115 Squadron

Place.

Date.

Time.

Summary of Events.

References to
Appendices.

EAST WRETHAM

1/01/43

Met. conditions.

Wind South Westerly, overcast with continuous rain, visibility moderate.

There were no FLYING TRAINING or OPERATIONS today and nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

2/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind West North Westerly, fair with sleet showers later, visibility good.

Flying training.

6 crews undertook FORMATION FLYING PRACTICE.

OPERATIONS NIGHT OF THE 2nd/3rd JANUARY, 1943 - MINELAYING OPERATIONS. OFF LA ROCHELLE.

Form B. received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

21.10

to 21.30

A/C. G.Z.1694. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. C.BK.166. F/S. BALDWIN and Crew took off for Operations

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. S.BK.275. F/S. THURSTON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. N.BJ.990. F/O. THOMAS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
Each of the above aircraft carried 2 1,500lb Mines.

6 aircraft took off on MINELAYING OPERATIONS between the hours of 21.10 and 21.30.
1 aircraft was forced to abandon the sortie 15 minutes after take-off owing to generator failure and returned to base bringing back its mines. On landing, aircraft crashed into trees causing damage to aircraft and injuries to Air Bomber and Rear Gunner.
The remaining 5 aircraft successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area by pinpoint of Northern tip of D'OLERON, Northern tip of ISLE DE RE or ISLE DE RE from heights ranging between 600 and 1,000 feet.

02/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
G. Z. 1694.

Wellington MK.III
C. BK. 166.

Wellington MK.III
B. X. 3924.

Wellington MK.III
S. BK. 275.

Wellington MK.III
N. BJ. 990.

Wellington MK.III
Q. BJ. 756.

F/S. CRIMMIN W.
Sgt. MILLS H.
Sgt. LAY J.
Sgt. WILLIAMS W.
Sgt. TEAGUE W.

F/S. BALDWIN F.
Sgt. PROTHERO A.
Sgt. JOYCE J.
Sgt. SHARPE E.
Sgt. FARNHAM F.

Sgt. RODGERS J.
Sgt. MORRIS F.
Sgt. LEWIS Y.
Sgt. JOHNSON A.
F/S. SNEDDON J.

F/S. THURSTON C.
F/S. SEWELL F.
F/S. BETTERIDGE J.
Sgt. DUNBAR J.
Sgt. HUGHES D.

F/O. W THOMAS.
F/O. H. BECKETT.
Sgt. WATT I.
Sgt. VALLINS A.
Sgt. JONES A. 858

Sgt. FINNERTY G.
Sgt. BOYES C.
Sgt. JONES A.
Sgt. BELLAMY J.
Sgt. GLAZZARD J.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain.
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

2115.

2120.

2110.

2110.

2130.

2125.

0340.

2135.

0510.

0315.

0510.

0335.

LA ROCHELLE - 6 aircraft (3 from 'A' Flight and 3 from "B" Flight) were detailed for MINELAYING OPERATIONS in accordance with Form B.17, received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. G.Z.1694. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew.
A/C. C.BK.166. F/S. BALDWIN and Crew.
A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew.
A/C. S.BK.275. F/S. THURSTON and Crew.
A/C. N.BJ.990. F/O. THOMAS and Crew.
A/C. Q.BJ.756. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew.

Bomb load
Each of the above aircraft carried 2 1.500lb Mines.

A/C. G.Z.1694. (Captain F/S. CRIMMIN) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of Northern Tip of D'OLERON, from a height of 600 feet.

A/C. C.BK.166. (Captain F/S. BALDWIN) was forced to abandon the sortie soon after take-off owing to generator failure and returned to base.
On landing aircraft crashed into a tree causing injuries to the Air Bomber and Rear Gunner.

A/C. B.X.3924. (Captain Sgt. RODGERS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of the Northern tip of OLERON from a height of 900 feet.

A/C. S.BK.275. (Captain F/S. THURSTON) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of ISLE DE RE from a height of 900 feet.

A/C. N.BJ.990. (Captain F/O. THOMAS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of Northern tip of ISLE DE RE from a height of 1,000 feet. Gee failed to work. A/C. Q.BJ.756. (Captain Sgt. FINNERTY) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of Northern tip of ISLE DE RE from a height of 900 feet.

All the aircraft had returned safely to base by 05.10 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

3/01/43.

05.10

All the aircraft had returned safely to base.

Met. conditions.

Wind West North Westerly, fair to fine, visibility moderate.

Flying training.

2 crews undertook FORMATION FLYING PRACTICE.

OPERATIONS NIGHT OF THE 3rd JANUARY, 1943 - MINELAYING OPERATIONS. OFF LA ROCHELLE.

Form B.--- received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

17.01

A/C. R.Z.1657 P/O. TUMA and crew took off for operations.

17.05

A/C. B.X.3924 Sgt. RODGERS and crew took off for operations.

Bomb load.
Each of the above aircraft carried 2 1,500lb Mines.

2 aircraft took off on MINELAYING OPERATIONS at 17.01 hours and 17.05 hours respectively.
Both aircraft successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area, one by pinpoint of Northern end of ISLE DE RE from a height of 1,000 feet and the other by pinpoint of POINTE DU CHE from a height of 700 feet.

23.15

Both aircraft had returned safely to base after operations.

03/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
R. Z. 1657.

Wellington MK.III
B. X. 3924.

P/O. C. TUMA.
Sgt. K. SPOONER.
Sgt. POLLARD M.
Sgt. TOMPKINS W.
F/S. McKAY H.

Sgt. RODGERS J.
Sgt. MORRIS F.
Sgt. LEWIS Y.
Sgt. JOHNSON A.
F/S. SNEDDON J.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

1701.

1705.

2315.

2305.

LA ROCHELLE - 2 aircraft (1 from 'A' Flight & 1 from "B" Flight) were detailed for MINELAYING OPERATIONS in accordance with Form B.18, received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. R.Z.1657. P/O. TUMA and Crew.
A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew.

Bomb load
Each of the above aircraft carried 2 1.500lb Mines.

A/C. R.Z.1657. (Captain P/O. TUMA) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of POINTE DU CHE from a height of 700 feet.

A/C. B.X.3924. (Captain Sgt. RODGERS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of Northern end of ISLE DE RE from a height of 1,000 feet.

Both aircraft had returned safely to base after operations by 23.15 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

4/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind Westerly, fine, visibility moderate.

Flying training

2 crews undertook FORMATION FLYING PRACTICE and one crew SPECIAL EXERCISE.

There were no OPERATIONS today and nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

5/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind Easterly, cloudy, visibility very poor.

There were no FLYING TRAINING or OPERATIONS today and nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

6/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South South Easterly, cloudy with rain, visibility very poor.

There were no FLYING TRAINING or OPERATIONS today and nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

7/01/43.

Met. conditions

Wind East North Easterly, cloudy with rain, visibility very poor.

There were no FLYING TRAINING or OPERATIONS today and nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

8/01/43.

Met. conditions

Wind calm, fine, visibility moderate.

Flying training..

6 crews undertook FORMATION FLYING PRACTICE.

