  Up 1843  Down 0017.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Frankfurt bombed.  19,000’.  Clear sky, slight ground haze.  Bombed on centre of group of red TI markers.  TIs at first scattered but improving later.  Large explosion after own bombs released.  Too early for results.
JB119F  F/L D.Mackenzie, F/Sgt J.T.Pratt, Sgts R.F.Marshall, I.G.Stevens, A.Hunter, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, Sgt K.Kirby.  Up 1847  Down 0006.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Primary objective Frankfurt.  17,500’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Built up area seen visually.  Middle of 4 red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Some good fires observed – visible 50 miles away.
ED953X  F/L J.F.Munro, P/O E.C.Swetman, F/Sgt Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgt J.N.Underwood, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Uo 1848  Down 2208.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.Primary target not attacked – port outer engine caught fire and rear turret u/s.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, F/Sgt G.C.Granger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1853  Down 0039.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary target Frankfurt attacked.  Clear sky – hazy.  Bombed on red TIs – target also visually identified from 19,500.  Large explosion seen at 2137.  Good illuminations in east of target area.
JB221W  F/O A.W.Cameron, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/O J.B.Griffith, Sgts J.C.Nicoll, N.Cohen, M.Sharp, F/O W.W.oods.  Up 1851  Down 0100.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Objective Frankfurt bombed.  17,000’.  Clear sky.  Visibility.  Cluster of 3 green TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  One good fire was going well and others developing fast as aircraft left target.
ED814D  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt L.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, Sgt A.Newbegin, W/O W.A.Halsey, F/Sgt J.Woods, W/O P.O.Bone.  Up 1849  Down 0027.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Frankfurt attacked.  No moon, no cloud, smoke haze.  18,500’.  Bombed ob centre of cluster of red TIs.  Own results not seen.  Heavy explosion with orange flame at 2137.  Several fires observed.
JB220O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.W.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, J.H.McGregor, F.A.Hughes.  Up 1850  Down 0046.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Frankfurt attacked.  17,000’.  Clear sky, industrial haze.  Bombed on centre of cluster of green TI markers.  Own results not seen.  A large explosion in centre of TIs at 2133.  Several good fires going.
JB232U  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, Sgts W.S.Bamlett, S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, P/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1852  Down 0040.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  No moon, no cloud, visibility good.  18,000’.  Built up area visually identified.  One red TI in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own TIs seen cascading.  Good well concentrated fires mostly in north east.
JB191B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, F/O B.J.Starie, Sgt R.G.Pike, F/Sgr R.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1833  Down 2359.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Frankfurt bombed. 19,000’.  Clear sky, thick haze.  Target located by “Y” aids.  Visually saw River Main and built up area.  Bombed blind.  Aircraft too early on target for fires.  Huge explosion observed at 2137 hours.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, Sgts G.Winter, S.J.Peek, P/O L.C.Jones, Sgt D.E.Harvey, F/Sgt R.H.Marston, Sgt R.J.Chapman.  Up 1835  Down 0030.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Primary Frankfurt attacked.  18,500’.  Clear sky, vis good.  Target well lit up by flares and TIs.  Built up area visually seen.  Own results not seen.  Red TIs and built up area in bomb sight.  Good size fires in marked area.
JA711Y  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, F/Sgt R.S.Mortham, Sgt P.W.Dries.  Up 1836  Down 0026.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Primary objective bombed.  No moon, no cloud, hazy.  19,000’.  Target identified by TIs, river and built up area.  Bombed on two red TIs – in bomb sight.  Many bomb bursts seen.  Fires starting well at later stage.
JB218Z  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.A.Smith, P/O R.Easson, F/Sgt K.A.Jolly, Sgts J.E.Gardner, A.Whitehead, W.D.Ogilvie.  Up 1837  Down 0021.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target Frankfurt bombed.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Target identified visually.  Bombed between the only two yellow TIs down.  Own cookie seen to burst near marshalling yards.  Fires starting up as aircraft left.
JB243B  P/O K.Painter, Sgts T.Deacon, R.C.Saunders, J.E.Bacon, T.Andrews, S.F.Hone, D.W.Angell.  Up 1844  Down 2211.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Mission abandoned – port outer engine caught fires and rear turret u/s.

4/5 October 1943 – Ludwigshaven

JA846M  S/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.E.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, F/L A.E.Carlton, W/O G.K.Smith, F/Sgt E.Hambling, Sgt P.A.Walder.  Up 1840  Down 2059.  8 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Mission abandoned – starboard outer engine u/s causing H2S to be u/s.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/L H.A.Hitchcock, F/L F.P.Burbridge, Sgt M.Campbell, F/L J.E.Blair, F/Sgt O.D.Wood (blvd error, should be G.W.Wood).  Up 1841  Down 0032.  8 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Target Ludwigshaven attacked.  19,600’.  Clear sky, visibility moderate.  Target located by precision device.  No results of own bombing seen.  Both sides of river well illuminated by flares.  Too early at target to see results.
JB238A  P/O E.F.McEgan, Sgt F.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/O J.V.Tyler, Sgts J.J.Johnson, W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 1842 Down 0024.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Ludwigshaven bombed.  20,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Bombed on centre of cluster of green TI markers.  Target well illuminated.  TIs were scattered.  Good fires were going 10 minutes after leaving target.
JB174S  P/O G.D.Nicoll, Sgts P.Cassidy, A.E.Gadsby, P/O R.E.Baht, F/Sgt E.J.Lewis, Sgts J.Brown , H.T.Finch.  Up 1845  Down 0014.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Ludwigshaven.  20,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  River, built up area, railway and docks seen visually.  No TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Markers appeared scattered.  No results observed.
ED938J  F/O F.J.Roberts, F/Sgt S.R.Arter, S/L Mitchell, Sgts D.Young, H.J.Blower, D.Parsley, P.J.Marsh.  Up 1838  Down 0054.  Target Ludwigshaven attacked.  18,000’.  Clear sky, vis good.  Bombed on 3 red TI markers over built up area (seen visually).  No results of own bombing seen.  Some small fires only seen.
EE107L  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts F.B.Gray, G.A.Johnson, H.Worsdale, N.G.Cameron, G.Woolf, G.E.Smith.  Up 1846  Down 0043.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Ludwigshaven bombed.  17,600’.  No moon, no cloud, smoke haze.  Bombed on red and green TIs – in bomb sight.  Three areas of fires observed – one on aiming point.  Many small fires just starting up.   

5.10.43  Training programme carried out including “Y” cross country, bombing and fighter affiliation.  Operations cancelled due to adverse weather reports.

6.10.43 “Y” training, bombing and fighter affiliation comprised the training programme which was carried out.  21 aircraft were detailed for ops which were cancelled in the early evening due to adverse weather reports.

7.10.43 16 aircraft attacked Stuttgart and four aircraft Friedrichshaven.  The target at the former had bad cloud conditions which prevented observation of TIs with any certainty.  Glow of fires was seen which were probably from scattered incendiaries.  Heavy flak varied from slight to moderate.  No searchlights seen and fighter activity was negligible.  F/O Cameron’s aircraft had damage from incendiaries dropped from above.  One incendiary hitting the armour plating behind the Pilot nearly cuasing disastrous results.  At Friedrichshaven there was 10/10ths cloud and no results observed.  Defences – heavy H/F, no S/Ls seen, little fighter activity.

7/8 October 1943 – Stuttgart

JA846M  S/L A.Eaton-Clarke, Sgt G.E.Dunning, W/C R.C.Alabaster, F/L A.E.Carlton, W/O G.K.Smith, F/Sgt E.Hambling, Sgt P.A.Walder.  Up 2050  Down 0250.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Primary objective Stuttgart attacked.  10/10ths cloud, 19,000’.  Vis good.  Target located by H2S.  Bombed blind.  Nothing seen owing to cloud.
JB117C  S/L E.E.Rodley, F/Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, P/O D.W.Burt, W/O H.Bryson, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O A.J.Harris.  Up 2053  Down 0242.  11 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Target Stuttgart attacked.  10/10ths cloud.  Vis fair.  Bombed centre of stick of yellow TIs – in bomb sight.  Glow from incendiaries seen but nothing else observed.
JA963Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, F/L A.J.W.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.R.Burke.  Up 2056  Down 0235.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Stuttgart bombed.  Dark, 10/10ths cloud.  18,000’.  Centre of concentration of yellow TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Cloud prevented observation of results.
JB227J  F/L J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, D/L D.J.Allport, F/L F.P.Burbridge, F/Sgt J.N.Underwood, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2056  Down 0245.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Primary objective bombed.  No moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Visibility poor.  16,500’.  Good display of TIs burning over target area.  Bombed on concentration of markers – nothing in way of results seen.  Reflected glow could have been fires or TIs.
JB300D  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt L.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.C.Newbegin, W/O W.A.Halsey, F/Sgt J.Woods, W/O P.O.Bone.  Up 2059  Down 0253.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target Stuttgart attacked.  19,500’.  No moon, 10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on concentration of yellow TI markers.  Glow from scattered fires reflected through cloud.
JB190V  P/O D.A.Montgomery, F/Sgt G.C.Granger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 2103  Down 0256.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on centre of concentration of green and yellow TI markers.  Nothing observed owing to cloud.
JB220O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgts L.W.Melbourne, J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, R.J.Dickie, F/Sgt F.A.Hughes.  Up 2100  down 0258.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Stuttgart bombed.  17,500’.  Dark, slight haze, 10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on flares – in bomb sight.  Glow of fires reflected through cloud.
JB232U  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgts F.White, W/O G.Muckart, P/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 2102  Down 0322.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary target Stuttgart.  17,500.  10/10ths low cloud.  One yellow TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Glow of fires seen with smoke pall rising above cloud.
JB221W  F/O A.W.Cameron, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/O J.B.Griffith, Sgts J.C.Nicoll, N.Cohen, M.Sharp, F/O W.Woods.  Up 2104  Down 0418.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Stuttgart bombed.  No moon.  10/10ths cloud.  18,700’.  Bombed on centre of group of green TIs.  One large fire seen in north east of town and one huge fire  and glow from other fires seen.
JA908N  P/O F.J.Roberts, F/Sgt S.R.Arter, Sgts R.Dudley, G.Young, H.J.Blower, P.J.Marsh, F/Sgt T.Parsley.  Up 2101  Down 0413.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Stuttgart.  20,000’.  Dark, hazy.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on centre of group of 6 green TIs – own TIs seen to cascade.  Glow of a big fire was reflected through cloud.  Black smoke observed above cloud.
JB238A  P/O E.F.McEgan, Sgt F.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/O J.V.Tyler, Sgts J.J.Johnson, W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 2105  Down 0406.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Stuttgart attacked.  18,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Cluster of green TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Good glow of fires in both north and south of target area.  TIs very scattered.
JB243P  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 2106  Down 0404.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Stuttgart bombed.  No moon, 10/10ths cloud.  Visibility fair.  Bombed on centre of cluster of green TI markers.  Good fires were going.  TIs scattered.
JB174S  P/O G.D.Nicoll, Sgts P.Cassidy, A.E.Gadsby, P/O R.E.Baht, Sgts E.J.Lewis, J.Brown, H.T.Finch.  Up 2053  Down 0240.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  Moon setting.  10/10ths cloud.  Target located by H2S and bombs dropped blind.  Reflected glow of large fires observed in cloud.
JA711Y  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, F/Sgt R.S.Mortham, Sgt P.W.Dries.  Up 2055  Down 0247.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Target Stuttgart.  No moon, 10/10ths cloud.  18,000’.  Bombed on reflectioin of yellow TI markers.  Nothing seen in way of results.
EE179T  Sgts A.A.Johnson, J.A.Pearson, K.Swale, P/O J.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 2106  Down 0324.  Primary target Stuttgart attacked.  18,000’.  8/10ths cloud.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Bombed point between yellow and red TIs – in bomb sight.  Own results not seen.  Two glows from fires seen.
JB275H  F/O J.H.Nicholl, Sgt S.A.Smith, P/O R.Easson, F/Sgt K.A.Jolly, Sgts J.E.Gardnet, A.Whitehead, W.D.Ogilvie.  Up 2055  Down 0335.  1 x 4000lb, 10 x 500lb.  Target Stuttgart attacked.  20,000’.  8/10ths cloud.  Bombed on centre of 5 yellow TI markers – in bomb sight.  No results observed.

7/8 October 1943 – Friedrichshaven

JB 191B  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, F/O B.J.Starie, Sgt R.G.Pike, F/Sgt R.C.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 2049  Down 0355.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Target Friedrichshaven attacked.  No moon, 10/10ths cloud.  Target located by “Y” aids.  Bombs dropped blind, no markers seen before bombing.  No results observed.  TIs began to go down as aircraft left target.
JB119P  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, Sgt C.Baumber,  F/Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, Sgt D.E.Harvey, F/Sgt G.Woolf, Sgt R.J.Chapman.  Up 2042  Down 0330. 4 x TI, 4 x 2000lb.  Friedrichshaven bombed.  5/0ths cloud.   19,500’.  Bombed on single and only red TI in target area – in bomb sight.  Own TIs seen to cascade.  Large number of flares seen after bombing – too many flares.
JB189G  P/O K.Painter, Sgts T.Deacon, R.C.Saunders, J.E.Bacon, T.Andrews, S.F.Hone, D.W.Angell.  Up 2052  Down 0325.  4 x TI, 4 x 2000lb.  Target Friedrichshaven.  19,000’.  Amount of thin strata.  One red TI in bomb sight at time of bombing.  A few bomb bursts seen but little else.  No fires observed.
EE107L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O E.G.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.Jpleydell.  Up 2051 Down 0302.  4 x TI, 4 x 2000lb.  Target Friedrichshaven attacked.  19,000’.  6/10ths cloud.  Bombed on one red TI marker – in bomb sight.  Own TIs seen to cascade.  Nothing observed.    

8.10.43 21 Lancasters detailed for operations with one aircraft reserve.  One aircraft was withdrawn, the navigator being sick, another returned early due to oxygen supply being u/s.  19 aircraft attacked the target at Hanover in clear sky and some haze.  Good concentration of fires seen.  Generally the raid would appear promising but later smoke and haze prevented observations.  Slight to moderate H/F and fighters not so active.  17 photos attempted.  P/O Nicolls and crew failed to return from this operation.  No news has been received.

8/9 October 1943 – Hanover

JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, F/Sgt F.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.Billows.  Up 2246  Down 0357.  6 flares, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover attacked. 20,000’.  No moon, no cloud, hazy.  Target located by H2S.  Bombs dropped blind.  Own results not observed.  Too early on target for observations of results.
JB218Z  P/O S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, F/O B.J.Starie, F/Sgt R.G.Pike, F/Sgt R.C.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 2248  Down 0330.  6 flares, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  19,000’.  No moon, no cloud, hazy.  Target located by H2S.  Bombs dropped blind.  Own yellows seen to cascade.  Big red explosion seen at 0142.  No fires had started.
JB117C  S/L E.E.Rodley, F/Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, P/O D.W.Burt, W/O H.Bryson, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O A.J.Harris.  Up 2247  Down 0330.  11 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  17,500’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Target identified visually by river, canal and railway station.  Aiming point clearly identified in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Glow of fires starting but smoke covered town at zero hour.
JA963Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, F/L A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J,R,Burke.  Up 2253  Down 0325.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover.  18,000’.  Clear sky, hazy.  Bombed on one red TI cascading – in bomb sight.  Marking started excellently but too early at target for fires.
JB227J  F/L J.F.Munro, P/O R.C.Swetman, F/L L.H.Glasspool, F/L F.P.Burbridge, F/L A.Chambers, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 2316  Down 0334.  3 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover bombed.  18,000’.  Clear sky.  No moon, visibility excellent.  Bombs dropped on concentration of red and yellow TIs  - in bomb sight.  Own greens seen to cascade.  Small and large explosions seen.  Black smoke pall rising.
JB220O  F/O D.Moodie, Sgt L.W.Melbourne, F/Sgt J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, Sgts T.E.Stamp, P.J.Dickie, F/Sgt F.A.Hughes.  Up 2256  Down 0354.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary Hanover attacked.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, slight haze.  Bombed on concentration of red TI markers – in bomb sight.  Two large explosions at 0137 and 0138, second with great burst of fire.  Huge smoke pall.
JB300D  F/L R.F.Clayton, F/Sgt L.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.Newbegin, F/Sgt C.T.Ambrose, F/Sgt J.Woods, W/O P.O.Bone.  Up 2253  Down 0341.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  No moon, no cloud, hazy.  19,000’.  Centre of group of red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Too early on target  for observation of results.
JB232U  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, P/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 2254  Down 0329.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  18,000’.  Clear sky, hazy.  Target identified visually.  Red TIs over built up area in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Burst of bombs seen in built up area.  Raid just starting  - too early for fires.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, F/Sgt G.C.Granger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 2301  Down 0352. 5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, hazy.  Centre of cluster of red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Many bomb bursts seen but own not recognised.  Big explosion at 0140.  Fires just starting.
JA908N  P/O F.J.Roberts, F/Sgt S.R.Arter, Sgts R.Dudley, D.Young, H.J.Blower, P.J.Marsh, F/Sgt T.Parsley.  Up 2252  Down 0419.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Hanover bombed.  19,000’.  Clear sky, hazy.  Centre of cluster of green TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own greens seen to cascade.  Big explosion at 0138 followed by fire and smoke.  Many well concentrated fires going well.
JB119F  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts F.B.Gray, G.A.Johnson, H.Worsdale, N.C.Cameron, G.Woolf, G.E.Smith.  Up 2258  Down 0405.  5 x TI 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary target attacked.  19,500’.  No moon, no cloud, hazy.  Bombed on concentration of green TI markers – in bomb sight.  Own bombs seen to explode and TIs cascade.  Great concentration of fires in marked area.
JB174S  P/O G.D.Nicoll, Sgts P.Cassidy, A.E.Gadsby, P/O R.E.Baht, Sgts E.J.Lewis, J.Brown, H.T.Finch.  Up 2300.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Aircraft and crew missing.
ED956X  P/O J.P.Billing, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/Sgt J.E.Moriarty, P/O P.M.Lowick, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt J.B.Findlay, F/Sgt L.H.Curtis.  Up 2303  Down 0358.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  19,000’.  No moon, no cloud, thick haze.  One red TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Huge explosion with blue flash at 0144 and several searchlights disappeared.  Early on target – fires were starting but nothing outstanding.
JB243P  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgts W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 2304  Down 0415.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary target Hanover bombed.  18,000’.  Vis hazy, clear sky.  Bombed on tight cluster of green TIs.  2 or 3 small fires were soon developing.  Blue explosion observed at 0141 hours.
JB189G  P/O K.Painter, Sgts T.Daecon, R.C.Saunders, J.E.Bacon, T.Andrews, S.F.Hone, D.W.Angell.  Up 2302  Down 0422.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover attacked. 18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, much haze.  One red TI in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Raid was well concentrated but much too much smoke in target area for visual check up.  Fires could be seen going well among TIs.
JB176K  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O E.G.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 2259  Down 0405.  5 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Hanover bombed.  Clear sky, vis good.  19,000’.  Centre of red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Great concentration of TIs seen.  Fires, bomb bursts and explosions observed in marked area.
JB238A  P/O E.F.McEgan, Sgt F.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, P/O J.V.Tyler, Sgts J.J.Johnson, W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 2249   Down 0345.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  19,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis hazy.  Target located by H2S and bombs dropped blind.  Bombs seen to explode in built up area.  Big blue explosion seen at 0130 hours.
JB190V  Sgts A.A.Johnson, J.A.Pearson, K.Swale, P/O J.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 2257   Down 0340.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary target bombed.  19,000’.  Clear sky.  Vis good.  Bombed on one yellow TI marker in bomb sight.  Had no time to identify results visually as Flight Engineer was ill.  One particularly big fire was noticed.
JA711Y  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, F/Sgt R.S.Mortham, Sgt P.W.Dries.  Up 2251  Down 0125.  Task abandoned – mid upper turret oxygen and intercom u/s.  Bombs jettisoned.
JB275H  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt T.W.Smith, P/O R.Easson, F/Sgt K.A.Jolly, Sgts J.E.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, A.Whitehead.  Up 2250  Down 0347.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover bombed.  Clear sky, vis good.  Target identified visually.  Built up seen, well illuminated.  Bombed built up area – bursts seen.  Little else seen.       

