Squadron Operations: Summary Information

Overview

There follows below a list of the all of the operations flown by 550 Squadron and the aircraft involved on each. The information used to build this page was taken in the first instance from the lists provided on the original Squadron Association web-site, but has been augmented by new information gathered since that time (squadron operations logs, individual aircrew log books, and other sources).

This information is not yet complete: it has been build from the a number of sources (documentary and people) and compilation of complete lists is an ongoing task that is expected to take quite some time to complete. So please don't shout just yet if you spot an omission - work continues to build a more complete, and accurate, list.
Do however shout if you spot an error! Please email any corrections or information to the contact details in the link at the bottom of the page.

Operation Summary: The column headers should be fairly self-explanatory. The term "aborted" as used here covers a number of possibilities:

• the operation was cancelled before crews were briefed
• the crews have been briefed as to the target, and in some cases the planes may even have been bombed up and the crews on-board at their stations awaiting take-off, before the op has been stood-down
• finally a number of cases where the op was already under way and the planes en-route but for whatever reason the operation was aborted (e.g. the master bomber orders the attack cancelled due to weather conditions at target adversely affecting targeting).

Aircraft Deployed: When a link to a particular aircraft is given, this indicates aircraft known to have taken part in this raid (in the records currently available to the web-site author). A record of whether the aircraft returned or failed to return (FTR) is also logged.

Servicemen Deployed: Names of the crew in the operation.

Station Summary: This section is the information from the RAF North Killingholme Station Record Book for the operational date (if available).

Definitions of the abbreviations used are available: here.

Manageable Lists

The amount of data in the database is growing and this is resulting in the "all operations/targets" list getting rapidly bigger and thus slower to generate. There are options to display shorter, more quickly generated, reports if you want to home in on something specific. For example, there are options to generate reports on operations to a single target, or by single aircraft (to all targets) or by single aircraft to a single target. There is, on the database-reports summary page, a short user guide (PDF format) on how to do this.

Operation/Target: Neuss (23 Sep 1944 - 23 Sep 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Neuss	23 Sep 1944	23 Sep 1944	N	At 10.55hrs the Squadron was informed that no operations would take place today, but the aircraft were to be bombed up ready for an early morning mission. As 12.20hrs information was received that the Squadron may be called upon tonight. At 13.30hrs informed that the Squadron would definitely operate tonight. 21 aircraft and crew were detailed, briefed and took off to attack Military objectives at NEUSS approximately 4 miles SW of Dusseldorf. 20 aircraft bombed the primary target, F/O Lord returned early owning to "GEE" being unserviceable. 10/10ths cloud over the target the results of the bombing could not be observed. All returned safely to Base.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 17,000 ft at 21.30hrs

Operation/Target: Calais (25 Sep 1944 - 25 Sep 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Calais	25 Sep 1944	25 Sep 1944	N	25 aircraft and crews detailed, briefed and took off to blast the Hun out of Calais, precision bombing was called for owning to the close proximity of Allied troops The weather conditions were bad over the target and the Master Bomber ordered all aircraft to return to base with their bombs.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Abandoned on instructions of Master Bomber

Operation/Target: Calais (26 Sep 1944 - 26 Sep 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Calais	26 Sep 1944	26 Sep 1944	N	24 aircraft and crews again detailed, briefed and took off to blast the Hun who are still holding out of Calais. This time the weather was good enough to permit precision bombing which was successfully applied.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 3500 at 12.25hrs.

Operation/Target: Calais (27 Sep 1944 - 27 Sep 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Calais	27 Sep 1944	27 Sep 1944	N	17 aircraft and crews took off for Calais early this morning once again to bomb the Hun into submission. The weather was good and the bombing results were excellent.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 4500 at 10.13 1/2hrs

Operation/Target: Calais (28 Sep 1944 - 28 Sep 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Calais	28 Sep 1944	28 Sep 1944	N	12 aircraft and crews took once off for Calais this morning the target area being very small now owing to pressure by Allied forces precision bombing was called for; the weather over the target area was bad and the Master Bomber ordered all A/C to return to base.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Abandoned	S/L A P Gainsford (P) F/O S G Kitson (F/Eng) F/Sgt W R Williams (Nav) F/Sgt J H F Rowe (A/B) W/O F E Barrett (W/Op) F/O H G Cook (MU/AG) F/Sgt G H Davidson (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Walcheren (03 Oct 1944 - 03 Oct 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Walcheren	03 Oct 1944	03 Oct 1944	N	17 aircraft and crews detailed to attack and destroy a sea wall which prevent the sea innundating the low lying areas on the island of Walcheren. The weather was bad, 6/10 cloud over the route and 9/10 cloud over the target. The Master Bomber brought the attack down to 4000 ft to bomb and all aircraft were able to identify visual details of the coastline, many aircraft made several runs to ensure accurate bombing. As our portion of the attack developed the wall was breached and gave way in several places and the water crashing rhough, flooding far and wide across the fields and we hope drowned the enemy defences. Good photographs were obtained. In addition to operational flying, a training programme was carried out which included five "Y" cross country exercises. The final summing up of the operations can be made with the quotation from two communiques - (1) A report brought back by two specially reporting Mosquio aircraft shows that the flooding was extensive. (2) The aircraft carrying the 12000lbs "blockbusters" and scheduled to finished off the job at the end of the attack, all brought them back undropped - they were not needed as the job had already been completed.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 3,700 feet at 14.38 hours	S/L A P Gainsford (P) F/O S G Kitson (F/Eng) F/Sgt W R Williams (Nav) F/Sgt J H F Rowe (A/B) W/O F E Barrett (W/Op) F/O H G Cook (MU/AG) F/Sgt G H Davidson (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Saarbrucken (05 Oct 1944 - 06 Oct 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Saarbrucken	05 Oct 1944	06 Oct 1944	N	27 aircraft with crew were briefed and took-off at 18.22hrs to attack military objectives in SAARBRUCKEN. "F" (F/Lt Shaw) and "A" (S/Ldr Misselbrock) returned early, the former owing to "Gee" being unserviceable and the latter with the Captain sick. The remainder of the force, after flying through some rather dirty weather over England, found the target area almost clear with only ground base or thin cloud to prevent excellent visibility. The marking was punctual and well placed. In addition to a large and apparently concentrated mass of incendiaries with fires taking a good hold, the chief show piece of the evening was a truely tremendous explosion, so great that every crew unanimously noted the time as 22.46 hours, with a sheet of orange flame many hundreas of feet in the air, and smoke rising to 8000 to 10,000 ft. It would appear that the Hun will have several rounds less to fire at our Allies of the 3rd American Army. Flak was described as being moderate. Enemy night fighters were conspicuous by their absence. Photos taken show a mass of incendiary and fire traps, but unfortunately no ground detail. Visibility deteriorated rapdily at base and the aircraft, all of which returned safely, were diverted to Norfolk. A good flying training programme was also carried out.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 15,000 ft ay 22.37 1/2hrs

Operation/Target: Emmerich (07 Oct 1944 - 07 Oct 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Emmerich	07 Oct 1944	07 Oct 1944	N	Twenty five aircraft and crews were detailed and briefed, 24 took off at noon to attack Military objectives at EMMERICH in close support of the Allied Ground Forces. "F" (F/L Shaw) returned early owing to engine trouble. "C2" (F/O Hussey) failed to take off owing to compressor trouble. Emmerich, a small compact town on the North bank of the Rhine just inside Germany, serving as an important Railway Centre and a rendevous for troops and material was easily identified. The weather over the sea was cloudy, but clear with good visibility over the target. Markers were accurate and the town was soon covered by clouds of smoke, rising to a height of approximately 12,000 ft, from excellent fires at their base. Very good photographs were obtained showing a vivid picture of the attack. There is no doubt that much weaving was necessary over the target as the Flak was vicious and accurately predicted and more than one aircraft brought back evidence of this in the shape of Flak holes. The return journey was uneventful, except of a grandstand view of Cleves [Ed: Kleve. A town in the Lower Rhine region of northwestern Germany near the Dutch border and the River Rhine] which had also been attacked and was burning well. At the Base the weather had deteriorated with cloud down to the "deck" and for the second time running the aircraft were diverted, this time to Faldingworth and Blyton.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 11,000 ft at 14.23hrs.

Operation/Target: Duisburg (14 Oct 1944 - 15 Oct 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Duisburg	14 Oct 1944	15 Oct 1944	N	There was no respite for the Squadron for a further 25 aircraft and crews were required, provided and briefed to attack once again Duisburg the scene of their early morning visit. All our aircraft returned safely from this operation.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 19,000 ft at 01.29 hrs

Operation/Target: Duisburg (14 Oct 1944 - 14 Oct 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Duisburg	14 Oct 1944	14 Oct 1944	N	25 aircraft and crews were briefed to attack the large steelworks of August Thysson at Duisburg, the world largest inland port. 24 aircraft took off without incident at approx 06.30hrs to make their way through layer cloud which broke before the Rhiner but closed in again over the target and only the crew of "H" (F/O Bond) claim to have bombed the ground markers. "N" (F/S Hopman), "A2" (S/L Gainsford) and "E2" (F/O Stevenson) claim to have bombed their objectives on Navigational aids, the others endeavoured to obey the Master Bombers instruction to bomb any built up area they could see in the vicinity of the target. Several crews reported that the Thyssen works were identified and in flames and one crew reported having observed the demolition of a Rhine bridge. At least one good photograph was obtained by "C2" (F/O John) showing a carpet of bomb bursts on the Steelworks which has been enlarged and forwarded to the C in C for his inspection. F/O Abrams and F/O Dodds and their crews failed to return from this daylight raid in which approximately 1000 heavy aircraft with fighter cover took part.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 17,000 ft at 08.45hrs	S/L A P Gainsford (P) F/L M F A Maltin (P) F/O S G Kitson (F/Eng) F/Sgt W R Williams (Nav) F/Sgt J H F Rowe (A/B) W/O F E Barrett (W/Op) F/O H G Cook (MU/AG) F/Sgt G H Davidson (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Stuttgart (19 Oct 1944 - 20 Oct 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Stuttgart	19 Oct 1944	20 Oct 1944	N	Twenty six aircraft with crews were offered and twenty five were accepted, plus one aircraft to act as stand-by in the Base. The crews were briefed and took off at 16.50hrs at attack STUTTGART. Twenty took off at this time and the remaining five at 21.30hrs to attack Stuttgart, in two waves. One aircraft was cancelled at the last moment and one aircraft returned early with engine trouble, so in all only 24 aircraft proceeded to the target, one of which, it is regretted, failed to return. F/L Thomas and crew, who had only been with the Squadron a short time and were on their first operational sortie. Moderately cloudy conditions were encountered en route, but over the target 9/10 thick cloud was present and sky marking had to be resorted to. Six crews found momentary gaps to bomb ground markers. Very few results could be seen, only a vague incendiary and fire glow being visible under the cloud. Flak was reported as slight to moderate with some ineffective searchlights. "A" (F/O Young) received some unpleasant attention and was well peppered by flak receiving damage in the tail plane, fuselage, flaps punctured, hydraulics and bomb container. "K" (F/O Daniels) also found Karlsruhe defences awake and received damage to the port wing, fuselage and a punctured tyre. Both aircraft landed safely at Base without casualty. All photographs show cloud and damage cannot be assessed. In additions to operational flying a training programme consisting of Air to Air firing, Air to Sea firing, practice bombing, Fighter affiliation and "Y" Night cross country exercises were carried out. [Ed: some of the up and down times (and bomb delivery times at primary target) are wildly different (PB514, JB345, EE139, ME301) from the remainder of the aircraft. In the case of ME301 bomb delivery is only 30mins after take-off and 3 hours earlier than any other aircraft.]