There were no OPERATIONS today and nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

9/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South Easterly, fair, visibility moderate.

Flying training.

3 crews undertook CROSS COUNTRY EXERCISES.

OPERATIONS NIGHT OF THE 9th JANUARY, 1943 - MINELAYING OPERATIONS. OFF HELIGOLAND.

Form B.M.32 received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

16.40

to 17.10

A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. S.BK.275. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. F/S THURSTON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. R.Z.1657. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
The above aircraft carried 8 1,500lb Mines.

4 aircraft took off between 16.40 hours & 17.10 hours on MINELAYING OPERATIONS.
2 aircraft successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area, one by pinpoint of North Bank of EIDER ESTUARY and the other by pinpoint of SCHARHORN from heights of 2,000 feet & 2,500 feet respectively.
1 aircraft was forced to jettison its mines live when attacked by a J.U.88 and returned to base safely with holes in port tail.
The remaining aircraft dropped 1 mine in the allotted position by pinpoint of North Base of EIDER ESTUARY from a height of 3,000 feet but jettisoned the other mine due to hang up & returned to base with hole in fuselage due to Flak.

21.40

All the aircraft had returned safely to base.

09/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
N. BJ. 990.

Wellington MK.III
S. BK. 275.

Wellington MK.III
Q. BJ. 756.

Wellington MK.III
R. Z. 1657.

F/S. CRIMMIN W.
Sgt. MILLS H.
Sgt. PENKMAN E.
Sgt. WILLIAMS W.
Sgt. TEAGUE W.

Sgt. RODGERS J.
Sgt. MORRIS F.
Sgt. LEWIS Y.
Sgt. JOHNSON A.
F/S. SNEDDON J.

F/S. THURSTON.
F/S. SEWELL F.
Sgt. DUNBAR J.
F/S. BETTERIDGE J.
Sgt. HUGHES D.

Sgt. MINNIS H.
Sgt. CARTER H.
Sgt. TIMMS W.
Sgt. LAW N.
F/S. FOSTER E.

1640.

1700.

1645.

1710.

2115.

2130.

2135.

2140.

HELIGOLAND 4 aircraft (1 from 'A' Flight & 3 from "B" Flight) were detailed for MINELAYING OPERATIONS in accordance with Form B.M.32, received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew.
A/C. S.BK.275. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew.
A/C. Q.BJ.756. F/S. THURSTON and Crew.
A/C. R.Z.1657. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew.

Bomb load
Each of the above aircraft carried 2 1.500lb Mines.

A/C. N.BJ.990. (Captain F/S. CRIMMIN) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of North Bank of EIDER ESTUARY from a height of 2,000 feet.

A/C. S.BK.275. (Captain Sgt. RODGERS) dropped one mine in the allotted position by pinpoint of North Base of EIDER ESTUARY from a height of 3,000 feet but was forced to jettison the other mine live due to hang up.
Aircraft returned to base with hole in fuselage due to Flak.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. (Captain F/S. THURSTON) was forced to jettison his mines live when attacked by a J.U.88 and returned to base with holes in port tailplane.

A/C. R.Z.1657. (Captain Sgt. MINNIS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of SCHARHORN from a height of 2,500 feet.

All the aircraft had returned safely to base by 21.40 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

10/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South South Easterly, cloudy with rain, visibility moderate.

Flying training.

There were no operations or Flying Training today and nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

11/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South Easterly, cloudy with rain, visibility poor.

There was no FLYING TRAINING today.

OPERATIONS NIGHT OF 11/12th JANUARY, 1943 - TARGET ---.

5 crews stood by for minelaying Operations off LA ROCHELLE which were cancelled at 16.00 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

12/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South South Easterly, overcast with rain, visibility poor.

There was no FLYING TRAINING today.

EAST WRETHAM

13/01/43.

Operations Night of 12/13th JANUARY, 1943. MINELAYING OPERATIONS. OFF LA ROCHELLE

Form B.---, received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

01.00

to 01.20

A/C. S.BK.275. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. T.Z.1620. Sgt. ROSS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. C.BK.166. F/O. THOMAS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. Sgt. MINNES and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
The above aircraft carried 12 1,500lb Mines.

6 aircraft took off between 01.00 hours & 01.20 hours on MINELAYING OPERATIONS.
All the aircraft succesfully dropped their mines in the allotted area by pinpoint of North West tip of ISLE DE RE, ISLE D'AIX, South of LA ROCHELLE or the North tip of ISLE D'OLERON from heights ranging between 600 & 1,500 feet.

13/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
S. BK. 275.

Wellington MK.III
B. X. 3924.

Wellington MK.III
T. Z. 1620.

Wellington MK.III
C. BK. 166.

Wellington MK.III
N. BJ. 990.

Wellington MK.III
Q. BJ. 756.

Sgt. PUDSEY K.
Sgt. WICKS S.
F/S. JONES W.
P/O. F. POTTER.
Sgt. STRANGE K.

Sgt. RODGERS J.
Sgt. MORRIS F.
Sgt. LEWIS Y.
Sgt. JOHNSON A.
F/S. SNEDDON J.

Sgt. ROSS H.
Sgt. SHAW S.
F/S. DRAY D.
F/S. MARSHALL J.
Sgt. BRADFORD J.

F/O. W. THOMAS.
F/O. H. BECKETT.
Sgt. WATT I.
Sgt. VALLINS A.
Sgt. MUIR K.

F/S. CRIMMIN W.
Sgt. MILLS H.
Sgt. PENKMAN E.
Sgt. WILLIAMS W.
Sgt. TEAGUE W.

Sgt. MINNIS H.
Sgt. CARTER H.
Sgt. TIMMS W.
Sgt. LAW N.
F/S. FOSTER E.

0100.

0100.

0120.

0100.

0110.

0115.

0720.

0725.

0700.

0735.

0650.

0730.

LA ROCHELLE 6 aircraft were detailed for MINELAYING OPERATIONS in accordance with Form B.22, received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. S.BK.275. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew.
A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew.
A/C. T.Z.1620. Sgt. ROSS and Crew.
A/C. C.BK.166. F/O. THOMAS and Crew.
A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew.
A/C. Q.BJ.756. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew.

Bomb load
Each of the above aircraft carried 2 1.500lb Mines.

A/C. S.BK.275. (Captain Sgt. PUDSEY) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint just South of LA ROCHELLE from a height of 600 feet.

A/C. B.X.3924. (Captain Sgt. RODGERS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of ISLE D'AIX from a height of 1,500 feet.

A/C. T.Z.1620. (Captain Sgt. ROSS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of ISLE D'AIX from a height of 600 feet.

A/C. C.BK.166. (Captain F/O. THOMAS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of ISLE D'AIX from a height of 900 feet.

A/C. N.BJ.990. (Captain F/S. CRIMMIN) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of North Tip of ISLE D'OLERON from a height of 800 feet.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. (Captain Sgt. MINNIS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of North Western Tip of ISLE DE RE from a height of 800 feet.

All the aircraft had returned safely to base after operations by 07.35 hours.

07.35

All the aircraft had returned safely to base after operations.

Met. conditions.

Wind South Westerly, fair, visibility good.