9.10.43    F/L Pelletier  on night circuits and landings.  Operational stand down.

10.10.43 “Y” training and cross countries carried out and some air tests.  Weather closed in.

11/12.10.43 Training programme arranged but cancelled due to bad weather.  Lectures and conferences took place and aircrews took part in recreational games in the afternoon of the 12th.  The following message has been received from AOC-in-C Bomber Command, “The last attack on hanover was an outstanding success for us and another major catastrophe for Germany.  Good show.  A few more like this and the Boche will break.”  German information states the P/O E.G.Dolby DFC died of internal haemorrage on 1.9.43, missing on 31.8.43.  NZ416161 F/Sgt Pond arrived safely in UK 14.9.43.  Reported missing from Nuremburg on 27/28 August 1943.  G/C N.H.Fresson was awarded the immediate DFC on 7.10.43.

13.10.43 Training programme arranged covering “Y” training, bombing, fighter affiliation and ground training.  W/O P.Scott and Sgt W.G.Peel, missing 27th/28th August 1943 are reported prisoners of war.  F/L Robertson and remainder of crew are reported killed – information from German source.  Further message from AOC in C Bomber Command, “The whole of the centre of Hanover and much else besides has been burnt out.  Some of it is still burning.  Well done.”

14.10.43 Training programme covered “Y”, bombing and fighter affiliation.  Flying duties not carried out woing to weather u/s.  AOC 8 Group lectured the aircrews in the morning, arriving at 11.30 hours.  Stand down in the afternoon.

15.10.43 Bombing, air firing training carried out as per schedule.  “Y” cross countries in the afternoon.

16.10.43 “Y” training, fighter affiliation and bombing carried out.  Weather fine.

17.10.43 Training programme detailed.  Weather u/s in the morning.  “Y” training, bombing and air firing carried out in the afternoon.  Weather fine.

18.9.43    Training as per schedule in the morning and NFTs.  15 aircraft detailed for operations.  Briefing at 1500 hours.  15 aircraft attacked Hanover.  One aircraft – F/L Moodie and crew is reported missing.  Weather 9/10ths cloud tops 15,000’, vis good.  Defences moderate, H/F predicted up to 22,000’, heavy at 12,000’, searchlights mainly ineffective, fighter opposition reported great.  Generally, owing to cloud, success of raid cannot be assessed.  Crews reported glow of fires on cloud and fires were seen as crews were leaving target under cloud.  

18/19 October 1943 – Hanover

JA960E  F/Sgt A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, F/Sgt F.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, F/Sgt C.Billows.  Up 1730  Down 2230.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary target Hanover attacked.  18,000’.  No moon, 10/10ths cloud.  Vis poor.  Target located by “Y” aids.  Bombed blind  - no definite aiming point.  Glow indicated that some good fires were going.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, P/O D.W.Burt, W/O H.Bryson, W/O A.J.Harris, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan.  Up 1732  Down 2223.  11 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  18,500’.  8/10ths cloud.  Vis nil.   Owing to thick cloud own reds were not dropped.  Bombs dropped on yellow TIs.  Own results not seen.  Large orange explosion seen at 2015.
JB190V  S/L J.M.Garlick, F/Sgt M.Hemming, Sgts A.G.Boyd, E.O.Charlton, F/L R.H.Watts, Sgt F.Dawkins, F/Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 1737  Down 2219.  9 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 1 x 1000lb.  Hanover bombed.  18,600’.  No moon.  9/10ths cloud.  Bombed on centre of concentration of yellow TI markers.  No ground details observed.  Glow from fires could be seen on leaving target.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, F/Sgt G.C.Granger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1735  Down 2228.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary Hanover bombed.  19,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed centre of concentration of yellow and green TI markers – in bomb sights.  Some glow from fires seen but nothing else.
JD300D  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt L.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.Newbegin, F/Sgt C.T.Ambrose, F/Sgt J.Woods, W/O P.O.Bone.  Up 1739  Down 2216.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary target Hanover.  18,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed estimated glow of TI markers seen below cloud.  Huge orange coloured flash seen at 2018 hours.
JB220O  F/L D.Moodie, Sgt L.W.Melbourne, F/Sgt J.T.Bundle, F/Sgt H.W.Clausen, F/Sgt T.E.Stamp, F/Sgt L.Drummond, F/Sgt F.A.Hughes.  Up 1738  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Aircraft and crew missing.
ED953X  P/O J.P.Billing, F/Sgt w.g.Waller, Sgt K.F.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, Sgt J.D.Findlay.  Up 1736  Down 2225.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  10/10ths cloud.  No moon.  18,500’.  Bombed on one cascading green TI marker.  One big orange explosion seen at 2020 hours.  No other results seen.
JA963Q  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1741  Down 2236.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Hanover bombed.  18,800’.  No moon, 9/10ths cloud.  Bombed between two cascading green TI markers.  Own results not observed.  Big dull orange explosion seen at 2019 hours.  Cloud prevented further observation of results.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, Sgt D.E.Harvey, F/Sgt E.L.Wright, Sgt R.J.Chapman.  Up 1740  Down 2238.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  18,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Green TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  TIs very scattered.  Big explosion seen at 2016 hours.  Incendiaries appeared to cover a large area.
JB238A  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O E.G.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1734  Down 2240.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Hanover bombed.  20,000’.  9/10ths cloud.  Bombed between two green TI markers – in bomb sight.  Large bright explosion seen as aircraft left target, also glow from fires could be seen ½ an hour away.
JB191B  S/L S.P.Daniels, F/Sgt J.K.Bell, S/L R.B.Ingalls, S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, F/O C.S.Chetham, P/O R.J.Weller, F/L M.Bryan-Smith.  Up 1726 Down 2208.  6 x 2000lb.  Primary target Hanover.  21,000’.  No moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Target located by H2S.  Nothing but flashes observed below cloud.  TIs very scattered.
JB229W  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, P/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1727  Down 2244.  6 x 2000lb.  Target hanover.  17,600’.  10/10ths cloud.  No moon.  Target located by “Y” and ETA.  Bombed by navigation aids.  Red glow below cloud could have been TIs or fires.  Big explosion at 2016 hours.
JA711Y  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgt R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell,  J.R.Cowen, P.W.Dries, F.Sgt R.S.Mortham.  Up 1728  Down 2215.  6 x 2000lb.  Target Hanover attacked.  17,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  TIs appeared to be very scattered.  Bombed on glow from red TI markers – in bomb sight.  At 2012 hours reflection of large orange explosion was seen.  Glow from fires observed.
EE179T  Sgts A.A.Johnson, J.A.Pearson, K.Swale, P/O J.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 1732  Down 2211.  6 x 2000lb.  Primary target Hanover bombed.  20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  No moon.  Bombed centre between two red and one green TIs.  Big red glow illuminated cloud followed by a similar one three minutes later.  Nothing else seen.

JB275H  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt T.W.Smith, P/O R.Easson, F/Sgt K.A.Jolly, Sgts J.E.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, A.Whitehead.  Up 1731  Down 2221.  6 x 2000lb.  Hanover attacked.  19,000’.  8/10ths cloud. No moon. Built up area seen through break in cloud.  Bombed on yellow TI markers – in bomb sight.  Too early to observe results.  Reflection of big orange explosion seen at 2015 hours.  

19.10.43 19 aircraft detailed for operations.  Cancelled in afternoon.  Weather forecast bad.  Letter received from next of kin of F/O Canham, navigator in F/L Covington’s crew, missing 11.8.43, states that letter received from F/O Canham, unhurt, baled out.  F/O Ayton and F/Sgt Chandler, missing 11.5.41, also S/L Sherwood DSO DFC, missing on the Augsburg daylight raid are in the same prison camp.

20.10.43  16 aircraft detailed for operations against Leipzig.  14 bombed the primary, one returned early and one aircraft, P/O Painter and crew, are reported missing.  Owing to weather , reports are conflicting, some fires were seen and scattered incendiaries.  It is doubtful whether all aircraft actually attacked the primary, the raid being scattered.  Defence was reported as moderate.  S/Ls seemed to assist fighters – one aircraft had three combats.

20/21 October 1943 – Leipzig

JA960E  P/O A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, F/Sgt F.Williams, Sgts J.Sansam, T.Hesselden, C.Billows.  Up 1735  Down 0045.  24 flares, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Target Leipzig attacked.  6/10ths cloud.  No moon.  Target located by H2S.  Bombs dropped blind.  Own TIs seen to cascade and own 4000 pounder seen to burst.  Too early on target for observation of results.
JA908N  S/L J.H.Sauvage, F/Sgt J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, P/O D.W.Burt, W/O H.Bryson, W/O A.J.Harris, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan.  Up 1746  Down 0027.  4 flares, 11 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Leipzig attacked.  16,500’.  10/10ths cloud.  No moon.  Target located by “Y” aids.  Scattered incendiaries seen.  Nothing whatever  could be seen owing to thick cloud.
JA963Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, F/L A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.R.Burke.  Up 1743  Down 2359.  4 flares, 11 x TI.  Primary objective attacked.  17,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Target located by H2S.  Bombs dropped blind.  No results observed owing to thick cloud.
JB232U  W/C E.F.Nind, P/O P.J.Roberts, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.N.Nelson, F/Sgt G.F.Gower, F/L E.A.Adams, F/L L.G.Mussi.  Up 1743  Down 0036.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Target Leipzig attacked.  18,000’.  No moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on estimated centre of scattered incendiaries.  No TIs seen.  Own TIs brought back.  No results seen owing to cloud.
JB190V  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson, A.G.Boyd, E.O.Charlton, F.Dawkins, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, F/Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 1749  Down 0047.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  16,900’.  10/10ths cloud.  Target located by H2S.  Bombs dropped blind – own results not observed.  Glow from incendiaries and fires seen over large area, very scattered.
JB300D  F/L R.F.Clayton, Sgt L.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.Newbegin, F/Sgt C.T.Ambrose, F/Sgt J.Woods, W/O P.O.Bone.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Mission abandoned – starboard outer engine u/s, compasses u/s.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, F/Sgt G.C.Grainger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1750  Down 0013.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Primary Leipzig bombed.  19,000’.  No moon.  10/10ths cloud.  One ywllow TI marker in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Few small fires were seen but cloud obscured results.
JB356X  P/O J.P.Billing, F/Sgt R.J.Waller, Sgt K.F.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, Sgt J.B.Findlay.  Up 1752  Down 0034.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Target Leipzig.  No moon, 10/10ths cloud, vis poor.  13,000’.  Bombed on one cascading green TI marker – in bomb sight.  No results could be seen except for few scattered fires.
JB299W  P/O F.J.Roberts, F/Sgt T.W.Hope, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt G.Young, Sgts H.J.Blower, P.J.Marsh, F/Sgt W.A.Parsley.  Up 1755 Down 0030.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Target Leipzig.  Vis good.  19,500’.  Target located by ETA.  Bombed on centre of glow of fires.  Later saw scattered green markers.  One glow was seen 40 miles before reaching target.
JB275H  P/O K.Painter, Sgts T.Deacon, R.C.Saunders, J.E.Bacon, T.Andrews, S.F.Hone, D.W.Angell.  Up 1753.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Aircraft and crew missing.
JB238A  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts F.B.Gray, G.A.Johnson, H.Worsdale, N.G.Cameron, G.Woolf, G.E.Smith.  Up 1758  Down 0025.  7 x TI,1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Target Leipzig.  16,800’.  7/10ths cloud.  Vis poor.  Target located by ETA, fires and river.  Bombed on centre of fires seen through break in clouds.  Scattered green TIs seen later.  Several explosions seen.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt S.J Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, R.J.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright.   Up 1756  Down 0016.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Primary target Leipzig bombed.  18,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Target located by H2S and ETA.  No TI markers seen, bombs dropped blind.  Big reflected red glow seen, visible for 60 miles after leaving target.
JB353L  P/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O E.G.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1759  Down 0054  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 500lb.  Primary objective attacked.  No moon.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombs released on one green TI marker cascading through cloud – in bomb sight.  Nothing seen except scattered incendiaries.
JB176K  S/L S.P.Daniels, F/Sgt J.K.Bell, S/L R.B.Ingalls, S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, F/O C.S.Chetham, F/L M.Bryan-Smith, P/O R.J.Weller.  Up 1736  Down 0022.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Leipzig bombed.  18,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Vis bad.  Target located by H2S.  Bombs dropped blind.  Nothing whatever seen owing to cloud.
JA857G  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, P/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1745  Down 0030.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Target Leipzig attacked.  19,000’.  Much broken cloud.  “Y” aids went u/s.  Bombed on one yellow TI marker – in bomb sight.  No other TIs seen.  Nothing else observed except scattered incendiaries.
EE179T  Sgts A.A.Johnson, J.A.Pearson, K.Swale, P/O J.Peden, A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 1747  Down 0007.  1 x 4000lb, 7 x 500lb.  Target Leipzig attacked.  21,000’.  9/10ths cloud.  Bombed on one red cascading TI marker – in bomb sight.  No ground detail observed owing to cloud.  Small red glow seen on leaving target area.  

21.10.43 Stand down from operations.

22.10.43 16 aircraft detailed to attack Kassel and two aircraft detailed to attack Frankfurt as spoof target, one of which returned early.  The raid on Kassel was highly successful, 4/10ths cloud, tops 10,000’, vis good, some haze.  Marshalling yards were visually identified and many fires were seen.  H/F was encountered, S/L cones – some scattered.  Fighter opposition did not seem so active.  16 photos attempted.  Fires were seen to start at Frankfurt.  All aircraft  returned safely.

22/23 October 1943 – Kassel

JA963Q  F/L D.I.Jones, F/Sgt M.Hemming, F/L A.J.Silk, F/L T.Hodkinson, W/O J.L.Hannah, F/Sgt F.Strange, F/Sgt J.R.Burke.  Up 1828  Down 2305.  11 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Kassel attacked.  14,000’.  No moon, no cloud.  Vis good.  Town and bend in river identified visually.  Bombed visually, own results not seen – aircraft coned at the time.  Too early on target for results.
JB219R  W/C E.F.Nind, P/O P.J.Roberts, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.N.Nelson, F/Sgt G.F.Gower, F/L E.A.Adams, F/L L.G.Mussi.  Up 1827  Down 2331.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary target Kassel bombed.  18,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Built up area clearly seen in light of flares.  Bombed on yellow TI markers.  Too early on target for results.
JB176K  S/L S.P.Daniels, F/Sgt J.K.Bell, S/L R.B.Ingalls, S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, F/O C.Chetham, P/O R.J.Weller, F/L M.Bryan-Smith.  Up1823  Down 2323.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 100lb.  Target Kassel.  19,000’.  Clear sky, no moon, vis good.  Target located by “Y” aids and confirmed visually.   Bombed center of cluster of red TI markers.  Own bombs seen to burst on edge of red TIs.  Too early for results.
JB227J  F/L J.F.Munro, F/L R.C.Swetman, W/O H.F.Daniels, P/O D.W.Burt, F/Sgt J.N.Underwood, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, F/Sgt W.Hill.  Up 1830  Down 2318.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Kassel attacked.  18,500’.  No moon, no cloud.  Slight haze.  Bombed on red and green TI markers.  Own TIs seen to cascade on top of reds.  Small blue explosion seen at 2048 hours.  Fires beginning as aircraft left target.
JB119F  F/L R.F.Clayton, F/Sgt L.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.C.Newbegin, F/Sgt C.T.Ambrose, W/O J.Woods, W/O P.O.Bone.  Up 1835  Down 2323.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary target Kassel.  19,400’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Own TIs seen to cascade.  Too early on target for results.
JB190V  S/L J.M.Garlick, Sgts J.M.Anderson,  A.G.Boyd, E.O.Chrlton, F.Dawkins, F/S F.Edwards, F/Sgt T.M.Wrd.  Up 1833  Down 2324.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Kassel attacked.  17,000’.  Clear sky, vis good.  Ground detail seen visually.  Bombed on concentration of red TI markers.   Own greens seen to cascade.  One large explosion seen in center of reds.
JB232U  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, P/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1832  Down 2357.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Kassel bombed.  19,000’.  4/10ths cloud.  Vis hazy.  Built up area identified visually.  Bombed concentration of red and yellow TIs.  Too early on target for results.  TIs seemed well placed on aiming point.
JA857G  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, P/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1830   Down 2334.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  20.000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Bo,bed on center of concentration of red TI markers.  Own bombs seen to explode under cascading reds.  No results except for smoke pall over target observed.
JB299W  P/O J.P.Billing, Sgt  T.W.Hope, F/Sgt J.A.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgts J.M.Campbell, J.B.Findlay, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis.  Up 1825  Down 2359. 6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Kassel bombed.  19,000’.  Little cloud, vis good.  Bombed on concentration of red, green and yellow TIs.  Fires and smoke appeared to cover whole of  target area as aircraft left target.
JB353L  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts F.B.Gray, G.A.Johnson, H.Worsdale, N.G.Cmaeron, G.Woolf, G.E.Smith.  Up 1834  Down 2335.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Kassel.  No moon, clear sky, vis good.  18,600’.  Red and green TIs seen.  Bombed center of yellow and greens.  All TIs well over aiming point (seen visually).  Big fires were starting.  Big explosion observed at 2100.
JB243P  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1836  Down 2332.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary target bombed.  17,800’.  1/10th cloud.  Vis good.  Bombed on concentration of red and green TIs – in bomb sight.  One really good fire burning with orange flame and much black smoke.  Several other fires starting up.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, Sgts D.E.Harvey, R.J.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright.  Up 1837  Down 0017.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target Kassel attacked. 18,500’.  Clear sky, vis good.   Bombed on red and green TI in tight cluster – in bomb sight.  Own TIs seen to cascade.  Many fires, some large , observed.  Much smoke up to 6,000’ all round TIs.
JB238A  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O E.G.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1838  Down 0005.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Kassel.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  One red TI among concentration of greens in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Aiming point visually identified.  Many fires were burning splendidly with smoke pall up to 9,000’.
JB218Z  G/C N.H.Fresson, F/Sgt A.J.Newell, S/L D.K.Allport, F/O W.A.Colson (AB1), W/O J.A.Bartholomew (AB2), Sgts A.W.Burnell, R.J.Dickie, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 1844 Down 0005.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary target Kassel bombed.  2/10ths cloud.  Vis good.  19,000’.  Target visually identified clearly.  Bombed between marshalling yards and green TI.  Some 15 fires were observed going well – glow could be seen 120 miles away.
EE179T  Sgt A.A.Johnson, F/L E.F.Cawdery (2nd Pilot), Sgts J.A.Pearson, K.Swale, P/O J.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 1830  Down 2328.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Kassel attacked.  20,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Bombed centre point between two red TI markers.  TIs well concentrated over aiming point.  Too early on target for results.   
JA908N  P/O D.R.Snell, Sgt L.Harman, P/O L.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood.  Up 1820  Down 2312.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Kassel attacked.  20,000’.  1/10th cloud, vis good.  Target identified by bend in river.  Bombed on yellow TI.  Many bomb bursts seen on west bank of river.  Several fires observed.

