Hello, I know this is an old thread, but just heard about this discussion. I have all the facts actually, about the "theft" of an He 177 from Toulouse France, including the log book entries from one of the escorting crews, as well as photos of them on the day of the event. 6 Sept 44 was the date, and it was Russ Bannock, and Robert Bruce who's log book entries I have. I recently met up with Russ at his home in Toronto, and he relayed the entire story to me.