Action This Day

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102 Sqn (Pocklington – Halifax II) 23.10.42

11 aircraft detailed to attack GENOA. W/C S.B. BINTLEY killed and F/O A.J. GRAHAM died in York Military Hospital, as a result of a/c “D” colliding with “Q” on runway.

ADDENDUM – Halifax II W1181 DY-D. T/o 1824 Pocklington. Landed 0331 at Holme-on-Spalding Moor airfield and ran into DT512 DY-Q, which failed to clear the runway after bursting a tire upon landing.

Genoa – 122 aircraft – 53 Halifaxes, 51 Stirlings, 18 Wellingtons. These aircraft were provided by 3 and 4 Groups and the Pathfinders. 2 Halifaxes and 1 Stirling lost.

The target was found to be almost completely cloud covered and it was later discovered the raid had actually fallen on the town of Savona, 30 miles along the coast from Genoa. Several aircraft bombed Turin where 2 people were killed and 10 injured.

The British Eighth Army’s El Alamein offensive opens at 2140 hours with a massive artillery barrage.

The first echelon of the Western Task Force component of the TORCH invasion fleet sails from Hampton Roads, Virginia.

USAMEAF B-17s dispatched against Candia abort in the face of bad weather.

USAMEAF B-24s dispatched against Benghazi abort in the face of bad weather.

Base Changes
1 Sqn SAAF (Hurricane IIC) moves to LG.172
127 Sqn (Hurricane IIB) moves to LG.37
213 Sqn (Hurricane IIB/C) moves to LG.172
238 Sqn (Hurricane IIC) moves to LG.172
274 Sqn (Hurricane IIB/C) moves to LG.37
335 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to LG.37

First and Last Operational Missions
203 Sqn (LG-X) flies its last OM in the Maryland I

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103 Sqn (Elsham Woods – Halifax II) 24.10.42

MILAN

Eleven aircraft were detailed to attack this target with 2 x 1000 G.P. and 7x90x4 incendiary bombs, and were Captained by S/Ldr Fox, F/O Rose, Sgt McGown, Sgt Berry, Sgt Roper, S/Ldr Kennerd, Sgt Claridge, Sgt Smith, F/Sgt Moriarty, Sgt Bayliss, and Sgt Taylor. Cameras as usual were carried.

Much cloud was encountered in a huge front this side of the Alps, but over the mountains cloud was nil. It was therefore most disappointing for everyone to find it increase to 10/10ths on the opposite side and over the target area. However, red glows were seen reflected in the cloud, and these were thought to be from fires which attacked this target during day-time, and these were bombed with some confidence.

Moderate heavy but inaccurate flak and few searchlights were the defences encountered.

In case of not having sufficient fuel to reach base, Captains were instructed to land at an advanced base, Tangmere. S/Ldr Kennerd was the only one to reach base, and the rest landed at Manston or Tangmere.

P/O Rose was attacked by a fighter near Switzerland on the way to the target and suffered severe damage before reaching cloud cover. His guns in the rear turret and one in the Mid-upper had frozen up, and little return fire was possible.

Sgt’s Smith and Bayliss returned early to base, and Sgt Roper failed to take off in spite of his willingness to take off with a machine not fully serviceable.

S/Ldr Fox and Sgt Claridge and their crews failed to return and have been posted to No. 1 R.A.F. Depot, Uxbridge as non-effective missing.

ADDENDUM – Halifax II W1188 PM-D. Crew: S/L SH Fox DFM, Sgt HF Wood, Sgt L Fitzsimmons, W/O HJ Spiller DFM, F/S R Maddocks, P/O G Wollerton, Sgt PC Heath, F/S NA Mercer. T/o 1828 Elsham Wolds. Shot down by Oblt Günther Friedrich (1st victory) Stab II./NJG4 at 2150 and crashed between Nant-le-Grand and Ligny-en-Barrois, 12 km SE of Bar-le-Duc, France. F/F Maddocks and P/O Wollerton were captured. W/O Spiller evaded. Those who died are buried in Communal cemetery Nant-le-Grand.

Halifax II W1223 PM-U. Crew: Sgt SA Claridge, Sgt BD Swain, P/O EA Wagstaff, Sgt SV Goodhew, Sgt RW Taylor RAAF, Sgt KW McCauliffe, Sgt J Molesworth RCAF. T/o 1844 Elsham Wolds. Shot down by Fw Heinz Wilberg (14th victory) at 0300 and crashed at Moulin-sous-Touvent, 18 km NE of Compiége, France. All are buried in Moulin-sous-Touvent Communal Cemetery.

Milan – Day Mission
88 Lancasters of 5 Group in another risky daylight operation. The aircraft proceeded independently by a direct route across France, using partial cloud cover, to a rendezvous at Lake Annecy. The Alps were then crossed and Milan bombed in broad daylight. Anti-aircraft fire and Italian fighter defences were both weak. Accurate bombing took place.

The raid came as a complete surprise in Milan, where warning sirens sounded after the first bombs exploded. 135 tons of bombs fell in 18 minutes. The Italians claimed that a Lancaster came down to roof-top level and machine-gunned people in streets near the church of St. Christopher. 30 large fires were started. 441 houses were destroyed or damaged and the Italians admitted the following public buildings were hit: the university, the prison, the offices of the local Fascist Party, 2 churches, 2 schools, 2 hospitals – one a maternity hospital. RAF reconnaissance photos later discovered that a number of commercial and industrial buildings were also hit, including the Caproni aircraft factory. At least 171 people were killed.

3 Lancasters were lost.

Milan – Night Mission
71 aircraft of 1 and 3 Groups and the Pathfinders – 25 Halifaxes, 23 Stirlings, 23 Wellingtons – continued the attack on Milan. 4 Wellingtons, 2 Halifaxes, 1 Wellington were lost, 9.9% of the force.

Storms en route dispersed the bomber force; some aircraft flew over Switzerland and were ‘warned’ by anti-aircraft fire. Only 39 aircraft claimed to have bombed Milan and local reports say that little further damage was caused there.

25 Wellingtons of 1 Group minelaying in several areas between La Pallice and Denmark. 2 Wellingtons lost.

As the British Eighth Army’s El Alamein offensive begins, USAMEAF’s 12th Medium Bombardment Group, in B-25s, mounts 50 combat sorties against German Army troop concentrations, vehicle traffic, artillery emplacements, and tent camps. 57th Fighter Group P-40s escorting RAF and British Commonwealth bombers attack targets of opportunity, including tanks and motor vehicles.

The second echelon of the Western Task Force component of the TORCH invasion fleet sails from Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Base Changes
485 Sqn RNZAF (Spitfire VB) moves to Kirkistown

First and Last Operational Missions
40 Sqn SAAF TR (Burg-el-Arab) flies its first OM in the Hurricane IIB
55 Sqn (LG.86) flies its first OM in the Baltimore III
59 Sqn (Thorney Island) flies its first OM in the Liberator III
96 Sqn (Honiley) flies its first OM in the Beaufighter VI
103 Sqn (Elsham Woods) flies its last OM in the Halifax II

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141 Sqn (Ford – Beaufighter IF) 25.10.42

6 Operational patrols carried out also routine flying tests. P/O Selman and Nav.Radio Sgt. Perfect chased a JU 88 for quite a time and damaged it, got damaged themselves, or rather their aircraft, and crash-landed near Littlehampton. Both were unhurt. The Pilot started off by flying, practically swum a river, had a train stopped for him to Ford, and ended his journey by transport. The aircraft caught fire on landing and was Cat E.

