Operation Torch troopship attacked
 

On November 7, 1942 the USS Thomas Stone, a troopship in the first of the Operation Torch North African landings, was torpedoed at daybreak about thirtythree miles off of the Spanish coast. The ship didn’t sink and the troops aboard took to their landing craft and attempted to carry on to Algiers. I understand that the Thomas Stone was hit by an airborne torpedo: can anyone provide more information about the unit/base/planes/pilot?
Thanks,

Bruce

Re: Operation Torch troopship attacked
 

The aircraft were from 6./KG 26 and had been part of a much larger force, most of which had turned back before meeting the convoy Thomas Stone was part of. Only 6 He 111s of 6./KG 26 made it to the target and two crews were apparently lost.

Re: Operation Torch troopship attacked
 

Thanks Adam.

As always, a good answer raises more questions: Any idea where the aircraft were based? And was the Thomas Stone convoy their intended target?

Regards,
Bruce

Re: Operation Torch troopship attacked
 

Hi Bruce,

6./KG 26 sometimes used Elmas, Sardinia as a forward operating base so possible they came from there.

Best Regards

Andy Fletcher

Re: Operation Torch troopship attacked
 

Andy,
Many thanks.

Best regards,
Bruce