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Re: Mosquito downed by Me163
Hello Norman, Andy and Kaki.
Here the DFC citation of P/O Hays, who sadly died on the 30th March 1945 - apparently on the crash ( stall on take off ) of MM396 ( see my posting on Allied Forum ).
HAYS, P/O Raymond Morris (J88928) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.544 Squadron (deceased) - Award effective 24 April 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 918/45 dated 1 June 1945. American in the RCAF. Born 1913 in Ashland, Oregon; home in Long Beach, California. Trained at No.6 ITS, No.20 EFTS and No.16 SFTS. Commissioned July 1944. Killed in action 30 March 1945 (Mosquito MM386); buried in United Kingdom.
This officer was the pilot of an aircraft detailed for a reconnaissance covering the Leipzig area in March 1945. Whilst over the target, two enemy fighters attempted to close in. Pilot Officer Hays took violent evading action. Much height was lost. At this stage another enemy aircraft joined the fight. Pilot Officer Hays manoeuvred with great skill and although his aircraft was hit he succeeded in evading the attackers. The starboard engine had been badly damaged but course was set for home. Later on the return flight the aircraft was attacked by another fighter. Pilot Officer Hays manoeuvred with superb skill. Although the aircraft sustained further damage and the navigator was wounded, this pilot succeeded in evading the fighter. He afterwards flew to a landing ground in Allied territory. This officer, who has completed many sorties, has consistently shown courage and resolution.
Yes, it seems that Glockner claimed the Mosquito shot down, although by incredible airmanship Hays took it to Lille where he crashlanded. His Navigator, who as severely injured on the right leg was a Sergeant whose name I can not remember ( had to check at my DATA ). Hays later crewed up with an old ( 31 years ) Nav.
Hope this will help.
Long life to the Mossie History!
Adriano
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