12 Bostons were again dispatched to Le Havre to attack the large merchant ship there but had to turn back because of a lack of cloud cover. 3 Mosquitoes to Germany also turned back. No losses.

Minelaying - 24 Stirlings and Wellingtons of 3 Group to the Frisian Islands and to Biscay ports without loss.

Thirty-five 4th Fighter Group Spitfires and 24 14th Fighter Group P-38s escort RAF bombers to France, but they encounter no enemy airplanes and return early due to bad weather. This is the 14th Fighter Group’s final mission before being transferred to the Twelfth Air Force for the North Africa invasion. For the moment, only the 4th Fighter Group remains on operational status with VIII Fighter Command.

The 1st Fighter Group stands down from operational missions with the Eighth Air Force so it can prepare for its eventual role in Operation TORCH.

Continuing their support of the British Eighth Army’s El Alamein offensive, 30 12th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s, escorted by 57th Fighter Group P-40s, attack a wide range of tactical targets. 57th Fighter Group P-40 escort pilots down four Bf-109s in a morning air action over a GAF landing ground.

USAMEAF B-17s and B-24s dispatched against Benghazi abort in the face of bad weather.

The troop echelon of the U.K.-based component of the TORCH invasion fleet sails for North Africa from the Firth of Clyde.

The small fleet aircraft carrier USS Ranger and three escort carriers (Sangamon, Santee, and Suwanee) whose U.S. Navy fighter and light-bomber squadrons will directly support the various amphibious assaults in French Northwest Africa sail to rendezvous with the Western Task Force. (The U.S. Navy light-bomber types are Douglas SBD-3 Dauntless dive-bombers and Grumman TBF-1 Avenger torpedo bombers, and the U.S. Navy fighters are all Grumman F4F-4 Wildcats.)

Base Changes
405 Sqn RCAF (Halifax II) moves to Beaulieu

First and Last Operational Missions
75 Sqn (Mildenhall) flew its last OM in the Wellington III
541 Sqn (Benson Spitfire PRV) flew its first OM of the war

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401 Sqn RCAF (Kenley – Spitfire IX) 26.10.42

Weather: 10/10 cumulus cloud at 1500 feet with rain falling throughout the morning. Wind 25 M.P.H. from the S.W.

At 06.40 hours Squadron 30 minutes available. All pilots attended a lecture at 10.00 hours regarding “Escape”. At 15:00 hours, “B” Flight at readiness. At 16:40 hours, Blue Section ordered to scramble on patrol from Shoreham to Beachy, but no a/c seen. At 18.34 hours, Squadron released. Serviceability: “A” flt. 7 a/c, 8 pilots, “B” flt. 8 a/c, 8 pilots.

Eighteen 12th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s, escorted by 57th Fighter Group P-40s, attack tactical targets in support of the British Eighth Army’s El Alamein offensive.

Capt Thomas W. Clark, a P-40 pilot with the 57th Fighter Group’s 65th Fighter Squadron, becomes the first USAAF fighter pilot flying in Europe or North Africa to score a double victory. Clark’s victims are Italian Air Force Mc.202 fighters downed near El Dabr. In the same action, two other Mc.202s are downed by other members of the 65th Fighter Squadron. In all, the 57th Fighter Group mounts 72 effective combat sorties through the day.

After being grounded by bad weather for a week, more than 30 USAMEAF B-17s and B-24s attack Tobruk-bound Axis convoys at sea off the Libyan coast.

The final air echelon of the 62d Troop Carrier Group arrives from the United States via the northern ferry route and is assigned to the 51st Troop Carrier Wing. The group is slated to take part in Operation TORCH.

Base Changes
150 Sqn (Wellington III) moves to Kirmington
245 Sqn (Hurricane IIB) moves to Charmy Down

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401 Sqn RCAF (Kenley – Spitfire IX) 27.10.42

At 06.45 hours, “A” Flt. readiness, “B” Flt. 10 minutes available. At 07.30 hours two a/c airborne to patrol Shoreham to Beachy, and at 07.50 two a/c airborne to patrol Shoreham to Selsey Bill. At 10.00 hours, 8 a/c airborne on fighter roadstead along French Coast from Bardelot to Fe Camp, flying below 500 feet, but no e/a or ships were seen. All a/c landed safely at 11.20 hours. Squadron released at 17.55 hours. Serviceability: “A” Flight 7 a/c 9 pilots, “B” Flight 8 a/c 9 pilots.

8 Mosquitoes to Flensburg, Belgium and Holland. 2 Mosquitoes bombed a shipyard at Flensburg. 4 Mosquitoes bombed other unidentified targets. No aircraft lost.

36 aircraft minelaying between St-Nazaire and the Frisians. No losses.

The air echelon of the 305th Heavy Bombardment Group is fully assembled after flying from the United States. The new unit is assigned to VIII Bomber Command’s 1st Heavy Bombardment Wing.

57th Fighter Group P-40s mounting a surprise low-level dawn raid against the Fuka-Bagush landing ground destroy several parked aircraft, motor vehicles, and tents.

During the afternoon, while on their way to attack another Axis landing ground, eight bomb-laden 57th Fighter Group P-40s and eight P-40 escorts engage a formation composed of 20 Italian Air Force CR.42 biplane fighters, 20 GAF Ju-87 dive-bombers, and 20 GAF Bf-109 fighters. Four CR.42s and three GAF Bf-109s are downed, all of the latter by 1stLt Lyman Middleditch, Jr., of the 64th Fighter Squadron—the best showing so far in a single action by a USAAF pilot in Europe or North Africa. (Middleditch has already been credited with a Bf-109 downed on October 25, and is thus the high-scoring USAAF fighter pilot in Europe and North Africa.) No USAAF fighters are lost in achieving the best one-day score amassed so far in the war against Germany and Italy by USAAF fighter pilots.

12th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s, escorted by 57th Fighter Group P-40s, attack German Army tanks, motor vehicles, and other ground targets in and around Matruh.

Base Changes
51 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to Snaith

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150 Sqn (Kirmington – Wellington III) 28.10.42

9 aircraft were detailed for a “Gardening” sortie, of which 3 abandoned the mission, one being unable to pin-point a position over France, while two abandoned the mission owing to adverse weather conditions. One aircraft is missing from these operations – nothing being heard from the time of take off. The remaining aircraft planted “vegetables” in the area specified.

Addendum – Wellington III X3957 JN-? Crew: F/O WA Crane RAAF, Sgt JR Ovens, Sgt JA Taylor, Sgt H Pollitt, Sgt AR Rudd. Presumed lost over the sea. All, apart from F/O Crane, are commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial.

9 Wellingtons minelaying off St-Nazaire and Denmark. 1 aircraft lost.

Continuing their support of the British Eighth Army’s El Alamein offensive, 122th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s and 57th Fighter Group P-40s attack a wide range of tactical targets. While escorting USAAF and RAF light and medium bombers, 57th Fighter Group P-40 pilots down a total of five Bf-109s in three separate actions during the day.

USAMEAF B-17s dispatched against an Axis convoy at sea fail to locate the target in the face of bad weather and poor visibility. However, the B-17s do find Axis warships in Pylos Bay, Greece, and these are attacked without known results.

