[Brian]

Hi Jon

Some years ago, when interviewing a former Hurricane pilot for one of my books, he told me that his then CO was one of those that fitted the inefficient profile (incidentally, I also later interviewed the man in question, but of course did not mention the incident or his lack of popularity!).

On one occasion, during a strafing mission, the CO flew in front of his No.2's aircraft, thus providing a tempting target and opportunity - but he managed to cease firing just in time, although sorely tempted. So the thoughts were there!!

It was alleged that a famous ace was deliberately shot down during 'mock' combat by another at the gunnery school both were attending. He survived. The aggressor was lost in action a few months later. This, and many other hundreds of friendly fire incidents will be covered in my forthcoming book 'Blue on Blue in WWII; Aerial Friendly Fire Incidents'


Cheers
Brian