[David E. Brown]

Hi Richard,

I base the May 9th estimate on photos, and, the recollections of Hptm. Heinz Braun (KG 200) as presented in Norm Malayney’s JAAHS article (p.23).

On May 8th Braun flew the Ju 290 A-4 “A3+HB” WNr.110165 from Koniggraz to München-Riem loaded with women, children and wounded. He stated that “…on the following day, I believe, I met with Col. Watson. On 10 May, I flew with Watson as co-pilot in the Ju 290 from Munich to Roth near Nuremburg…” The "following day" would have been May 9th.

As well, there are a number of published photos of Col. Watson inspecting various aircraft types at M-R (Me 262 (Yellow 5), Do 335 (102), He 111, Ju 290 (A3+HB), etc.) that appear to have come from his collection and taken on the same time (mid-day in bright sunshine). As well, he had his photo taken with Haeffner around Yellow 5 that was still in its German markings and out in the middle of the airfield at mid-day. The well known series of aerial photos was taken on May 15th (six days later) and Yellow 5 is now seen in a combination of US and German markings.

I should think that Col. Watson would have wanted to get to M-R ASAP as there were now several flyable aircraft here (especially Me 262s), so think May 9th is the most likely date of his visit. Anyway, that’s my best guess given the available information.

Cheers,

David

Reference:

Malayney, N., 1995.
ATI and Operation Lusty – Part 1
Journal, American Aviation Historical Society, Spring, 1995, p.16-25.