There was no FLYING TRAINING today.

EAST WRETHAM

14/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind North Northerly, cloudy with rain, visibility moderate.

There was no FLYING TRAINING today.

OPERATIONS NIGHT OF 14/15th JANUARY, 1943 - TARGET LORIENT & MINELAYING OPERATIONS OFF LA ROCHELLE.

Form B.---, received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

17.00

to 17.05

A/C. CB.K.166. F/S. THURSTON and crew took off for operations.

A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. P/O. TUMA and Crew took off for Operations.

22.30

to 22.40

A/C. VB.K.168. S/L. CHILTON, AFC and crew took off for operations.

A/C. F.BJ.832. F/O. THOMAS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Y.X.3565. Sgt. MINNES and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. M.BJ.879. Sgt. ROSS and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
4 of the above aircraft carried 8 1,500lb Mines & 4 carried 4 4,000lb H.C.'s.

4 aircraft took off between 17.00 hours & 17.05 hours on MINELAYING OPERATIONS & 4 aircraft took off between 22.30 hours & 22.40 hours to attack target LORIENT.
Of the latter 4 aircraft, 2 were forced to abandon the sortie due to freezing up of Inter communication & to severe ice accretion which effected the controls respectively and both returned to base early after jettisoning their bombs live.
The remaining 2 succesfully located the target LORIENT and dropped their bombs from 9,000 feet & 11,000 feet respectively in built up area without observing any results. Scattered fires were seen over a wide area on both sides of river and also a very large fire in vicinity of aiming point. Photographs were attempted.

The 4 aircraft detailed for MINELAYING OPERATIONS successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area by pinpoint of POINT D'AIGUILLE, POINT DU CHE or ISLE D'AIX from heights ranging between 300 feet & 1,000 feet.
1 aircraft experienced electrical storms over North Coast of France.

14/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
C. BK. 166.

Wellington MK.III
N. BJ. 990.

Wellington MK.III
B. X. 3924.

Wellington MK.III
Q. BJ. 756.

Wellington MK.III
V. BK. 168.

Wellington MK.III
F. BJ. 832.

Wellington MK.III
Y. X. 3565.

F/S. THURSTON C.
F/S. SEWELL F.
Sgt. LAY J.
Sgt. DUNBAR J.
Sgt. HUGHES D.

F/S. CRIMMIN W.
Sgt. MILLS H.
Sgt. PENKMAN E.
Sgt. WILLIAMS W.
Sgt. TEAGUE W.

Sgt. FINNERTY G.
Sgt. BOYES C.
Sgt. JONES A.
Sgt. BELLAMY J.
Sgt. GLAZZARD J.

P/O. C. TUMA.
Sgt. SPOONER K.
Sgt. POLLARD M.
Sgt. ANDERSON M.
F/S. McKAY H.

S/L. P. L. CHILTON.
P/O. J. L. MUNBY.
Sgt. McKAY F.
P/O. S. R. GARRARD.
P/O. A. MURRAY.

F/O. W. THOMAS.
F/O. H. BECKETT.
Sgt. WATT I.
Sgt. VALLINS A.
Sgt. CARTER R.

Sgt. MINNIS H.
Sgt. CARTER H.
Sgt. TIMMS W.
Sgt. LAW N.
F/S. FOSTER E.

Sgt. ROSS H.
Sgt. SHAW S.
F/S. DRAY D.
F/S. MARSHALL J.
Sgt. BRADFORD J.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

1705.

1700.

1700.

1701.

2235.

2230.

2230.

2240.

2315.

2300.

2310.

2335.

0215.

0440.

0255.

0250.

LORIENT AND LA ROCHELLE 4 aircraft were detailed to attack target LORIENT and 4 for MINELAYING OPERATIONS in accordance with Form B.24, received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. C.BK.166. F/S. THURSTON and Crew.
A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew.
A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew.
A/C. Q.BJ.756. P/O. TUMA and Crew.
A/C. V.BK.168. S/L. CHILTON A.F.C. and Crew.
A/C. F.BJ.832. F/O. THOMAS and Crew.
A/C. Y.X.3565. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew.
A/C. M.BJ.879. Sgt. ROSS and Crew.

Bomb load
4 of the above aircraft each carried 2 1.500lb Mines & the rest each carried 1 4,000lb H.C'S. The latter carried cameras.

A/C. C.BK.166. (Captain F/S. THURSTON) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of POINT DE L'AIGUILLE from a height of 900 feet.
Aircraft experienced electrical storms over North coast of FRANCE.

A/C. N.BJ.990. (Captain F/S. CRIMMIN) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of POINT DU CHE from a height of 600 feet.

A/C. B.X.3924. (Captain Sgt. FINNERTY) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of ISLE D'AIX from a height of 1,000 feet.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. (Captain P/O. TUMA) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of POINT DU CHE from a height of 300 feet.

A/C. V.BK.168. (Captain S/L. CHILTON) detailed to attack LORIENT, was forced to abandon the sortie owing to severe ice accretion which affected the controls and had to return early after jettisoning his bomb. Aircraft landed at EXETER.

A/C. F.BJ.832. (Captain F/O. THOMAS) dropped his bomb from a height of 11,000 feet on build up area without observing any result. Scattered fires were seen over a wide area on both sides of river. Photo was attempted.

A/C. Y.X.3565. (Captain Sgt. MINNIS) was forced to abandon the sortie owing to freezing up on intercommunication and returned to base early after jettisoning his bomb.

A/C. M.BJ.879. (Captain Sgt. ROSS) dropped his bomb from a height of 9,000 feet on build up area without observing any result. Scattered fires were seen over a wide area on both sides of River. One very large fire in vicinity of aiming point was observed. Photo was attempted.

All the aircraft had returned safely to base by 04.40 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

15/01/43.

04.40

All the aircraft had returned safely to base.

Met. conditions.

Wind Westerly, cloudy becoming fair with showers, visibility moderate.

There was no FLYING TRAINING today.

OPERATIONS NIGHT OF 15th JANUARY, 1943 - TARGET - LORIENT.

Form B.--- received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

17.25

to 17.35

A/C. F.BJ.832. F/O. THOMAS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. P/O. TUMA and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. ALDWIN and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. V.BK.168. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. M.BJ.879. Sgt. THURSTON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. S.BK.275. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Y.X.3565. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
The above aircraft carried 24 500lb G.P's, 12 1,000lb G.P's & 4 4,000lb H.C's. All the aircraft carried cameras.
10 aircraft took off between 17.25 hours & 17.35 hours to attack target LORIENT.
All the aircraft located succesfully located the target and bombing from heights ranging between 6,000 & 12,000 feet, dropped their bombs in built up area and dock area, most of them without observing any results. A few bombs were believed to have dropped on aiming point. Concentrated fires were seen in dock area and town, also 2 large fires in docks & 2 large fires in town.
1 aircraft was hit by Flack whilst coned by searchlights but fired down searchlight beam. Photographs were attempted.

23.30

All the aircraft had returned safely to base after operations.

15/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
F. BJ. 832.

Wellington MK.III
Q. BJ. 756.

Wellington MK.III
N. BJ. 990.

