[SMF144]

Dan,

Although it doesn't answer your query, here's what I have concerning this incident that might be of some help. It's interesting to note that the He.111 Z was identified as being a He.177. This was probably due to the lack of intelligence on both airframes?

Good luck.

Stephen


2 Mosquitos VI of 418 (R.C.A.F.) Squadron took off to patrolled TOURS/DIJON/BOURGES area, destroying E/A and gliders.

2 Mosquitos VI of 418 (R.C.A.F.) Squadron piloted by F/L G.C. SCHERF (AUS), F/O C.G. FINDLAYSON, navigator, pilot F/L A.D. CLEVELAND, navigator F/Sgt. DAY, (R.A.F.) were airborne at FORD at 1120 hrs., on a DAY RANGER. A/C made landfall at PTE DE LA PERCEE, then flew on E. of TOURS/GILLY/ST. YAN. No A/C were seen airborne. F/L CLEVELAND attacked at ST. YAN A/F 1 HE.177 and F/L SCHERF attacked 2 Ju.52s parked on E. perimeter. 1 Ju.52 seen to explode, the other well alight with burning bowser in between, the He.177 was also burning fiercely. Slight L/F was experienced from W. of A/F. A/C then flew to DOLE and saw B.1/GOTHA. 2 sec burst from 200/50 yds. As the other glider was let loose F/L SCHERF gave it a 2 sec. burst and both gliders appeared to disintegrate and went straight down. F/L SCHERF went straight on and gave HE.177 a 3 sec. burst setting 2 starboard engines on fire. F/L CLEVELAND gave 6/7 sec burst hitting one of the port engines and port fuselage. As it was gliding down F/L SCHERF gave a long burst of M.G. scoring numerous strikes. It was last seen burning well on the ground. Section then set course for home and F/L CLEVELAND spotted a GOTHA 242 in middle of field near DOLE A/F and damaged it with a short burst of M.G. A/C took same course out and landed at FORD at 1950 hrs.