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 17,000 feet at 20.36 1/2 hours

Operation/Target: Essen (23 Oct 1944 - 23 Oct 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Essen	23 Oct 1944	23 Oct 1944	N	26 aircraft with crews were offered for operations and were briefed at 14.15hrs, with one crew acting as Squadron stand-by. Twenty-five aircraft took off at 16.15hrs to form part of a 1000 aircraft attack on ESSEN. Twenty-four succeeded in bombing the primary target and one aircraft returned early. Opposition encountered was considered moderate and the weather was reasonably good, all aircraft returned safely to Base.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 20,000 feet at 19.35 hours

Operation/Target: Essen (25 Oct 1944 - 25 Oct 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Essen	25 Oct 1944	25 Oct 1944	N	27 aircraft with crews were offered, accepted and briefed to attack once again objectives in ESSEN. The take-off was as usual good and without incident. The Station Commander, Group Captain R V McIntyre D.F.C captained "R" and like the remainder of the crews enjoyed the trip. Opposition over the target area was negligible but a fair number of jet-propelled fighters were seen high over the attackers, but no attempt was made to interfere with the bombing and all our aircraft returned safely to Base.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 20,000 feet at 15.41 hours

Operation/Target: Cologne (28 Oct 1944 - 28 Oct 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Cologne	28 Oct 1944	28 Oct 1944	N	Thirty aircraft and crews were offered for opertions, twenty seven were accepted and stood by to be called upon at short notice for a daylight attack on COLOGNE. Twenty seven aircraft took off without incident at 13.10hrs, led by the Squadron Commander, Wing Commander B. Bell, more affectionately known as "Dingle". The weather conditions at Base left much to be desired and it seemed that the boys would not be able to take off owing to mist and low cloud, but the weather cleared for a brief spell which allowed the boys to take to the air and on to successfully attack military objectives in the Cologne area. The weather over the target was good and the crews highly delighted with the results achieved. The huge and busy railway bridge spanning the Rhine was seen to have had its time. All our aircraft returned safely to Base.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 20,000 ft at 15.47hrs. Flak damage to Port inner (rendered partially u/s), Port fin and rudder and fuselage received over target area.

Operation/Target: Cologne (31 Oct 1944 - 31 Oct 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Cologne	31 Oct 1944	31 Oct 1944	N	Twenty-four aircraft and crews were accepted and briefed to attack military objectives and communications at COLOGNE once again. Opposition was reported to be very moderate and the weather reasonably good. Once again crews participating considered this to have been a highly successful attack.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 18,000 ft at 21.13hrs

Operation/Target: Dusseldorf (02 Nov 1944 - 03 Nov 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Dusseldorf	02 Nov 1944	03 Nov 1944	N	Twenty seven aircraft and crews took off at approximately 16.00hrs to attack DUSSELDORF the leading commercial city of Western Germany and has exceptionaly good transport facilities both by railway and river. As a supply and concentration base for the Western Wall (Rhineland edition) it is therefore an excellent centre to eliminate. Enroute to the target the weather was good but cloudy which however cleared at 0500, leaving the target clear with bright moonlight and good visibility. Ground markers were punctual and clearly visible, placed accurately in the Marsalling yards area and very quickly a concentrated cloud of bomb smoke developed. This was added to in the later stages of the attack by the incendiary aircraft and the crews were enthusiastic about the fires which quickly took hold and emitted a rosy glow seen for almost 100 miles on the return journy. In addition light explosions were observed. Flak was reported as light at first in a barrage later increasing to intense. Night fighters also put in an appearance, all our Air gunners were on the qui vive and successfully beat off any interference from them. Photographs taken and brought back show extensive fire tracks and enthusisatic verbal reports from the aircrews show that the attack should be yet another outstanding success. It is regretted that F/Lt Foster and crew failed to return to base, nothing being heard of them since take-off. Congratualtions were extended to F/L Rose and crew on completing an excellent tour. [Ed: see also the 4th Nov entry below, which refers to the 100th op of ED905 with F/Lt Shaw at the controls. But in fact it appears likely that 100th op occurred today 2nd Nov. rather than 4th Nov. Full details and supporting evidence in the 4th Nov entry below.]

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 19,000 ft at 19.23 hours

Operation/Target: Bochum (04 Nov 1944 - 04 Nov 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Bochum	04 Nov 1944	04 Nov 1944	N	Twenty six aircraft and crews took off at approximately 17.15hrs to attack BOCHUM in the heart of the Ruhr. Aircraft "G2" (F/O Kennedy) soon after take-off found that his hydraulics were u/s and his wheels would not retract completely; thwarted in his efforts to jettison he made a successful landing at Woodbridge with all his bomb load on board. "E2" (F/O Marriott) found that the rear turret of his aircraft was u/s with an oil leak and abandoned. The remainder found 9/10 cloud en route, but over the channel this decreased and gradually cleared. The target was free from cloud, but a certain amount of industrial haze was present. Markers were punctual and fairly accurate, the target area was kept continuously marked and the bombing was well concentrated, After the incendiary attack developed, the whole area rapidly became a mass of fire, visible for approximately 100 miles and there were a number of impressive explosions. The ground defences in the target area were reported as moderate, occasionally becoming intense, with many searchlights in evidence exposing on cone of about 20 or more, there latter were at first ineffective, but later became more troublesome, several aircraft being coned. Hun night fighters made a strong reaction and figher flares were seen from the Dutch coast onwards. Many combats took place in which the following aircraft of 550 Squadron were involved, "B2" (F/O Whynacht) had 4 encounters and claims to have destroyed 2 aircraft and damaged another, whilst the other was inconclusive. All these appeared to be jet-propelled aircraft. No damage or casualties were received. "M" (F/O McCarthy) and "P" (P/O Franklyn (R)) both opened fire on two jet planes but no claims were made and the encounters were inconclusive. "V" (F/O Blackler) claims to have shot down an aircraft believed to be a jet propelled unit. The appearance of jet propelled and other rocket phenomena is only of recent origin, and these claims are being further investigated, meanwhile these claims are accepted with reserve. All our aircraft returned to Base with the exception of "F" (F/O Ansell) who landed at Manston having received damage to his aircraft from Flak, the F/Eng (F/S Sythes) receiving wounds in the thigh. Photographs brought back show extensive fire tracks. Aircraft "F" completed her 100th operational sortie, a fact that F/L Shaw is very proud of, since he has completed the major part of his tour in this aircraft. P.R.U cover now confirms the great damage done in this attack - the two main factories of first priority importance, with extensive blast furnaces, steel works and rolling mills all making armaments have suffered severely; of the six main buildings of one of them all are extensively damaged. A third factory (adjoining the main passenger station which is heavily damaged) manufacturing, milling and grinding machinery is still smoking and damage appears to be heavy. Destruction of unidentified industrial and commercial premises, and residential property is widespread and severe. [Ed: Can this entry (above) about Shaw/ED905 be correct? The battle order lists F/O W J Shaw in "F2" flying, but no F/Lt D A "Jock" Shaw in ED905 "F". Norman Franks in "Ton-Up Lancs" speculates, based on photos and the mixed up ORB at this point, that the ED905 100th trip was F/Lt D A Shaw 2nd Nov 44 to Duesseldorf. This looks to be confirmed by Jock Shaw log book (information from his daughter). So perhaps the ORB just recorded this information a day or two after the fact. The photo claimed to be ED905 taking off for 100th op may in fact be a photo of the aircraft some weeks earlier; some of the people waving have been positively identified (by John Eppel, Nav F/O J Harris crew, Catherine McIntosh (daughter of F/Lt "Jock" Shaw) and Jenny Dias daughter of Bryan Barby) as being air-crew who were in fact airborne, or taxing for take-off, for the 2 Nov op so could not be standing at the end of a runway waving other crews off!]