Wellington MK.III
V. BK. 168.

Wellington MK.III
M. BJ. 879.

Wellington MK.III
S. BK. 275.

Wellington MK.III
C. BK. 166.

Wellington MK.III
Y. X. 3565.

Wellington MK.III
B. X. 3924.

Wellington MK.III
J. X. 3878.

F/O. W. THOMAS.
F/O. H. BECKETT.
Sgt. WATT I.
Sgt. VALLINS A.
Sgt. JONES A. 858

P/O. C. TUMA.
Sgt. SPOONER K.
Sgt. POLLARD M.
Sgt. TOMPKINS W.
F/S. McKAY H.

F/S. BALDWIN F.
Sgt. PROTHERO A.
F/S. SMITH M.
Sgt. SHARPE E.
Sgt. BUCKLAND E.

F/S. CRIMMIN W.
Sgt. MILLS H.
Sgt. PENKMAN E.
Sgt. WILLIAMS W.
Sgt. TEAGUE W.

F/S. THURSTON C.
F/S. SEWELL F.
Sgt. BETTERIDGE J.
Sgt. DUNBAR J.
Sgt. HUGHES D.

Sgt. PUDSEY K.
Sgt. WICKS S.
F/S. JONES W.
P/O. F. POTTER.
Sgt. STRANGE K.

Sgt. ROSS H.
Sgt. SHAW S.
F/S. DRAY D.
F/S. MARSHALL J.
Sgt. BRADFORD J.

Sgt. MINNIS H.
Sgt. CARTER H.
Sgt. TIMMS W.
Sgt. LAW N.
F/S. FOSTER E.

Sgt. RODGERS J.
Sgt. MORRIS F.
Sgt. LEWIS Y.
Sgt. JOHNSON A.
F/S. SNEDDON J.

Sgt. FINNERTY G.
Sgt. BOYES C.
Sgt. JONES A.
Sgt. BELLAMY J.
Sgt. GLAZZARD J.

1735.

1730.

1725.

1735.

1730.

1730.

1730.

1730.

1730.

1730.

2315.

2330.

2255.

2240.

2305.

2330.

2310.

2300.

2305.

2300.

10 aircraft were detailed to attack target LORIENT in accordance with instructions in Form B.25, from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. F.BJ.832. F/O. THOMAS and Crew.
A/C. Q.BJ.756. P/O. TUMA and Crew.
A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. BALDWIN and Crew.
A/C. V.BK.168. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew.
A/C. M.BJ.879. F/S. THURSTON and Crew.
A/C. S.BK.275. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew.
A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew.
A/C. Y.X.3565. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew.
A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew.
A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew.

Bomb load
4 of the above aircraft carried 1 4,000lb H.Cs., & 6 each carried 2 1.000lb G.Ps & 4 500lb G.Ps. all the aircraft carried cameras.

A/C. F.BJ.832. (Captain F/O. THOMAS) bombing from a height of 12,000 feet, dropped his bomb which was seen to burst in vicinity of aiming point. A hugh fire in North and of docks & concentrated fires throughout dock area & town were observed. Photo was attempted.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. (Captain P/O. TUMA) dropped his bombs from a height of 10,000 feet in built up area without observing any results. Numerous fires in dock area & town and two very large fires in docks were seen. Photo was attempted.

A/C. N.BJ.990. (Captain F/S. BALDWIN) dropped his bombs from a height of 12,000 feet through a gap in clouds without observing any results. Concentrated fires in dock area & town were seen. Photo attempted.

A/C. V.BK.168. (Captain F/S. CRIMMIN) dropped his bomb from a height of 11,000 feet on existing fires in dock area. Concentrated fires with some fires on opposite side of river were observed. Photo attempted.

A/C. M.BJ.879. (Captain F/S. THURSTON) dropped his bomb from a height of 10,500 feet on built up area without observing any result. Numerous fires chiefly West of docks were seen. Photo attempted but flash did not go off.

A/C. S.BK.275. (Captain Sgt. PUDSEY) bombing from a height of 6,000 feet dropped his bombs which were believed to have bursted on aiming point. Two large fires in town & concentrated fires in docks & town were observed.
Aircraft was hit by Flak whilst coned by searchlights. Aircraft fired down searchlight beam.
Photo attempted.

A/C. C.BK.166. (Captain Sgt. ROSS) dropped his bombs from a height of 10,000 feet on build up area without observing any result. Numerous fires chiefly West of docks were observed. Photo was attempted.

A/C. Y.X.3565. (Captain Sgt. MINNIS) dropped his bombs from a height of 12,000 feet in dock area without observing any result. Numerous fires in dock area & scattered fires North West of town were seen. Photo was attempted.

A/C. B.X.3924. (Captain Sgt. RODGERS) dropped his bombs from a height of 10,000 feet on built up area without observing any result. Numerous fires throughout area were seen. Photo was attempted.

A/C. J.X.3878. (Captain Sgt. FINNERTY) dropped his bombs from a height of 10,000 feet on built up area without observing any result. Numerous fires throughout dock area & town were seen. Photo was attempted.

All the aircraft had returned safely to base after operations by 23.30 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

16/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind Southerly, cloudy, visibility moderate.

There were no OPERATIONS today & nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

17/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South South Easterly, cloudy with rain becoming fair, visibility moderate.

Flying training.

3 crews undertook FORMATION FLYING PRACTICE.

OPERATIONS NIGHT OF 17th JANUARY, 1943 - TARGET LUBECK.

11 crews stood by for operations which were cancelled at 16.20 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

18/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind Light South Easterly, fair becoming cloudy, visibility poor.

There was no FLYING TRAINING today.

OPERATIONS NIGHT OF 18th JANUARY, 1943 - MINELAYING OPERATIONS OFF FRISIAN ISLANDS.

Form B.--- received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

17.30

to 17.45

A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. P/O. TUMA and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. THURSTON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. S.BK.275. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. G.Z.1694. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
The above aircraft carried 14 1,500lb MINES.
7 aircraft took off between 17.30 hours & 17.45 hours on MINELAYING OPERATIONS.
All the aircraft successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area, one by pinpoint of TERSCHELLING & the rest by T.R. & D.R. fixes, from heights ranging between 200 feet & 1,000 feet.

21.10

All the aircraft had returned safely to base after operations.

18/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
N. BJ. 990.

Wellington MK.III
Q. BJ. 756.

Wellington MK.III
B. X. 3924.

Wellington MK.III
C. BK. 166.

Wellington MK.III
S. BK. 275.

Wellington MK.III
G. Z. 1694.

Wellington MK.III
J. X. 3878.

F/S. CRIMMIN W.
Sgt. MILLS H.
Sgt. PENKMAN E.
Sgt. WILLIAMS W.
Sgt. TEAGUE W.

P/O. C. TUMA.
Sgt. SPOONER K.
Sgt. POLLARD M.
Sgt. TOMPKINS W.
F/S. McKAY H.

F/S. THURSTON C.
Sgt. RHYS D.
F/S. SEWELL F.
F/S. BETTERIDGE J.
Sgt. DUNBAR J.
Sgt. HUGHES D.