22/23 October 1943 – Frankfurt (spoof)

JB361B  F/L S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.Shaw, F/O B.J.Starie, F/Sgt R.C.Pike, Sgt W.A.Reffin, F/Sgt A.Barrowman, F/Sgt A.E.Roberts.   Up 1821  Down 2020.  6 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Mission abandoned – severe internal icing.
JA711Y  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, F/Sgt R.S.Mortham, Sgt P.W.Dries.  Up 1828  Down 2320.  1 x 4000lb, 156 incs.  Target Frankfurt (spoof) attacked. 19,000’.  No moon, no cloud, vis good.  Built up area identified visually.  Bombed on centre of red TI markers – in bomb sight.  One good fire had started.

23.10.43 Heavy rain, no flying.  Stand down for most aircrews.

24.10.43 Weather unfit for flying.  Conference in afternoon and ground training.  Bullseye exercise arranged for tonight but cancelled later due to weather.

25.10.43 Training programme cancelled owing to misty weather.  Organised games in the afternoon.

26.10.43 Weather u/s, training programme cancelled.  In morning demonstration of fog clearance apparatus at Graveley.  Lecture and film in afternoon.

27.10.43 Weather u/s for flying.  Flying training cancelled.  Conference in morning and in the afternoon organized games for aircrew.

28.10.43 Weather u/s.  ground training and organized exercises in the afternoon.

29.10.43 Weather u/s.  Ground training, lectures and conferences.  Stand down in afternoon.

30.10.43 19 aircraft and one reserve detailed for ops also three aircraft for night cross countries.  NFTs and training carried out in the morning.  After briefing, ops were cancelled, also night flying. 

31.10.43 Weather unfit for flying.  No operations detailed.

1.11.43 Ground training.  Weather unfit for flying

2.11.43 Ground training.  Weather unfit for flying.  Instructional film shown in the afternoon.

3.11.43 NFTs and flying training in the morning.  16 aircraft detailed for operations tonight.  P/O J.K.McAvoy DFM  and Act W/O R.J.Williams reported POW (were missing with W/C Burns crew 31st Aug).  F/Sgt T.Lancashire and F/Sgt S.Powell reported POW (were missing with F/L Covington’s crew 10th Aug).  Operations : 7 aircraft to attack Dusseldorf, 9 aircraft to attack Cologne.  At Dusseldorf 6 aircraft bombed the primary target, 1 aircraft returned early due to turrets being u/s.  The attack was made in good weather – clear sky, vis good, ground haze with slight to moderate H/F and L/F.  S/Ls ineffective.  Fighters not reported over target.  Fires reported but generally the attack is considered scattered.  At Cologne (spoof target) the attack was made in good weather.  Defences – desultory, H/F and S/Ls mainly ineffective – no fighters reported.  Ground detail was not seen owing to haze or smoke.  14 photos were attempted in all.  All crews returned safely.

3/4 November 1943 Dusseldorf

JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, F/Sgt G.C.Granger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1737  Down 2106.  4 x TI, 1 x4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Dusseldorf attacked.  19,500’.  Moonlight, no cloud,hazy.  Bombed in the middle of three red TI markers – in bomb sight.  Own TIs seen to cascade into middle of marked area.  Too early on target for results.
JB232U  F/O C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, P/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1741  Down 2114.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary target bombed.  18,000’.  Moonlight, no cloud, hazy.  3 red TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own TIs seen to cascade.  Some fires were beginning.  Large explosion seen at 1953 hours in marked area.
JA243P  F/O K.M.Steven, P/O A.J.Coleman (2nd Pilot), Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgts W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, Sgts K.D.Newman.  Up 1742  Down 1943.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Mission abandoned – both turrets u/s.
JB299W  P/O F.J.Roberts, F/Sgt G.E.Dunning, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt D.Young, F/Sgt H.J.Blower, Sgt P.A.Marsh, F/Sgt W.A.Parsley.  Up 1736  Down 2132.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Dusseldorf.  19,500’.  Good moonlight, hazy, no cloud.  Bombed on centre of concentration of green TI markers – in bomb sight.  One big fire seen in centre of TIs.  Smaller scattered fires also observed.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, Sgt D.E.Harvey, F/Sgt J.R.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright.  Up 1735  Down 2121.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary Dusseldorf attacked.  18,500’.  Moonlight, clear sky, hazy.  Bombed on centre of  concentration of 4 green TI markers.  Many scattered incendiaries seen.  Several fires observed with smoke pall rising.
JB353L  F/O C.T.Wilson, P/O V.S.Flack (2nd Pilot), Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, F/O E.G.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1745  Down 2118.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Dusseldorf bombed.  Moonlight, no cloud, ground haze.  Bombed on red and green star sky markers – in bomb sight.  Good concentration of fires in marked area and smaller scattered ones.
JA846M  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, F/Sgt R.S.Mortham, F/Sgt P.W.Dries.  Up 1744  Down 2128.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Dusseldorf attacked.  20,000’.  Moonlight, no cloud, vis hazy.  Green TIs in bomb sight at time of releasing bombs.  Markers were later well concentrated.  A large mass of white flame, probably incendiaries, in target area.

3/4 November 1943 Cologne

JA960E  P/O A.C.Jones, F/Sgt W.Jackson, F/O A.W.Pepper, W/O F.T.Williams, F/Sgt J.J.Sansam, F/Sgt T.Hesselden, F/Sgt C.J.Billows.  Up 1718  Down 2111.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Cologne attacked.  19,500’.  Moonlight, no cloud, ground haze.  Bombed on centre of concentration of red TI markers.  Many explosions seen among TIs but no fires had started.
JB361B  F/L S.R.Dawson, Sgt T.R.Shaw, F/L B.J.Starie, F/Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.C.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, F/Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1720  Down 2125.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Cologne bombed.  19,500’.  Quarter moon, clear sky, hazy.  Aiming point identified by Nav aids “Y”.  Aircraft coned at time of bombing.  Later a good concentration of reds and greens were seen over target area.  Scattered fires observed at later stages.
JA578G  F/O W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, J.Wrigley, R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1724  Down 2151.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Cologne attacked.  19,000’  Moonlight, no cloud, ground haze.  Aiming point identified approximately by Nav aids “Y”.  Dummy TIs observed.  No genuine TIs seen until after bombing.  Too early for results.
EE179T  F/Sgt A.A.Johnson, F/L E.F.Cawdery (2nd Pilot), Sgts J.Pearson, K.Swale, F/O J.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 1726  Down 2136.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Target Cologne.  Moonlight, clear sky, hazy below.  20,000’.  Bombed on cluster of red and green TIs – reds actually in bomb sight.  Many bomb bursts seen to slightly overshoot reds.  Long line of fires seen as aircraft left target.
JB227J  P/O C.R.Snell, Sgt L.T.Harman, P/O L.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood.  Up 1722  Down 2140.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Cologne attacked.  Moonlight, no cloud, visibility hazy.  18,000’.  Centre of 3 red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own bombs seen to burst.  No fires had started and markers seemed scattered.
JA963Q  F/L D.Brill, Sgt J.Stone, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.Butler, Sgt H.Chappel, P/O G.J.Little, F/Sgt E.Battle.  Up 1725  Down 2143.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 5 x 500lb.  Target Cologne attacked.  20,000’.  Bright moonlight, no cloud, ground haze.  Two red TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own bombs seen to explode, the last just overshooting red TI.  No results observed.
LM346O  P/O L.V.Hyde, Sgt M.E.Putt, P/O F.H.Palmer, P/O J.Craig, Sgts E.Hill, D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 1721  Down 2159.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Target Cologne.  18,500’.  Moonlight, clear sky, hazy as ground.  Bombed on cascading red TI marker – in sight.  Many scattered reds on ground.  Bursts of own bombs seen.  3 or 4 fires starting up on leaving target.
JB190V  P/O A.D.Riley, Sgts H.Tupper, N.Allen, F/Sgt J.Valastin, Sgt J.Nixon, F/Sgt C.S.Baker, Sgt F.Barrett.  Up 1729  Down 2154.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Cologne bombed.  19,500’.  Moonlight, no cloud, vis hazy.  Bombed on red TIs backed up by greens – reds actually in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own “cookie” seen to burst close to red TI – no fires seen.       

4.11.43 Weather unfit for flying.  Ground training and organised games.

5.11.43 Ground training and flying training carried.  No operations.

6.11.43 Flying training and ground as scheduled.  9 aircraft and crews detailed for Bullseye exercise tonight.  No operations detailed.  Night exercise carried out as detailed.

7.11.43 19 aircraft detailed for operations tonight, 7 of which will attack a spoof target.  NFTs carried out.  Operations were cancelled late in the evening.

8.11.43 19 aircraft again detailed for operations tonight, 5 of which will attack a spoof target.  Operations were again cancelled late in evening due to weather conditions.

9.11.43 Operations detailed.  Training carried out in morning.  Operations were cancelled after briefing.

10.11.43 Training programme detailed.  Letter has been received by the next of kin of W/C Burns DSO DFC stating that he is in hospital in Germany.  He has lost his right arm from the elbow downwards.  Order was given by him for the crew to bale out, the aircraft being out of control and on fire.  18 aircraft detailed for operations tonight.  Some flying and training in the morning.  18 aircraft attacked the primary target at Modane in good visibility and clear sky.  Red TIs were well placed and bombed – incendiaries were reported very scattered round the area but generally a good attack is considered to have been achieved.  Defences very slight.  Most crews report seeing no flak or S/Ls and no fighter activity.

10/11 November 1943 – Modane

JA960E  P/O A.C.Jones, Sgt W.Jackson, F/L A.W.Pepper, F/Sgt F.T.Williams, F/Sgt J.Sansam, F/Sgt T.Hesselden, Sgt C.J.Billows.  Up 2111  Down 0358.  1 x RSF, 6 flares, 4 x 1000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Modane attacked.  18,000’.  Full moon, no cloud, slight haze.  Target identified visually.  Probably own bomb bursts seen among other bursts.  Bombing was well concentrated on marked area.
JB361B  F/L S.R.Dawson, F/Sgt T.R.Shaw, F/L B.J.Starie, F/Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, F/Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 2105  Down 0416.  1 x RSF, 6 flares, 7 x 1000lb.  Modane bombed.  19,000’.  Full moon, no cloud, vis good.  Target located by time run from Grenoble then by lake and valley.  Railway sheds and marshalling yards identified visually.  Own bombs seen to burst on the latter.
JA846M  S/L A.Eaton-Clarke, W/O J.Duffy, W/O H.F.Daniels, P/O D.W.Burt, W/O H.Bryson, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O A.J.Harris.  Up 2104  Down 0430. 1 x RSF, 6 flares, 7 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  Bright full moon, clear sky, vis good.  20,000’.  Marshalling yards visually identified.  Bombed on one red TI – in bomb sight.  Own results not observed.  Many bursts seen in marked area.
JA227J  F/L J.F.Munro, F/L R.C.Swetman, F/L A.J.Silk, F/L F.P.Burbridge, F/Sgt J.M.Underwood, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, W/O W.Hill.  Up 2108  Down 0408.  8 x TI, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Modane attacked.  10,000’.  Full moon, no cloud, visibility good.  Target identified visually.  Bombed on red and green TIs.  Own TIs seen to cascade.  TIs generally well concentrated over aiming point.
JB219R  G/C N.H.Fresson, F/Sgt G.C.Granger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.L.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 2118  Down 0442.  4 x TI, 1 RSF, 7 x 1000lb.  Primary target Modane.  18,200’.  Full moon.  Clear sky, slight haze.  Bombed on centre of cluster of red TIs.  River and roads seen visually.  Own greens seen to fall.  Many bursts seen in mountains some 3 miles north of valley.
JB299W  P/O J.Roberts ?, P/O A.J.Coleman (2nd Pilot), Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt D.Young, Sgts N.Cohen, P.A.Marsh, F/Sgt W.A.Parsley.  Up 2119  Down 0450.  4 x TI, 1 x RSF, 7 x 1000lb.  Modane bombed.  18,000’.  No cloud, full moon, vis good.  Bombed on 3 red TIs.  Own TIs seen to cascade and land on ground in middle of TI reds.  Bombing was concentrated on marked area.  Three small fires were observed.  Some bursts were scattered on mountains.
JB356X  P/O J.P.Billing, Sgts T.W.Hope, J.E.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, F/Sgt J.Findlay.  Up 2136  Down 0400.  4 x TI, 1 x RSF, 7 x 1000lb.  Primary target bombed.  Full  moon, no cloud, vis good.  Good fall of TIs seen.  Bombed on centre of cluster of red TIs.  Many wasted bursts seen on mountainside.  One small fire had started up.
JB353L  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts F.B.Gray, Johnson, F/Sgt J.Worsdale, Sgt N.D.Cameron, F/Sgt G.Woolf, F/Sgt G.E.Smith.  Up 2116  Down 0410.  4 x TI, 1 x RSF, 7 x 1000lb.  Target Modane attacked.  17,000’.  Full moon.  Clear sky.  Target identified visually.  Bombed on red TIs.  Own TI seen to cascade and own bombs seen to fall on reds.  One large fire seen and a number of smaller ones well concentrated.   
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, Sgt D.E.Harvey, F/Sgt J.R.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright.  Up 2134  Down 0440.  4 x TI, 1 x RSF, 7 x 1000lb.  Target Modane attacked.  Bright moonlight, no cloud.  Mist in valley.  Bombed on centre of cluster of red TI markers.  Own TIs seen to fall on reds.  One big fire seen and a number of smaller ones well concentrated.
JB422H  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt K.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, R.Whitehead.  Up 2100  Down 0420.  8 x 1000lb.  Target Modane attacked.  18,700’.  Clear sky, vis good.  Mountainside round south of aiming point clearly seen visually.  Bombed on red TI marker.  Many other bursts seen round TIs.
JB367S  W/C E.F.Nind, P/O P.J.Roberts, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.M.Nelson, F/Sgt G.F.Gower, F/L E.A.Adams, F/L L.G.Mussi.  Up 2112  Down 0411.  8 x 1000lb.  Primary Modane bombed.  14,300’.  Full moon, no cloud, vis good.  Target identified visually.  Bombed on red TIs. 8 bombs seen to burst in line, 4 probably our own.  Bombing seemed well on and around target.
JB190V  S/L/J.M.Garlick, F/Sgt J.M.Anderson, Sgt A.G.Boyd, F/Sgt E.O.Charlton, F/Sgt F.O.Dawkins, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, F/Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 2121  Down 0405.  8 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  Bright full moon, slight haze.  17,900’.  Marshalling yards seen on run up.  Bombed on red TI markers – in bomb sight.  Own results not seen.  Fires seen burning on north side of goods yard.
JB119F  S/L D.Mackenzie, P/O J.Pratt, F/Sgt R.F.Marshall, F/Sgt I.G.Stephens, F/Sgt A.Hunter, F/Sgt W.A.Lang, F/Sgt K.Kirby.  Up 2122  Down 0446.  8 x 1000lb.  Modane bombed.  19,000’.  Clear sky, good vis.  Bombed on cluster of green TI markers – in bomb sight.  Much smoke observed in target area.  Own bombs seen to burst among TIs.
JB232U  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, F/Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, P/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 2109  Down 0410.  8 x 1000lb.  Target Modane attacked.  16,000’.  Bright moon.  No cloud, ground haze.  Marshalling yards visually identified.  Bombed on red TI markers.  Bomb bursts seen on TIs just short of aiming point.
JB238A  P/O E.F.McEgan, P/O V.S.Flack (wnd Pilot), F/Sgt F.A.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/O J.V.Tyler, Sgts J.J.Johnson, W.S.Gibbs, W.G.Duncan.  Up 2115  Down 0426.  8 x 1000lb.  Target Modane.  Moon, clear sky, vis good.  15,000’.  Good show of TIs and flares.  Marshalling yards observed visually.  Bombed on cluster of red TIs  - in bomb sight.  Many bomb bursts seen but not own.
JB 857Y  P/O C.R.Snell, Sgt L.T.Harman, P/O L.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood.  Up 2124  Down 0430.  8 x 1000lb.  Target Modane attacked.  14,800’.  Full moon, no cloud, good vis.  Good show of flares and TIs.  Target and railway sidings identified visually.  Bombed on red TIs.  Bomb bursts seen on railway station.  Bursts plastered the entie area.  Some good fires seen after leaving.
JA963Q  F/L D.Brill, Sgt J.Stone, F/O A.W.Weston, P/O R.Butler, Sgt H.Chappell, P/O G.J.Little, F/Sgt E.Battle.  Up 2120  Down 0444.  8 x 1000lb.  Modane bombed.  19,500’.  Full moon, clear sky, vis good.  Target identified visually.  Bombed on signle red TI marker.  Own results not seen.  One very good fire seen with much rising smoke.
JB 470T  P/O L.V.Hyde, Sgt N.E.Putt, F/O E.H.Palmer, P/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 2110  Down 0422.  8 x 1000lb.  Primary target Modane bombed.  20,000’.  Moon, clear sky, vis good.  Many flares over target area.  Marshalling yards visually identified and were in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Stick of 4 bursts seen along railway track.