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 16200 ft at 19.44 1/2hrs

Operation/Target: Gelsenkirchen (06 Nov 1944 - 06 Nov 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Gelsenkirchen	06 Nov 1944	06 Nov 1944	N	Twenty three aircraft with crews took off at approximately 11.00hrs to attack GELSINKIRCHEN 7 miles NE of Essen. The object of this attack was to dislocate the Huns transport facilities by bombing the very large marshalling yards. The weather at the target was 6/10 - 8/10 cloud with a convenient gap for the early arrivals who were able to identify the target area visually, as well as see a few TI markers, marking the A/P. The attack opened a few minutes early, but the later aircraft found the cloud rather too much for accurate bombing and with the M/C giving them instructions to seek their own A/Ps the end of the attack became somewhat scattered. However a good concentration of early bombs were dropped around the A/P and much smoke and later incendiaries with the large fires burning were seen. Flak was moderate to intense throughout the route through the Ruhr, from Duisburg onwards, although it varied greatly as to different aircraft: "E" (F/O Whynacht) receiving flak damage in the fuselage, bomb doors and two radiators. No enemy aircraft were seen, so the figher cover appeared to be adequate. "H" (F/O Bond) found he had no brake pressure on retun so landed without trouble at Carnaby. "M" (F/O McCarthy) did not return and no news was received from him after take off.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 16,000 ft. at 14.03

Operation/Target: Wanne-Eikel (09 Nov 1944 - 09 Nov 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Wanne-Eikel	09 Nov 1944	09 Nov 1944	N	23 aircraft and crews from 550 Squadron together with one aircraft from each of 166 and 103 Sqdns took off at approximately 07.20hrs to attack the synthetic oil plant at WANNE-EIKEL 2.5 miles NW of Bochum one of the lesser known towns of the Ruhr but nevertheless important since it forms part of the general Ruhr network of railway and marshalling yards. The take-off was good as was the weather up to the French coast after which the crews encountered cloud banks and when the target area was reached there was thick cumulous at 20,000 ft with layer cloud below. Only one aircraft E2 (F/O Stevenson) had a fleeting glimpse of the target, and but for navigational aids the raid would have dissolved itself into a veritable blind mans buff. With such conditions existing it is impossible to assess the success or otherwise of the operation. Flak was scattered and erratic, and the fighter cover of Spitfires and Mustangs kept enemy fighters out of harms way. All our aircraft returned safely and the boys enjoyed a late lunch.

Station Summary
OPERATIONS At first light 25 aircraft took off from NORTH KILLINGHOLME (comprising 23 of 550 Squadron and 1 of 166 Squadron and 1 of 103 Squadron, the latter having landed here from training) to attack WANNE-EICKEL, as part of a No. 1 Group force of 233 aircraft. All out aircraft returned safely having claimed to have bombed the target.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 21,000 ft at 10.42 1/2

Operation/Target: Dortmund (11 Nov 1944 - 11 Nov 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Dortmund	11 Nov 1944	11 Nov 1944	N	The Squardon dispatched 21 aircraft and crews to attack the north eastern part of the city of DORTMUND where synthetic oil plants, steelworks, coke ovens and a by-products plant with the usual marshalling yards were situated. The take-off was as usual good and once again the crews ran into 10/10 cloud when nearing the target. However with the exceptions, ground markers were vaguely seen reflected on the underside of the clouds and were systematically bombed. Assessments of results are difficult but several reports were made of large explosions in the target area and it is hoped good results were achieved. Flak was generally described as slight to moderate "G" (F/O Young had the fuselage holed rendering the rear turret u/s fortunately there were no casualties.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary are 20,000 ft at 19.05hrs	F/O C S George (P) Sgt E E Okines (F/Eng) F/Sgt J D Johnson (Nav) F/Sgt G A Stecker (A/B) F/Sgt T H Jeffs (W/Op) Sgt E W Kilby (MU/AG) Sgt R Challoner (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Duren (16 Nov 1944 - 16 Nov 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Duren	16 Nov 1944	16 Nov 1944	N	26 aircraft and crews took off in the usual Squadron style at approximately 12.30hrs to attack DUREN in close support of the advancing American armies. The weather was hazy over Duren but not unkind to our bomb aimers, who thanks to magnificient marking were able to confirm their visual observations and follow the precise instructions of the Master Bomber. The railway complex at this small town, where the line east of Aachen forks to Dusseldorf and Cologne was the aiming point for our aircraft who contribured to the moderate force. Their bombing photographs and visual reports both point to the exceptionally successfull effort which appears to have been repeated on the Command's simultaneous targets at Julich and Heinsberg. Handicapped by the lack of warning, enemy fighters were again absent. Moderate Flak at the target gave an unlucky break to "M2" (F/O George) which was unable to release its bombs due to damage, which amongst other things severed electrical connections. One of the other things was a punctured tyre, in spite of which the pilot landed his aircraft safely at Base on return with a full bomb load. From a gratifying selection of good bombing prints that of "A2" (F/O Shenker) has been chosen for the C in C's enlargement. Plottings are generally well on the mark.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 10,000 ft at 15.31

Operation/Target: Wanne-Eikel (18 Nov 1944 - 19 Nov 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Wanne-Eikel	18 Nov 1944	19 Nov 1944	N	The Squadron dispatched 29 aircraft and crews at approximately 15.30hrs to attack a synthetic oil plant at WANNE-EIKEL west of Gelsenkirchen. Soon after take off the crews encountered cloudy weather over England which however cleared across France; shortly after crossing the Rhine a thin layer of stratus cloud with tops at approximately 8000 ft and similiar conditions prevailed over the target area. Although few crews were able to see ground details, the cloud was thin enough for the markers to show through and for the most part a concentrated supply of them was available. Bombing was reported to have been well concentrated around the markers and very early in the attack a large fire developed which, from the column of black smoke which arose it would seem likely that the oil plant was successfully hit. Numerous orange coloured explosions were seen during the course of the attack two which occured at 19.20 and 19.23 must have been particularly large as some of the crews clearly saw the glow when 40 miles away in the homeward journey. Flak was reported to be only slight to moderate in the target area. There were some fighters seen and a few enemy fighters appeared to be about, but our aircraft had no encounters. With the exception of one, all our aircraft attacked the primary target. "C" (F/O Smith) had trouble with a coolant leak in the port inner engine after feathering it and being able to get above 10000 feet he had to abandon just S.E. of Brussels, jettisoning some of his bombs off the East Coast in the permitted area and landing with the remainder. Owing to the deterioration in the weather only 9 aircraft landed at Base, the remainder landed at Stations in the diversion area.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 16,000 ft at 19.01 1/2

Operation/Target: Aschaffenburg (21 Nov 1944 - 22 Nov 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Aschaffenburg	21 Nov 1944	22 Nov 1944	N	The Squadron dispatched 26 aircrarft and crews to attack the marshalling yards at ASCHAFFENBURG. The take off at 15.45hrs was good and without incident. Once again the weather denied crews the satisfaction of even seeing the target or assessing results. En route conditions were good, but over France cloud built up and the Master of Ceremonies and his deputy appeared to be going into a "huddle" to decide exactly where the target was. A small break did reveal markers and these were confirmed to be well placed and were bombed. Following aircraft were assisted by a red glow beneath the clouds and several explosions were reported. F/O Stevenson and W/O Hopman with their crews completed there first tour of operations.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 13,000 ft at 19.19

Operation/Target: Dortmund (29 Nov 1944 - 29 Nov 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Dortmund	29 Nov 1944	29 Nov 1944	N	30 aircraft and crew were dispatched to attack DORTMUND. All successfully took off at approximately 11.20hrs, but the weather conditions over the target left much to be desired. Crew reports agree that after a precessional approach through the flak-strewn corridor to the target area, leading sorties arrived somewhat early to find that cloud and haze barred all but a fleeting glimpse of the built-up area and precluded effective pinpointing. The markers appeared to have been widely scatted and the Master Bomber's guidance could hardly have beeen described as inspiring. In the circumstances our sorties endeavoured to bash the bashful marker while others set off in search of built up areas. "C (F/L Maclachlan) and "L2" (F/O Williams) both claim to have bomber red markers. Pressing on, our "E2" (F/O Dale) found himself well past the target area without sighting a worthwhile objective, plain or coloured. Nothing daunted he attacked the centre of Munster and brought back a photograph to prove it. Meanwhile "W" (F/O Adams) losing height on three engines had barely reached the Rhine when prudence counselled an alternative target which he chose at the village of [STEMMELN], where a train on the main line appears in his photo to have had a clean shave. Both these lone wolves brough mementoes of flak opposition at and around their target. All out sorties returned safely, including "P" (F/O Summons) which after colliding with another aircraft en-route to the target, was coaxed on its two port engines alone through a gauntlet of flak towards Dusseldorf. Good airmanship and richly deserved good luck (which unhappily deserted the other victim - an aircraft from a sister Squadron) brought the unfortunate episode to a safe finish for F/O Summons and his crew. Losing height and weaving as much as it dared "P" presented a sitting and solitary target for Jerry's guns. A run was made on a built up area, where in far from ideal conditions the bomb-aimer declared his entire load - minus one bomb-tail - well and truly laid ... a truely remarkable performance, as was disclosed on subsequent inspection of the mangled bomb-bay. Thereafter, losing height on a "Home James!" course, and escorted on the finishing straight by a Spitfire, "P" touched down at Mansten with a dignity that belied its crumpled propellers and disembarked its crew entirely unscathed.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 20,000 ft at 15.01 1/2hrs

Operation/Target: Karlsruhe (04 Dec 1944 - 04 Dec 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Karlsruhe	04 Dec 1944	04 Dec 1944	N	24 aircraft and crew took off at approximately 16.30hrs to attack the town and railway facilities at KARLRUHE. The crews has an uneventful but rather long trip over Allied Occupied Territory and found the target covered with 9/10th cloud. On approach some crews were able to identify the Red and Green T.I.s below cloud, which were rather scattered. The cloud rapidly moved eastwards and some of the later arrivals were able to identify the town visually. From reports it is gathered that good fires were started in the town, the glow of which could be seen for over 100 miles. Opposition from the ground consisted only of slight flak for the most part bursting well below the aircraft. All our aircraft returned safely.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 18,000 feet at 19.38 hours.