Base Changes
43 Sqn (Non-Op) left for Gibraltar
234 Sqn (Spitfire VB) moves to Perranporth

First and Last Operational Missions
14 Sqn (LG.227) flies its first OM in the Marauder I
404 Sqn RCAF (Dyce) flies its last OM in the Blenheim IVF

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401 Sqn RCAF (Kenley – Spitfire IX) 29.10.42

Weather: Intermittent rain all day with 1,000 ft ceiling. Wind 10 M.P.H. from S.W.

At 10:00 hours, Squadron 30 minutes available, at 14:45 hours, Blue Section on readiness. Due to fog and rain, no a/c took off all day. Sgt. Dobson reported to our Squadron on posting from No. 421 Squadron. At 18:28 hours, Squadron released. Serviceability “A” Flight 8 a/c 9 pilots, “B” Flight 5 a/c 9 pilots.

7 Mosquitoes to Holland and the German Frisian Islands, 6 Wellingtons on ‘roving commissions’ of the Ruhr. 6 Mosquitoes and 1 Wellington bombed various targets but 3 Wellingtons and 2 Mosquitoes were lost.

During the night of October 29–30, 1st Provisional Heavy Bombardment Group B-17s and B-24s attack Maleme Airdrome. One heavy bomber is lost.

Continuing their support of the British Eighth Army’s El Alamein offensive, 12th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s and 57th Fighter Group P-40s attack a wide range of tactical targets.

Base Changes
124 Sqn (Spitfire VI) moves to Westhampnett
144 Sqn (Hampden I) moves to Leuchars
308 Sqn (Spitfire VB) moves to Northolt
486 Sqn RNZAF (Typhoon IB) moves to Northolt
515 Sqn (Defiant NFII) moves to Heston
608 Sqn (Non-Op) leaves for the MTO
616 Sqn (Spitfire VI) moves to Westhampnett

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401 Sqn RCAF (Kenley – Spitfire IX) 30.10.42

Weather: 8/10 cumulus at 5,000 feet, but very hazy. Wind 5 M.P.H. from East.

At 06:46 hours, Squadron 30 minutes available. At 08:30 hours, “A” Flight readiness, “B” Flight 15 minutes available. During the morning 4 patrols were carried out from Shoreham, Beachy, and Dungeness. At 13:45 hours, the pilots were briefed for rodeo from Gravelines, Audruicq, Ambletouse to take place at 16:00 hours, but was cancelled owing to weather conditions.

Sgt/Pilot Liggett left Squadron on posting overseas. Sgt/Pilot Dobson joined the Squadron on posting from No. 421 Squadron. Serviceability: “A” Flight 9 a/c 9 pilots, “B” Flight 6 a/c pilots.

BOMBER COMMAND
9 Mosquitoes dispatched but none reached their designated targets. 7 aircraft bombed targets of opportunity at mostly unidentified places. 1 aircraft lost.

4 Wellingtons minelaying in the Frisians without loss.

USAAF
EGYPT: One Bf-109 is downed and at least four others are damaged when the 57th Fighter Group’s 64th Fighter Squadron mounts a morning attack at wave-top height against a GAF landing ground on the coast well behind the German lines at El Alamein. Also, 12th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s, escorted by 57th Fighter Group P-40s, attack the Axis landing grounds at El Daba and Fuka-Bagush.

ENGLAND: The final air echelon of the 64th Troop Carrier Group arrives from the United States via the northern ferry route and is assigned to the 51st Troop Carrier Wing. The group is slated to take part in Operation TORCH

Base Changes
81 Sqn (Non Op) leaves for Gibraltar
225 Sqn (Non Op) leaves for North Africa
242 Sqn (Non Op) leaves for North Africa
422 Sqn RCAF (Catalina IB) moves to Kesh

First and Last Operational Missions
602 Sqn (Skeabrae) flies its last OM in the Spitfire IA
238 Sqn (LG.154) flies its last OM in the Hurricane IIB

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305 Sqn(Polish)(Hemswell – Wellington IV) 31.10.42

Weather: cloudy with occasional rain and drizzle, becoming fair in afternoon with showers developing mainly near coast. Wind N. 15 -20 M.P.H., slowly backing to M.N.W. 10 – 15 M.P.H.

OPERATIONS No. 148. Three aircraft of this Squadron proceeded on minelaying operations. The Captains were SGT. BLOCKI, F/O ROGOWSKI, and SGT. KWIATKOWSKI. The first named reports a successful trip after flying through bad weather, during which the rear gunner, SGT. KOZLOWSKI, downed a searchlight which had caught the aircraft. FLYING OFFIVER ROGOWSKI, his crew and aircraft, are missing and no news has been received. SGT. KWIATKOSKI’s aircraft landed at High Ercall on returning to this country, and reports having successfully laid his mines.

ADDENDUM – Wellington IV Z1279 SM-O. Crew: F/O Rogowski PAF, F/O K Joszt PAF, F/O J Gorecki PAF, Sgt B Ossowski PAF, Sgt W Pilarski PAF. T/o 1733 Hemswell to lay mines in French waters off Lorient. Presumed lost over the target area. Four are buried in Lorient (Kerentrech) Communal Cemetery; F/O Gorecki is commemorated on the Northolt Memorial.

BOMBER COMMAND
17 Bostons in low-level cloud-cover raids on power-stations in France. Cover was sparse and 10 aircraft attacked mostly minor targets. 1 Boston lost.

8 Wellingtons to Emden and 6 to Essen. 9 aircraft bombed; 1 lost.

MINELAYING
22 Wellingtons and Stirlings to Biscay ports. 1 Wellington lost.

USAAF
CRETE: During the night of October 31–November 1, USAMEAF B-24s dispatched to attack Maleme Airdrome fail to find the target in the face of bad weather and poor visibility.

EGYPT: 12th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s attack an Axis landing ground, and escorting 57th Fighter Group P-40 pilots down three Bf-109s.

ENGLAND: In an assessment provided to Gen Henry H. Arnold, MajGen Carl Spaatz predicts that attacks upon German Navy submarine pens by the Eighth Air Force might prove to be very costly in terms of aircraft lost. Nevertheless, Spaatz affirms his intention to continue such attacks.

PALESTINE: The 376th Heavy Bombardment Group is activated at Lydda to absorb all the B-24s operating with the 1st Provisional Heavy Bombardment Group. Two squadrons comprise surviving HALPRO B-24s and, for the time being, one squadron is composed of B-17s that had been transferred from India in July (i.e., the 9th Heavy Bombardment Squadron). The RAF’s only heavy-bomber unit in the region—160 Squadron, in Liberators—is also attached to the new group for operational and logistical purposes.

RAF
Base Changes
130 Sqn (Spitfire VB) moves to Perranporth

First and Last Operational Missions
266 Sqn (Warmwell) flies its last OM in the Typhoon IA
602 Sqn (Skeabrae) flies its last OM in the Spitfire IIA
602 Sqn (Skeabrae) flies its last OM in the Spitfire VA

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88 Sqn (Oulton – Boston III) 1.11.42

6 aircraft took off to attack LONGUENESSE Aerodrome and the operation was successfully carried out but resulted in the loss of one Boston III aircraft No. Z.2233 and the crew – P/O. D.K. HULME(121436),GD. BRANCH; 656396, Sgt. WILLEY, L.C. ‘Nav’.B., 1065784, Sgt. BRADLEY, E. were reported missing and posted to No. 1 Depot UXBRIDGE (N.E. MISSING).