11.11.43 Operations detailed for tonight.  10 aircraft attacked the primary target at Cannes.  Weather – full moon, clear sky, vis good.  Fires reported – particularly the railway repair shop was to be seen on fire.  An explosion was reported near the entrance to tunnel and another about the same area.  Generally the raid is considered successful.  Defences were very slight in target area – 3 light guns and two S/L to south.  No fighter activity in target area.  All aircraft returned safely to base.

11/12 November 1943 – Cannes

JB361B  F/L S.R.Dawson, F/Sgt T.R.Shaw, F/L B.J.Starie, P/O C.H.Parsons (Nav 2), F/Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.McLeich, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, F/Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1831  Down 0210.  20 flares, 1 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Primary objective Cannes attacked.  13,000’.  Moonlight, vis good.  Bombed on red TIs which were a little east of aiming point.  Many bursts seen around TIs.  Several rapid explosions seen as aircraft left target.
JA846M  S/L A.Eaton-Clarke, W/O J.Duffy, F/L A.J.Silk, P/O D.W.Burt, W/O H.Bryson, F/Sgt E.F.Bryan, W/O A.J.Harris.  Up 1850  Down 0217.  20 flares, 1 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Target Cannes attacked.  14,000’.  Full moon, no cloud, vis good.  Bombed on centre point between 2 red TI markers.  Many bursts seen around marshalling yards.  Later attack seemed to spread back.
JB637S  W/C E.F.Nind, P/O P.J.Roberts, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.N.Nelson, F/Sgt G.F.Gower, F/L E.A.Adams, F/L L.G.Mussi.  Up 1836  Down 0221.  5 x TI, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary Cannes bombed.  14,000’.  Full moon, clear sky, vis good.  Bombed on two red TI markers overlapping in bomb sight.   Beach, railway and roads clearly identified.  Bursts observed on railway and repair works.  Fires increasing as aircraft left target.
JB432U  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, F/Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, F/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1837  Down 0240.  5 x TI, 4 x 1000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Target Cannes attacked.  14,000’.  Full moon, no cloud, vis good.  Bombed midway point between 3 red TI markers.  Smoke from incendiaries obscured target.
JB176K  P/O E.F.McEgan, F/Sgt F.A.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/O J.V.Tyler, Sgts J.J.Johnson, W.S.Gibbs, W.G.Duncan.  Up 1840  Down 0238.  5 x TI, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Cannes.  14,500’.  Full moon, clear sky, vis good.  Target identified visually and good concentration of TIs over east end of marshalling yards.  Aiming point in sight at time of bombing.  Own TIs seen to cascade.  Many bomb bursts seen on railway track.  Explosions and fires seen.
JB299W  P/O J.Roberts, Sgt  W.J.Whitbread, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt G.Young, Sgts H.Cohen, P.A.Marsh, F/Sgt W.A.Parsley.  Up 1839  Down 0246.  4 x TI, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective bombed.  13,000’.  Moonlight, no cloud, vis good.  Cluster of red TIs in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own TIs seen to cascade but not own bomb bursts.  Well concentrated fires starting up.
JB353L  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts R.B.Gray, G.Johnson, F/Sgt J.Worsdale, Sgt N.D.Cameron, F/Sgt G.Woolf, F/Sgt G.E.Smith.  Up 1848  Down 0227.  5 x TI, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary target Cannes attacked.  12,500’.  Full moon, vis good.  Ground detail visually identified.  Bombed on centre of cluster of red TIs – in bomb sight.  Many bursts seen in marked area.  Fires were starting.
JB356X  P/O J.P.Billing, Sgts T.W.Hope, J.E.Moriarty, F/O/E.E.Osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, F/Sgt J.B.Findlay.  Up 1846  Down 0225.  5 x TI, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Cannes bombed.  Moonlight, no cloud, vis good.  Red TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Own TIs seen to cascade.  TI concentration very good.  Bursts seen on railway repair shops.  Several fires burning.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, F/Sgt D.E.Harvey, F/Sgt J.R.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright.  Up 1842  Down 0236.  5 x TI, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  15,000’.  Moon light, clear sky, vis good.  Red TI markers in bomb sight at time of bombing. Own bombs seen to burst among TIs.  Own TIs seen to cascade.  One good fire burning giving off a lot of black smoke.
JA908N  F/O J.N.Nicholls, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, R.Whitehead.  Up 1851  Down 0251.  4 x TI, 6 x 1000lb.  Target Cannes attacked.  12,500’.  Full moon, clear sky, vis good.  Good concentration of red and green TIs over aiming point.  Bombed on centre of cluster of reds – in bomb sight.  Many bursts of other bombs seen.

12.11.43  Y cross country and air firing training.

13.11.43 Y cross countries, air firing and fighter affiliation.

14.11.43 Y training and air firing.

15.11.43 Y training and bombing.  S/L Dunnicliffe carried out circuits and landings.  BAT training.

16.11.43 Y cross countries, HL Bombing and NFTs.  Operations detailed and cancelled.

17.11.43 P/O Fairlie, Sgt Ball and S/L Parrott reported by IRCC  as killed.  W/C Alabaster DFC, S/L Rodley DFC and S/L Sauvage DFC awarded the immediate DSO.  Y bombing training, SBA and fighter affiliation.  15 aircraft detailed for operations tonight, target being Mannheim.  The attack was carried out in 2/10th cloud, vis good, hazy.  PFF Group operated with blind bombing, no markers being used.  Explosions were seen and fires started and seen on return 30 miles away.  From reports of fires and explosions generally it would appear that a fairly good margin of success had been achieved.  Defences slight.  H/F inaccurate and many S/Ls ineffective.  Many fighter flares but no fighter activity seen otherwise.  All aircraft returned safely to base.  G/C Fresson DFC carried out night training.

17/18 November 1943 – Mannheim

JB300D  F/L S.R.Dawson, F/Sgt T.R.Shaw, F/L B.J.Starie, F/Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, F/Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1705  Down 2230.  5 x 2000lb.  Target Mannheim attacked.  19,000’.  1/10th cloud, hazy.  Target located by precision device.  Bombed on other bomb bursts.
JB190V  S/L J.M.Garlick, F/Sgt J.M.Anderson, Sgt A.G.Boyd, F/Sgt E.O.Charlton, F/Sgt F.A.Dawkins, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, F/Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 1720  Down 2220.  5 x 2000lb.  Mannheim bombed.  17,500’.  No moon, no cloud, thick haze.  H2S blind bombing.  Bomb bursts seen after bombing.  3 fires seen – one blue explosion among fires.
JA857G  F/L W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1720  Down 2226.  5 x 2000lb.  Target Mannheim.  17,500’.  Clear sky, ground haze.  Bombs dropped blind.  4 large fires seen burning with yellow flame.  Several explosions seen.  Fires could be seen 30 miles from target.
JA963Q  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, F/Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, F/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1714  Down 2235.  5 x 2000lb.  Target Mannheim attacked.  17,000’.  9/10ths broken cloud.  Vis poor.  Bombed centre of concentration of fires.  One big explosions seen at 2008 with blue flash.  Many HE bursts became more concentrated at later stage.
JB238A  P/O E.F.McEgan, F/Sgt F.A.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/O J.V.Tyler, Sgts J.J.Johnson, W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 1716  Down 2300.  5 x 2000lb.  Target Modane attacked.  12,000’.  Layer cloud, vis very hazy.  H2S – bombs dropped blind.  Cloud and haze made observation impossible.  Aircraft also one of first on target.  Large explosion.
JB299W  P/O J.Roberts, Sgt W.J.Whitbread, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt G.Young, F/Sgt H.J.Blower, Sgt P.A.Marsh, F/Sgt W.A.Parsley.  Up 1722  Down 2257.  5 x 2000lb.  Mannheim bombed.  5/10ths cloud.  12,000’.  Vis poor.  Target located by DR run from Maine.  Bombed on HE bursts and defences.  Several red fires were burning close together.  Bomb bursts seen among fires. 
JA908N   P/O A.Whetter, Sgts F.B.Gray, G.Johnson, J.Worsdale, N.D.Cameron, F/Sgt G.Woolf, F/Sgt E.E.Smith. Up 1717  Down 2200.  5 x 2000lb.  Primary objective attacked.  17,000’.  Clear sky, slight haze.  Target located by H2S.  Bombs dropped blind.  Several small and large fires observed.  Two large blue explosions seen.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt J.B.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, F/Sgt D.E.Harvey, F/Sgt J.R.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright.  Up 1719  Down 2220.  5 x 2000lb.  Target Mannheim bombed.  No moon, no cloud, slight haze.  18,000’.  Bomb bursts in bomb sight at time of bombing.  Five good fires were seen in approximately the same area.
JB243P  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, F/Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, F/Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1721  Down 2241.  5 x 2000lb.  Mannheim.  No moon, no cloud, vis hazy.  17,000’.  Target located by H2S.  Many HE bomb bursts seen among fires.  Own bombs dropped blind.
JB356X  P/O J.B.Billing, Sgts T.W.Hope, J.E.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, F/Sgt J.B.Findlay.  Up 1722  Down 2257.  5 x 2000lb.  Target Mannheim.  No moon, clear sky, hazy.  17,000’.  Target located by H2S.  Buildings seen on run in – in light of fires and explosions.  Big blue explosion seen at 2009 hours.
JB422H   F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, R.Whitehead.  Up 1723  Down 2306. 5 x 2000lb.  Target Mannheim attacked.  5/10ths low thick cloud.  Hazy, vis good.  Target located by H2S.  Bombs dropped blind.  Bursts of other bombs seen in built up area.  One good fire observed.
JA963Y  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, F/Sgt R.S.Mortham, F/Sgt P.W.Dries.  Up 1725  Down 2230.  5 x 2000lb.  Primary objective bombed.  19,000’.  Vis good, slight haze.  Target identified visually by bend in river.  Bombs released on centre of other bomb bursts.  4 large fires were seen on leaving target.
JB353L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, F/O G.A.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1718  Down 2215.  5 x 2000lb.  Mannheim attacked.  17,800’.  2/10ths cloud.  Ground haze.  Target found by Nav aids “Y”.  Aiming point identified.  Bombed on other bomb explosions.  Fires started up after bombing.  Huge red explosions  seen at 2009 hours.
JA960E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, F/Sgt G.E.Dunning, F/O R.J.Conley, F/O P.N.Lovick, F/Sgt A.W.Burnell, F/Sgt S.R.Watson, F/O G.Polson.  Up 1724  Down 2255.  5 x 2000lb.  Primary Mannheimbombed.  17,000’.  3/10ths low cloud, hazy.  Bombed by H2S.  Large fire seen to start up.  Many other bomb bursts seen.  Four rapid explosions seen at 2010 giving off green and blue flame.
JB176K  F/L J.F.Munro, F/O C.B.Owen (2nd Pilot), F/L R.C.Swetman, F/L A.J.Silk, F/L F.P.Burbridge, F/Sgt J.M.Underwood, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, W/O W.Hill.  Up 1715  Down 2225.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Primary objective bombed.  No moon, no cloud.  Hazy.  18,000’.  Target found by H2S.  Bomb aimer saw nothing.  Three fires observed – one large.

18.11.43 17 Lancasters detailed for tonight’s ops.  Berlin was attacked in 10/10ths cloud tops 18,000’.  Vis good – hazy.  Explosions were reported but raid was scattered and no good concentration achieved.  Owing to cloud, crews saw little or nothing.  Defences weak to moderate, slight H/F – S/Ls ineffective.  16 photos attempted.  One aircraft and crew failed to return – F/Sgt Johnson and crew.  No news received at base, all other aircraft returned safely with little damage.

18/19 November 1943 – Berlin

JB361B F/L S.R.Dawson, F/Sgt T.R.Shaw, F/L B.J.Starie, F/Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barowman, F/Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1708  Down 0053.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Berlin attacked.  No moon, 10/10ths cloud. 20,000’.  Bombed by H2S.  TIs at first seemed scattered but bombing later seemed more concentrated.  Cloud conditions made ground observation impossible.
JB227J  F/L J.F.Munro, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/L A.J.Silk, F/L F.P.Burbridge, F/Sgt J.M.Underwood, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, W/O W.Hill.  Up 1710  Down 0050.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 18,000’.  Visibility poor.  Target located by Navigation aids “Y” and timed run from Brandenburg.  No TIs seen before run up but later several were observed with bomb bursts.  One big explosion seen at 2114 hours.
JA857G   F/L W.Riches, Sgts G.Winter, H.W.Watts, E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1725  Down 0115.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed.  Identified by Nav aids “Y” and run from Brandenburg.  Vis poor.  No results could be seen.   Tailplane, sides of fin and rudder holed by heavy flak.
JB190V  S/L J.M.Garlick, F/Sgt J.M.Anderson, Sgt A.G.Boyd, F/Sgt E.O.Charlton, W/O F.O.Dawkins, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, F/Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 1725  Down 0105. 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed.  15,000’,  Target identified by red and yellow TIs. 10/10ths cloud tops but vis good.  No results of raid could be seen owing to cloud.
JB367S  F/Sgt A.A.Johnson, F/Sgt W.Jackson, F/L A.W.Pepper, P/O F.T.Williams, F/Sgt J.J.Sansam, F/Sgt T.Hesselden, F/Sgt C.J.Billows.  Up 1715.  Missing.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, F/O C.B.Owen (2nd Pilot), W/O R.C.Granger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1720  Down 0105.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Primary target Berlin bombed from 19,500’.  Glow of red TIs seen at time of bombing.  Vis bad – no markers.  10/10ths cloud up 10/12,000’.  Reddish explosion seen at 21.13 hours. 
JB300D  F/L R.F.Clayton, F/Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.E.Newbegin, F/Sgt J.P.Dow, W/O J.Woods, P/O P.O.Bone.  Up 1730  Down 0120.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Berlin bombed.  19,500’.  Bombed in centre of 3 red TIs.  Cloud prevented observation of results but raid appeared to be scattered.  A small explosion was seen as target was left behind on return.
JA908N  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts R.B.Gray, G.Johnson, F/Sgt J.Worsdale, Sgt N.D.Cameron, F/Sgt G.Woolf, F/Sgt G.E.Smith.  Up 1725  Down 0050.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  No moon. 10/10 cloud at 10,000’ but vis good above cloud.  Berlin bombed from 20,000 on red TIs.  Windscreen iced up on the inside!
JB353L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, F/O G.A.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1730  Down 0040.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Berlin bombed from 18,000’.  Bombed on yellow TIs seen cascading on run up to target.  No moon but vis good.  Two large explosions seen lasting about 11/2 and 3 seconds respectively.  Starboard inner engine believed hit by flak.
JB176K  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, F/Sgt D.E.Harvey, F/Sgt J.R.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright.  Up 1735  Down 0125.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Berlin attacked.  20,000’.  Vis hood.  Reflection of an explosion seen giving a red glow.  Cloud rendered observation of results impossible.
JB218  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, F/Sgt R.S.Mortham, F/Sgt P.W.Dries.  Up 1730  Down 0035.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 500lb.  Berlin bombed.  19,000’.  Bombs dropped on concentration of TI reds – backed up by green.  Cloud made results of bombing impossible to see.  No fires or explosions seen.
JA960E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, F/Sgt G.E.Dunning, P/O R.J.Conley, F/O P.W.Lowick, F/Sgt A.J.Burnell, F/Sgt F.R.Watson, F/O G.Polson.  Up 1720  Down 0105.  4 x 2000lb.  Bombs dropped on Berlin from 19,500.  Vis poor.  10/10ths cloud.  One red TI seen in bomb sight at time of release of bombs.  Little results could be seen owing to cloud and searchlight reflection.
JB470T  F/L B.F.Cawdery, Sgts J.A.Pearson, W.Swales, P/O J.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hanesen.  Up 1730  Down 0005.  4 x 2000lb.  Berlin attacked from 20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Vis poor.  TIs at first appeared spread but improved later.  Starboard inner engine and bomb doors holed by heavy flak.
LM346O  F/L L.V.Hyde, Sgt M.E.Putt, F/O E.H.Palmer, F/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt J.Taylor.  Up 1725  Down 0025.  4 x 2000lb.  Bombs released on Berlin from 20,000’.  Bombed dropped on red and green TIs.  Vis poor.  10/10ths cloud up to 12,000’.
JB243P  P/O A.D.Riley, Sgts J.Tupper, N.Allen, F/Sgt J.Valastin, Sgts J.Nixon, F.Barrett, G.S.Baker.  Up 1725  Down 0100.  4 x 2000lb.   Bombs released in centre of red TIs over Berlin.  Vis good but hazy.  Suffered very minor flak damage.  Landed at Thurleigh owing to shortage of fuel.
JB238A  P/O E.F.McEgan, Sgt F.A.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/O J.V.Tyler, Sgts JJJohnson, W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 1730.  Down 0055.  4 x 2000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,000’.  Target located by precision device.  Vis poor, 10/10ths top.  No results observed. 
JB232U  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, F/Sgt F.White, W/O G.Luckart, F/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1725  Down 0125.  4 x 2000lb.  Berlin bombed.  16,000’.  Target indicated by green and yellow TIs.  Explosion seen at 2114 hours.  No results of bombing observed.