Operation/Target: Merseburg (06 Dec 1944 - 07 Dec 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Merseburg	06 Dec 1944	07 Dec 1944	N	30 crews briefed and took their aircraft off at 16.35hrs without incident to attack the synthetic oil plaint at MERSEBERG. The target was the LEUNA chemical works, one of he largest plants in Germnay, covering an area of 1 1/4 sq miles, and employing some 50000 workers in the manufacture of ammonia, fertilisers, chemicals, synthetic oil and other products. Truely a "chemical hot bed". The customary 10/10 cloud again persisted and bombing was carried out on flares. The glow of fires was visible for some distance on the return journey and several explosions were reported. Owing to the density of the cloud photographs proved useless and the report of our P.R.U colleagues are awaited with interest. Flak was reported as being moderate to intense. Little training was carried out owing to the lack of aircraft. From this operation F/L Morris and crew failed to return.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 19,000 ft at 20.52 1/2 hours

Operation/Target: Essen (12 Dec 1944 - 13 Dec 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Essen	12 Dec 1944	13 Dec 1944	N	25 aircraft and crews took off without incident at 16.00hrs to attack ESSEN. The journey out proved uneventful and the 10/10 cloud which greets us with almost monotonous regularity was again in evidence. Early crews saw sky markers up aloft, a situation which gave bomb aimers rather a headache, but aircraft arriving later did not have the same problem to solve and were able to bomb in the orthdox fashion. Observed results were confined to a red glow seen reflected on the underside of the clouds and three healthy explosions each of which lighted the sky for appropimately 30 secs. Photographs were unable to throw any light on the subject and so once again we shall have to await the accurate assessment of the result. Flak was light to moderate and later increased in intensity. In addition to the operations 20.52hrs flying training was carried out.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 20,000 ft at 19.37

Operation/Target: Ludwigshaven (15 Dec 1944 - 16 Dec 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Ludwigshaven	15 Dec 1944	16 Dec 1944	N	30 aircraft and crews took off at approximately 14.20 without incident to attack LUDWIGSHAVEN paying particular attention to the chemical works situated on the northern outskirts of the town and extending for approximately 3 miles to the village of Oppan. There was rather more cloud than expected over the route which compelled many crews to fly and to attack from greater heights than intended. The first wave crews were there even before the first pathfinders target indicators, a number of them therefore bombed on navigational aids or on E.T.A. whilst others orbitted thje target until the markers were dropped. A good deal of early bombing was consequently scattered over a wide area as the markers appeared a very good concentration indeed developed. Last crews reports large fires with great volume of smoke. Several photographs brought back confirm the concentration of fires around the markers but ground detail is not good enough to enable their exact location to be plotted. Flak was reported as being considerable, and searchlights very active. The Squadron were to contribute 20 aircraft for this attack. Soon after take off, two aircraft were seen to be having trouble which it was believed might have prevented completion of the sortie, so both reserve aircraft also took off making the Squadron total 30 aircraft, and all of them carried out successful sorties. F/L Pyke "E" had an engine go u/s on the outward route but pressed on regardless to the target and home on three. A/S/L Redmond "R" could not retract one leg of the aircraft undercarriage after take off, he also completed the round trip with a swinging leg. S/L Redmond on this trip completed his second tour oof operations.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 20,000 ft at 18.30 1/2

Operation/Target: Ulm (17 Dec 1944 - 18 Dec 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Ulm	17 Dec 1944	18 Dec 1944	N	29 crews were briefed to attack the rail junction at ULM situated some 100 miles inside the German frontier on the banks of the Danube. Heavy cloud compelled low flying for most of the way, but in the target area there was little more than thin stratus which did not prevent ground markers from being seen through it. The Master Bomber' assessment of the situation however was that the best results were likely to be produced from aiming on the well placed and plentiful sky markers and ordered bombing accordingly. A very good concentration of fire developed, with a number of spectacular explosions occuring among them. Defences were meagre and there were no searchlights active. S/L Caldow "B" was unlucky - one of the few flak bursts over the target hit one of his aircrafts fuel tanks, which promptly emptied, the tailplane, elevators damaged and one of the aerials shot away which did not interfere with a safe return and landing at Base. No flying training was carried out.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 10,500 ft at 19.31 hrs

Operation/Target: St. Vith (26 Dec 1944 - 26 Dec 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
St. Vith	26 Dec 1944	26 Dec 1944	N	The Squadron was called upon to operate, but with the majority of the Squadron still grounded at Wendling, and presumably nursing an Xmas "hangover", all the Squadron would offer was nine aircraft in an attack called from all groups on the railhead town of St. Vith, just inside Belgium on the northern side of the German advance, and was being used as a re-training centre for Panzer troops from rearward areas. Visibility was still in the visinity of 600 yards at the time of take off, but improved over the North Sea. The Continent was free from cloud and in spite of slight haze, visibility was good and the crews were able to map read and identify the target visually with ease. An excellent concentration of bombing was achieved, two large explosions were noted, one in the town and one on the railway to the N.E. Opposition was negligible except from positions behind the enemy lines on the run up to the target. No trouble was experienced from enemy fighters. Photographs brought back were excellent and showed a good concentration of bombing. F/O Williams brought back a "gem" of a photo which was enlarged for the Commander-in-Chief to see. All aircraft were diverted to R.A.F. WALTHAM.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 11,000 ft at 15.33 hrs

Operation/Target: Rheidt (27 Dec 1944 - 27 Dec 1944)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Rheidt	27 Dec 1944	27 Dec 1944	N	9 aircraft which had been diverted to Waltham and Ludford Magna took off from their diversion stations to attack the marshalling yards at RHEIDT, lying as it does to the west of the Ruhr and Rhine, this centre is vitally important at the moment to the Hun for conveying his troops and materials from the Ruhr and Central Germany. Shaking off the fog the crews found the French Coast and Continent clear except for slight ground haze. The target was easily identified in good visibility and the first T.I.s cascaded on the northern end of the marshalling yards followed by others which were "dead on" the aiming point. The bombing thus was very concentrated and accurate, the target soon became enveloped in smoke, rising many thousands of feet in the air. One particularly large explosion was seen in the marshalling yard, possibly ammunition waggons. Flak was negligible over the target, but some aircraft were engaged by heavy flak north of the target. No enemy fighters were seen. On the return the weather was still in its "pranky" mood and all aircraft were again diverted, this time to Finningley. No flying training was carried out from Base.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 20,000 ft at 15.00 hrs

Operation/Target: Nuremburg (02 Jan 1945 - 02 Jan 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Nuremburg	02 Jan 1945	02 Jan 1945	N	29 aircraft with crews, plus 2 crews and aircraft from No. 166 Squadron, were briefed to attack Nuremburg. Thirty aircraft took off at approximately 15.00 hours without incident. F/O Summons failed to take off owing to his navigator having met with an accident whilst proceeding to the aircraft. Also one complete crew was sent to R.A.F Elsham Wolds and took off from there to participate in the operation for No. 103 Squadron. The crews found the weather to be cloudy over England, and the Channel, and the Continent as far as 700degrees[???] East. From thence it gradually cleared and at the target conditions were excellent with only a slight ground haze and the built up area contrasted sharply with the snow covered countryside. Owing to the prevailing winds, aircraft arrived early in the target area and some aircraft orbited awaiting the Pathfinder marking. The attacks opened a few minutes early and the first ??? of mixed Red and Green Target Indicators were seen to fall across the Marshalling Yards in the [???] of the town. Excellent concentrated bombing developed, numerous explosions took place, and the glow of the raging fires could be seen 150 miles away by the crews on their return journey. A reconnisance aircraft flying over the target after the attack reported three large area of solid fires to the N.N.W. and one to the S.E. with many smaller ones over the whole area. One aircraft "E" (F/O Smith) developed an oil leak in the port inner engine whilst over France. Correctly following instructions he sought out and found an alternative target, that of the town of Pforsheim, some 25 miles north of the route, lying between Karlsruhe and Stuttgart. The ground defences consisted of slight heavy flak and numerous searchlights, but all ground opposition rapidly decreased as the attack developed. Excellent photographs brought back prove conclusively that the attack was excellent. No flying training was carried out owing to the aircraft being used for operations, but a programme of ground training was carried out by the crews not engaged on operations.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 17,000 ft at 19.28 hrs

Operation/Target: Hannover (05 Jan 1945 - 06 Jan 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Hannover	05 Jan 1945	06 Jan 1945	N	24 aircraft with crews took off at approximately 19.00 hours to attack HANOVER. The weather was nowhere difficult on route and our crews were led visually to the target by means of it's "Blaze of Glory" that could be seen for a hnudred miles, this blaze had been started by an earlier attack two and a half hours before by [unreadable]. Our attack was to impede the fire fighters and add more fuel to the fires. The [???] was blazing beautifully and the second installment of H.Es and incendiaries was added to the [???]. Fires and smoke increased and could be seen by our crews when over the Zuider Zee on their return. Good photographs were brought back. Flak was reported generally as moderate, but accurate for height and there was searchlight activity, although with the glare of Recc. flares above and the fire glow below they had a pretty thin time. The attack was an outstanding success and Hanover now has a hangover. One of our aircraft "M" (F/O Adams) and crew failed to return, no news being received after take-off. They were a grand team and will be missed by all on the Squadron. A good flying training programme was also carried out.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 18,500 ft at 21.54 1/2 hrs

Operation/Target: Munich (07 Jan 1945 - 08 Jan 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Munich	07 Jan 1945	08 Jan 1945	N	27 aircraft and crews, which included 2 base reserves, were required on operations and the crews were briefed to attack MUNICH. Owing to three aircraft going unserviceable at the last moment, only 24 aircraft took off at approximately 18.00 hours. Nil to 6/10 cloud tops at 10,000 ft was encountered over this country and the English Channel. A front was positioned just inside the French coast and cloud was 10/10 with tops up to 20,000 ft to approx 5 degress E; from there to 7 degress E, the cloud was thin and a certain amount of icing was experienced, but after crossing the Rhine the cloud once again became 10/10 and the target was completely obscured by fairly thick cloud with tops 10/12000 ft. Owing to stronger winds than forecast the main force arrived early in the target area and many orbited or dog-legged while waiting for markers. Aircraft from No. 5 Group had preceded our attack by several hours and what appeared to be the glow of fires and searchlights illuminating the cloud base could be seen for approximately 40 miles on appreoach to the target. The 5 group attackers experienced more favourable conditions and a concentrated and accuruate bombing appeared to have taken place. For our attack, the markers were sparse. The target indicators rapidly disappeared into the cloud and it was not until 22.33 hours that any degree of concentration of sky marking was achieved; many crews had bombed before this. The concentration of marking was not maintained and the attack can only be regarded as somewhat scattered. No detailed results were observed. Ground defences in the target area consisted only of slight to moderate heavy flak. Stuttgart defenders were active and several combats with night-fighters were reported. All photographs show cloud, therefore no assessment of the attack could be made although from the H.2.S. fixes there can be no doubt that the attack was correctly centered more or less on the centre of the city. F/O Ansell and crew completed a very successful tour with this trip. F/O Clarke ("P") and crew failed to return, nothing having been heard from them after take-off.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 21,000 ft at 22.34	F/O D H Grundy (P) W/O E W King (F/Eng) P/O R T Sowter (Nav) F/Sgt L F Figg (W/Op) Sgt E C Jarvis (MU/AG) Sgt E J MacKenzie (R/AG) Sgt A J Keveren (A/B)

