British bomber units active over Derna on the night of 13 December 1941?
 

Dear all,

I recently received an impressive photo of criss-crossing Flak over Derna/N. Africa obviously aimed at relatively low-flying aircraft on the night of 13 December 1941. Who can tell me which British (bomber) units were active over Derna on this night?

Cheers and thanks, Theo

Re: British bomber units active over Derna on the night of 13 December 1941?
 

Theo,

Friday-Saturday 12/13 December 1941.

24 Bombers from 37 and 70 Squadrons were sent off to the Derna area where one Axis aircraft was claimed destroyed on the ground. Italian records confirm that an S.79 was destroyed during this attack. However, two Wellingtons were lost here. 37 Squadron's N2780 'E' had been detailed to attack MT, but was damaged by flak over the target, Sgt Carver then bringing the aircraft down in the sea off Sidi Barrani. Four of the crew, two of whom were injured, got ashore in the dinghy next afternoon, but two others who set off to swim were not seen again.

70 Squadron's X9686 'Z' was shot down, crashing near Martuba. Flg Off K C Kitto and his crew were killed.

Saturday-Sunday 13/14 December 1941.

15 Wellingtons returned to Derna in very bad weather.


See:
A History of the Mediterranean Air War 1940-1945 - Vol. One: North Africa June 1940 - January 1942.
Shores,Christopher et al
London:Grub Street,2012.
pp.466-7

Col.

Re: British bomber units active over Derna on the night of 13 December 1941?
 

Thanks for these most useful details Col!

Cheers, Theo

Re: British bomber units active over Derna on the night of 13 December 1941?
 

COL!

You indeed is an "ACE"...I mean, your knowledge and "memory" are incredible. You have been helping quite a number of members here (me including, a long time ago about 268 and 168 Squadrons). Congratulations and thanks for the support, in the name of all...

Adriano.