19.11.43 No operations detailed – stand down for all aircrews.

20.11.43 No flying today – very foggy.  Ground training as detailed.

21.11.43 Information from IRC states that J18137 P/O G.D.Nicoll has been captured (reported missing 8/9 Oct 43).  Weather unfit for flying.

22.11.43 20 Lancasters detailed to attack targets in Berlin.  Weather 9/10 – 10/10ths cloud at 7,000’ – visibility good.  Bombs were released from approximately 10,000’.  All TIs were reported as fairly well concentrated and a good and continuous marking was kept up during the attack.  Some fires were reported but bomb bursts could not generally be seen.  Observation was hampered by clouds but the attack is considered scattered.  Defences – heavy and light barrage over target with box barrage at 16,000’.  No fighter flares.  Two aircraft and crews have failed to return from this operation – they are JB227J F/L Munro DFC (Can) and crew and JB238A P/O McEgan (Aus) and crew.  All remaining aircraft returned to base, a few of them with minor flak damage.

22/23 November 1943 – Berlin

JA963Q  F/L S.R.Dawson, F/Sgt T.R.Shaw, F/L B.J.Starie, F/Sgt R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, F/Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1705  Down 2255.  4 flares, 3 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Primary target Berlin located by precision device.  Bombs released from 19,000’.  Flares appeared to be scattered.  Very large fire observed after leaving target.
JB227J  F/L J.F.Munro, F/Sgt W.G.Waller, F/L A.J.Silk, F/L F.P.Burbridge, F/Sgt J.M.Underwood, F/Sgt R.S.Bennett, W/O W.Hill.  Up 1705 – Missing.
JB227J  S/L J.M.Garlick, F/Sgt J.M.Anderson, Sgt A.G.Boyd, F/Sgt E.O.Charlton, F/Sgt F.O.Dawkins, F/Sgt T.M.Ward, F/Sgt F.Edwards.  Up 1705  Down 2325.   4 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 18,300’.  Target located by precision device and timed run from Rethenow.  Glow of TIs seen for 20 seconds before bombing.  Bomb sight not used.
JA857G  F/L W.Riches, Sgt G.Winter, P/O H.W.Watts, Sgt E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, F/Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.N.Booth.  Up 1725  Down 0015.  4 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 18,400 in good visibility.  Target located by precision device.  No sky markers seen before bombing.  Large explosion seen to light up the whole area with an orange flash.
JB238A  P/O E.F.McEgan, F/Sgt F.A.Williams, P/O P.A.Spencer, F/O J.V.Tyler, Sgts J.J.Johnson, W.S.Gibb, W.G.Duncan.  Up 1730 – missing.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, W/O R.C.Granger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1710  Down 2320.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 2000lb.  Berlin attacked from 19,500’.  Vis good.  10/10ths cloud.  Bombs released on white flares and red and green stars.  Very big red fire seen at 2022.
JB356X  P/O J.B.Billing, Sgts T.W.Hoper, J.E.Moriarty, P/O E.E.osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, F/Sgt J.B.Findlay.  Up 1715  Down 2300.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Bombs released on Berlin from 18,000’ on concentration of red TIs.  Vis good.  Own TIs seen to cascade over the red TIs.
JA908N  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts R.B.Gray, G.Johnson, F/Sgt J.Worsdale, Sgt N.D.Cameron, F/Sgt G.Woolf, F/Sgt G.E.Smith.  Up 1715  Down 2325.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Primary target Berlin bombed.  Bombs released from 19,300’ on concentration of green TIs.  Large orange/red explosion seen at 2022 hours.  Vis good.
JB299W  P/O J.Roberts, F/Sgt S.R.Arter, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt D.Young, F/Sgt H.J.Blower, Sgt P.A.Marsh, F/Sgt W.A.Parsley.  Up 1710  Down 2340.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from a height of 19,000’.  Bombs were dropped in centre of cluster of three red TIs.  On leaving target fires were increasing and clouds were glowing.  A big explosion observed lasting 5/6 seconds.
JB243P  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgt A.C.East, F/Sgt S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, W/O H.Bryson, W/O C.J.Skinner, F/Sgt E.Battle. (No times shown).  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Bombs released into centre of cluster of 4 TIs Green over Berlin.  Vis good.  Occasional bomb bursts seen.  Bomb doors would not close after bombing and the hydraulic system rendered u/s by flak.
JB353L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, F/O G.A.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1725  Down 2330.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,000’.  Target indicated by Wanganui flare and red and green starts.  Large orange/red explosion seen at 2027  hours.
JB218Y  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Graham, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, F/Sgt R.S.Mortham, F/Sgt J.Reed.  Up 1722  Down 2342.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target Berlin attacked.  19,000’.  No moon, 10/10ths cloud.  Bombed on Wanganui flares.  Nothing seen owing to cloud except reflection of fires.
JB422H  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, R.Whitehead.  Up 1725  Down 2345.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  No moon. Vis good.  Target Berlin bombed by aid of Wanganui flares.  Bombs released from 19,000’.  Wanganui flares seemed well concentrated.  Glow of what may have been fires seen after leaving target.
LM346O  P/O L.V.Hyde, Sgt M.B.Putt, F/O E.H.Palmer, P/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 1730  Down 2340.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 20,000’.  Target identified by Wanganui flares and confirmed by precision device.  Large ornage/red explosion which might have been an aircraft explosing.
JA960E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, F/Sgt G.E.Dunning, F/O R.J.Conley, F/O P.M.Lowick, F/Sgt A.W.Burnell, F/Sgt F.R.Watson, F/Sgt E.Hambling.  Up1725  Down 2345.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Attacked Berlin from 19,000’.  Bombs released midway between flares, red and green stars.  Huge glow observed below cloud.
JA846M  S/L D.Mackenzie, P/O J.J.Pratt, F/Sgt R.Marshall, F/Sgt I.G.Stephens, F/Sgt A.Hunter, F/Sgt W.A.Lang, F/Sgt K.Kirby.  Up 1705  Down 2300.  5 x 2000lb.  Primary target Berlin bombed from 18,000’.  Aiming point located by precision device.  Cloud prevented any observation of the progress of the raid.
JB232U  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, F/Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, F/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1710  Down 2310.  5 x 2000lb.  Bombs dropped on Berlin from 19,000’.  Target located by precision device.  Good concentration of TIs and flares.  Raid appeared more successful than last occasion.
JB470T  F/L E.F.Cawdery, Sgts J.A.Pearson, K.Swales, P/O J.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, f/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 1725  Down 2310.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Bombs released on cluster of three TIs red and one green.  9/10th-10/10ths cloud tops at 6,000’.  Vis good.
JB176K  P/O V.S.Flack, Sgt J.H.Hare, F/O A.P.Rand, F/O W.A.Colson, Sgt R.Ferguson, F/Sgt H.Dunnett, Sgt J.A.Peill.  Up 1715  Down 2320.  5 x 2000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,000.  Bomb bursts not observed on account of cloud.  Good TI concentration was building up.

23.11.43 16 Lancasters detailed to again operate against Berlin.  Weather was better although 10/10ths cloud, there were patches of visibility.  Markers reported to be well concentrated – owing to cloud no details were possible but the attack is considered very scattered.  Some incendiaries were seen through clouds.  A good red glow could be seen for 20 minutes on route home.  Fires were still believed to be burning from the previous raid.  H/F moderate and barrage light.  Many fighter flares and fighter activity.  F/Sgt Penny and crew failed to return.  All other aircraft returned safely to base encountering bad weather and gales.  Minor damage was sustained by some aircraft – F/L Riches had two engines shot up over the target but the aircraft was brought back to base safely in the remaining two engines, the third one cutting while still on the runway.

23/24 November 1943 – Berlin

JB356X  F/L W.Riches, Sgt G.Winter, P/O H.W.Watts, Sgt E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, F/Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1735  Down 2335.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed by aid of “Y” and TIs.  Flares and TIs were very well concentrated and timed.  Numerous fires appeared to be reflected on cloud and red glow seen as far away as Bremen.
JB232U  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, F/Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, F/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1715  Down 2345.  4 flares, 7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target bombed from 18,400’.  Vis good.  Very good concentration of TIs.  Many fires burning – possibly from previous raid.
JB367S  F/L R.F.Clayton, F/Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, F/Sgt A.E.Newbegin, F/Sgt J.P.Dow, W/O J.Woods, F/Sgt P.A.Walder.  Up 1730  Down 2330.  2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Bombs dropped on aiming point identified by concentration of red TIs.  Vis good.  Good concentration of fires seen through clear sky.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, W/O R.C.Granger, P/O E.L.Cohn, F/Sgt J.E.Gardner, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/Sgt R.K.Baggs.  Up 1725  Down 0005.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  8/10ths cloud at 6,000’.  Vis good.  Bombs released from 18,600’ on centre of cluster of red TIs.  Flares and TIs well concentrated.
JA908N  P/O A.Whetter, Sgts R.B.Gray, J.J.Johnson, F/Sgt J.Worsdale, Sgt N.D.Cameron, F/Sgt G.Woolf, F/Sgt G.E.Smith.  Up 1725  Down 2325.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Berlin bombed from 20,300’.  Good concentration of fires seen as far away as Hanover.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, F/Sgt D.E.Harvey, F/Sgt J.R.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright. Up 1730  Down 0010.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Bombs released on aiming point in Berlin by aid of TIs red.  Route markers effective and well backed up.  Several fires observed burning well.
JB218Y  F/Sgt J.A.Penny, Sgts R.T.Fathers, J.Grahm, R.Campbell, J.R.Cowen, F/Sgt R.S.Mortham, F/Sgt P.W.Dries.  Up 1730 – missing.
JA190V  P/O L.V.Hyde, P/O A.J.Coleman (2nd Pilot), Sgt M.E.Putt, F/O E.H.Palmer, P/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 1735  Down 2359.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Bombs released on aiming point identified by TI green.  Vis very good.  8/10ths cloud tops at 13,000’.  Several large fires seen reflected on cloud.
JB470T  F/L B.F.Cawdery, Sgts J.A.Pearson, K.Swales, P/O J.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 1730  Down 2350.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,900.  Aiming point identified by cluster of TI reds and a few greens.  Large patch of fires seen on arrival in target area.
LM346Z  P/O C.R.Snell, Sgt L.T.Harman, P/O L.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood.  Up 1740  Down 2355.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed through broken cloud.  A general burning mass could be glimpsed in built up area.  Searchlights occasionally penetrated through clouds.  Very good TI concentration.
JB299W  P/O J.Roberts, F/Sgt J.Duffy, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt G.Young, F/Sgt H.J.Blower, Sgt P.A.Marsh, F/Sgt W.A.Parsley.  Up 1715  Down 2345.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 18,500’.  Aiming point located with “Y”.  On leaving target fires were seen to causing widespread glow on cloud.  Minor damage caused to fuselage by flak.
JB119F  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, R.Whitehead.  Up 1720  Down 0015.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Aiming point of target located by fires with Wanganui flares above.  One 1000lb bomb hung up.  Cockpit holed by heavy flak.  Street visible outlined by fire.
JA963Q  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgt A.C.East, F/Sgt S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1730  Down 2340.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Aiming point in Berlin bombed from 18,200’.  Target located with aid of “Y”.  Routemarkers considered accurate and helpful.  Fires seen starting but no spectacular results.
JA960E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, F/Sgt G.E.Dunning, F/O R.J.Conley, F/O R.G.Boston (AB1), p/o p.m.Lowick (AB2), f/Sgt A.W.Burnell, F/Sgt F.R.Watson, F/Sgt E.Hambling.  Up 1720  Down 2325.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,000.  Vis good, 10/10ths cloud.  Too early for many results except good glow beneath cloud.  Very bumpy weather encountered on return journey.
JB353L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, P/O G.A.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1725  Down 2350.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Bombs released on target from 19,000’.  Target located by “Y”.  Fires reflected on clouds could be seen 20 minutes before bombing.
JB361B  P/O V.S.Flack, Sgt J.E.Hare, F/O A.P.Rand, F/O W.A.Colson, Sgt R.Ferguston, F/Sgt H.Dunnett, Sgt J.A.Peill.  Up 1730  Down 0010.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Vis fairly good over target Berlin which was bombed from 19,000’.  Very good concentration of TIs and flares and well backed.  Large red glow seen to light up cloud. 

24.11.43 Some air training for u/t crews, all other crews stood down for rest.

25.11.43 19 aircraft detailed for ops and night training cross countries which were carried out.  The following signal has been received from AOC-in-C – “I have received the following message from the Secretary of State which please convey together with my reply to all ranks”……….”My warmest congratulations to you and to all ranks serving under your command on two crushing attacks on the Nazi citadel.  Berlin is not only the home of Prussian militarism and the capital of the Nazi government, but it is also the greatest single centre of war industry in Germany.  Often before, your squadrons have hit it hard.  The most convincing measure of this success has been the huge deployment of the enemy’s resources for its defence.  Nevertheless your attacks these last two nights have reached a new level of power and concentration and have proved that however much he may marshall his guns, searchlights and fighters, the enemy cannot match your skill and determination of your crews.”  AOC-in-C’s reply “On behalf of all ranks of Bomber Command I thank you for your encouraging message. The Battle of Berlin progresses.  It will continue as opportunity serves and circumstances dictate until the heart of Nazi Germany ceases to beat.

Out of the 19 aircraft detailed for operations, which were to attack Frankfurt, three aircraft were withdrawn.  Remainder bombed in 9/10ths cloud top about 1,800’ in thin layer – vis good.  Defence – H/F moderate – barrage bursting 16-18,000’.  S/Ls ineffective, some enemy aircraft fighter activity.  First TIs were fairly well concentrated, later flares were seen wide of target and scattered bombing followed.  Fires were scattered over an area of some 8 miles radius.  Fires were seen reflected in the clouds from 40 miles away but a good concentrated attack was not achieved.  F/L Brown (Can/USA) and crew failed to return.  This crew was operating for the first time with this Squadron.

25/26 November 1943 – Frankfurt

JA908N  P/O J.Roberts, P/O S.R.Arter, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt G.Young, F/Sgt H.J.Blower, Sgt P.A.Marsh, F/Sgt W.A.Parsley.  Up 0025  Down 0600.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Frankfurt bombed from 18,800’.  Cloud obscured target and aircraft was too early on target to observe results.
JB353L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, F/O G.A.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 0135  Down 0555.  4 x 2000lb.  Target bombed from 18,000’.  9/10ths cloud tops at 15,000’.  On approaching target a large green flash and explosion was seen under cloud in target area.
JB243P  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgt A.C.East, F/Sgt S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 0020  Down 0550.  4 x 2000lb.  Frankfurt attacked from 18,100’.  10/10ths cloud tops at 10,000’ to 18,000’.  Vis fair.  “Y” used to locate aiming point.
JA960E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, Sgt J.H.Hare, P/O R.J.Conley, P/O P.M.Lowick, F/Sgt A.W.Burnell, F/Sgt F.R.Watson, F/O G.Polson.  Up 0015  Down 0550. 4 x 2000lb.  Frankfurt bombed through 10/10ths cloud.  Vis poor and hazy.  No markers seen before bombing.  Slight glow from one or two fires.
JB422H  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, R.Whitehead.  Up 0025  Down 0610.  4 x 2000lb.  Target bombed from 18,500’.  Two TI reds only were seen but were well placed.  Target located by “Y”.
JB312Z  G/C N.H.Fresson, F/Sgt A.J.Newell, P/O I.Worth, W/O J.Bartholomew, W/O R.Dickie, F/Sgt G.W.Wood, F/Sgt A.J.Croll.  Up 0025  Down 0600.  4 x 2000lb.  Frankfurt bombed from 21,500’.  10/10ths cloud and poor visibility.  After bombing, red glow was observed beneath cloud.
JB221S  F/L C.M.Brown, Sgts A.Smith, I.B.Watson, P/O H.C.Aley, B.F.Tutt (Heathcote ?), D.Little, F/Sgt R.W.Sinden.  Up 0030  - missing.
JA963Q  F/L D.Brill, Sgt J.Stone, F/O A.W.Weston, P/O R.Butler, Sgt H.Chappell, P/O C.J.Little, F/Sgt E.Battle.  Up 0030  Down 0630.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Frankfurt attacked from 19,500’.  Target marked by 8 TI red.  A red glow was in bomb sight as bombs were released.
JB535J  F/O L.Wheble, Sgts J.Burt, R.E.Page, P/O J.Gordon, Sgts J.Grieve, J.J.Reid, R.C.Pitcon.  Up 0025  Down 0705.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Aiming point of target identified by red, green and yellow TIs.  Bombs dropped on Frankfurt from 19,500’.  Aircraft was attacked by flak and searchlight and a fighter flare appeared on starboard side at the same time.
LM366O  P/O A.J.Coleman, Sgts F.E.Durn, L.G.Lock, F/Sgt V.N.Turner, Sgts C.Matthews, C.R.Jones, J.E.Marchant.  Up 0030  Down 0630.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target bombed from 18,000’ and identified by red TI.  Two red TIs were seen cascading before bombing.  Visibility good.
JB119F  S/L D.Mackenzie, P/O J.J.Farrant, F/Sgt R.Marshall, F/Sgt I.G.Stephens, F/Sgt A.Hunter, F/Sgt W.A.Lang, F/Sgt K.Kirby.  Up 0015  Down 0605.  24 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Frankfurt bombed from a height of 18,000’.  Aiming point calculated by timed run.  Vis hazy and cloud prevented any observation of results.
JA857G  F/L W.Riches, Sgt G.Winter, P/O H.W.Watts, Sgt E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 0000  Down 0545.  24 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Target bombed from 18,400.  Thick cloud and haze obscured view of results.  10/10ths cloud to 10,000’.  No markers seen on arrival.
JB232U  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, F/Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, F/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 0005  Down 0535.  24 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Frankfurt bombed from a height of 18,000.  Vis fair.  Large explosion with whitish flash seen on cloud.  Cloud made TIs useless.
JB190V  P/O L.V.Hyde, Sgt M.E.Putt, P/O E.H.Palmer, P/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 0030  Down 0640.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Target identified by TIs red and bombed from 19,500’.  Glow of fires could be seen and smoke rising to about 3,000’.  Built up area seen through break in cloud.
JB219R  P/O D.A.Montgomery, F/Sgt R.C.Granger, P/O W.G.Wishart, P/O R.N.Nelson, F/Sgt J.Baker, F/Sgt S.N.Neill, F/O F.Woods.  Up 0005  Down 0535.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Frankfurt attacked from 18,000’.  10/10ths cloud tops at 18,000’.  Vis fair.  Large explosion seen on cloud.
JB470T  F/L E.F.Cawdery, Sgts J.A.Pearson, K.Swales, P/O J.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 0035  Down 0600.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Frankfurt attacked from 20,000’.  Target identified by red TIs.  Sudden glow observed below clouds at 0250 hours.  No markers seen.

