Re: Loss of Blenheim Z5734
Hi Brian,
This might help explain what actually happened according to the official New Zealand casualty reports.
On the 24 November 1940, at 1620 a Blenheim IVF Z5734 from 272 Squadron took off on patrol to cover SC11 as a convoy escort. While on patrol it engaged in a practice dogfight with a Fulmar near HMS Vespar. While attempting to turn at low altitude the Blenheim hit the sea. Although rescue craft were at the scene, all that was found was the rubber dinghy.
The pilot of the Blenheim was indeed FO Brian Henry Herrick, a 25 year old New Zealander with the RAF. His two brothers Dennis (53 Squadron) and Michael (305 Squadron) were also killed in action with the RAF in Europe.
Hope this helps.
|