Sgt. ROSS H.
Sgt. SHAW S.
F/S. DRAY D.
F/S. MARSHALL J.
Sgt. BRADFORD J.

Sgt. PUDSEY K.
Sgt. WICKS S.
F/S. JONES W.
P/O. F. POTTER.
Sgt. STRANGE K.

Sgt. MINNIS H.
Sgt. CARTER H.
Sgt. TIMMS W.
Sgt. LAW N.
F/S. FOSTER E.

Sgt. FINNERTY G.
Sgt. BOYES C.
Sgt. JONES A.
Sgt. BELLAMY J.
F/S. PAGE T.

1730.

1740.

1740.

1745.

1730.

1745.

1745.

2015.

2040.

2110.

2045.

2045.

2045.

2045.

FRISIAN ISLANDS 7 aircraft were detailed for MINELAYING OPERATIONS in accordance with Form B. 28, from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. CRIMMIN and Crew.
A/C. Q.BJ.756. P/O. TUMA and Crew.
A/C. B.X.3924. F/S. THURSTON and Crew.
A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew.
A/C. S.BK.275. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew.
A/C. G.Z.1694. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew.
A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew.

Bomb load
Each of the above aircraft carried 2 1,500lb Mines.

A/C. N.BJ.990. (Captain F/S. CRIMMIN) dropped his mines in the allotted position by T.R. & D.R. fix from a height of 800 feet.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. (Captain P/O. TUMA) dropped his mines in the allotted position by T.R. & D.R. fix from a height of 800 feet.

A/C. B.X.3924. (Captain F/S. THURSTON) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of TERSCHELLING from a height of 800 feet.

A/C. C.BK.166. (Captain Sgt. ROSS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by T.R. & D.R. fix from a height of 1,000 feet.

A/C. S.BK.275. (Captain Sgt. PUDSEY) dropped his mines in the allotted position by T.R. & D.R. fix from a height of 1,000 feet.

A/C. G.Z.1694. (Captain Sgt. MINNIS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by T.R. & D.R. fix from a height of 200 feet.

A/C. J.X.3878. (Captain Sgt. FINNERTY) dropped his mines in the allotted position by T.R. & D.R. fix from a height of 1,000 feet.

All the aircraft had returned safely to base after operations by 21.10 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

19/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind Light South Easterly, cloudy with slight rain, visibility poor.

There were no OPERATIONS or FLYING TRAINING today & nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

20/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South Easterly, cloudy with slight rain, visibility moderate.

Flying Training.

7 crews undertook FIGHTER AFFILIATION PRACTICE.

Operations Night of 20th JANUARY, 1943 - MINELAYING OPERATIONS OF FRISIAN ISLANDS.

Form B.M & 3? received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

17.20

to 17.50

A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. X.X.3936. P/O. TUMA and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. G.Z.1694. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. S.BK.275. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. PLUM and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. THURSTON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. U.Z.1609. F/S. BALDWIN and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
The above aircraft carried 16 1,500lb Mines.
8 aircraft took off between 17.20 hours & 17.50 hours on MINELAYING OPERATIONS.
All the aircraft successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area by pinpoint of SCHIERMONNIKOOG from heights ranging between 500 feet & 2,000 feet.

21.55.

All the aircraft had returned safely to base after operations.

20/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
C. BK. 166.

Wellington MK.III
X. X. 3936.

Wellington MK.III
J. X. 3878.

Wellington MK.III
G. Z. 1694.

Wellington MK.III
S. BK. 275.

Wellington MK.III
B. X. 3924.

Wellington MK.III
N. BJ. 990.

Wellington MK.III
U. Z. 1609.

Sgt. ROSS H.
Sgt. SHAW S.
F/S. DRAY D.
Sgt. PIKE J.
Sgt. BRADFORD J.

P/O. C. TUMA.
Sgt. SPOONER K.
Sgt. POLLARD M.
Sgt. TOMPKINS W.
F/S. McKAY H.

Sgt. FINNERTY G.
Sgt. BOYES C.
Sgt. JONES A.
Sgt. BELLAMY J.
F/S. PAGE T.

Sgt. MINNIS H.
Sgt. CARTER H.
Sgt. TIMMS W.
Sgt. LAW N.
F/S. FOSTER E.

Sgt. PUDSEY K.
Sgt. WICKS S.
F/S. JONES W.
P/O. F. POTTER.
F/S. HANDS N.

Sgt. PLUM F.
Sgt. NEWTON R.
Sgt. LANE L.
Sgt. EAGLESTONE F.
Sgt. DAWE J.

F/S. THURSTON C.
F/S. SEWELL F.
F/S. BETTERIDGE J.
Sgt. DUNBAR J.
Sgt. HUGHES D.

F/S. BALDWIN F.
Sgt. RHYS D.
Sgt. PROTHERO A.
F/S. SMITH M.
Sgt. SHARPE E.
Sgt. BUCKLAND E.

1745.

1730.

1720.

1740.

1730.

1750.

1735.

1730.

2150.

2130.

2140.

2140.

2100.

2155.

2145.

2100.

FRISIAN ISLANDS 8 aircraft were detailed for MINELAYING OPERATIONS in accordance with Form B.30, from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew.
A/C. X.X.3936. P/O. TUMA and Crew.
A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew.
A/C. G.Z.1694. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew.
A/C. S.BK.275. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew.
A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. PLUM and Crew.
A/C. N.BJ.990. F/S. THURSTON and Crew.
A/C. U.Z.1609. F/S. BALDWIN and Crew.

Bomb load
Each of the above aircraft carried 2 1,500lb Mines.

A/C. C.BK.166. (Captain Sgt. ROSS) dropped his mines in the allotted area by pinpoint of SCHIERMONNIKOOG from a height of 1,000 feet.

A/C. X.X.3936. (Captain P/O. TUMA) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of SCHIERMONNIKOOG from a height of 1.000 feet.

A/C. J.X.3878. (Captain Sgt. FINNERTY) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of SCHIERMONNIKOOG from a height of 2,000 feet.

A/C. G.Z.1694. (Captain Sgt. MINNIS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of SCHIERMONNIKOOG from a height of 1,500 feet.

A/C. S.BK.275. (Captain Sgt. PUDSEY) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of SIMONSZAND (East of Schiermonnikoog) from a height of 2,000 feet.

A/C. B.X.3924. (Captain Sgt. PLUM) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of SCHIERMONNIKOOG from a height of 500 feet.

A/C. N.BJ.990. (Captain F/S. THURSTON) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of SCHIERMONNIKOOG from a height of 1,800 feet.

A/C. U.Z.1609. (Captain F/S. BALDWIN) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of SCHIERMONNIKOOG from a height of 1,800 feet.

All the aircraft had returned safely to base after operations by 21.55 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

21/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South Easterly, fine becoming fair, visibility good.

Flying training.

6 crews undertook BOMBING PRACTICE.

There were no OPERATIONS today & nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

22/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South Easterly, overcast with rain, visibility moderate.

Flying training.

6 crews undertook BOMBING PRACTICE, 2 crews LOCAL FLYING PRACTICE & 3 crews AIR FIRING PRACTICE.

