1841/1842 SQUADRON HMS FORMIDABLE

[keith A]

One of these squadron claimed a victory in late July 1945. Perhaps over a Grace or a Dinah. Does anyone have other details?

[Frank Olynyk]

On July 30, 1945, 1841 Sqn claimed a Kate or a Nate at 0630 hours. The ship's log (ADM 199/1478) says it is a Nate. The book A Formidable Commission says it was a Kate. The log does not name the pilot; the book identifies him as LtCdr(A) R L Bigg-Wither. I have never found a combat report for this claim. The unit was equipped with Corsairs, but I do not know if he flew a Corsair I or II.

On the same day one of HMS Victorious' Corsair squadrons (1834 or 1836) claimed a Dinah at 1823 hours, at Maizuru. I have never been able to identify the squadron or pilot. Does anyone know of a combat report for this claim?

Frank.

[keith A]

Hi Frank,

I thought these squadrons flew the Corsair IV? Didn't Bigg-Wither write a book about the BPF?

Send her Victorious doesn't mention any claims at this time by her squadrons. I thought their last victory was in May, but then again, although it's a fine work the book doesn't have complete listing of victories by it's squadrons.

[Dennis Peschier]

All losses by 1841 and 1842 squadron in that month were mk. IV in the KD range. Source "Fleet Air Arm Aircraft 1939-1945" by Ray Sturviant

Dennis

[keith A]

I have four claims for this period. 2 were claimed on the 30th (maybe from a 1841/2 unit serving on Victorious or the Vic squadron serving on Formidable with 1841/2?), and we have one in May and another in August maybe that's our four?

[Skyraider3D]

Originally Posted by Frank Olynyk

I have never found a combat report for this claim.

Indeed it's not included in ADM 199/841 & -842 which contains the combat reports for mentioned unites and time frame. Odd.