Operation/Target: Leuna Oil Plant (14 Jan 1945 - 15 Jan 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Leuna Oil Plant	14 Jan 1945	15 Jan 1945	N	After a week of enforced flying inactivity, the Squadron stood by for operations with 30 crews of which one complete crew was sent to R.A.F. Station, Kirmington and one to R.A.F Station Elsham to make up operationally fit crew members on these stations. F/O Cameron departed from the Squadron on posting to No. 1656 Heavy Conversion Unit, Lindholme, as an instructor. F/O Cameron had completed a very successful tour with the Squadron and was very popular with all members of the Squadron, who regret his going. 27 aircraft took off at approximately 19.00 hours to attach LEUNA synthetic oil plant near Merseberg. "N" (F/O Parsons) proved abortive owing to the unfortunate illness of one of the crew and returned to Carnaby. The remaining 26 "pressed on regardless", led throughout by the indefatigable "F" Fox. The captain F/Lt "Jock" Shaw has at last been compelled to call it a day with a grand total of 42 operations. Higher authority this time refused his application to continue on Ops much to the disappointment of Jock. The weather on route was fairly good but deteriorated at the target to 10/10 cloud. Bombing was by sky-markers and conditions prevented results being observed. Defences were active. None of our aircraft were damaged and returned safely to base. Flying Officers Harris and George completed their first tour of operations without a single abortive. No flying training was carried out.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 21,000 ft at 00.01 hrs	F/O L G Michie (P) F/O H A Shenker (P) Sgt J Faren (F/Eng) F/Sgt G H Lennox (Nav) F/Sgt L F Johnston (A/B) F/Sgt R J Emmett (W/Op) F/Sgt T A Landers (MU/AG) F/Sgt A Ingram (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Hamborn (22 Jan 1945 - 22 Jan 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Hamborn	22 Jan 1945	22 Jan 1945	N	27 aircrews were briefed at 08.45 hours and were in thair aircraft ready for action. The Squadron was to be led by the Station Commander G/Cpt McIntyre, but the intended operation was once again cancelled owing to adverse weather en route and over the target. Needless to say the boys were very disappointed for they all, without excpetion, thoroughly enjoy a daylight operation. A good training programme was laid on but had to be cancelled owing to the Squadron having to prepare for another operation for which 31 aircrews were briefed at 14.30 hours and successfully took of at approximately 16.45 hours. Although take off was good, it needed all the pilots skill to successfully accomplish the feat. The runways were on the treacherous side in spite of the amount of time and effort spent on clearing snow and spreading salt and sand. Watching take off my heart momentarily stood still a few times, severlal aircraft when about to become airbourne had a tendancy to swing sharply to starboard which looked decidedly dangerous. The Squadron was led by Squadron Commander W/Cdr Bryan Bell (Dingle) to attack the steel works at HAMBORN, the northern suburb of Duisburg. F/Lt Summons in "Q" returned early with C S U(?) trouble, but the remaining 30 had a very successful party. The target was clear of cloud, the marking was accurate and bombing concentrated. Several fires were started and explosions reported, one very impressive and 37 minutes after "N" hours. At the end of the attack the target was covered by a thick pall of smoke. Ground opposition was only slight and fighters little in evidence. All returned safely and unscathed to Base. Photographs brought back show excellent results. F/Lt Shenker and F/O Bell with their crews completed their first operational tours on the high note of this most satisfactory operation.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 18,000 ft at 20.13 1/2 hrs	F/O H A Shenker (P) F/L N A Burrows (P) Sgt J Faren (F/Eng) F/Sgt G H Lennox (Nav) F/Sgt L F Johnston (A/B) F/Sgt R J Emmett (W/Op) F/Sgt T A Landers (MU/AG) F/Sgt A Ingram (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Mannheim-Ludwigshafen (01 Feb 1945 - 02 Feb 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Mannheim-Ludwigshafen	01 Feb 1945	02 Feb 1945	N	After 10 days of enforced idleness due to excessive weather conditions the Squadron was called up on to supply 29 aircraft and crews plus two aircraft and crews in reserve to attack the rail centre and marshalling yards in LUDWIGSHAVEN. 30 aircraft successfully took off at approx. 1530hrs The weather on route was rather mixed from 10/10 cloud to clear conditions over the Channel well broken cluid over the Continent until the target 10/10 cloud built up about 5 miles hort on the run in. On the return very turbulent conditions were encountered crossing the North Sea to the Norfolk Coast. At the target both ground and sky marking was resorted to by the PFF but with the target indicators disappearing into the low cloud and some of the sky markers being too high for easy aiming, bomb aimers had rather a difficult time. Results were very obscure, there was however a very encouraging incendiary glow that developed into a compact fire mass with two explosions. From the H2S photographs brought back, it is thought that there was a tendency to undershoot. Flak was reported as slight, later decreasing to give way to night fighter activity. Night fighters were more active than usual and several combats were observed. F/L Maltin and his crew completed their second tour and F/L Doward and his crew completed their first tour of operations successfully. F/O Lohrey and his crew failed to return and it was at first reported as missing but later it was learnt that at least five of his crew, including himself, were safe in Allied Territory, after having been forced to abandon their aircraft which had been badly damaged colliding with a friendly aircraft near the target area.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary 16,000 ft at 19.23 1/2 hrs

Operation/Target: Weisbane (02 Feb 1945 - 03 Feb 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Weisbane	02 Feb 1945	03 Feb 1945	N	28 aircraft and crews were accepted and briefed to attach WEISBANE where enemy troops were reported to be resting and being re-fitted preparatory to a move to the Eastern Front. Of the 28 aircraft, only 26 aircraft took off, 2 aircraft were non-starters owing to one developing engine trouble and the other being bogged due to a temporary failure of some perimeter track lighting. The weather again was our chief enemy. Cloud up to 20,000 ft had been predicted over the Channel only, but in point of fact the worst conditions were over the target where there was layer cloud up to this height and over. Markers were completely obscured and in the circumstances it hardly seems likely that a concentrated attack could have been made. Flak was very ineffective but three of our aircraft saw enemy fighters and opened fire on them without response or conclusive result. All our aircraft returned safely one landing at Kirmington.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 19,000 ft. at 23.43 1/2 hrs

Operation/Target: Kieve (07 Feb 1945 - 08 Feb 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Kieve	07 Feb 1945	08 Feb 1945	N	27 aircraft and crews were the Squadrons contribution to an attack on KIEVE a road centre where six routes meet, also a rail junction linking the Ruhr and those area still held by the Hun in Holland north of the Rhine - the object being to blot out the town, thus denying the enemy the main route into that part of the battle area. All aircraft successfully took off without incident in the usual Squadron style at approximately 18.30hrs. F/L Pickles in "Y" very reluctantly had to abandon his mission when over France owing to his bomb sight being unserviceable. F/L Rhude had the galling experience of going all the way to the target and then found his bombsight u/s. He made the correct decision, refrained from bombing and brought his bombs back. The route to the target was practically cloud free but the target ware was covered by 9/10-10/01 cloud about 3000 ft thick. The Master Bomber had the matters well organised and brought the main force down beneath the cloud where they found the ground marking concentrated and easy to follow. The crews were unanimous that the bombing was very concentrated with "cookies" bursting all around the markers. Flak was negligible only a few spasmodic bursts being observed.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 6,000 ft at 22.12 hrs

Operation/Target: Dresden (13 Feb 1945 - 14 Feb 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Dresden	13 Feb 1945	14 Feb 1945	N	27 aircraft and crews were called upon for operations, 28 crews were briefed, one extra being held in reserve. After some effort 26 aircraft took off at approximately 21.15hrs to attack DRESDEN. The journey across England was unfortunately marred by a fatal accident in which one of our aircraft was involved (B2 - F/L Allen). It appears that an aircraft from 300 Squadron collided with ours near Appe by Manor Lincs, soon after setting course and the wreckage of both planes was scattered over a wide area as a result of explosions. The weather en-route was better than expected. After a long journey across the continent the target was seen some 180 miles before E.T.A looming up as a dull red glow of fires still raging from a previous attack. The Bombing run was clear which enabled the crews to see the markers and a further concentrated contribution of cookies and incendiaries again made the rear reflecting against the clouds, warming the hearts and feet of the rear gunners. The defences protested, but it was only a feeble attempt. Photographs show an encouraging quantity of fire and incendiary glare and in short show that the attack was a highly successful one.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 19,000 ft at 01.33 hrs