ADDENDUM – Boston III Z2224 RH-? Crew: F/O DK Hulme, Sgt LC Willey, Sgt E Bradley. T/o 1256 Oulton. Approximately halfway between the enemy coast and the target at 13:43, Z2224 was seen to climb above the formation and then spin slowly to the ground, crashing near St. Omer airfield. All rest in Dunkerque Town Cemetry.

BOMBER COMMAND
6 Bostons to St-Omer airfield, 3 bombed here and 3 bombed the docks at Calais as an alternative target. 1 Boston l0st

USAAF
CRETE: USAMEAF B-24s attack Maleme Airdrome.

EGYPT: 57th Fighter Group P-40s escort RAF bombers on tactical strikes and attack ground targets of opportunity behind the El Alamein front.

RAF
Base Changes
24 Sqn SAAF (Boston III) moves to LG.99
66 Sqn (Spitfire VB/VC) moves to Warmwell
75 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to Newmarket
143 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to North Coates
154 Sqn (Non-Op) leaves for North Africa
165 Sqn (Spitfire VB) moves to Tangmere

First and Last Operational Missions
51 Sqn (Snaith) flies its first OM in the Halifax II
335 Sqn (LG.37) flies its first OM in the Hurricane IIB
458 Sqn RAAF (El Shallufa) flies its first OM in the Wellington VIII

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611 Sqn (Biggin Hill – Spitfire IX) 2.11.42

Another bright day. During the morning 4 pairs of aircraft carried out patrols along the coast without seeing anything.

At 14.20 the Biggin Hill Wing took off on a local RODEO. It was arranged that the Wing would fly to BEACHY HEAD at ZERO feet, then for 10 minutes on course for SOMME then rapid climb and act on information received. S/Ldr ARMSTRONG lead the Sq’dn. The French coast was crossed at the mouth of the SOMME and the wing proceeded to ABBEVILLE, FORET DE CRECY, and then out to sea – right turn to BRECK then a shallow penetration nearly as far as the mouth of the SOMME. About this time F/O FULFORD was seen to be lagging behind and F/O DETEDESCO reported that he could see his aircraft going down into the sea. F/O FULFORD did not call up on the R/T or make any communication whilst he was going down. S/Ldr ARMSTRONG gave MAYDAY for him but nothing further was seen or heard of him and he was subsequently reported Missing. An engagement was shortly afterwards with a number of F.W.190s and in the dogfight that ensued the C.O. and F/O DeTEDESCO each destroyed one and P/O SIMS and P/O MELMORE each damaged one. The Sq’dn reformed with the exception of P/O SIMS and Sgt. KEANES WHO SET OFF FOT DUNGENESS on their own. This pair was attacked by a 190 who shot Sgt. KEANS into the channel and severely damaged P/O SIMS aircraft – he, however, managed to land at base with his aircraft in a sorry condition and it was immediately categorized CAT AC requiring a new stern frame and two new main planes. The remaining 9 a/c when over the Channel at 32,000’ met several Me 109s believed to be “G”s. They attacked the Sq’dn and one was probably destroyed by the C.O. The Sq’dn landed at Base at 15.50.

ADDENDUM – Spitfire IX BR622 F/O D Fulford DFC, KIA. Shot down by Fw190 of JG26, either Ufz Georg Granabetter or Uffz Gerhard Vogt.

Spitfire IX BR601 Sgt GW KEANS KIA. Shot down by Fw190 of JG26, either Ufz Georg Granabetter or Uffz Gerhard Vogt.

USAAF
EGYPT: After fighting its way into and containing the German Army defensive positions before El Alamein, the British Eighth Army begins the breakout phase of its plan to sweep through Libya and Tunisia to link up with the Anglo-American TORCH invasion forces in French Northwest Africa.

Forty 12th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s directly support attacks by a British Eighth Army armoured division as well as attacking German Army tanks and troops across a broad segment of the battle area. The 57th Fighter Group also directly supports British Eighth Army ground troops. In a dawn raid on a GAF landing ground, the P-40 pilots destroyed seven Axis aircraft on the ground.

The advance flight echelon of the 79th Fighter Group, a P-40 unit, arrives at Cairo/Heliopolis Airdrome following a transcontinental journey from Accra, Gold Coast, where its fighters had been assembled at a factory set up for the purpose. Shortly, 79th Fighter Group senior officers are attached to the 57th Fighter Group for combat familiarization.

LIBYA: 376th Heavy Bombardment Group B-17s attack shipping and port facilities at Tobruk. Hits are claimed on two Axis merchantmen, and fires are started ashore that will burn steadily for two days.

RAF
Base Changes
87 Sqn (Non-Op) left for North Africa
248 Sqn (Beaufighter VIC) moves to Pembrey
412 Sqn RCAF (Spitfire VB) moves to Kenley
423 Sqn RCAF (Sunderland III) moves to Castle Archdale
609 Sqn (Typhoon IA/IB) moves to Manston

First and Last Operational Missions
3 Sqn RAAF (LG.175) flies its first OM in the Kittyhawk II
330 Sqn (Rejkavik) flies its last OM in the Catalina III

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300 Sqn (Polish) (Ingham – Wellington IV) 3.11.42

After Routine Parades and inspections, eight aircraft took off for serviceability tests. Seven crews were briefed for night Operations, five completed the task of mining successfully one having to abandon owing to having run into very dirty weather. Aircraft V-1307 captained by P/O SAWICKI failed to return.

ADDENDUM – Wellington IV Z1421 BH-V. Crew: P/O I Sawicki PAF, F/O W Zubrycki PAF, Sgt M Osciak PAF, Sgt Z Koslowski PAF, Sgt J Treutler PAF. Lost without a trace. All are commemorated on the Northolt Memorial.

BOMBER COMMAND
29 Wellingtons to Biscay ports. 1 aircraft lost.

USAAF
EGYPT: Allied aircraft supporting the British Eighth Army breakout attacks mount more than 300 sorties against Axis forces fleeing along the coastal highway. In 45 bomber sorties and 88 fighter sorties, 12th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s and 57th Fighter Group P-40s attack numerous tactical targets, including tanks, motor vehicles, road convoys, an Axis landing ground, ammunition and supply dumps, fuel installations, and troop concentrations.

RAF
Base Changes
304 Sqn (Wellington IC) moves to Talbenny

First and Last Operational Missions
130 Sqn (Perranporth) flies its first OM in the Spitfire VC
252 Sqn (Idku) flies its first OM in the Beaufighter VIF
332 Sqn (North Weald) flies its last OM in the Spitfire VB
602 Sqn (Skeabrae) flies its first OM on its second tour of duty with the Spitfire VB

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130 Sqn (Perranporth – Spitfire VB) 4.11.42

The squadron came to readiness at first light. Blue Section, P/O. Andrieux and P/O. Hood, carried out a weather recco, along the French coast from Ile de Batz to Vierge. The section was fired at by light flak and Blue 2 was hit in the fuselage. The Section returned to base without further incident. When squadron was at 30 minutes “Second Call” a Wing practice was carried out. Practice flying was carried out for the remainder of the afternoon.

ADDENDUM – Spitfire VB AB928 P/O P Hood. Cat B damage, a/c repaired, converted to Seafire IB NX941 March 1943. Written off 28th December 1943.

