111 Sqn claim on 23 May 1942
 

According to the 111 Squadron ORB (Form 540) as well as a Combat Report, Sgt. H. D. Christian (Harold David, RAAF 400779) claimed a FW190 damaged at around noon on 23 May 42 (Rodeo No.46). However this pilot's name is not mentioned in the Form 541 for this date. The sergeant pilots listed for this mission are Sgts. Ballance, Bryson, Cumming and Randell. Nor do I find Christian's name mentioned for any time in May 42 in the Form 541!

Anyone have any ideas concerning this discrepancy?

Thanks,
Tom

Re: 111 Sqn claim on 23 May 1942
 

Re: 111 Sqn claim on 23 May 1942
 

Thanks, Chris. I did mention the combat report in my original posting. I just can't figure why Christian is not listed for the mission that day, or any other during May in the Form 541. However he can be found in the Form 541 for both April and June! I am interested to know the serial number of the Spitfire he flew on 23 May.

Tom

Re: 111 Sqn claim on 23 May 1942
 

An article contrasting the wartime experiences of Harold Christian and Barry Gale was published in Wartime magazine several years ago. The author was Andrew Arthy, who is a member here.

He might be able to help with the serial number if you send a PM. I'm sure he doesn't mind me pointing you in his direction!

Cheers,

Bruce

Re: 111 Sqn claim on 23 May 1942
 

Bruce,

Here is the issue of Wartime that contained the article you mentioned (unfortunately, l don't have a copy):

https://www.awm.gov.au/wartime/61 (Summer 2013) Fortunes of Flying by Andrew Arthy - The Service of two Australian Fighter pilots in No.111 Squadron.

Col.

Re: 111 Sqn claim on 23 May 1942
 

Thanks, Bruce and Col. I will PM Andrew Arthy. I had previously downloaded his article entitled "The Life of Barry E. Gale" and I see that one of his reference sources is Harold Christian's Log Book. So he may have the information I was seeking.

Tom