Operation/Target: Dortmund (20 Feb 1945 - 20 Feb 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Dortmund	20 Feb 1945	20 Feb 1945	N	27 aircraft and crews took off without incident to attack once again the heavy engineering manufacturing town of DORTMUND. F/O Ferguson in "L" unfortunately returned early with his starboard inner engine u/s. The remaining aircraft found good weather along the route until approx. 0530 degress E when a low layer of thick cloud gradually built up to 4000 feet, until at the target the markers were barely visible as they dropped into it. The marking was punctual and an adequate number of ground markers, as well as some sky markers were dropped, However, the latter were somewhat scattered and although some encouraging concentrations of incendiary and fire glows were seen indistinctly under the cloud, the illuminating explosions, there was quite a lot of scatted bombing and it must only be considered, from first accounts, as a moderately successful raid. Ground defences were reproted as being only slight to moderate in a loose barrage, with one or two aircraft receiving some predicted attention. Night photographs show a good diplay of incendiary and fire tracks, but clouds have again prevented only plotting. Good shows were put up by F/O Franklyn in "G" who had his port outer engine u/s and had to feather it when over the Bexhill area on the outward journey. F/L Dale in E2 (taking F/L Sarll and crew on their initial operation) had trouble with his port outer engine which was u/s from 0500 degrees outward forcing them to bomb at 13,000 feet. F/O Mearns also had trouble with his starboard outer engine which was partially u/s for the trip.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 13,000 ft at 01.6 1/2 hrs	F/L N A Burrows (P) Sgt R C Smith (F/Eng) Sgt A Wilson (Nav) F/O R B Watling (A/B) Sgt R F J Gorman (W/Op) Sgt L B Towson (MU/AG) Sgt A J Miles (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Duisburg (21 Feb 1945 - 21 Feb 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Duisburg	21 Feb 1945	21 Feb 1945	N	[Ed: Target not listed in ORB. Duisburg assumed.] 24 aircraft and crews were detailed and all took off, including "B" (F/L Sarll) whose first independant trip was made with the rear turret u/s. The operations had an unhappy end in the failure of "A" (W/C Bell with the F/L Luger and his crew) to return to base. Everyone will be sorry to lose W/C Bell whose cheerful, forceful personality has been an inspiration to all members of the Squadron and Killingholme generally. It is feared that this layer cloud over the target marred the accuracy of the attack. Marking was punctual, but reports such undershooting, there were, however, large fires and several explosions around the aimers points. Flak at the target was only slight to moderate, fighters on the other hand were much in evidence, "A" F/O Smith the only aircraft to report a combat can claim a suspected ME262 as probably damaged. Owing to the thin cloud none of the photographs succeeded in showing ground details. Congratuations to F/L Harris and crew on the completion of a voluntarily extended tour, without an abortive.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 18,000 ft at 23.11 hrs	F/L N A Burrows (P) Sgt R C Smith (F/Eng) Sgt A Wilson (Nav) F/O R B Watling (A/B) Sgt R F J Gorman (W/Op) Sgt L B Towson (MU/AG) Sgt A J Miles (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Meuss (28 Feb 1945 - 28 Feb 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Meuss	28 Feb 1945	28 Feb 1945	Y	27 aircraft and crews were detailed and took off without incident at approximately 08.00hrs to attack the railway centre at MEUSS and the river unloading port on the Western Bank of the Rhine just opposite Dusseldorf. The crews had been in the air little more than an hour when they were recalled. The operation was cancelled due to forecast cloudy conditions over the target area and the close proximity of our troops The boys were very disappointed to not be able to strike again at the common enemy.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Recalled	F/O L O Browning (A/B) F/L N A Burrows (P) Sgt R C Smith (F/Eng) Sgt A Wilson (Nav) Sgt R F J Gorman (W/Op) Sgt L B Towson (MU/AG) Sgt A J Miles (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Mannheim (01 Mar 1945 - 01 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Mannheim	01 Mar 1945	01 Mar 1945	N	26 aircraft with their crews took off at approximately 11.30hrs without incident to participate in a daylight attach on a large concentation of enemy troops reported to be in the vicinity of the Rhine bridgeheads near MANNHEIM. It was unfortunate that on this daylight raid the target was covered by 10/0ths could and results of our bombing could not be observed and assessment of the raid was not possible. Ground defences consisted of approximately a dozen bursts of heavy flak. The bombers were escorted by fighters who kept their opposite numbers out of sight. "K" (F/O Davidson) had a starboard outer engine catch fire and although losing height pressed on to the target bombed and returned safely.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 18,000 ft at 15.08 hrs	F/L N A Burrows (P) Sgt R C Smith (F/Eng) Sgt A Wilson (Nav) Sgt R F J Gorman (W/Op) Sgt L B Towson (MU/AG) Sgt A J Miles (R/AG) P/O G B McGhee (A/B)

Operation/Target: Cologne (02 Mar 1945 - 02 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Cologne	02 Mar 1945	02 Mar 1945	N	26 aircraft with their crews took off at approximately 06.45hrs in the usual Squadron style to attack the approaches to the Rhine bridges at COLOGNE to prevent the retreating Huns from escaping to the east of the Rhine. For once the weather was kind. 5/10ths cloud was encountered until approximately 20miles short of the target which was clear. Visibility was good and crews had no difficulty in identifying the aiming point visually. Bombing was reported to be concentrated with a few hundred yards of aiming point. A generous fighter escort was supplied which discouraged the Luftwaffe from putting in an appearance. Flak over the target was moderate and accurate. Five aircraft from the Squadron were damaged. Photographs confirm that the aiming point was well and truly hit.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 18,000 ft at 10.01 1/2 hrs	F/O K F Sidwell (P) Sgt J Allen (F/Eng) F/Sgt J W Hewitt (Nav) Sgt J L Banks (A/B) F/Sgt J F Chapman (W/Op) Sgt F W Woodley (MU/AG) Sgt D C Whitmarsh (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Chemnitz (05 Mar 1945 - 06 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Chemnitz	05 Mar 1945	06 Mar 1945	N	26 aircraft, including the reserve, as it was apparant immediately after take-off that "E2" (F/L Dale) would be abortive with a port engine unserviceable, took off at approximately 16.45hrs as part of a force of over 700 Lancasters and Halifaxes detailed to attack CHEMNITZ. The trip to the target was without incident, with a layer of 10/10 cloud beneath most of the time. On reaching the target area it was quickly seen that the cloud prevented anything other the sky marking which was called for by the Master Bomber. His broadcasting was much distorted by static interference, but he was generally heard. The first release point flares went down 3 minutes before "H" hour; they were plentiful and well grouped but fell into the cloud tops rather quickly and later there was a gap when no flares were seen. Detailed results could not be seen but judging from the incendiary glow and the bursts of the cookies, bombing appeared to be concentrated. There was only very slight heavy flak over the target area, but the Leipzig defences were active and the night fighters were in evidence, both over the target and along the first two legs of the homeward route. Three aircraft reported combats but none claimed any night fighters destroyed. 22 aircraft landed safely at base; "J" (P/O Findlay) landed at Benson, "O" (F/O Harris) at Carnaby, with flaps unserviceable, and "F" (F/S Wilson) at Tempsford, with damage sustained in combat but no casualties.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 17,000 ft at 21.52 hrs	F/L N A Burrows (P) Sgt R C Smith (F/Eng) Sgt A Wilson (Nav) F/O R B Watling (A/B) Sgt R F J Gorman (W/Op) Sgt L B Towson (MU/AG) Sgt A J Miles (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Dessau (07 Mar 1945 - 08 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Dessau	07 Mar 1945	08 Mar 1945	N	27 aircraft took off at approximately 17.00hrs on operations, but not without incident. "E2" (W/O Lukies) proved most fractious. The starboard outer engine cut on take-off. The aircraft swung dangerously but the pilot by masterly handling avoided a hanger and other obstacles, proceeded to the jettison area and returned safely. The other aircraft set course on the long route to DESSAU. Cloud amounts variable. Opposition was lively, both from flak and night fighters, but the former was not so strong over the target. Some crews bombed ground markers through 3/10 cloud with a clear view of the town and River Elbe; others had to rely on sky markers owing to 10/10 cloud. General opinion was that the attack was well concentrated and that the target was set, well and truely, ablaze. "M" (S/L Pickles) had it's "Gee" unserviceable from Southern England outwards, but the crew pressed on and after some meandering found themselves near to the target. They bombed in solitary state, a healthy concentration of fires left by their comrades. Two crews reported inconclusive combats with night fighters. Three aircraft "V" (F/O Jones), "O" (F/O Harris) and "R" (P/O Nielson) failed to return and it was with deepest regret that they were reported missing. Nothing was heard from any of them after take-off. Three aircraft and crews carried out flying in training involving over 7 hrs flying.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 13,000 ft at 22.02 1/2 hrs

Operation/Target: Kassel (08 Mar 1945 - 09 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Kassel	08 Mar 1945	09 Mar 1945	N	The Squardon was again called to operate and 23 aircraft took off in quick time without incident at approximately 17.20hrs. The target was Kassel. All the aircraft bombed the primary target indicated including "H" (F/O Cowper) whose port inner engine caught fire and was feathered some 200 miles short of the target. 10/10 cloud covered practically the whole of the continental route, but was broken immediately over the target, which was clearly visible through only a thin layer. Bombing was heavily concentrated, the incendiaries tooks a firm hold and the resultant fire glow could still be seen when aircraft were crossing the Rhine over 100 miles away. Flak over the target was light to moderate and there was little sign of fighter activity - a happy contrast to the previous night's experience. All the Squadron's aircraft returned safely to base, where at interrogation the crews were sleepy but satisfied. One aircraft and crew completed a night flying training drill lasting 2 3/4 hrs

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 19,500 ft at 21.35 hrs	P/O J Lukies (P) Sgt W K Oldham (F/Eng) F/Sgt L W Pfitzner (Nav) F/Sgt R W Caples (A/B) F/Sgt J W Foran (W/Op) P/O H K Johnson (MU/AG) Sgt J M Craine (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Essen (11 Mar 1945 - 11 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Essen	11 Mar 1945	11 Mar 1945	N	20 aircraft and crews detailed and took off without incident at approximately 11.40hrs on a daylight sortie to Essen, now only some 14 miles ahead of our troops. A total of over 1000 aircraft took part in the attack delivering over 4500 tons of bombs. There was a level carpet of 10/10 cloud all the way out, over the target and back. Crews bombed on coloured smoke puffs assisted by verbal instructions form the Master Bomber. It was considered that the bombing was quite concentrated and very soon a protuberance in the shape of mushrooming fire smoke appeared, agitating the top layers of the cloud - evidently someting was burning down under. Flak was not very troublesome, being variously described as "nil", "very slight" and "slight to moderate". The Luftwaffe was absent. All the aircraft returned safely to base. 7 aircraft and crews carried out flying training to the extent of 24 3/4hrs flying. Day and night practice bombing, fighter affiliations and Y cross countries.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 16,500 ft at 15.01 1/2 hrs

Operation/Target: Dortmund (12 Mar 1945 - 12 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Dortmund	12 Mar 1945	12 Mar 1945	N	23 aircraft took off without incident at approx. 12.50 hours on what was in almost every respect a repetition of the previous days effort. The only difference, the target was DORTMUND. The colour of the sky markers was changed and the time of the attack about tea time, but the same big dome of dark smoke mushroomed up through the cloud tops. Flak was not up to the usual Ruhr standards, and the only fighters seen were our own, and so the raid appeared to be highly satisfactory. Our 23 aircraft returned to base and landed safely with no fuss or botther at all. The crews of F/O E. M. Smith and F/L Edlund completed their tour of operations with this sortie. Two aircraft and crews completed a flying training detail involving 9 1/2 hours total flying.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 16,500 ft at 16.32 1/2 hrs