USAAF
EGYPT: With Axis forces in full retreat, 12th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s and 57th Fighter Group P-40s continue to attack ground targets in direct support of the British Eighth Army.

LIBYA: Nine USAMEAF B-24s attacking Benghazi harbour claim direct hits on three ships and the downing of an Axis fighter.

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401 Sqn RCAF (Kenley – Spitfire IX) 5.11.42

Weather: Very foggy with heavy rain all day. Ceiling 500’ without any wind.

At 0658 hours the squadron was at readiness. At 1000 hours, 30 minutes available. At 1400 hours, F/L E.P. Wood gave the squadron an illustrated lecture on air firing in the wing pilots room. At 1500 hours, the station commander invited the pilots to attend to a discussion on the advisability of attaching bombs to Spitfire IX’s and all pilots strongly recommended that it be done immediately. F/L Grant asked for permission to drop the first bomb. 1813 hours squadron released.

USAAF
EGYPT: Its breakout from El Alamein complete, the British Eighth Army regroups and opens the pursuit phase of the offensive beneath a wide-ranging and aggressive aerial umbrella that includes every available USAAF fighter and bomber based in Egypt. 12th Medium Bombardment Group B-25s contribute 42 effective sorties, and 57th Fighter Group P-40s mount a total of 68 escort and fighter-bomber sorties.

An advance air and ground echelon (“A” Party) comprising half of the 57th Fighter Group is ordered forward to a former Axis landing ground near El Daba. This is part of a two-platoon system adopted from the RAF. At the next opportunity, the El Daba force will remain in place, continuing to provide fighters and fighter-bombers, while the so-called “B” Party leapfrogs it to a base even nearer the receding battle front.

RAF
Base Changes
43 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to Gibraltar
112 Sqn (Kittyhawk III) moves to El Gazala
500 Sqn (Hudson V) moves to Gibraltar
422 Sqn RCAF (Catalina IB) moves to Oban
485 Sqn RNZAF (Spitfire VB) moves to Eglinton

[warshipbuilder]

83 Sqn (Wyton – Lancaster I) 6.11.42

15 crews were briefed for Genoa for early take off. Take off was later postponed until 21-30. P/O. Hackney and W/O. Long & P/O. Todd, on first trip with this squadron. The weather was good on the whole except from the French coast on return when 10/10 cloud was encountered with rapidly lowering cloud base down to 200’. P/O. Hackney and W/O. Long failed to return and are believed to have collided over target area. P/O. Todd crashed on going around at Waterbeach and the aircraft blew up killing the entire crew. Weather on return at base was really shocking – some crews managed to get in but most were diverted to other aerodromes where conditions were nearly as bad. F/O. Hodgson returned early owing to engine trouble. F/Lt. Partridge overshot the Mediterranean coast, finally pinpointing himself on Corsica and bombed the target 1 ¾ hours late. Photographs were brought back by S/Ldr. Daniels, P/O. Jackson, F/Sgt. Oakes, S/Ldr. Hilton (unplotted) F/Sgt. Zeleschuk, and S/Ldr. Cooke.

ADDENDUM – Lancaster I R5566 OL-B. Crew: P/O TG Hackney DFC, Sgt J Cope, F/Sgt AW Coley, F/Sgt JH Fellowe, Sgt L Edwards, F/Sgt CA Foster RNZAF, Sgt SC Orme RNZAF. T/o 2210 Wyton. Believed to have been damaged by flak and crashed into the Mediterranean between Sori and the Italian mainland. Six are commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial, while Sgt Orme is buried in the Stagliano Cemetery, Genoa.

Lancaster I R5673 OL-L. Crew: WO1 VR Long RCAF, Sgt JLG Waite, F/Sgt ML Roberts RCAF, Sgt WG Chapman, Sgt E MacKay, Sgt LH Morton RAAF, Sgt P Haywood. Lost without a trace. All are commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial.

BOMBER COMMAND
14 Wellingtons and 5 Lancasters on cloud-cover raids to Essen, Osnabrück and Wilhelmshaven. Only 6 aircraft bombed, through cloud, in the Osnabrück and Wilhelmshaven areas. No aircraft lost.

12 Bostons bombed an airfield near Caen without loss.

10 Venturas in fours and twos carried out low-level raids to Holland. 3 aircraft lost.

GENOA - 72 Lancasters of the Pathfinder Force and 5 Group. 2 Lancasters lost.

The attack was concentrated but most bombs fell in residential areas. No separate report for this raid is available from Genoa.

Minor Operations: 65 aircraft minelaying from Lorient to the Frisians, 4 O.T.U. sorties, 3 Stirling minelayers lost.

USAAF
EGYPT: With half the group on the move, the 57th Fighter Group’s “B” Party mounts 34 effective combat sorties in support of the British Eighth Army pursuit of Axis forces. The P-40s are credited with destroying German Army motor vehicles around Mersa Matruh.

Six 79th Fighter Group senior pilots join the 57th Fighter Group for a strafing attack against an Axis motor convoy near the Egyptian coast. Although the attack is deemed a success, the 79th Fighter Group commanding officer, LtCol Peter McGoldrick, is killed when he force-lands his battle-damaged P-40 and detonates a land mine.

LIBYA: USAMEAF B-24s attacking the harbours at Tobruk and Benghazi claim hits on two Axis ships

RAF
Base Changes
3 Sqn RAAF (Kittyhawk I/II) moves to El Daba
7 Sqn SAAF (Hurricane IID) moves to LG.172
37 Sqn (Wellington IC) moves to LG.224
70 Sqn (Wellington IC) moves to LG.224
93 Sqn (Non-Op) leaves for North Africa
112 Sqn (Kittyhawk III) moves to Sidi Haneish
145 Sqn (Spitfire VC) moves to LG.21
158 Sqn (Halifax II) moves to Rufforth
250 Sqn (Kittyhawk III) moves to LG.106
260 Sqn (Kittyhawk II) moves to LG.75
601 Sqn (Spitfire VC) moves to LG.21
450 Sqn RAAF (Kittyhawk III) moves to LG.106

First and Last Operational Missions
143 Sqn (North Coates) flies its first OM in the Beaufighter IIF
272 Sqn (Takali) flies its first OM in the Beaufighter VIF
419 Sqn RCAF (Croft) flies its last OM in the Wellington III

[warshipbuilder]

9 Sqn (Waddington – Lancaster I) 7.11.42

Despite the fact that the crews didn’t land until approx. 0700 hours, briefing took place at 1500 hours for another attack on GENOA, the following crews taking part;-

The following crews brief to lay mines outside the Harbour ten minutes before the bombing started: S/L. FRY. A/C “D”: SGT. MACDONALD. A/C “M”: F/SGT. JORDAN. A/C “P”: SGT. BOOTE. A/C “Y”.

F/O. MACKENZIE. A/C “R”: F/O. COWEN. A/C “V”: F/SGT> STOREY. A/C “U”: F/SGT. GIBSON. A/C “O”: F/SGT. McDONALD. A/C “L”: S/L. CLYDE-SMITH A/C “Z”.

Of these “R” carried 2 x 1,000 6 SBC (90lb x 4lb.inc) and the rest carried 10 x SBC (90 x 4lb.inc). Take-off was to be 1730 hours and at 1550 the mining crews were changed over to carry 4 x 1,000lb. 1 x SBC (90 x 4lb.) and bomb the A.P. The armourers did an excellent job of work in changing these loads over and received a message of congratulations from the C. in C.