26.11.43  19 aircraft detailed for operations.  9 of them to attack a target in Berlin and 10 to the secondary target at Stuttgart.  8 aircraft attacked Berlin, 1 aircraft having been withdrawn due to bomb trouble.  Weather clear and vis good.  Defences – moderate H/F, inaccurate, S/L cones.  Some 150 S/L to south-east in outskirts.  Much fighter activity.  Attack opened up well on time, but for some scattered markers, a good concentration was maintained.  Glow of large fires seen 100 miles away on homeward route.  Attack considered to have been very scattered.  All crews returned safely to base.  9 aircraft attacked Stuttgart, one aircraft returned early, the mid upper gunner being sick.  Vis good but 7/10ths cloud up to 10,000’.  Defences slight, H/F inaccurate owing to cloud – fighters not conspicuous.  Fires were seen to glow beneath clouds which were visible 60 miles on route home.  Crews report much activity at Frankfurt of flak and fighter flares.  The attack is considered successful, all returned safely to base.

26/27 November 1943 – Berlin

JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, F/Sgt D.E.D.Harvey, F/Sgt J.R.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright.  Up 1735  Down 0010.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Berlin attacked from 20,000’.  Vis good.  Target identified by a salvo of red and yellow TIs.  A huge pall of smoke was seen on leaving target area.  Glow of fires seen as far away as Hanover.
JB356X  P/O J.B.Billing, Sgts T.W.Hope, J.E.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, F/Sgt J.B.Findlay.  Up 1745  Down 0015.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 8 x 500lb.  Target attacked from 16,500’.  Vis good with a clear sky.  One large fire ans eleven small ones seen burning well.  Much smoke was rising from target area.
JA963Q  F/L D.Brill, Sgt J.Stone, P/O A.P.Rand, P/O R.Butler, Sgt H.Chappell, P/O E.Little, F/Sgt E.Battle.  Up 1730  Down 0020.  1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Berlin bombed from 20,000’.  Vis good, clear sky.  Coned by searchlights over target and encountered some inaccurate heavy flak.  Could not evade searchlights so jettisoned bombs on outskirts of town.
JB219R  F/O L.Wheble, Sgts J.Burt, R.E.Page, F/O J.E.Gordon, Sgts G.T.Levick, J.J.Reid, R.C.Pitcon.  Up 1750  Down 0035.  1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target bombed from 20,000’.  Vis very good and clear sky.  River and red TIs seen on run in.  Built up area seen burning on leaving target.
JB191A  P/O C.S.Chatten, Sgt C.Caumber, P/O T.Campbell, W/O R.J.Lord, Sgt W.A.Reffin, F/Sgt E.Hambling, F/Sgt P.A.Walder.  Up 1735  Down 0040.  1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Berlin attacked.  Bombs released on red and yellow TIs from 20,000’.  Fires were burning just north of river and could be seen about 100 miles away.
JB176K  P/O C.B.Owen, Sgt D.E.Lacey, F/O O.W.Shires, Sgts T.W.Leak, W.G.Knowles, K.Forrest, F.D.Thomas.  Up 1740  Down 0059.  1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Vis excellent.  Target identified by salvo of red and yellow TIs.  Streets and buildings could be seen lit up by fires.  Large pall of smoke observed covering target area.
JA960E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, F/Sgt J.Newell, F/O R.J.Conley, F/O F.M.Lowick, F/Sgt A.W.Burnell, F/Sgt F.R.Watson, F/O G.Polson.  Up 1745  Down 0035.  1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Berlin bombed from 17,500’.  Vis excellent.  Clear sky.  Bombs released after DR run from Brandenburg.  No markers seen on approach to target.  On leaving target, town was lit up by fires and HE bursts.
JB299W  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, F/O G.A.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1740  Down 0045.  1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Berlin bombed in good visibility.  Bombs dropped on target visually and on slavo of red and green TIs.  Bombing appeared to be well centred on TIs.

26/27 November 1943 – Stuttgart

JA857G  F/L W.Riches, Sgt G.Winter, P/O H.W.Watts, Sgt E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1725  Down 2355.  24 flares, 4 x TI, 2 x 1000lb.  Stuttgart bombed from 17,800.  Vis good but hazy.  Several TIs red and yellow were concentrated in region of marshalling yards.  On leaving target fires could be seen as far away as 30 – 40 miles.
JB232U  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgt White, W/O G.Muckart, F/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1720  Down 2335.  24 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Target attacked from 17,300’.  Visibility fairly good.  Target located by “Y”.  TI concentration excellent with fires going well below.  Appeared to be a successful raid.
JB119F  S/L D.Mackenzie, P/O J.Pratt, F/Sgt R.Marshall, F/Sgt I.G.Stephens, F/O W.A.Colson (AB2), F/Sgt A.Hunter, F/Sgt W.A.Lang, F/Sgt K.Kirby.  Up 1730  Down 1940.  Sortie abandoned owing to sickness of mid upper gunner.
JB470T  F/L E.F.Cawdery, Sgts J.A.Pearson, K.Swales, P/OG.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Stuttgart bombed from 21,000’.  Only one TI red seen over target but fires were reflected on clouds and red glow was seen 60 miles on track home.
JB300D  F/L R.F.Clayton, F/Sgt A.S.Palmer, F/L F.W.Chandler, P/O A.E.Newbegin, F/Sgt J.P.Dow, W/O W.Woods, P/O P.O.Bone.  Up 1720  Down 2330.  4 flares, 11 x TI, 1 x 4000lb.  Stuttgart attacked from 17,500’.  One salvo of TIs red were seen in spite of the cloud.  Too early on target for any results to be observed.
JB531Y  P/O L.V.Hyde, Sgt M.E.Putt, F/O E.Palmer, P/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 1725  Down 2355.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Bombed Stuttgart from 18,800.  Bombs released in centre of cluster of red TIs on ground.  Large blue explosion seen followed by a similar explosion a minute later.
LM346O  P/O C.R.Snell, Sgt L.Harman, P/O L.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood.  Up 1730  Down 2345.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Stuttgart bombed from a height of 18,500’.  Bombs dropped on TIs red burning on ground.  Too early for results to be noted but TIs formed a good pattern.
JA908N  P/O J.Roberts, P/O S.R.Arter, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt G.Young, F/Sgt H.J.Blower, Sgt P.A.Marsh, F/Sgt W.A.Parsley.  Up 1730  Down 0010.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Primary target attacked from 18,500’.  Target located by TIs red and green and Wanganui flares.  Excellent concentration of TIs observed.  A very successful raid.
JB422H  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, W.J.Whitehead.  Up 1740  Down 0005.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Stuttgart attacked from 17,000’.  Target identified by yellow and green TIs.  As target was left the red glow of fires could be seen about 70 miles away.
JB243P  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgts A.C.East, S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1735  Down 2350.  6 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target attacked from 18,600’.  Vis fair.  7/10ths cloud tops at 10,000’.  Concentration of TIs quite good.  Glow from fires reflected on clouds visible about 10 – 20 miles away. 

27.11.43 Stand down after resting for operational crews weather unfit.

28.11.43 Weather unfit for flying.  Ground training only. 

29.11.43 Fighter affiliation, bombing and air tests, also some “Y” training cross countries.

30.11.43 NFTs, fighter affiliation and bombing.  16 aircraft detailed for night operations – cancelled owing to adverse weather conditions.

1.12.43 SBA training, fighter affiliation and “Y” cross countries.  17 aircraft detailed for operations – after briefing operations were cancelled.

2.12.43 17 aircraft detailed for tonight’s operations, the target being Berlin.  One aircraft was withdrawn, another P/O Billing and crew returned early, the captain having collapsed but recovered sufficiently to land back at base.  The remaining aircraft raided the target in quarter moon – 7/10ths cloud top 5,000’ – vis good.  Defences H/F predicted moderate, about 200 S/Ls around the city forming cones when cloud breaks permitted.  Many fighter flares and activity.  TIs fairly well concentrated and many incendiary bombs and bombs burst in area.  Later the markers appeared to be scattered.  Reports vary considerably, some saw no fires, others saw fires and much smoke in three columns to 10,000’.  No good concentration was maintained and results are difficult to assess.  S/L Garlick DFC B Flight Commander and his crew failed to return.  No news has since been received.  The remaining 14 aircraft returned safely to base in the early hours of the morning.  F/L Riches’ aircraft was peppered by flak, the pilot himself having a knock on the head which rendered him unconscious – on coming to, the aircraft was in a vertical dive but he managed to bring it under control.

2/3 December 1943 - Berlin

JA857G  F/L W.Riches, Sgt G.Winter, P/O H.W.Watts, Sgt E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1705  Down 2255.  4 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Berlin bombed from 18,800’.  Vis good.  Target located by “Y”. Wanganui flares and red TI seen after bombing.  Mid upper turret and cockpit Perspex holed by heavy flak. 
JB243P  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgt A.C.East, F/Sgt S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, F/Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1705  Down 2320.   4 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 4 x 500lb.  Target bombed from 18,500’.  Quarter moon, 7/10ths broken cloud at 5,000’.  Vis good.  Several fires and plenty of smoke observed when leaving the target area.
JB531Y  P/O C.R.Snell, F/L P.Mansbridge (2nd Pilot), Sgt L.Harman, P/O L.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood (not actually shown in ORB).  Up 1720  Down 2315.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target attacked from 17,600’.  TIs and Wanganuis were very scattered.  Fires were burning well when target was left.  5 minutes after bombing an orange-red explosion was seen.
JB219R  P/O L.V.Hyde, F/Sgt L.W.Scott (2nd Pilot), Sgt M.E.Putt, F/O E.Palmer, P/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 1725  Down 2340.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin attacked and bombs dropped from 17,500’.  Vis good but hazy.  Target identified by red and green TIs.  4 or 5 good fires seen burning with plenty of smoke.
JA908N  P/O J.B.Billing, Sgts T.W.Hope, J.E.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, F/Sgt J.B.Findlay.  Up 1710  Down 1835.  Sortie abandoned owing to captain fainting at 13,000’.
JB119F  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, R.Whitehead.  Up 1710  Down 2340.  5 x 2000lb.  Target Berlin attacked from 19,000’.  Vis good.  Quarter moon.  “Y” used for locating target.  Glow from fires seen on leaving target.
JB353L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, F/O G.A.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1710  Down 2315.  5 x 2000lb.  Berlin bombed in good visibility, broken cloud and quarter moon. One red TI cascaded in bomb sight.  A large yellow-red explosion observed lasting for about 5 seconds.
JA960E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, F/Sgt C.Baumber, F/O R.J.Conley, P/O P.M.Lowick, F/Sgt A.W.Burnell, F/Sgt F.R.Watson, F/O G.Polson.  Up 1715  Down 2310.  5 x 2000lb.  Target bombed from 19,500’.  Vis good.  4/10ths cloud tops at 10,000’.  Fires were burning well and glow could be seen 50 miles away.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, F/Sgt D.E.D.Harvey, F/Sgt J.R.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright.  Up 1715  Down 2305.  5 x 2000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,500’.  Bombs released in centre of red TIs.  No results of bombing seen but incendiaries seemed well scattered.
JB470T  F/L E.F.Cawdery, Sgts J.A.Pearson, K.Swales, F/O G.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.   Up 1720  Down 2305.  5 x 2000lb.  Target located by aid of “Y” and bombed from 19,000’.  On target too early to observe results.  Glow from fires seen on return.  Red TIs appeared to be accurate.
LM346O  P/O A.J.Coleman, Sgts F.E.Durn, G.J.Lock, F/Sgt V.Turner, Sgts C.Matthews, C.R.W.Jones, J.E.Marchant.  Up 1715  Down 2325.  5 x 2000lb.  Berlin attacked.  Vis good, 8/10ths cloud tops at 10,000’.  Fires were burning well after leaving target.  Aircraft damaged in several places by heavy flak.
JB482S  F/O C.B.Owen, Sgt D.E.Lacey, F/O O.W.Shires, Sgts T.W.Leak, S.G.Parrorr, K.Forrest, F.B.Thomas.  Up 1730  Down 2325. 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target bombed from 20,000’.  Quarter moon, very thin low stratus.  Vis good.  Bombs dropped in centre of concentration of red TIs.  Three large columns of smoke observed rising to 10,000’.
JB659J  F/O L.Wheble, Sgts J.Burt, R.E.Page, P/O J.S.Gordon, Sgts G.T.Levick, J.J.Reid, R.C.Pitcon.  Up 1715  Down 2340.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 18,000’.  Target identified by river, red TIs and Wanganui flares.  Good big fires seen well concentrated slightly north-east of aiming point.
JB371B  P/O W.S.Flack, Sgt J.H.Hare, F/O A.P.Rand, F/O R.G.Boston, Sgt R.Ferguson, F/Sgt H.Dunnett, Sgt J.A.Peill.  Up 1720  Down 2330.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Vis good, quarter moon.  Bombs released on target in centre of concentration of red TIs.  Results not seen.  Many fighter flares seen north of Berlin.
JB300D  S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, F/Sgt J.K.Bell, S/L R.B.Ingalls, F/O W.A.Colson, F/O C.E.Chetham, F/L M.Bryan-Smith, F/O R.J.Weller.  Up 1715  Down 2335.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin attacked from 17,500’.  “Y” used for locating target.  No results of bombing seen.  Very scattered red TIs seen along track.  Visibility good.    

3.12.43 16 aircraft have been again detailed for operations tonight.  The crews have been briefed to attack targets at Leipzig.  The attack took place 7-9/10ths cloud tops 5,000’. Vis good.  Defences – moderate predicted H/F, S/Ls about 50 mainly illuminating cloud base.  Considerable fighter activity.  Owing to cloud, no definite results were seen.  P/O Coleman and crew failed to return, no news having been since received.  One aircraft returned early due to rear gunner being sick.  The remaining aircraft returned safely to base.

3/4 December 1943 - Leipzig

JA857G  F/L W.Riches, Sgt G.Winter, P/O H.W.Watts, Sgt E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1725  Down 2355.  4 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Leipzig bombed from 18,800’.  Vis fairly good.  10/10ths cloud.  A good TI concentration was achieved but 1 or 2 reds fell about 2 miles south of this concentration.
JB243P  F/O K.M.Steven, Sgt A.C.East, F/Sgt S.B.Stevenson, P/O R.R.Brown, Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1720  Down 2330.  4 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 400lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Target bombed from 17,600’.  Red TIs appeared to be well placed.  Black smoke rising above cloud tops seen from point 20 miles from target.
JA966E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, F/Sgt C.Baumber, F/O R.J.Conley, P/O P.M.Lovick, F/Sgt A.W.Burnell, F/Sgt F.R.Watson, F/O G.Polson.  Up 1725  Down 0035.  4 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 2 x 1000lb.  Leipzig attacked from 18,500’.  Concentraion of flares and TIs excellent and compact.  Fires were beginning to glow and an explosion was observed and a dense column of smoke breaking through clouds.
JA908N  P/O C.R.Snell, Sgt L.Harman, P/O L.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood.  Up 1730  Down 0010.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Wanganuis and TIs well concentrated over target Leipzig.  Bombs released from 19,600’  Too early to observed results while over target.  Clouds obscured area.
JA963Q  F/L D.Brill, Sgts D.Coates (2nd Pilot), J.Stone, P/O T.Campbell, P/O R.Butler, Sgt G.H.Townend, P/O G.J.Little, F/Sgt E.Battle.  Up 1730  Down 0020.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Bombs dropped on Leipzig.  Routemarkers well placed on route in and out.  The effect of the attack could not be judged owing to 10/10ths cloud over target area.
JB300D S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, F/Sgt J.K.Bell, S/L R.B.Ingalls, F/O W.Colson, F/O C.E.Chetham, F/L M.Bryan-Smith, F/O R.J.Weller.  Up 1720  Down 2330.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Bombs released in centre of cluster of 4 red TIs over Leipzig.  Results were obscured by cloud.
JB219R  P/O L.V.Hyde, Sgt M.E.Putt, F/O E.Palmer, P/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 1750  Down 0035.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Bombed centre of dense concentration of green TIs over Leipzig.  Did not drop own flares as excellent concentration achieved made it unnecessary.  Two large red fires seen in middle of concentration.
JB361A  F/O A.S.Flack, Sgt J.A.Hare, F/O A.P.Rand, F/O R.G.Boston, Sgt R.Ferguson, F/Sgt H.Dunnett, Sgt J.A.Peill.  Up 1735  Down 1910.  (No bomb load shown)  Sortie abandoned – tail gunner reported ill on crossing English coast – so returned to base.
JB119F  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, R.Whitehead (last 3 crew not actually shown in ORB). Up 1730  Down 0025.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Leipzig bombed from 18,000’.  Vis fairly good.  Two fires observed through break in cloud.  A moderate concentration of TIs was achieved.
JB353L  F/O C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick, F/O G.A.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1720  Down 0010.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Target attacked from 19,000’.  Vis good.  10/10ths thin cumulo stratus at 5-6,000’.  Explosion seen at target giving an orange/red glow turning to vivid white.  Approximately a minute later a second one was seen giving green/blue reflection.
JB470T  F/L E.F.Cawdery, Sgts J.A.Pearson, K.Swales, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 1720  Down 2330.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 2000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Leipzig bombed from 17,000’.  “Y” equipment used for locating target.  Vis good.  Aircraft was early on target but on leaving glow from fires could be seen.
JB117C  F/Sgt W.N.Roberts, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/Sgt S.J.Peek, F/O L.C.Jones, F/Sgt D.E.D.Harvey, F/Sgt J.R.Chapman, F/Sgt E.L.Wright.  Up 1735  Down 0010.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Leipzig attacked from 20,000.  No results of bombing seen.  Large explosion – yellow in colour – repeated 5 times, observed.
JB659J  F/O L.Wheble, Sgts J.Burt, R.E.Page, P/O J.S.Gordon, Sgts C.T.Levick, J.J.Reid, R.C.Pitcon.  Up 1733  Down 2355.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Vis very good.  10/10ths cloud at 5,000’.  Target bombed from 20,000’.  Bombs released in middle of three red TIs with green stars.  Smoke observed 2,000’ above cloud.
JB232U  P/O A.J.Coleman, Sgts D.Moore, G.K.Lock, G.V.Turner, C.Matthews, C.R.Jones, J.E.Marchant.  Up 1720 – missing.
JB482S  F/O C.B.Owen, Sgt D.E.Lacey, F/O O.W.Shires, Sgts T.W.Leak, W.G.Knowles, K.Forrest, F.B.Thomas.  Up 1740  Down 0000.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Target Leipzig attacked successfully.  Wanganuis and TIs well concentrated.  Rear gunner reported glow from fires and smoke appearing through break in clouds.
JB299W  F/Sgt I.W.Scott, Sgts E.W.Collishaw, J.Pinkney, D.R.Irvine, S.G.Parrott, K.Foxcroft, S.L.Hope.  Up 1740  Down 0045.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Leipzig attacked.  Good concentration of markers over target.  Barrage flak only but fighters were seen between enemy coast and Hanover.  Pilot’s first operational trip.      