There were no operations & nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

23/01/43.

Met conditions.

Wind Northerly, fine becoming fair, visibility moderate.

There were no OPERATIONS or FLYING TRAINING today & nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

24/01/43.

Met conditions.

Wind Light South Easterly, fine becoming fair, visibility poor with fog patches.

There were no OPERATIONS or FLYING TRAINING today & nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

25/01/43.

Met conditions.

Wind Southerly, fair becoming cloudy with rain, visibility good.

1 crew undertook CROSS COUNTRY EXERCISE.

10 crews stood by for operations which were cancelled at 16.00 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

26/01/43.

Met conditions.

Wind South Westerly, fine to fair, visibility moderate.

Flying training.

1 crew undertook LOCAL FLYING PRACTICE & 1 crew BOMBING PRACTICE.

Operations Night of 26th JANUARY, 1943 - TARGET - LORIENT.

Form B.--- received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

17.20

to 17.35

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. G.Z.1694. S/L. CHILTON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. V.BK.168. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. N.BJ.990. P/O. FARQUHARSON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. P/O. TUMA and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. U.Z.1609. F/S. BALDWIN and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. F.BJ.832. F/O. THOMAS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. X.X.3936. Sgt. PLUM and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. M.BJ.879. F/S. THURSTON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Y.X.3565. Sgt. MINNES and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
The above aircraft carried 72 S.B.C's (4lb Incend) & 4 4,000 lb H.C's. All carried cameras.

12 aircraft took off between 17.20 hours & 17.35 hours to attack target LORIENT.
1 aircraft was forced to abandon the sortie due to inter-communication failure & returned to base early bringing back its bomb. All the rest succesfully located the target and bombing from heights ranging between 6,000 feet & 10,000 feet, dropped their bombs & incendiaries in build up area in town & in the dock area, most of them without observing any results. 1 aircraft's bomb was seen to burst in dock erea, & incendiaries from 3 aircraft were observed to ignite between pens & harbour, in dock area & in the town respectively. A good fire was seen near the submarine pens as well as scattered fires throughout town & dock area. Photographs were attempted.

23.30

All the aircraft had returned safely to base.

26/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
B. X. 3924.

Wellington MK.III
C. BK. 166.

Wellington MK.III
G. Z. 1694.

Wellington MK.III
V. BK. 168.

Wellington MK.III
N. BJ. 990.

Wellington MK.III
J. X. 3878.

Wellington MK.III
Q. BJ. 756.

Wellington MK.III
U. Z. 1609.

Wellington MK.III
F. BJ. 832.

Wellington MK.III
X. X. 3936.

Wellington MK.III
M. BJ. 879.

Wellington MK.III
Y. X. 3565.

Sgt. RODGERS J.
Sgt. MORRIS F.
Sgt. LEWIS Y.
Sgt. JOHNSON A.
F/S. SNEDDON J.

Sgt. ROSS H.
Sgt. SHAW S.
F/S. DRAY D.
Sgt. ANDERSON M.
Sgt. BRADFORD J.

S/L. P. L. CHILTON.
P/O. N. SHOTT.
P/O. J. L. MUNBY.
Sgt. McKAY F.
P/O. S. R. GARRARD.
P/O. A. MURRAY.

Sgt. PUDSEY K.
Sgt. RAIT T.
Sgt. WICKS S.
F/S. JONES W.
Sgt. REID W.
Sgt. STRANGE K.

P/O. W. L. FARQUHARSON.
Sgt. RHYS D.
Sgt. WILLIS J.
Sgt. STRINGER A.
Sgt. ROSENBLOOM J.
Sgt. GRAHAM G.

Sgt. FINNERTY G.
Sgt. BOYES C.
Sgt. JONES A.
Sgt. BELLAMY J.
F/S. PAGE T.

P/O. C. TUMA.
Sgt. SMALL J.
Sgt. SPOONER K.
Sgt. POLLARD M.
Sgt. TOMPKINS W.
F/S. McKAY H.

F/S. BALDWIN F.
F/O. J. F. ANDREWS.
P/O. E. B. PIDGEON.
Sgt. WELLOCK T.
Sgt. SHARPE E
Sgt. GLAZZARD J.

F/O. W. THOMAS.
F/O. H. BECKETT.
Sgt. WATT I.
Sgt. VALLINS A.
Sgt. JONES A. 858.

Sgt. PLUM F.
Sgt. NEWTON R.
Sgt. LANE L.
Sgt. EAGLESTONE F.
P/O. G. H. WILLIS.

Sgt. THURSTON C.
F/S. SEWELL F.
F/S. BETTERIDGE J.
Sgt. DUNBAR J.
Sgt. HUGHES D.

Sgt. MINNIS H.
Sgt. CARTER H.
Sgt. TIMMS W.
Sgt. LAW N.
F/S. FOSTER E.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
2nd Pilot
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
2nd Pilot
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
2nd Pilot
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
2nd Pilot
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
2nd Pilot
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

Captain
Navigator
Air Bomber.
W/T. Oprtr.
Rr. Gunnr.

1730.

1720.

1735.

1725.

1735.

1730.

1730.

1720.

1725.

1735.

1730.

1725

2250.

2300.

2320.

2250.

2255.

2250.

2305.

2330.

2300.

2315.

1935.

2315.

12 aircraft were detailed to attack target LORIENT, in accordance with Form B.35, from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew.
A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew.
A/C. G.Z.1694. S/L. CHILTON and Crew.
A/C. V.BK.168. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew.
A/C. N.BJ.990. P/O. FARQUHARSON and Crew.
A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew.
A/C. Q.BJ.756. P/O. TUMA and Crew.
A/C. U.Z.1609. F/S. BALDWIN and Crew.
A/C. F.BJ.832. F/O. THOMAS and Crew.
A/C. X.X.3936. Sgt. PLUM and Crew.
A/C. M.BJ.879. F/S. THURSTON and Crew.
A/C. Y.X.3565. Sgt. MINNIS and Crew.

Bomb load
8 aircraft each carried 9 S.B.C's (4lb Incend).
4 aircraft each carried 1 4,000lb H.C's.

A/C. B.X.3924. (Captain Sgt. RODGERS) dropped his incendiaries from a height of 10,000 feet by pinpoint of Headland of MENE MARZIN (Ménémarzin) & timing run from mouth of QUIMPERLE RIVER, without observing any result. Scattered fires were seen through the clouds. Photo attempted.

A/C. C.BK.166. (Captain Sgt. ROSS) bombing from a height of 10,000 feet, dropped his incendiaries which were seen to burst in the town. A few scattered fires were observed. Photo was attempted.

A/C. G.Z.1694. (Captain S/L. CHILTON) bombing from a height of 6,000 feet, dropped his incendiaries which were seen to ignite between pens & harbour. A good fire was observed near submarine pens as well as 3 fires on East Bank of RIVER SCORFF.

A/C. V.BK.168. (Captain Sgt. PUDSEY) dropped his bomb from a height of 10,000 feet on built up area believed to be centre of town. A few scattered fires were observed. Photo was attempted.

