[Mark Copeland]

Hello Everyone!!

I was doing some research to clarify some claim/victory claims for 242 Squadron on September 15th, 1940. I was wondering if anyone could assist me my research concerning an afternoon encounter of the Squadron, more specifically their leader Sir Douglas Bader.

On the afternoon of September 15th, 242 took off from Duxford along with 310 and 302 Squadron and headed south towards London. They were soon joined by 19 and 610 Squadron from Fowlmere making up the famous “Big Wing.”

Bader attacked a formation of Dornier Do-17Zs that were headed towards London to bomb the dock areas. He claimed a Dornier Do-17Z destroyed.
The questions that I had concerning the event stem towards what Kampgeschwader (Bomber Group) did Bader actually attack? The reports that I have indicate bombers from Bomber Geschwader KG3?? Does anyone have any documentation showing that Bader fought that specific Group? If so, and even a bigger question is to see what Gruppe he was tangling with. Was it Gruppe I, II or III???

Even better, can anyone identify the specific aircraft he claimed that afternoon?

The second part of my inquiry was identifying the Jagdgeschwader that was escorting that specific bomber formation. I have some information showing it was JG 26. If so, what Gruppe was involved in the area in question.

I realize by that time, the fighter escort had almost exhausted their fuel supply and were more than likely headed back towards France. Therefore, it could have been any Gruppe from JG 26.

On September 15th, 1940, the sky was chaos and therefore with the help of Dr. Price’s book “Battle of Britain Day” I am trying to nail down the exact aircraft (Dornier Do-17Z) that Bader claimed that day as destroyed. If anyone has any information that could lend credence to the question, I would be eternally grateful!!

Thank you in advance for your help!!

Mark Copeland