4.12.43 Stand down for operational crews.  Some flying training in the afternoon.

5.12.43 Weather misty – flying training cancelled in afternoon – some ground training.

6.12.43 Weather unfit for flying.  Ground training and lectures.

7.12.43 Weather unfit – misty.  Conferences and ground training.  P/O Saunders Nav and Sgt Andrews A/G reported prisoners of war, Sgt Angel F/E killed, all of P/O Painter’s crew, reported missing 20/21st October 1943.

8.12.43 No flying, weather unfit.  Ground training and aircrew recreation.

9.12.43 No flying, weather unfit.  Ground training and aircrew recreation.

10.12.43 No flying.  Some officers and all aircrew, pilots and flight engineers, are paying a visit to RAF Engineering shops at Henlow.  Stand down in afternoon.

11.12.43 “Y” training, flying in afternoon and ground training.

12.12.43 Flying training programme carried out.  “Y” training and cross countries and bombing.

13.12.43 Flying training, cross countries, fighter affiliation.  Two night cross countries and two aircraft on dusk and dark circuits landing.

14.12.43 Ground training  - weather unfit.

15.12.43 Ground training, weather unfit.  S/Ldr C.M.Dunnicliffe assumed command of the Squadron from G/Cpt N.H.Fresson DFC on posting to RAF Snaith. 

16.12.43 21 aircraft detailed to attack Berlin.  Good concentration of bombing in early stages falling off later.  No results seen only reddish glow.  10/10ths cloud tops 3/5000’, vis good.  Defences H/F moderate to 22,000’ and moderate L/F 14,000’ – S/Ls ineffective.  Many fighter flares and scarecrow flares.  F/L Pelletier in Lanc JA960 was attacked by an enemy fighter JU88 and claims it damaged.  One aircraft, F/L Brill and crew failed to return – no news heard since.  On returning to base aircraft encountered bad visibility over England and the Squadron had a disastrous night in aircraft losses and 28 aircrew being killed.  The following is a brief summary of the return.  8 aircraft landed safely at Bourn and 3 at Graveley. One aircraft landed at Wyton.  F/Sgt Coates after being hit by another aircraft’s incendiaries and having two engines put out of action on the same side by flak, put out a ditching signal when not far from the Danish coast.  With great skill he flew the aircraft back on the two engines and landed safely without further damage at Downham Market.  Two crews, P/O Smith and F/O Mooney the captains, baled out safely over Ely and Wyton.  All the crews were uninjured but one aircraft is missing and untraced.  S/L Mackenzie DFC  crashed at Bourn on the edge of the airfield.  Three were killed – S/L Mackenzie, F/O Colson, P/O Pratt, the remainder are either in hospital or sick quarters.  F/O Thckway and crew crashed near Bourn airfield, killing all except Sgt Mack who is in hospital and Sgt Laver who escaped uninjured.  S/L Deverill DFC DFM and crew crashed at Graveley, all being killed except for W/O Benbow who is in Ely hospital.  F/Sgt Scott and crew crashed at Graveley, all being killed.  P/O Kirkwood and crew crashed near Gransden, all being killed.  Total loss of aircraft – 8.  Aircrew killed – 28, injured 7.

16/17 December 1943 - Berlin

JA857G  F/L W.Riches, Sgt G.Winter, P/O H.W.Watts, F/Sgt E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1640  Down 0015.  1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb, 4 flares red/green, 2LBTI Red, 2 x TI red.  Berlin bombed.  10/10ths cloud tops 3-5,000’.  Vis good.  Wanganuis very well concentrated.  On leaving target TI greens going down well and tending to overshoot.  Observations difficult owing to cloud.
JB712U  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, S/L R.B.Ingalls, F/O W.G.Cooper, F/Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, P/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1640  Down 0050.  4 flares red/green, 2LBTI Red, 2 x TI red, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target attacked from 18,000’.  10/10ths cloud, vis good.  TI reds and Wanganuis well bunched.  Cloud obscured observation of results and aircraft early on target.
JA960E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, F/O L.Henson (2nd Pilot), F/Sgt G.E.Dunning, F/O R.J.Conley, F/L P.M.Lowick, F/Sgt A.W.A.Burnell, F/Sgt F.R.Watson, F/O G.Polson.  Up 1640  Down 0005.  4 flares red/green, 2LBTI Red, 2 x TI red, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 18,500’.  10/10ths cloud, visibility moderate.  Smoke haze.  First TI red very accurate.  Remaining red and green TIs fell very rapidly.  Good concentration.  No results observed owing to cloud.
JB706H  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt S.A.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, R.Whitehead.  Up 1655  Down 0025.  4 flares red/green, 2 LBTI red, 2 x TI red, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Primary target Berlin successfully bombed.  Vis moderate.  10/10ths cloud.
JB312Z  F/L C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O G.W.Borthwick,  F/O G.A.Watling, Sgts L.G.Jones, G.Harper, H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1655  Down 2350.  4 flares red/green, 2LBTI Green, 2 x TI green, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Berlin attacked from 19,500’.  10/10ths cloud, vis good.  Early markers very accurate but pattern spread north to south.  Starboard fin and rudder damaged on landing.
JB356X  P/O J.B.Billing, Sgt T.W.Hope, P/O J.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, Sgt J.M.Campbell, W/O R.D.Curtis, F/Sgt J.B.Findlay.  Up 1700 Down 0035.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Berlin successfully bombed.  Vis good, 10/10ths cloud.
JB361A  P/O V.S.Flack, F/L R.S.Emerson (2nd Pilot), Sgt J.H.Hare, F/O A.P.Rand, F/O R.G.Boston, Sgt R.Ferguson, F/Sgt H.Dunnent, F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 1700  Down 0035.  2 LBTI Green, 2 x TI Green, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Target bombed from 19,500’.  10/10ths cloud, vis good.  TI reds and Wanganuis well concentrated but covered an area of possibly 5 miles in diameter.  Cloud prevented observation of results.  Weather at base on return very bad.
JB963Q  F/L D.Brill, F/L J.Handley (2nd Pilot), Sgt J.Stone, P/O T.McIntyre, P/O R.Butler, Sgt H.Chappell, P/O G.J.Little, F/Sgt E.Battle.  Up 1655 – missing.
JB119F  S/L D.Mackenzie, P/O J.Pratt, F/Sgt R.Marshall, F/O W.A.Colson, F/Sgt A.Hunter, F/Sgt W.A.Lang, F/Sgt K.Kirby.  Up 1645  Down 0045.  5 x 2000lb.  Crashed on landing at base.  Captain, Flight Engineer and Air Bomber killed.
JB470T  S/L E.F.Cawdery, F/L E.Clarke (2nd Pilot), Sgts J.A.Pearson, K.Swale, F/O C.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  5 x 2000lb.  Up 1650  Down 0035.  Berlin bombed from 19,500’.  Vis good.  10/10ths cloud tops at 3,000’.  TIs and Wanganuis fairly well concentrated.  No results seen owing to cloud.
JB299W  F/L J.Roberts, P/O S.R.Arter, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt G.Young, F/Sgt H.J.Blower, Sgt T.A.Marsh, F/Sgt W.A.Parsley.  Up 1650  Down 0015.  5 x 2000lb.  Primary target successfully bombed.  Vis good over target area.  10/10ths cloud.
JB671V  F/L C.B.Owen, Sgt D.E.Lacey, F/O O.W.Shires, Sgts T.W.L.Leak, W.G.Knowles, K.Forrest, F.B.Thomas.  Up 1655 Down 0005.  5 x 2000lb.  In the early stages of the raid good concentration of TIs over target Berlin which was bombed from 19,500’.  A number of green TIs observed – obviously dummy.  Dangerous landing conditions at base due to fog.
JA846M  P/O C.R.Snell, Sgt L.Harman, P/O L.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood.  Up 1640  Down 2325.  5 x 2000lb.  Berlin attacked from 18,800’.  Glow of fires could be seen on leaving target.  TIs and flares appeared scattered at first but improved later.
JB659J  F/L P.Mansbridge, F/Sgt A.S.Palmer, P/O J.Cruwys, F/Sgt W.C.White, W/O E.H.Hanson, F/SGT e.Hambling, F/Sgt P.A.Walder.  Up 1650  Down 0050.  5 x 2000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,000’.  One green TI in centre of cluster of reds – in bomb sight as bombs released.  Low cloud at 400’ at base made landing very dangerous.
JB531Y  P/O F.Smith, Sgt F.E.Durn, P/O J.W.Arturson, F/Sgt J.A.Wilson, Sgts G.H.Townend, N.Stewart, C.A.Bradshaw.  Up 1700  Down not shown.  5 x 2000lb.  Bombs released on Berlin from 20,000’.  No results of bombing seen.  On return to base fog and low cloud made landing dangerous so crew baled out from 7,000’.  All landed safely.
JB117C  F/Sgt I.W.Scott, Sgts E.W.Collishaw, J.Peek, D.R.Irvine, S.G.Parrott, K.Foxcroft, S.L.Hope.  Up 1650  No down time.  5 x 2000lb.  Aircraft crashed on return to base due to fog and low cloud.  All members of the crew were killed.
JB243P  S/L E.A.Deverill, F/Sgt A.Russell, P/O J.T.Brown, F/Sgt J.Farr, F/Sgt R.Crossgrove, W/O J.Benbow, W/O D.J.Penfold.  Up 1645  Down 0015.  5 x 2000lb.  Crashed at Grevelay on returning from attack on Berlin owing to very bad visibility and low cloud.  All members of the crew were killed except the mid upper gunner who was injured.
JB219R  P/O J.Kirkwood, F/Sgt E.Hubbard, Sgt R.Stewart, F/O G.A.Wigley, Sgts R.G.Cleeve, L.Madeley, J.Killen.  Up 1650  Down 0010.  5 x 2000lb.  Crashed on landing on returning from raid on Berlin owing to bad visibility and low cloud, all members of the crew being killed.
JB482S  F/O R.L.Mooney, Sgts F.B.Gray, G.A.Johnson, F/Sgt J.Worsdale, Sgt N.D.Cameron, F/Sgt G.Woolf, F/Sgt L.Smith.  Up 1705  Down 0035.  5 x 2000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,500’.  Target identified by red and green TIs and Wanganui flares.  On return crew baled out owing to weather conditions making landing too dangerous. 
JB176K  F/O E.Thackway, Sgts G.Grundy, J.Powell, P/O L.K.Grant, P.H.Mack, R.Lawrence, L.N.Laver.  Up 1655  Down 0100.  5 x 2000lb.  Crashed on landing after raid on Berlin due to fog and low cloud.  The Captain, Flight Engineer, Navigator, Air Bomber and mid upper gunner were killed.  Wireless Op was injured but the rear gunner escaped injury.
JA908N  Sgts W.D.Coates, R.H.Nicholas, G.Nuttall, P/O E.H.Baldwin, Sgts W.Chapman, W.L.York, F.Thompson.  Up 1700  Down 0130.  5 x 2000lb.  Berlin attacked from 19,000’.  Bombs released in centre of concentration of green TIs.  Returned on two engines, both on port side, and all instruments u/s.  Landed at Downham Market.

17.12.43 No flying.

18.12.43 No flying.

19.12.43 Ground training, day cross country and air tests.  Six aircraft night flying.

20.12.43 19 aircraft detailed for operations tonight.  17 aircraft detailed to attack Frankfurt.  One aircraft was withdrawn, one aircraft returned early due to rear turret u/s.  One aircraft bombed last resort and 12 aircraft attacked the primary in 8/10th cloud top 10,000’ vis good.  Identification of reports was not possible owing to cloud.  Generally crews reported scattered TIs but some good fires which appeared early in the raid fairly concentrated.  Defences slight H/F barrage.  Two aircraft were detailed to attack Mannheim.  One aircraft was withdrawn, the other attacking primary target.  Concentration reported good, many fires burning.  Defences H/F.  All the above aircraft and crews returned safely to base.

20/21 December 1943 - Frankfurt

JB712U  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, Sgt J.Reffin, W/O G.Muckart, P/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1714  Down 2218.  6 x 4 flares, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Frankfurt attacked from 17,000’.  Vis good.  5/10ths cloud tops at 7,000’.  Target identified by yellow TIs with flares and visually.  Cloud prevented results being observed.
JA960E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, F/Sgt G.E.Dunning, P/O R.J.Conley, F/L A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt A.W.Aburnell, F/Sgt F.R.Watson, F/O G.Polspn.  Up 1719  Down 2203.  6 x 4 flares, 2 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target attacked from 18,300’ and located by “Y”.  Red, yellow and green TIs placed well concentrated.  No results observed.
JA846M  P/O C.R.Snell, Sgt L.T.Harman, P/O L.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, W/O J.Parker (Specialist AB), Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood.  Up 1742  Down 2156.  1 x 4 flares, 10 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Bombs released in centre of cluster of yellow TIs over Frankfurt.  Unable to identify aiming point visually owing to cloud, otherwise visibility good.
JB191A   P/O V.S.Flack, Sgt J.H.Hare, F/O A.P.Rand, F/O R.G.Boston No B/Aimer actually shown in ORB), Sgts R.Ferguson, J.H.Peill, F/Sgt H.Dunnett.  Up 1735  Down 2234.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Trankfurt bombed from 19,000’.  Target identified by green TIs and fires.  No results of bombing seen.  Target area covered by fires.
JB659J  F/L D.Mansbridge, Sgt C.Baumber, F/O J.Cruwys, F/Sgt W.C.White, W/O E.Hanson, F/Sgt E.Hambling, F/Sgt P.A.Walder.  Up 1745  Down 2229.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Vis fair.  Target obscured by 7/10ths cloud and smoke although roads and buildings could be seen lit up by fires and incendiaries.  No results of bombing observed.
JB299W  F/L J.Roberts, Sgt E.J.Devine, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt G.Young, Sgts F.Martin, P.A.Marsh, W/O W.A.Parsley.  Up 1723  Down 2216.  6 x 2000lb.  Frankfurt bombed from 18,500’.  H2S u/s so had to identify target by TIs.  Fighter flares on track after leaving target for 70 miles.  Combats observed but no results seen.
JB470T  S/L E.F.Cawdery, Sgts J.A.Pearson, K.Swales, F/O C.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 1725  Down 2159.  6 x 2000lb.  Frankfurt bombed from 19,000’.  6-7/10ths cloud.  Vis very good.  Target located on “Y”.  One Wanganui flare observed falling at 1927 hours.  Many yellow TIs fell after 1930 hours.  Little immediate result but huge red explosion seen from a distance at 1948 hours.  Fires were visible 70 miles from target.
JB356X  F/O J.Billing, F/Sgt F.W.Hope, P/O J.Moriarty, P/O E.E.Osler, F/Sgt J.Campbell, W/O R.D.Curtis, F/Sgt J.V.Findlay.  Up 1739  Down 2201.  6 x 2000lb.  Target bombed from 18,000’.  7-8/10ths cloud.  Vis good.  Located by fires.  No TIs seen until 4 or 5 minutes before bombing when some TIs green were seen burning out.  Aircraft went to Mannheim before target, mistaking flares for TIs yellow.  No results of bombing seen.  On leaving target many bomb bursts were seen in area of fires which had increased.
JB671V  F/L C.B.Owen, Sgt D.E.Lacey, F/O O.W.Shires, Sgts T.W.L.Leak, W.G.Knowles, K.Forrest, F.B.Thomas.  Up 1721  Down 1903.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Turned back owing to hydraulic failure of rear turret immediately after becoming airborne – bombs jettisoned.
JB706H  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt F.B.Gray, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgt J.Gardner, F/Sgt W.D.Ogilvie, F/Sgt A.Whitehead.  Up 1732  Down 2226.  6 x 2000lb.  Mannheim bombed instead of Frankfurt owing to late arrival.  “Y” u/s after take off.  Routemarkers too scattered to be of service navigationally.  Red explosion seen at 1931 hours.
JB300D  S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, W/O J.K.Bell, S/L R.B.Ingalls, S/L R.H.Watts, F/O C.H.Chetham, F/O R.J.Weller, W/O J.Woods.  (No times) 1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Mannheim attacked from 20,000’.  4/10ths cloud very thin.  Visibility excellent.  All navigation aids u/s especially “Y” and “G”.  Arrived over Mannheim one minute before bombing time so bombed there.  Large oil fire explosion at 1927 hours.  A huge fire could be seen from a position near Frankfurt.
LM346O  F/Sgt D.Coates, Sgts R.H.Nicholas, G.Nuttall, P/O E.H.Baldwin, W.Chapman, L.F.C.York, F.Thompson.  Up 1728  Down 2242.  6 x 2000lb.  Frankfurt attacked from 19,000’.  5-6/10ths cloud, vis good.  Aircraft bombed centre of yellow TIs burning on ground.  HE bursts seen amid TIs and a sudden burst of red flame occurred one minute before bombing.  Several incendiaries dropped two miles to east of Frankfurt.  Good fires started at eastern end of town.  Glow could be seen from Liege on return.
JB312Z  F/L R.S.Emerson, F/Sgt J.Newell, F/L W.G.Wishart, W/O J.A.Bartholomew, W/O R.Dickie, W/O E.L.Wright F/Sgt G.W.Wood.  Up 1730  Down 2214.  6 x 2000lb.  Frankfurt bombed from 19,000’.  4/10ths cloud.  Vis good.  Nothing observed of progress of raid.
JB535Q  F/L E.S.Clarke, Sgt R.V.Bowerman, P/O T.Campbell, F/O W.C.Law, W/O J.P.Dow, F/L E.A.Adams, P/O T.E.Charles.  Up 1734  Down 2210.  6 x 2000lb.  Frankfurt bombed from 20,000’.  7/10ths cloud, vis good.  No built up area or results of bombing seen.  On leaving target HE bursts seen but raid appeared to be very scattered.
JB726Y  Did not take off  F/O R.L.Mooney, Sgt F.B.Gray, F/O G.H.Parsons, F/Sgt J.Worsdale, Sgt N.D.Cameron, F/Sgt G.Woold, F/Sgt G.E.Smith.
JB361B  F/O W.A.Meyer, F/Sgt V.A.Davis, F/L B.J.Starie, P/O R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.McLeish, F/Sgt A.Mc. Barrowman, F/Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1736  Down 2247.  1 x 4000lb, 6 x 1000lb.  Frankfurt bombed from 20,000’.  Visibility slight haze.  No fires seen but explosion seen on run up – flames piercing the cloud.  Deep red explosion was observed at 1945.  Glow could be seen from Liege on return.

