235 Sqn in action over Holland and Belgium May 1940

[phasselgren]

I hope someone can help with correct information about 2 engagements over Holland and Belgium in May 1940 with 235 Squadron involved. The information From A Clasp For ‘the Few’ by Kenneth G. Wynn and Those Other Eagles by Christopher Shores differs in some points.

13 May 1940
From A Clasp For ‘the Few’:
E.H, Hargill was attached to 235 Sqn from 248 Sqn. “He flew his first operation on the 13th and whilst escorting gun boats in the Zuider Zee the formation was attacked by a force of Me 110s and Ju 88s. After a short brush with the enemy aircraft the Blenheims were able to escape into cloud, being badly outnumbered. All returned safely and one enemy machine was claimed as destroyed.”
According to Those Other Eagles McHardy (flying Blenheim lVf L9450) was one of four that shared a damaged Ju 88 or Bf 110. The other crewmembers were P/O J. Morris and LAC E.A. Ringwood.

18 May 1940
“On the 18th May Mchardy captained one of three aircraft detailed to escort two trawlers off Zeebrugge, later believed to be carrying the Dutch Royal family to England. Sighting a Heinkel at 10000 feet, the chased it down to the sea level, where McHardy and another pilot shot it down. At this point the Blenheims were attacked by three Me 110s and a 109 and in the combat which ensued two 110s were destroyed, one by McHardy, whose aircraft had an engine damaged by a final burst from the German rear gunner just before his plane hit the the sea.”

According to Those Other Eagles McHardy (flying Blenheim lVf L9392) destroyed one Bf 110 3 miles off Blankenberg but nothing about the Heinkel. The other crewmembers were Sgt J.H. Spires and LAC Heavisides..

Thanks in advance
Peter