Once again a very quiet trip, but a front that was encountered just South of PARIS gave cloud to 18,000 feet. Fortunately, the icing index was very low and not much icing was experienced.

The fires seen were thought to be much fiercer and more widespread than the previous night. A smoke haze seeming to generate on the breakwater did not seem to spread much past the Harbour installations and the crews were able to pick out the target quite easily.

On return “R” (F/O. MACKENZIE) and “L” (F/SGT. McDONALD) collided in mid-air and both crashed on the Southern boundaries of the aerodrome.

The attack on GENOA was made to further advance the Egyptian campaign, since the port was used largely to transport materials to the enemy forces. The retreat of the enemy Westward in rout suggests the efforts of Bomber Command were of great help to the Allied forces in Egypt.

Apart from “R” and “L”, all our aircraft returned from a highly successful trip.

BOMBER COMMAND
6 Mosquitoes of 105 Squadron carried out a successful low-level attack on the 5,000-ton German ship Elsa Essberger which had just arrived in the mouth of the River Gironde from a blockade-running voyage from the Far East with scarce raw materials. The merchant ship was escorted by an armed naval vessel. The Mosquitoes claimed to have hit both ships but 1 Mosquito was shot down.

In other operations, 9 Bostons, 6 Venturas and 5 Wellingtons attempted raids to many places in Germany, Belgium and Holland but most only achieved attacks on minor targets of opportunity. 1 Boston and 1 Ventura lost.

GENOA - 175 aircraft – 85 Lancasters, 45 Halifaxes, 39 Stirlings, 6 Wellingtons. 6 aircraft – 4 Halifaxes. 1 Lancaster. 1 Wellington – lost, 3.4 percent of the force.

Returning crews claimed a very successful and concentrated raid and this was confirmed by photographs. No report is available from Genoa.

36 Wellingtons of 1 Group minelaying in many areas from St-Nazaire to Denmark. 1 aircraft lost.

USAAF
EGYPT: Bad weather grounds or hampers many 12th Medium Bombardment Group and 57th Fighter Group missions.

376th Heavy Bombardment Group B-24s begin to redeploy from bases in Palestine to bases in Egypt.

FRANCE: In the Eighth Air Force’s first bombing mission since October 21, 23 B-17s of the 91st, 301st, and 306th Heavy Bombardment groups and 11 B-24s of the 93d Heavy Bombardment Group attack the Brest U-boat base with nearly 80 tons of bombs. This action marks the 91st Heavy Bombardment Group’s combat debut. Against claims of four GAF fighters downed and three probably downed over Brest, the 91st Heavy Bombardment Group has 11 B-17s damaged and the 93d Heavy Bombardment Group has one B-24 damaged and one B-24 damaged beyond repair, plus three crewmen wounded.

In their unit’s combat debut, 44th Heavy Bombardment Group B-24s mount an unchallenged diversionary flight over France.

UNITED KINGDOM: Movement of Twelfth Air Force air units from bases in the U.K. to North Africa begins—in some cases directly to bases in North Africa during the night of November 7–8, and in other cases via Gibraltar.

RAF
Base Changes
40 Sqn (Wellington IC) moved to LG.222A
73 Sqn (Hurricane IIC) moves to LG.21
92 Sqn (Spitfire VC) moves to LG.21
104 Sqn (Wellington II) moves to LG.224
124 Sqn (Spitfire VI) moves to North Weald
131 Sqn (Spitfire VB) moves to Westhampnett
238 Sqn (Hurricane IIC) moves to LG.20
254 Sqn (Beaufighter VIC) moves to North Coates

[warshipbuilder]

10 Sqn (Melbourne – Halifax II) 8.11.42

Three fresher crews were detailed to carry out a Gardening mission, two crews laid their mine in the allotted area, one crew captained by Sgt. Hale failed to return, no message was received after the aircraft had left Base. Weather at Base was fair with variable cloud to 3,000 ft. Southwesterly wind.

ADDENDUM – Halifax II DT557 ZA-U. Crew: Sgt KGM Hale, Sgt JE Humphreys, Sgt FG White, Sgt FJ Windram, Sgt FA Broom, Sgt TW Griesdale, Sgt FL Tidball. T/o 1802 Melbourne. Presumed lost over the sea. Sgt Hale and Sgt White are buried in the Sage War Cemetery; the others are commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial.

BOMBER COMMAND
MINELAYING - 70 aircraft to many places from Brest to the Frisian Islands. 2 Halifaxes and 2 Wellingtons lost

Leaflets - 26 Stirlings of 3 Group carried out a special operation to drop leaflets over many towns in France giving news of the latest successes of the Allied forces in North Africa, following the successful invasion of the French territories there. No aircraft were lost.

USAAF
EGYPT: Although severely slowed by rain over the past four days, the pursuit phase of the El Alamein offensive continues. However, due to the weather, including severe flying conditions, large parts of the Axis force evade capture and outrace the pursuing British ground forces and Anglo-American air groups.

Mersa Matruh falls to the British Eighth Army.

376th Heavy Bombardment Group B-24s begin combat operations from a base near the Nile Delta.

ENGLAND: Following its mission to France, the 301st Heavy Bombardment Group stands down to prepare for its transfer to North Africa.

FRANCE: Eleven 91st Heavy Bombardment Group B-17s attack the Abbeville/Drucat Airdrome at the cost of five aircraft damaged and five crewmen wounded. Also, 42 B-17s of the 301st and 306th Heavy Bombardment groups attack an industrial area in Lille at the cost of eight B-17s damaged and three crewmen injured. The 4th Fighter Group, in Spitfires, provides withdrawal support for the Lille mission, but no enemy aircraft are engaged. Claims by bomber gunners amount to 11 GAF fighters downed and six probably downed.

FRENCH MOROCCO: XII Air Support Command headquarters is established ashore to oversee USAAF operations in support of U.S. Army ground troops. In an event for which he was later awarded a Medal of Honor, Col Demas T. Craw, a XII Air Support Command staff officer, volunteers to negotiate an armistice with commanders of the Vichy French forces in the region. However, as Col Craw is attempting to find passage to the French lines, he is killed by machine-gun fire.

FRENCH NORTHWEST AFRICA: Under an aggressive umbrella of carrier-based U.S. Navy fighters and light bombers, the Anglo-American invasion forces are landed at widely dispersed points along the Algerian and Moroccan coasts. Aerial opposition by obsolescent Vichy French Air Force fighters is easily overcome. Ten pilots flying F4F Wildcat fighters from the U.S. Navy’s Fighting Squadron 41 (USS Ranger) down 13 aircraft in a fighter-versus-fighter battle over Cazes Airdrome, French Morocco, and five other Vichy warplanes are destroyed by pilots from other fighter squadrons in other action.

The 60th Troop Carrier Group, equipped with 39 C-47 transports, undertakes its first combat mission of the war by flying from England with a reinforced battalion of U.S. Army paratroopers. The plan is to land peacefully at the Oran/La Senia and Oran/Tafaraoui airdromes at 0100 hours, November 8, but due to aircraft becoming lost and separated during the long flight, and to unexpected antiaircraft fire at various Vichy French airdromes, the operation degenerates into a complete shambles. Many C-47s are forced down and many of their crewmen and passengers are taken prisoner by Vichy troops. Three C-47s with troops aboard—along with troops parachuting from a fourth C-47—land in Spanish Morocco and are interned. Three C-47s with troops aboard are shot down by Vichy fighters. It will be several days before all the 60th Troop Carrier Group’s airplanes, crewmen, and passengers are accounted for, and only 14 of the original 39 aircraft will be available for use.