A/C. N.BJ.990. (Captain P/O. FARQUHARSON) dropped his incendiaries from a height of 8,000 feet in built up area without observing any results. Scattered fires were seen throughout town & dock area. Photo was attempted.

A/C. J.X.3878. (Captain Sgt. FINNERTY) dropped his incendiaries from a height of 10,000 feet in the town without observing any results. Fires appeared to be getting holt in the town. Photo was attempted.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. (Captain P/O. TUMA) dropped his incendiaries from a height of 10,000 feet in built up area without observing any results. Scattered fires within a radius of 5 miles of town were seen. Photo was attempted.

A/C. U.Z.1609. (Captain F/S. BALDWIN) bombing from a height of 10,000 feet, dropped his incendiaries which were believed to ignite in dock area. Several fires were seen in town & docks. Photo was attempted.

A/C. F.BJ.832. (Captain F/O. THOMAS) dropped his bomb from a height of 10,000 feet in built up area without observing any results. Scattered fires within a radius of 5 miles of town were seen. One large incendiary bomb was observed to burst in North West outskirts of town. Photo was attempted.

A/C. X.X.3936. (Captain Sgt. PLUM) dropped his incendiaries by pinpointing Headland off MENEN MARZIN and timing run from mouth of RIVER QUIMPERLE. Scattered fires were observed throughout area as well fires East of RIVER SCORFE. Photo attempted.

A/C. M.BJ.879. (Captain F/S. THURSTON) was forced to abandon sortie due to inter-communication failure and returned to base early bringing back his bomb. A/C. Y.X.3565. (Captain Sgt. MINNIS) bombing from a height of 10,000 feet, dropped his bomb which was observed to burst in dock area. One small fire was seen in town & a 4,000lb bomb from another aircraft was seen to fall in river. 3 photos attempted.

All the aircraft had returned safely to base after operations by 23.30 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

27/01/43.

Met conditions.

Wind South Westerly, fine, visibility moderate.

Flying training.

26/01/43.

Operations Night of 26th JANUARY, 1943 - TARGET - LORIENT.

Form B.--- received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

17.20

to 17.35

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. G.Z.1694. S/L. CHILTON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. V.BK.168. Sgt. PUDSEY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. N.BJ.990. P/O. FARQUHARSON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. P/O. TUMA and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. U.Z.1609. F/S. BALDWIN and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. F.BJ.832. F/O. THOMAS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. X.X.3936. Sgt. PLUM and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. M.BJ.879. F/S. THURSTON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Y.X.3565. Sgt. MINNES and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
The above aircraft carried 72 S.B.C's (4lb Incend) & 4 4,000 lb H.C's. All carried cameras.

23.30

All the aircraft had returned safely to base.

EAST WRETHAM

27/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South Westerly, fine, visibility moderate.

Flying training.

1 crew undertook CROSS COUNTRY EXERCISE & 1 crew AIR FIRING PRACTICE.

OPERATIONS NIGHT OF 27/28th. JANUARY, 1943 - MINELAYING OPERATIONS OFF LA ROCHELLE AND FRISIAN ISLANDS.

Form B.--- received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

17.25

to 17.40

A/C. W.BJ.965. Sgt. RHYS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. C.BK.166. F/S. THURSTON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. N.BJ.990. F/O. THOMAS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. X.X.3936. Sgt. PLUM and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
The above aircraft carried 12 1,500lb Mines.

6 aircraft took off between 17.25 hours & 17.40 hours on MINELAYING OPERATIONS.
5 of them successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area from heights ranging between 800 & 5,300 feet, one by Gee fix & the remainder by pinpoint of POINT DU CHE, South tip of ISLE DE RE, ROCHEFORD & LA ROCHELLE, or North tip of ISLE DE RE.
1 aircraft was unable to locate the allotted are due to compass being unserviceable and on return trip ran out of petrol. After jettisoning mines safe in CHEPSTOW erea, the crew baled out. All landed safely, the Air Bomber & Wireless Operator sustaining minor injuries. Aircraft eventually crashed in RIVER WYE, near BIGSWEIR at 01.15 hours.

27/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
W. BJ. 965.

Wellington MK.III
C. BK. 166.

Wellington MK.III
N. BJ. 990.

Wellington MK.III
B. X. 3924.

Wellington MK.III
J. X. 3878.

Wellington MK.III
X. X. 3936.

Sgt. RHYS D.
F/O. J. J. CANNING.
Sgt. GOODMAN R.
Sgt. BONNALLO H.
Sgt. HEATHER J.

F/S. THURSTON C.
F/S. SEWELL F.
F/S. BETTERIDGE J.
Sgt. DUNBAR J.
Sgt. HUGHES D.

F/O. W. THOMAS.
F/O. BECKETT H.
Sgt. WATT I.
Sgt. VALLINS A.
Sgt. JONES A. 858.

Sgt. RODGERS J.
Sgt. MORRIS F.
Sgt. LEWIS Y.
Sgt. JOHNSON A.
F/S. SNEDDON J.

Sgt. FINNERTY G.
Sgt. BOYES C.
Sgt. JONES A.
Sgt. BELLAMY J.
F/S. PAGE T.

Sgt. PLUM F.
Sgt. NEWTON R.
Sgt. LANE L.
Sgt. EAGLESTONE F.
P/O. G. H. WILLIS.

1740.

1730.

1725.

1725.

1730.

1730.

2050.

2340.

0105.

2325.

2330.

0115.

LA ROCHELLE AND FRISIAN ISLANDS 6 aircraft were detailed for MINELAYING OPERATIONS in accordance with Form B.36, from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. W.BJ.965. Sgt. RHYS and Crew.
A/C. C.BK.166. F/S. THURSTON and Crew.
A/C. N.BJ.990. F/O. THOMAS and Crew.
A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew.
A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew.
A/C. X.X.3936. Sgt. PLUM and Crew.

Bomb load
Each of the above aircraft carried 2 1,500lb Mines.

A/C. W.BJ.965. (Captain Sgt. RHYS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by Gee fix from a height of 5,300 feet.

A/C. C.BK.166. (Captain F/S. THURSTON) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of POINT DU CHE & South tip of ISLE DE RE from a height of 900 feet.

A/C. N.BJ.990. (Captain F/O. THOMAS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of ROCHEFORT & LA ROCHELLE from a height of 800 feet.

A/C. B.X.3924. (Captain Sgt. RODGERS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of POINT DU CHE & North tip of ISLE DE RE from a height of 1,000 feet.

A/C. J.X.3878. (Captain Sgt. FINNERTY) dropped his mines in the allotted position by pinpoint of North tip of ISLE DE RE from a height of 1,000 feet.

A/C. X.X.3936. (Captain Sgt. PLUM) was unable to locate the allotted position owing to the cmpass being unserviseable, and on the return trip ran out of petrol. After jettisoning his mines safe in CHEPSTOW area, the crew baled out. All landed safely but Air Bomber & Wireless Operator sustaind minor injuries. Aircraft eventually crashed in RIVER WYE near BIGSWEIR at 01.15 hours on the 28th.

5 aircraft had returned safely to base after operations by 01.05 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

28/01/43.

01.05

Five aircraft had returned safely to base after operations.

Met. conditions.