JA857G  F/L W.Riches, Sgt G.Winter, P/O H.W.Watts, Sgt E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1715  Down 2218.  6 x 4 flares, 4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Mannheim attacked from 18,500’.  Target located by “Y”.  Several fires observed burning well and columns of smoke rising.  The attack had the appearance of being on excellent attack.

20/21 December 1943 - Mannheim

JB708R  P/O L.V.Hyde, Sgt F.E.Putt, F/O E.Palmer, P/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 1718  Down 2238.  6 x 2000lb.  Mannheim bombed from 18,000’.  5/10ths cloud.  Vis good.  Red and yellow TIs seen on target.  Green TIs seen on approach and in sight on bombing.  No results observed.  Attack quite concentrated – opposition negligible.

21.12.43 Night flying detailed.

22.12.43 6 aircraft detailed for night flying consisting of cross countries and SBA training.  Day training also carried out.  Today S/L Mackenzie, Sgt Lawrence and six dominion aircrew who were killed on the 17th December were buried at Cambridge.  The Station Commander, Squadron Commander, some officers and aircrew NCOs attended.  The twenty other personnel were conveyed to their various home towns for burial, a representative of the Squadron was in attendance in each case.

23.12.43 17 aircraft detailed to attack Berlin.  Two aircraft returned early due to engine trouble and 15 aircraft attacked the primary target.  7/10th – 10/10ths cloud at 8,000’, vis good at target.  Moderate H/F and L/F barrage.  Fighter activity average.  Attack appeared well concentrated and a good glow on clouds was seen by returning aircraft for about 50 miles.  

23/24 December 1943 - Berlin

JA960E  F/L J.W.Pelletier, F/Sgt G.E.Dunning, F/O J.J.Conley, F/L A.E.Carlton, F/Sgt A.W.A.Burnell, F/L E.A.Adams, F/O G.Polson.  Up 0011  Down 0731.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Berlin bombed from 18,500’.  Target identified by concentration of red TIs surrounded by red/green Wanganui flares.  Too early on target to observe results.
JB706H  F/O J.H.Nicholls, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/O R.Easson, F/Sgt R.A.Jolley, Sgts J.Gardner, W.D.Ogilvie, A.Whitehead.  Up 0016  Down 0729.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Berlin attacked from 19,000.  7-10/10ths cloud in centre of town.  Vis good.  After the attack was over a large red explosion was seen in southern part of town.
JB712U  F/L K.M.Steven, F/Sgt A.C.East, F/Sgt S.B.Stevenson, F/O R.R.Brown, F/Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, F/Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 0017  Down 0739.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Bombs released on Berlin from 18,400’.  10/10ths cloud tops at 10,000’.  TI reds well concentrated.  No results of bombing seen.
JB191A  P/O V.S.Flack, Sgt J.H.Hare, F/O A.P.Rand, F/O R.Boston, Sgts R.Ferguson,, J.A.Peill, F/Sgt H.Dunnett.  Up 0016  Down 0715.  7 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb, 1 x 500lb.  Returned early – port outer engine caught fire – rear turret and Gee u/s.
JB695J  F/L D.Mansbridge, P/O A.S.Palmer, F/O J.Cruwys, F/Sgt W.C.White, W/O E.Hanson, F/Sgt Davis, F/Sgt P.A.Walder.  Up 0043  Down 0758.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,500’.  Bombs released into centre of concentration of fires.   Explosion seen at 0405 hours.  Experienced two encounters with rocket shells.
JB356X  P/O J.Billing, Sgt F.W.Hope, P/O J.Moriarty, F/O E.E.Osler, F/Sgt J.Campbell, F/Sgt R.D.Curtis, F/Sgt J.V.Findlay.  Up 0051  Down 0723.  4 x TI, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  On approach to target at Berlin a good concentration of TIs.  A good concentration of fires developed and a large red explosion was observed at 0404 hours.
JA846M  P/O C.R.Snell, Sgt L.Harman, P/O C.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood.  Up 0019  Down 0727.  5 x 2000lb.  Berlin bombed from 20,100.  Encountered predicted heavy flak on approach to target.  Results of bombing not observed.  A large explosion  seen and many fighter flares.
JB299W  F/L J.Roberts, Sgt E.J.Devine, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt D.Young, Sgts F.Martin, P.A.Marsh, W/O W.A.Parsley.  Up 0027  Down 0749.  5 x 2000lb.  Berlin bombed from a height of 19,000’.  On run in one red TI observed burning on ground.  Vis good.  9/10ths strata cumulus tops at 10,000’.
JB470T  S/L E.F.Cawdery, Sgts J.L.Pearson, K.Swale, F/O C.Peden, Sgts A.J.Tindall, J.H.McGregor, F/Sgt E.H.Hansen.  Up 0021  Down 0715.  5 x 2000lb.  Target attacked from 20,500’.  TIs and Wanganuis well concentrated.  Cloud prevented observation of results.  Rear gunner observed glow for some distance on track home.
JB708R  P/O L.V.Hyde, Sgt F.E.Putt, F/O E.Palmer, F/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 0033  Down 0746.  5 x 2000lb.  Target Berlin attacked from 18,000’.  TIs were well concentrated.  A large blue explosion was seen at 0423 hours.  Cloud base reddened by the glow from fires.
JB361B  F/O W.A.Meyer, Sgt T.R.Shaw, F/L B.J.Starie, P/O R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, F/Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 0024  Down 0741.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 20,000’.  9/10ths cloud top 10,000’.  Vis good.  On approach to target red TIs seen at 0358 hours and some seconds later Wanganui flares quickly followed by others.  All well concentrated.  No results observed owing to cloud.  Some slight glow on clouds probably from TIs.
JB671V  F/L C.B.Owen, Sgt D.E.Lacey, F/O O.W.Shires, Sgts T.W.L.Leak, W.G.Knowles, K.Forrest, F.B.Thomas.  Up 0029  Down 0709.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target attacked from 19,300’.  10/10ths cloud.  Vis very good.  No TIs seen over target.  Two groups of red/green Wanganuis burning over target at 0412 hours.  Cloud obscured results but Wanganuis well concentrated.  On return bombs could be seen bursting below cloud amid fires.  Oxygen failure to Navigator.
JB683C  F/Sgt D.Coates, Sgts R.H.Nicholas, G.Nuttall, P/O E.H.Baldwin, Sgts W.Chapman, L.F.C.York, F.Thompson.  Up 0032  Down 0755.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 20,000’.  9/10ths cloud.  Vis good.  Target located by red TIs and red/green Wanganuis.  Several sticks of incendiaries lit up streets – observed through break in clouds.  Half a minute after bombing, huge red explosion occurred.
JB535Q  F/L E.S.Clarke, Sgt R.V.Bowerman, F/L W.G.Wishart, F/O W.C.Law, W/O J.P.Dow, P/O T.E.Charles, F/Sgt L.C.Laurie.  Up 0030  Down 0747.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 21,000’.  9/10ths thin cloud tops 8,000’.  Vis good.  At time of bombing one green TI burning on ground and red TIs bombed.  Aircraft late in bombing as H2S u/s, and orbited while waiting for TIs and Wanganuis to be dropped.  Glow below cloud and good concentration of incendiaries and markers observed on return route.  “G” u/s and rear turret u/s on return.
LM346O  F/O R.L.Mooney, Sgts F.B.Gray, G.Johnson, F/Sgt J.Worsdale, Sgt N.D.Cameron, F/Sgt G.Woolf, F/Sgt G.E.Smith.  Up 0038  Down 0751.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Target bombed from 17,500’.  10/10ths cloud top 8,000’.  Vis good.  Red TIs and Wanganuis fell at 0400 hours and on leaving target these were observed to be well concentrated.  The glow of fires could be seen from Hanover.  0424 hours – large explosion seen reflected on clouds.
JB726Y  F/O L.Wheble, Sgts P.Burt, R.E.Page, P/O J.S.Gordon, Sgts G.T.Levick, J.J.Reid, R.C.Pitcon.  Up 0046  Down 0735.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin attacked from 20,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Vis good.  Wanganuis fell 20 seconds after bombing.  Glow from fires reflected through cloud.  Little else observed.  5 x 1000lb GP dropped safe owing to failure of equipment.  Several flak holes in various parts of the aircraft.
JA857G  F/O L.Henson, Sgt W.C. Whitbread, P/O G.H.Parsons, Sgts J.C.Nicholls, N.Cohen, F/O W.Woods, Sgt M.Sharpe.  Up 0040  Down 0236.  Returned – starboard outer engine out – mid upper turret and H2S rendered u/s.         

24.12.43 Weather unfit for flying – some ground training.

25.12.43 Christmas Day – weather unfit for flying.

26.12.43 Some training air and ground carried out.

27.12.43 “Y” training during day and beam night flying.

28.12.43 Cross countries and bombing training carried out.

29.12.43 “Y” training, bombing on range and air firing during day.  18 aircraft detailed to attack Berlin.  Two aircraft were withdrawn, one of which had a tyre burst just before the take off which blocked the dispersal of the other.  One aircraft returned early, oxygen being unserviceable for rear gunner.  15 aircraft attacked the primary target.  Weather 10/10ths vis good.  Defences moderate H/F barrage predicted.  S/Ls nil, slight fighter activity.  Crews report good concentrated attack.  Two were shot up by flak, F/L Steven returning on three engines.  F/L Roberts damaged his wing tip over target, another four engined aircraft hitting him.  All aircraft returned safely to base.

29/30 December 1943 - Berlin

JB712U  F/L C.P.C.de Wesselow, F/Sgt W.S.Bamlett, F/Sgt S.Carlyle, F/O W.G.Cooper, F/Sgt F.White, W/O G.Muckart, P/O J.J.Saynor.  Up 1701  Down 2341.  3 LBTI Red, 3 x TI Red, 1 x 5 flares red/green, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 18,000’.  10/10ths cloud.  Vis good.  Target located on H2S.  Hit by predicted heavy flak at beginning of bombing run.  Aircraft first to drop markers on target and no others seen until 2 or 3 minutes later.  One TI ignited just above cloud and created red glow below.  Too early for results.  Starboard aileron, rudder, fuselage and port tailplane holed by heavy flak.
JA857G  S/L W.Riches, Sgt G.Winter, P/O H.W.Watts, F/Sgt E.H.Pack, F/Sgt J.Wrigley, F/Sgt R.W.Lowe, F/O L.W.Booth.  Up 1702  Down 2335.  3LBTI Red, 3 x TI Red, 1 x 5 flares red/green, 1 x 4000lb, 4 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,000’.  10/10ths cloud, vis good.  Very good concentration was seen and fires were seen to start among TIs burning on the ground, none of which was seen to fall as they all ignited below cloud.
JB728P  F/L K.M.Steven, F/Sgt A.C.East, F/Sgt S.B.Stevenson, F/O R.R.Brown, F/Sgt W.C.Gadsby, W/O C.J.Skinner, Sgt K.D.Newman.  Up 1706  Down 2349.  3LBTI Red, 3 x TI Red, 1 x 5 flares.  Attacked target from 19,200’.  10/10ths cloud, vis good.  Nothing seen through cloud except flares going down.  Hit by heavy flak.  Port outer damaged and caught fire.  Airframe holed.
JB353L  F/L C.T.Wilson, Sgt T.W.Smith, F/L G.W.Borthwick, F/L G.A.Watling, F/Sgt L.G.Jones, F/Sgt G.Harper, F/Sgt H.J.Pleydell.  Up 1710  Down 2330.  3LBTI Red, 3 x TI Red, 1 x 5 flares red/green, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,500’.  10/10ths cloud, vis good.  No results of bombing seen owing to cloud but glow observed from 60 miles on route home.  Bomb hung up and dropped off rack in flight.
JB229W  F/L J.Roberts, Sgt E.J.Devine, F/Sgt R.Dudley, F/Sgt G.Young, Sgts R.C.Wale?, P.A.Marsh, W/O W.A.Parsley.   Up 1716  Down 2400.  3LBTI Green, 3 x TI green, 1 x 5 flares red/green, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Attacked target from 19,000’.  10/10ths cloud, vis good.  An excellent concentration of TIs and good fires burning as aircraft left target.  Starboard wing tip cut off in collision with Lancaster at 20,000’ 1946 hours.  Collision occurred as bombing runs started.
JB300D  S/L C.M.Dunnicliffe, W/O J.K.Bell, S/L R.B.Ingalls, F/O W.C.Law, F/O C.E.Chetham, F/O R.J.Weller, S/L M.Bryan-Smith.  Up 1711  Down 2354.  3LBTI Green, 3 x TI Green, 1 x 5 flares red/green, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 21,500’.  Target identified by Wanganui flares which were well concentrated.  A reflected glow could be observed on leaving target area.
JB659J  F/O D.Wheble, Sgts P.Burt, R.E.Page, F/O J.H.Gordon, Sgts G.T.Levick, J.J.Reid, R.C.Pitcon.  Up 1725  Down 1901.  3LBTI Green, 3 x TI Green, 1 x 5 flares red/green, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Returned early owing to rear gunner’s oxygen supply u/s.
JB731F  P/O W.D.Coates, Sgts R.H.Nicholas, G.Nuttall, F/O Stanislaus, W.Chapman, L.F.York, F.Thompson.  Up 1730  Down 2404.  3LBTI Green, 3 x TI Green, 1 x 5 flares red/green, 1 x 4000lb, 3 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,000’.  10/10ths cloud tops at 10,000’.  Slight haze.  A wide area of cloud showing a dull reddish glow which could be seen about 60 miles away.
MD359M  P/O C.R.Snell, Sgt L.Harman, F/O L.Lintott, P/O N.J.Smith, Sgts J.Grieve, C.J.Green, O.D.Wood (gunners not actually shown in ORB). Up 1712  Down 2304.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin successfully bombed from 22,000.  Target located by H2S.  Later in raid a red glow could be seen about 100 miles away.
JB191A  P/O V.S.Flack, Sgt J.H.Hare, F/O A.P.Rand, F/O R.G.Boston, Sgt R.Ferguson, F/Sgt H.Dunnett, Sgt J.Hinde.  Up 1714  Down 2345.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Bombs released in centre of 3 red TIs over Berlin.  Cloud was thick for TI pattern to be observed.  Vivid flashes illuminated cloud base throughout attack.
JB671V  F/O C.B.Owen, Sgt D.E.Lacey, F/O C.W.Shires, Sgts T.W.L.Leak, W.G.Knowles, K.Forrest, F.B.Thomas.  Up 1709  Down 2314  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Primary target attacked from 19,500’.  10/10ths cloud tops at 7,000’.  Vis good.  No results observed except red glow reflected on cloud.
JB361B  F/O W.A.Meyer, F/Sgt T.R.Shaw, F/L B.J.Starie, P/O R.C.Pike, F/Sgt J.McLeish, F/Sgt A.M.Barrowman, F/Sgt A.E.Roberts.  Up 1704  Down 2338.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,000’.  10/10ths cloud tops at 7,000’.  Vis good.  A very good concentration of red/green Wanganuis observed on leaving target.  Reflection of fires could be seen 150 miles away.
JB312Z  F/L R.S.Emerson, F/Sgt J.Newall, F/O I.Worth, W/O J.Bartholomew, W/O R.Dickie, Sgt S.Duncan, W/O G.W.Wood.  Up 1708  Down 2308.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  10/10ths cloud over target Berlin.  Vis fairly good.  Cloud and early time of bombing prevented results from being observed.
JA708R  P/O L.V.Hyde, Sgt F.E.Putt, F/O E.Palmer, F/O J.Craig, F/Sgt E.Hill, Sgt D.Sweeney, F/Sgt R.Taylor.  Up 1713  Down 2333.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 19,000.  Vis good.  3 groups of Wanganuis were seen in line extending across southern part of city.  No results observed but a red glow was seen from Hanover on route back.
JA960E  P/O C.S.Chatten, Sgt C.Baumber, F/O T.Campbell, F/Sgt I.G.Stephens, Sgts W.A.Reffin, G.Leonard, W/O J.Ferguson.  Up 1715  Down 2317.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Bombs released on primary target which was illuminated by Wanganui flares.  Onleaving target TI reds were going down in good concentration.
JB726Y  P/O F.Smith, Sgts F.E.Durn, J.Arthurson, F/L J.R.Dow, Sgts G.R.Townend, M.Stewart, C.Bradshaw.  Up 1717  Down 2358.  1 x 4000lb, 5 x 1000lb.  Berlin bombed from 20,000.  Target illuminated by 6 Wanganui flares close together.  Visibility – slight haze with 10/10ths cloud tops at 10,000’.  A yellowish-red explosion was observed at approximately 2020 hours.    

30.12.43 Training – one night cross country and circuits and landings.

31.12.43 “Y” training, fighter affiliation and bombing at ranges carried out.