At about 1700 hours, the 31st Fighter Group’s 308th and 309th Fighter squadrons arrive at Tafaraoui Airdrome, south of Oran, Algeria, after staging through Gibraltar from England. One 309th Fighter Squadron Spitfire is shot down in the landing pattern by Vichy French fighters, and its pilot is killed, but the survivors swiftly recover from the surprise attack and three of them each shoot one of the four Vichy Dewoitine D.520 fighters before the lone survivor flees.

Headquarters elements of MajGen James H. Doolittle’s Twelfth Air Force land from ships at Arzieu, Algeria, as do the headquarters of BriGen Thomas W. Blackburn’s XII Fighter Command and ground echelons of the 31st Fighter Group and 319th Medium Bombardment Group.

At 1730 hours, in an uncontested attack, GAF He-111 level bombers and Ju-88 torpedo bombers attack Allied ships offloading troops and supplies at Cape Matifou, near Algiers. The USS Leedstown is torpedoed.

VICHY FRANCE: Vichy France severs diplomatic relations with the United States.

RAF
Base Changes
43 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to Maison Blanche
72 Sqn (Non-Op) leaves for North Africa
73 Sqn (Hurricane IIC) moves to LG.13
81 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to Maison Blanche
115 Sqn (Wellington) III moves to East Wretham
213 Sqn (Hurricane IIB/IIC) moves to LG.20
242 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to Maison Blanche

First and Last Operational Missions
213 Sqn (LG.20) flies its last OM in the Hurricane IIB
332 Sqn (North Weald) flies its first OM in the Spitfire IX

[warshipbuilder]

420 Sqn RCAF (Middleton St. George – Wellington III) 9.11.42

Required for operations. Fifteen aircraft complete with crews offered. Eleven got off and two bombed the objective. Ten aircraft returned. One aircraft and crew reported missing.

ADDENDUM – Wellington III Z1679 PT-B. Crew: Sgt WS Beale RCAF, Sgt AJM Smith RCAF, WO CS Snider RCAF, Sgt C Collard RCAF, Sgt JD McDonald RCAF. T/o 1753 Middleton St. George. Shot down near Pellworm Island, off Schleswig Holstein, where Sgt Collard was first buried. Since 1945 his remains have been taken to Hamburg Cemetery, Ohlsdorf. The others have no known grave and are commemorated on the Runnymeade Memorial.

BOMBER COMMAND
12 Bostons bombed Le Havre and scored a hit on the large German merchant ship which had been the objective of recent raids. The ship was put out of action for several months. No Bostons were lost.

HAMBURG
213 aircraft – 74 Wellingtons, 72 Lancasters, 48 Halifaxes, 19 Stirlings. 15 aircraft – 5 Lancasters, 4 Stirlings, 4 Wellingtons, 2 Halifaxes – lost, 7.0 percent of the force.

The bombers encountered cloud and icing and winds which had not been forecast. No clear identification or marking of Hamburg was made. 150 crews reported bombing, 133 believing themselves to be in the Hamburg area, 17 claiming attacks in other places. Hamburg reports thick cloud and heavy rain and says that many bombs fell in the Elbe or in open country. There were, however, 26 fires in Hamburg of which 3 were large ones. Casualties were 3 people killed and 16 injured. 1 bomber crashed in the city’s main cemetery, in the Ohlsdorf district; this is where many R.A.F. men who died while raiding this part of Germany are buried in a Commonwealth War Graves Commission section.

15 Stirlings carried more leaflets to France without loss.

USAAF
ALGERIA: Spitfires of the 31st Fighter Group’s 308th and 309th Fighter squadrons turn back a morning attempt by a French Foreign Legion motorized column to reinforce Oran from the south by way of the road running beside the squadrons’s new home at Oran/Tafaraoui Airdrome. The Spitfires destroy at least five Vichy light tanks and many trucks before the column retreats to the south.

When Vichy French shore batteries are trained inland to bear on Oran/La Senia Airdrome, they are put out of action in a strafing attack mounted by 31st Fighter Group Spitfires from Tafaraoui.

GAF medium bombers attack Allied vessels off Algiers. In this attack, the USS Leedstown, which had been damaged by a GAF torpedo on November 8, is sunk by bombs during another uncontested GAF attack.

During the afternoon, most of the 52d Fighter Group, a USAAF Spitfire unit, arrives at Oran/Tafaraoui Airdrome from Gibraltar, but six of its Spitfires run out of gas and are forced down along the way. Also, advance elements of the 3d Photographic Group arrive in Algeria following a flight from England via Gibraltar.

At 1605 hours, MajGen James H. Doolittle and his staff land at Arzieu following a flight from Gibraltar in a B-17 escorted by 25 52d Fighter Group Spitfires. From Arzieu, Doolittle’s B-17 and 12 of the Spitfires proceed to Oran/Tafaraoui.

EGYPT: As the British Eighth Army enters Sidi Barrani, the 57th Fighter Group’s “B” Party moves forward to a former Axis landing ground at Sidi Haneish.

The 376th Heavy Bombardment Group moves to Abu Sueir Airdrome, near the Nile Delta.

FRANCE: Thirty-one VIII Bomber Command B-17s and 12 B-24s attack the St.-Nazaire U-boat base. While bombing from between 7,500 and 10,000 feet, three 306th Heavy Bombardment Group B-17s are downed by flak and 22 are damaged, with crew losses of one killed and 32 missing. Eleven aircraft from other groups are also damaged. It is decided that, hereafter, heavy-bombing attacks will take place only from high altitude.

FRENCH MOROCCO: U.S. Navy pilots from Fighting Squadron 9 (USS Ranger) are credited with the destruction of six Vichy French fighters in the air near Fedala during an early-morning battle.

U.S. Navy light bombers off the USS Santee attack the Marrakech Airdrome and destroy 20 Vichy French aircraft on the ground.

GIBRALTAR: Thirty-nine 64th Troop Carrier Group C-47s arrive from England with a British Army paratroop battalion.

TUNISIA: The German Army invades Tunisia without opposition and immediately begins staging troops and materiel from Italy through Tunis\El Aouina Airdrome.

RAF
Base Changes
3 Sqn RAAF (Kittyhawk I/II) moves to Sidi Haneish
4 Sqn SAAF (Kittyhawk I) moves to LG.75
5 Sqn SAAF (Non-Op) moves to LG.75
40 Sqn SAAF TR (Hurricane IIB) moves to LG.07
127 Sqn (Hurricane IIB) moves to LG.20
152 Sqn (Non-Op) leaves for North Africa
250 Sqn (Kittyhawk III) moves to LG.101
274 Sqn (Hurricane IIB/IIC) moves to LG.104
450 Sqn (Kittyhawk III) moves to LG.102
601 Sqn (Spitfire VC) moves to LG.13
608 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to Gibraltar


First and Last Operational Missions
6 Sqn (LG.172) flies its last OM in the Hurricane IID
227 Sqn (Luqa) flies its first OM in the Beaufighter VIC
242 Sqn (Maison Blanche – Spitfire VB) flies its first OM in the MTO

[warshipbuilder]

107 Sqn (Great Massingham – Boston III) 10.11.42

Weather:- Hazy, later fine and clear. 9 aircraft captained by S/Ldr Phillips, W/O Reid, P/O Davidson, W/Cdr Dutton, F/Sgt McCormack, Sgt McManus, P/O Burley, P/O Dunn, and P/O Rankin were detailed to attack the raider “NEWMARK” at Le Havre. Aircraft attacked from 10,000 feet in two boxes of Nine. (Nine aircraft from Swanton Morley co-operated), and bursts observed in the Basin de Marce and North of Fishtail Jetty. Aircraft captained by P/O Davidson and Sgt McManus collided over the target area and both spun into the sea. One dinghy was observed but no occupants seen.