Operation/Target: Herne Oil Plant (13 Mar 1945 - 14 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Herne Oil Plant	13 Mar 1945	14 Mar 1945	N	The Squadron was required to provide 12 aircraft for a night attack on the Erin Benzole Plant at HERNE which is in the north central area of the Ruhr close to the Rhine-Herne canal. All 12 aircraft took off neatly and without incident at approx. 17.15 hrs. Patches of 4/10 Stratocumulus cloud with tops at 12000 ft were encountered all along the outward route over this country. After leaving the English coast the route was cloudless until reaching the Rhine were more stratocumulous formed and rapidly increased to 9/10 in the target area with tops 10/12000 ft. There was a considerable [amount] of haze over the whole route. Only ground markers were provided and these were obscured to a considerable extent by haze and cloud. As a result, a large number of crews had to bomb on navigational aids and whilst a fair concentration of bombing was achieved on the ground markers, there was a considerable amount of undershooting and overshooting and probably half the effort was wide of the target area. An encouragingly large explosion was reported in the target area; however, something must have gone up. Only moderate heavy flak was encountered over the target and searchlight illumination was not attempted. Jet aircraft were active over the target area but none of our aircraft were molested. All our aircraft landed safely at base and there was quite a series of celebrationbs as the following captains, F/O Summons, F/O Ferguson and F/L Rhude, had with their crews, all completed their tours.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 14,500 ft at 20.30 1/2 hrs	F/O L G Michie (P) F/Sgt J Rodgers (F/Eng) F/O M K Anderson (Nav) F/O H R Whitney (A/B) F/Sgt T E Hewitt (W/Op) F/Sgt H L Alleyne (MU/AG) F/Sgt S W Brown (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Misburg (15 Mar 1945 - 16 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Misburg	15 Mar 1945	16 Mar 1945	N	Another oil target. The Squadron offered 19 aircraft and all took off without incident at approx. 17.10 hours. Most of the "incident", in fact, came before take-off when the CO provided entertainment for the crews whiling away the last few moments on the deck by chasing away a horse which was contravening Station Standing Orders by appropriating one of the runways as a cantering area. After a breathless 10 min exhibition, almost a rodeo, of horse steering by car, the take-off proceded. Except for the English Channel, the route was cloudless and over the target only ground haze was present. Ground identification was possible for many of the crews in the light of the illuminating flares, but ground markers were accurately placed and in excellent concentration. Almost immediately after the first bombs were dropped the target was enveloped in flame and smoke which rose to 10000 feet from a particularly big explosion. An excellently concentrated attack developed, large fires soon became established and two further large explosions occurred. The glow from the first would be seen upwards of 100 miles on the return journey. Opposition from the ground was generally described as moderate heavy flak, although this was accurate for the height and early crews found it hotter than those succeeding them. Some fighters were active but none of our aircraft reported combats, all returned safely to base. [Ed: this last part of the last sentence appears to be an error in the monthly summary in the ORB. Because on the battle order list for the date one aircraft is listed as failing to return to base: P/O Wallace RNZAF crew, NG287 "Q" (5 killed, 1 Evd, 1 PoW). This was the first op for the Wallace crew since joining the squadron.]

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 19,000 ft at 21.18 1/2 hrs	F/O L O Browning (A/B) F/L N A Burrows (P) Sgt R C Smith (F/Eng) Sgt A Wilson (Nav) Sgt R F J Gorman (W/Op) Sgt L B Towson (MU/AG) Sgt A J Miles (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Nuremberg (16 Mar 1945 - 17 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Nuremberg	16 Mar 1945	17 Mar 1945	N	Squadron put 19 aircraft for operations. 18 aircraft took off; F/O Luder aircraft stayed on the ground with an unserviceable rear turret. The target was NURENBURG. Up to 10/10 cloud was experienced en route but this broke up to 4-6/10 in the targe area, over which there was a large gap giving a clear view of the ground markers, which were punctual and concentrated. The Master Bomber's instructions came through clearly. Fires got going quickly outlining the street patterns, finally merging into one large conflagration, the glow from which could be seen for 150 miles on the return journey. Flak defences were only slight to moderate with 15-20 ineffective searchlights which were doused early in the attack. On the other hand, enemy fighter activity was intense from the Stuttgart area to the target and beyond. Many combats were reported. "L" (F/S Wilson) claimed to have damaged a JU.88. "K" (/O Findlay) saw stikes on another. "D" (F/S Jamieson) landed at Manston with the rear gunner, Sgt, Klementoski, wounded so seriously that he has since died. "B" (F/O Liefooghe) failed to return, no news being received after take-off. S/L Caldow AFC, DFC and F/O Cowper completed their tours of operations. The latter came home on three engines. Six aircraft and crews carried out day and night flying training.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 18,000 ft at 21.30 1/2 hrs	F/O K F Sidwell (P) Sgt J Allen (F/Eng) F/Sgt J W Hewitt (Nav) Sgt J L Banks (A/B) F/Sgt J F Chapman (W/Op) Sgt F W Woodley (MU/AG) Sgt D C Whitmarsh (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Hildesheim (22 Mar 1945 - 22 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Hildesheim	22 Mar 1945	22 Mar 1945	N	The Squadron was called to put up 16 aircraft on operations. All took off without incident at approx. 11.30 hours. The attack, a small one, was on HILDESHEIM, 20 miles SE of Hannover. Formation, outward bound to the target, was good in almost perfect weather conditions. Although the leader took the main force rather close by Osnabruck and Hanover, there was an almost complete absence of flak at the target and crews had no difficulty in visually identifying it, marked in an accurate and concentrated style. Soon the Master Bomber had to give directions to aim wiht the smoke as a guiode and within a few minutes the whole of the built up areas was a mass of smoke and dust. The smoke, rising to 15000 ft, could be seen from 200 miles. "C2" (F/L Parsons) was hit by heavy flak and had two fuel takes holed, "L" (F/S Wilson) was hit by incendiaries over the target, the port wing tip and aileron being damaged. All the Squadron's aircraft returned safely to base. F/O Davidon DFC and his crew completed their tour with this operation. 4 aircraft and crews on the flying training programme spent 14 hours in the air.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 14,200 ft at 14.05	P/O A G Elliott (P) F/Sgt J R Morley (P/F/Eng) F/Sgt N H Lund (Nav) F/Sgt R J Francis (A/B) Sgt D Scully (W/Op) Sgt A J Cassidy (MU/AG) Sgt R Craigs (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Dortmund (24 Mar 1945 - 24 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Dortmund	24 Mar 1945	24 Mar 1945	N	14 aircraft took off without incident at approx 13.00 hours to participate in an attack on an oil refinery and storage plant situated midway between BOCHUM and DORTMUND. The weather was summerlike and visibility excellent. Crews were easily able to identify the target visually; it was undoubtedly hit, there was a large explosion and a big pillar of smoke rose skywards. It was visible a hundred miles away on the return journey. No enemy fighter were seen. "H" (F/L Barnes) failed to return to base, nothing being heard from him after take-off. All the other aircraft landed safely. 5 aircraft and crews on a flying training programme did over 10 hours day flying.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 19,000 ft at 16.31	P/O A G Elliott (P) F/Sgt J R Morley (P/F/Eng) F/Sgt N H Lund (Nav) F/Sgt R J Francis (A/B) Sgt D Scully (W/Op) Sgt A J Cassidy (MU/AG) Sgt R Craigs (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Paderborn (27 Mar 1945 - 27 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Paderborn	27 Mar 1945	27 Mar 1945	N	The squadron was called upon to provide 18 aircraft to participate in an attack on PADERBORN. The aircraft took off without incident at approx. 14.50 hours in the usual efficient manner. 10/10 cloud covered the target and most of the route, which according to the crews had the semblance of a "cross country". No enemy fighters were seen, there was no flak over the target and very little along the route. The cloud layer prevented any assessment of the bombing accuracy but a large mushroom of smoke came up through the cloud tops to 12000 ft. So something caught fire somewhere! All the aircraft returned and landed safely at base, although "J" (F/O Percival) had the misfortune to be stuck by incendiaries from an aircraft flying just above. A training programme involving 4 aircraft and crews and a total of hours day flying was carried out. [Ed: Although there appears to be 1 aircraft missing from the listing in the ORB battle order.]

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 16,000 ft at 17.31 hrs	F/O G E Mearns (P) Sgt F Norris (F/Eng) F/Sgt W G Kelly (Nav) Sgt J F McKeen (A/B) Sgt D O'Neil (W/Op) Sgt A Colin (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Hamburg (31 Mar 1945 - 31 Mar 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Hamburg	31 Mar 1945	31 Mar 1945	N	16 aircraft with crews took off at approximately 06.20 to attack HAMBURG. The weather conditions were bad - 10/10 cloud all the way and over the target. The bombing on sky markers, which were rather scattered, was not considered to be concentrated and the results are awaited. Flak was moderately heavy and two of our aircraft were damaged without casualties. All aircraft returned safely to base just before mid-day to enjoy a good luncheon. Flying training programme was carried out during the afternoon and evening. The Squadron has enjoyed a good months work although unable to put into the air large numbers of crews through crews becoming tour-expired so quickly in succession. MESSAGE FROM AIR OFFICER COMMANDING No. 1 GROUP. The month of March 1945 ends with No. 1 Group breaking all records for sorties flown and for bomb tonnage lifted against the enemy of reaching the figures of 3674 (sorties) and 17902 (tons). These achievements truly reflect the energy and determination both of the aircrews and of the ground crews to strike hard blows against the bewildered enemy. I congratulate you all on this magnificient effort and am confident that, should you be called upon to repeat and perhaps even exceed these figures in the Month of April, none will be found wanting. Blucke.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 18,000 ft at 08.46 hrs	F/O G E Mearns (P) Sgt F Norris (F/Eng) F/Sgt W G Kelly (Nav) Sgt J F McKeen (A/B) Sgt D O'Neil (W/Op) Sgt A Colin (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Lutzendorf (04 Apr 1945 - 04 Apr 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Lutzendorf	04 Apr 1945	04 Apr 1945	N	20 aircraft took off without incident to attack oil plant at LUTZENDORF. Mets briefing had made a courageous attempt to prove that the clouds would not be as black as they were painted, forecasting "after a good look at the map" generous breaks over the target in the threatened 8 - 10/10 cloud. The forecast was triumphly justified by a cloud free target with visibility only marred by a slight haze, although 8/10 cloud persisted to a point under 50 miles from target. Mets assurance, however, that umbrellas would not be required on return was not so happy. Markers after a somewhat slow start were plentiful and crews who were able to identify visually reported that they were actually placed. Bombing was well concentrated and although fires were not impressive much black smoke rose from the target early in the attack, so much so that the Master Bomber at H+3 ordered the crews to bomb smoke. Numerous explosions, with one particularly large one, in the target area were reported. Ground opposition consisted of slight to moderate H/F, a slight amount of light flak and about no ineffective searchlights. There was some enemy figher activity and "P" (F/S Williams) had a tussle with an ME.109 short of the target. The enemy aircraft was first seen 300 yards aways and "Ps" rear gunner immediately opened fire seeing numerous strikes before Jerry broke away without returing fire. Generally the route was trouble free. We regret to report that "X" (F/O Hayes) failed to return, no news being received after take-off. [Ed: target alternatively spellt Lützkendorf (2 miles east of Mücheln) (i.e. the original ORB entry missed a "ü" and "k"). Also known as Krumpa.]