Wind South Westerly, cloudy, visibility moderate.

Flying training.

2 crews undertook LOCAL FLYING PRACTICE & 6 crews D.R. EXERCISES.

There were no operations today and nothing of interest occurred.

EAST WRETHAM

29/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind South Westerly, fair, visibility good.

Flying training.

1 crew undertook CROSS COUNTRY EXERCISE & 3 crews D.R. EXERCISES.

OPERATIONS NIGHT OF 29th JANUARY, 1943 - TARGET - LORIENT, & MINELAYING OPERATIONS OFF ST. NAZAIRE.

Form B.--- received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

6 crews stood by for BOMBING OPERATIONS which were cancelled at 16.00 hours.

17.30

to 17.40

A/C. N.BK.495. F/O. FARAUHARSON and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. F/S. BALDWIN and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew took off for Operations.

A/C. W.BJ.965. Sgt. RHYS and Crew took off for Operations.

Bomb load.
The above aircraft carried 12 1,500lb Mines.

6 aircraft took off between 17.30 hours & 17.40 hours on MINELAYING OPERATIONS.
4 of them were forced to abandon the sortie due to bad weather conditions and returned to base early bringing back their mines.
2 aircraft successfully dropped their mines in the allotted area by pinpoint of CROISIC POINT from heights of 600 feet & 800 feet respectively.

23.10

All the aircraft had returned safely to base.

29/01/1943.

Down

Details of Sortie or Flight

Wellington MK.III
N. BK. 495.

Wellington MK.III
Q. BJ. 756.

Wellington MK.III
B. X. 3924.

Wellington MK.III
C. BK. 166.

Wellington MK.III
J. X. 3878.

Wellington MK.III
W. BJ. 965.

F/O. W. L. FARQUHARSON.
Sgt. WILLIS J.
Sgt. STRINGER A.
Sgt. ROSENBLOOM J.
Sgt. GRAHAM G.

F/S. BALDWIN F.
F/O. ANDREWS J. F..
P/O. E. B. PIDGEON.
Sgt. SHARPE E.
Sgt. GLAZZARD J.

Sgt. RODGERS J.
Sgt. MORRIS F.
Sgt. LEWIS Y.
Sgt. JOHNSON A.
F/S. SNEDDON J.

Sgt. ROSS H.
Sgt. SHAW S.
F/S. DRAY D.
F/S. MARSHALL J.
Sgt. BRADFORD J.

Sgt. FINNERTY G.
Sgt. BOYES C.
Sgt. JONES A.
Sgt. BELLAMY J.
F/S. PAGE T.

Sgt. RHYS D.
F/O. J. J. CANNING.
Sgt. GOODMAN R.
Sgt. BONNALLO H.
Sgt. HEATHER J.

1740.

1735.

1730.

1730.

1730.

1735.

2310.

2045.

2045.

2310.

2130.

2245.

ST NAZAIRE 6 aircraft were detailed for MINELAYING OPERATIONS in accordance with Form B.37, from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

A/C. N.BK.495. F/O. FARQUHARSON and Crew.
A/C. Q.BJ.756. F/S. BALDWIN and Crew.
A/C. B.X.3924. Sgt. RODGERS and Crew.
A/C. C.BK.166. Sgt. ROSS and Crew.
A/C. J.X.3878. Sgt. FINNERTY and Crew.
A/C. W.BJ.965. Sgt. RHYS and Crew.

Bomb load
Each of the above aircraft carried 2 1,500lb Mines.

A/C. N.BK.495. (Captain F/O. FARQUHARSON) dropped his mines in the allotted position by Gee fix obtained on CROISIC POINT from a height of 600 feet.

A/C. Q.BJ.756. (Captain F/S. BALDWIN) was forced to abandon the sortie due to bad weather & inability of aircraft to climb and returned to base early bringing back his mines.

A/C. B.X.3924. (Captain Sgt. RODGERS) was forced to abandon the sortie due to bad weather and returned to base early bringing back his mines.

A/C. C.BK.166. (Captain Sgt. ROSS) dropped his mines in the allotted position by PINPOINT of CROISIC POINT from a height of 800 feet.

A/C. J.X.3878. (Captain Sgt. FINNERTY) was forced to abandon the sortie due to bad weather and returned to base early bringing back his mines.

A/C. W.BJ.965. (Captain Sgt. RHYS) was forced to abandon the sortie due to bad weather and returned to base early bringing back his mines.

All the aircraft had returned safely to base after operations by 23.10 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

30/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind Southerly, gale force at times, cloudy with rain, visibility moderate.

There was no FLYING TRAINING today.

DAYLIGHT OPERATIONS OF 30th JANUARY, 1943 - TARGET - N.W. GERMANY (..ulanu. ?)

Form B.--- received from Headquarters, No.3 Group.

6 crews stood by for daylight operations which were cancelled at 13.00 hours.

EAST WRETHAM

31/01/43.

Met. conditions.

Wind Southerly, gale force at times, overcast with rain, visibility moderate.

There were no OPERATIONS or FLYING TRAINING today & nothing of interest occurred.

List of postings to and from Unit during month of JANUARY, 1943.

Officers.

P/O. E. B. PIDGEON GD.O. J.16445 Reported 22/12/42 to Unit on appointment to Commissioned rank.

F/O. E. J. KEENAN GD.S. 45895 Posted to ACRC, ?obey Lodge w.e.f. 6/1/43.

P/O. L. A. JOHNSON GD.O. 125988 Posted from 1657 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

P/O. A. S. SMITH GD.O. 125989 Posted from 1657 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

P/O. D. J. ROSE GD.O. ---- Posted from 1657 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

P/O. J. J. CANNING GD.O. 127544 Posted from 1651 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

P/O. N. SHOTT GD. 128601 Posted from 1651 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

P/O. G. H. WILLIS GD.G. 127863 Posted from 1651 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

P/O. J. R. HOYLE GD.S. 127487 Posted from 1651 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

P/O. C. G. WILSON GD.O. 129060 Posted from 1651 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

P/O. J. F. ANDREWS GD. 121781 Posted from No.138 Squadron w.e.f. 6/1/43.

P/O. L. A. JOHNSON GD.O. 125988 Posted to No.192 Squadron w.e.f. 26/1/43.

Pilot - Airmen.

1344008 Sgt. Pilot CARNEY W. Posted from No.161 Squadron w.e.f. 7/1/43.

1058949 Sgt. Pilot MILLER F. Posted to 1505 B.A.T. Flight w.e.f. 14/12/43.

1067708 Sgt. Pilot RHYS D. Posted from 1651 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

NZ.416174 Sgt. Pilot SMALL J. Posted from 1657 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

NZ.416167 Sgt. Pilot RENSHAW A. Posted from 1657 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

1341342 Sgt. Pilot RAIT Thomas Gilmour Posted from 1657 C.U. w.e.f. 17/1/43.

+ 13 Feb. 1943.

NZ.416167 Sgt. Pilot RENSHAW A. Posted to No.192 Squadron w.e.f. 26/1/43.

74860 W/O. Pilot NOXON E. Posted from 1657 C.U. w.e.f. 25/1/43.