ADDENDUM – Boston III Z2164 OM-? Crew: Sgt H McManus, Sgt J Bell, Sgt AF Goff, Sgt HY Torr. T/o 1320 Great Massingham. Collided with Boston AL284 and both plunged into the sea. All are commemorated on the Runnymede Memorial.

Boston III AL284 OM-? Crew: P/O WRN Davidson, F/O JA Logan RNZAF, Sgt CGM Battison, Sgt JW Fenton RNZAF. T/o 1313 Great Massingham. Lost in the manner previously described. Sgt Logan is buried in Ste-Marie Cemetery at Le Havre; his companions have no known grave.

BOMBER COMMAND
18 Bostons attempted to continue attacks on the German ship at Le Havre but it had been moved. 15 aircraft bombed the dock area. 2 Bostons crashed in the sea.

MINELAYING
42 aircraft to the southern Biscay coast of France and to the Frisian Islands. No aircraft were lost but 2 Lancasters crashed in England.

USAAF
ALGERIA: Thirty-four 64th Troop Carrier Group C-47s embarking a British Army paratroop battalion arrive from England after stopping over at Gibraltar on November 9.

CRETE: 376th Heavy Bombardment Group B-17s attack the harbour at Candia.

FRENCH MOROCCO: The 33d Fighter Group air echelon, in 72 P-40 fighters, is launched from the USS Chenango at noon to occupy the airport at Port Lyautey. However, the runway is pitted with bomb craters, resulting in many damaged fighters.

FRENCH NORTHWEST AFRICA: Most Vichy French units in Algeria and Morocco cease resistance. In all, six Spitfires and three C-47s are lost in action.

LIBYA: USAMEAF B-24s attack the harbour at Benghazi.

RAF
Base Changes
2 Sqn SAAF (Kittyhawk I) moves to LG.75
73 Sqn (Hurricane IIC) moves to LG.155
260 Sqn (Kittyhawk II) moves to Sidi Azeiz
407 Sqn RCAF (Hudson V) moves to Docking
419 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to Middleton St. George

[warshipbuilder]

RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL
The first rays of the dawning sun
Shall touch its pillars,
And as the day advances
And the light grows stronger,
You shall read the names
Engraved on the stone of those who sailed on the angry sky
And saw harbour no more.
No gravestone in yew-dark churchyard
Shall mark their resting place;
Their bones lie in the forgotten corners of earth and sea.
But, that we may not lose their memory
With fading years, their monuments stand here,
Here, where the trees troop down to Runnymede.
Meadow of Magna Carta, field of freedom,
Never saw you so fitting a memorial,
Proof that the principles established here
Are still dear to the hearts of men.
Here now they stand, contrasted and alike,
The field of freedom's birth, and the memorial
To freedom's winning.
And, as evening comes,
And mists, like quiet ghosts, rise from the river bed,
And climb the hill to wander through the cloisters,
We shall not forget them. Above the mist
We shall see the memorial still, and over it
The crown and single star. And we shall pray
As the mists rise up and the air grows dark
That we may wear
As brave a heart as they.


425 Sqn RCAF (Dishforth – Wellington III) 11.11.42

Weather:- Cloudy, visibility moderate to good. Wind N. W’ly becoming N.N.W’ly 19 M.P.H.

“A” FLIGHT: 1 aircraft detailed and proceeded on an air test. “B” FLIGHT: 6 aircraft detailed as follows: 4 aircraft coming back to base. 2 aircraft for local routine flying. Also 4 aircraft detailed for night circuits and landings – only one proceeded.

Aircraft Wellington III B.J.486 crashed and burned ½ mile East of Luken House, near Ripon, killing the crew:
CAN-R95499 Sgt. Larche J.A. (Pilot), OP. TRIPS NIL, OP HOURS NIL.
CAN-R87427 Sgt. Funk M. (Nav), OP. TRIPS NIL, OP HOURS NIL.
CAN-R106059 Sgt. Sokol W. (WOP/AG), OP. TRIPS NIL, OP HOURS NIL.

OPERATIONS: (Day) 4 aircraft required and cancelled. (Night) 4 aircraft required and 2 D.C.O.

ADDENDUM – Wellington III BJ486. It was impossible to contact the pilot about a rapid and unexpected deterioration in the weather. Crashed 2130 after several unsuccessful attempts to land.

BOMBER COMMAND
MINELAYING - 31 Wellingtons to Biscay ports and the Frisians. No losses.

USAAF
ALGERIA: 134 U.S. Army paratroopers are flown directly from England into Algiers/Maison Blanche Airport by 13 64th Troop Carrier Group C-47 transports. Later in the day, 34 64th Troop Carrier Group C-47s loaded with British Army paratroopers also arrive at Maison Blanche, direct from England.

An advance flight echelon of the 319th Medium Bombardment Group, in B-26s, arrives at St.-Leu Airdrome.

EGYPT: In the USAAF’s best day so far against Germany and her allies, 57th Fighter Group P-40 pilots down eight Axis aircraft in two separate morning engagements.

The 98th Heavy Bombardment Group, in B-24s, begins combat operations from Fayid Airdrome.

The British Eighth Army captures Halfaya.

FRENCH NORTHWEST AFRICA: All remaining Vichy French resistance in Algeria and Morocco ceases at 0700 hours.

LIBYA: The British Eighth Army drives into Libya and captures Bardia.

MEDITERRANEAN: USAMEAF B-24s attacking Axis shipping at sea north of the Libyan coast claim four direct hits on one vessel.

VICHY FRANCE: The German Army occupies Vichy France.

RAF
Base Changes
3 Sqn RAAF (Kittyhawk I/II) moves to LG.76
33 Sqn (Hurricane IIC) moves to LG.101
40 Sqn SAAF TR (Hurricane IIB) moves to LG-Z
70 Sqn (Wellington IC) moves to LG.106
80 Sqn (Hurricane IIC) moves to LG.13
134 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to Helwan
238 Sqn (Hurricane IIC) moves to LG.101
250 Sqn (Kittyhawk III) moves to LG.76
274 Sqn (Hurricane IIB/IIC) moves to LG.13
335 Sqn (Non-Op) moves to LG.13
500 Sqn (Hudson V) moves to Tafaraoui
415 Sqn RCAF (Hampden I) moves to Thorney Island
450 Sqn RAAF (Kittyhawk III) moves to Sidi Azeiz
601 Sqn (Spitfire VC) moves to LG.155

First and Last Operational Missions
18 Sqn (Blida) flies its first OM in the Blenheim V
404 Sqn RCAF (Dyce) flies its first OM in the Beaufighter VIF