[markjsheppard]

This is interesting.

I have three claims for the 17th September by 81Sqn, 151 Wing. Two were definite 'hit the ground' claims but only one loss is listed.

The next combat was on 17th September when eight Hurricanes of 81 Squadron were on defensive patrol at 1830pm escorting some Russian bombers back from there target. Whilst over Balucha, NW of Murmansk the escort was bounced by two Bf109E's. At 1855pm S/Leader A. Rook in BD792 opened fire as a Bf109E passed ahead and glycol poured from it. Chasing it for five minutes S/Leader Rook ran out of bullets, Sgt P Sims in Z5228 and Sgt A Anson in Z5207 gave chase and eventually the enemy's aircraft engine caught fire and the Bf109 crashed besides a lake.
Meanwhile the second Bf109E was being chased by F/Sgt C Haw in Z5208 as it passed ahead. Gradually F/Sgt Haw was having an effect with smoke started pouring out from the engine and on the last attack a large piece flew off and the Bf109 went into a vertical dive. The pilot baled out and was reportedly captured.
A little later at 19.15 six more Bf109E's dived on the Russian bombers and escorts and P/O B Bush in Z4017 turned port and gave chase to the outside Bf109E. A dog fight ensued and P/O Bush was able to out turn the enemy aircraft and open fire. Thick black smoke poured from the aircraft and it crashed into a hill. The Russian bombers and Hurricanes returned safely and three Bf109E's were confirmed as destroyed.

Three claims, two seem hitting the ground. The bail out could have been a cowling or aircraft part but two were seen to hit the ground. 81Sqn were flying operations against 14/JG77 and 1./JG77. Could the date be a day late reporting?

regards

Mark