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary, at 14,000 ft. at 01.30 hrs

Operation/Target: Kiel (09 Apr 1945 - 10 Apr 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Kiel	09 Apr 1945	10 Apr 1945	N	23 aircraft and crews took off at approx. 19.40hrs without incident to attack KIEL, and joining the other aircraft from neighbouring bases, made an impressive picture as they streamed away to their target. The trip was uneventful for the outward jounrney, and the Met. proving accurate with some cloud en route but clearing completely in the target area, an excellent attack developed. The marking was clearly visible in spite of slight ground haze, and with some details of the Fjord and the coastline visible, appeared accurate. The Master Bomber was faint and difficult to hear, but most crews heard enough to understand the bombing instructions. Bombing appeared very concentrated and soon a pall of black smoke was billowing up with numerous explosions occuring underneath, while the cheerful sight of the glow of fires was seen for upwards of 90/100 miles on the homeward route. Flak varied from slight to intense and several fighters were seen over the target, although none of our aircraft was involved in combats. 22 aircraft attacked the primary target, one aircraft "N" (F/L Parsons) having to abandon soon after take-off due to some of the instrunments going u/s (a good attempt was made to cope with a piece of string as an artificial horizon but without avail). All our aircraft returned safely, including S/L Newitt and his crew who are to be warmly congratulated on finishing their second tour. The photographs shows some excellent ground detail, one or two of them being the clearest received for some time. The best for clarity was that of "R" (F/L Mitchell) which has been plotted as 600yards from the A/P - taken in the early part of the operation it shows that the main weight of the attack fell slightly to the N.E. of the A/P, but sufficiently near to make a successfull attack. Eight hours night flying training was carried out by two new crews, F/S Thomas and F/S Banahan with their respective crews.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 14,000 ft at 22.32 1/2 hrs

Operation/Target: Plauen (10 Apr 1945 - 11 Apr 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Plauen	10 Apr 1945	11 Apr 1945	N	No. 1 Groups attack last night on Plauen therefore might be regarded as a gesture of "no favour shown". PLAUEN a town about the size of Huddersfield 60(?) miles SSW of Leipzig is a junction where the main line from Berlin and Dresden to the south splits, one branch going S.W. towards Schweinfurt, threatenend by the American forces, and another to Nuremberg, Munich, and the Salzberg area, where Hitler is known to be concentrating material and his most fanatical followers for the "Last Round-up" The attack thus has a dual purpose - to prevent the sinews if was getting to the forces opposing the Americans and to delay the withdrawal to the Bavarian Alps by smashing Plauen's rail facilities. This and the trend of Bomber Command's future targets were indicated by the A.O.C No. 1 Group (Air Vice Marshall R.S. Burke DSO DFC) when he honoured 550 Squadron by attending its briefing. With the heavy influx of new crews, 550 Squadron is now regaining its former scale of effort. Twenty-seven aircraft were detailed, of these 26 took off, "U" being cancelled because of engine trouble. Weather en-route was cloudless and with only a slight haze at the target many crews were able to identify visually the built-up area of the town. P.F.F were punctual and markers were dropped plumb in the centre of the town. So concentrated was the bombing that it completely obliterated the marking with dust and smoke, and immediately after "H" hours, the Master Bombert ordered bombing on the centre of the smoke which was seen billowing to 8/10,000feet. Several explosions were reported and fires were started which could be seen for upwards of 100 miles on the return journey. Ground defences were negligible at the opening of the attack, but increased to slight to slightly scatted H.F mainly below the bombing height band. There was some slight fighter activity but none of the our aircraft was engaged in combat. At interrogation crews were surprisingly full of beans after their long trip. One of the best pieces of back chat came from a Navigator and a Rear Gunner who differed over the amount of flak encountered over the target. The Navigator took the honours with the final and cruel retort "anyway we were home by the time you got to the target". "J" (F/L Browne) landed back at Manston on two engines after a trip that was full of incident. Soon after crossing the French coast outward and when at 3000 ft J's starboard engine caught fire and had to be feathered. Although there was no hope of gaining the briefed bombing height, the Captain decided to carry on to the target which was reached on time, and at a height of 11500 ft, well below the main force bombing height. Preferring to wait for the end of the attack to going in under the open bomb doors of the main Force "J" orbited the target area twice. Then 2 1/2mins after the close of the main attack J's air-bomber dropped his bombs on an Emergency sighting angle - the bomb sight was u/s owing to the failure of the starboard inner and the crew had the satisfaction of seeing them drop close to a blazing factory. On the camera run, with the bomb doors still open, "J" was hit by flak which damaged the tops of the bomb bays. Control of the aircraft was not affected but J's troubles were by no means over. In the region of Frankfurt while at 9,000 ft the port outer engine, which had been giving cause for anxiety, failed. Height was maintained, but the area of the Rhine I.A.Zs had to be crossed at 9,000 ft and these opened up. Fortunately, they broke off as soon as the colours of the period were fired and a safe landing was made at Manston. Photos confirm that the bombing was concentrated. F/L MacLachlan and crew completed their tour of operations.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 16,000 ft at 23.10 hrs	W/O H Davies (P) Sgt J S Preston (F/Eng) Sgt G V Weller (Nav) Sgt K P Moran (A/B) Sgt R A Phillips (W/Op) Sgt J F Wilson (MU/AG) Sgt J L Robson (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Potsdam (14 Apr 1945 - 15 Apr 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Potsdam	14 Apr 1945	15 Apr 1945	N	The Squadron supplied 25 aircraft with crew as their contribution towards a force of 400 to attack POTSDAM. They took off without let or hinderance and Londoners could have seen them flying serenely over the Metropolis - cloud and other things being equal. The journey across France, Luxemburg and Western Germany was as uninspiring as it was lenghty. There was a certain amount of flak on approaching the target and on the way out, but considering it was the heart of Germnay and only 18 miles from Berlin, the defences, to use an Americanism, seemed about "tapped out". May they remain in this conciliatory state! Several decoys were seen but did not swerve us from our main purpose. The target was found to be clear of cloud and was identified visually by the adjoining lakes. Markers were plentiful and with the Master Bomber giving explicit instructions, the attack developed along the right lines. The journey back was just a long, long trail and all out aircraft landed safely at Base in the "wee small hours". Our three Musketeers again produced plottable photographs and our congratualtions are extened to F2 (F/O Town) on obtaining an A/P - a fast pace, which we hope can be kept up. Details of all plottable photographs are given, but this in no way detracts from the merits of the others. They are merely devoid of ground details and full of exuberance of smoke and fire.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 19,000 ft at 22.57 1/2 hrs	F/O F J A Cox (P) P/O S J Jackson (F/Eng) F/O A Davidson (Nav) F/O P M Fletcher (A/B) Sgt R Townend (W/Op) Sgt E J Chick (MU/AG) Sgt H W E Gee (R/AG)

Operation/Target: Heligoland (18 Apr 1945 - 18 Apr 1945)

Operation Summary
Target	Out	Back	Aborted (Y / N)	Comments
Heligoland	18 Apr 1945	18 Apr 1945	N	28 aircraft with crews took off in the usual 550 Squadron style at 10.10hrs to attack the German fortified island of HELIGOLAND. The crews were delighted at being able to participate in another daylight raid. The journey outward was uneventful and visibiity was excellent, the weather being that of a hot summer's day. Our contribution was part of a force of 950 aircraft. Bombing commenced a minute early and the absence of marking in no way affected the accuracy of the bombing. Indeed, the concentration of bombing was so tremendous that it was not thought that markers, had they been dropped, would have remained visible long enough for them to have been used as an aiming point. The island was so saturated by the weight of the attack that the crews met only negigible opposition from the ground defences. No enemy aircraft were encountered. A great number of excellent photographs were obtained giving proof of an outstanding attack. An aircraft carrying a movie-camera was present throughout the attack. P/O Town had to return early owing to engine failure. Eleven hours night flying training was also carried out.

Station Summary
OPERATIONS: A daylight operation took place on the defensive fortress of HELIGOLAND ISLAND. 28 aircraft took off from North Killingholme, one was abortive due to excessive coolant temperature in the port outer engine, and the remainder bombed the primary with excellent results.

Aircraft Deployed			Servicemen Deployed
Aircraft Service Number	Returned or FTR	Comments	Crew Details
NF931	Returned	Primary at 17,000 ft at 12.55 1/2 hrs.	F/O F J A Cox (P) P/O S J Jackson (F/Eng) F/O A Davidson (Nav) F/O P M Fletcher (A/B) Sgt R Townend (W/Op) Sgt E J Chick (MU/AG) Sgt H W E Gee (R/AG)

Summary Statistics

Based on the data in the lists displayed above, and keeping in mind that data is still being updated and thus not yet complete, the following statistics are generated:

Aircraft Deployment Statistics

Aircraft deployments	62
MAX Aircraft deployed in single operation	1 (Neuss, 23 Sep 1944)

These details were last updated: 22 April 2024

Note

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