[RSwank]

Sgt N Jones, flying a Wellington (HF912) of 38 Squadron is credited with sinking the Davide Bianchi.

38 Squadron dispatched 8 A/C, 7 A/C carried two torpedoes each and one A/C carried 2 x 1000 GP bombs.

Wellingon “L” HF912 carried two torpedoes and was crewed by Sgt Jones, Sgt Welsh, Sgt Carington, Sgt Holden and Sgt Noble. They took off at 2255 (September 3) and returned at 0600 on September 4.

“The crews were briefed to attack a convoy of 3 MV’s and escort. And to ignore sighting reports of any smaller convoys. F/S Brigg A/C ‘Y” developed engine trouble after three hours and he was forced to return to base. The remaining A/C received a sighting report from Special Wellington at 0150 hours – 1 MV and 1 DR- this was ignored as ordered. A second sighting report was received at 0200 hours – this concerned the main convoy and so all aircraft set course to intercept.”

“At 0230 hours Sgt. Jones sighted 3 MV’s and 1 DR in position 32 50N 23 50E. Twenty minutes later he attacked a three island type MV of about 4000 tons releasing torpedoes at 800 and 600 yards. After passing over the ship and when the A/C was about ¾ mile away, there was a terrific explosion and the ship split in two. On circling, the bows and stern were seen to be sticking out of the water about 100 yards apart. Other A/C confirmed this, and also saw another ship burning – afterwards it was learned that a submarine was responsible for the second ship.” (This 2nd ship was probably the Padenna which was sunk by the submarine HMS Thrasher.)

“The remaining 6 A/ C did not attack and returned to base with their loads.”