Sgt. Finn, DFM claim mystery

[Tom Semenza]

In John Foreman's RAF Fighter Command Victory Claims of WW2, Part 2 (page 124) there is a claim listed as follows:

"315 Sqn Hurr FC Sgt Finn DFC Bf109F damaged Brest 1245~"

I can find no such claim in the ORB of 315 Sqn., in the Mushroom book on 315 Sqn. or in Olynyk's RAF 300 series Sqn. claims. The squadron number must be incorrect. I would think that Brest is well out of range for a Hurricane. Perhaps Sgt. Finn was in a Coastal Command squadron? If anyone has any information on this claim and pilot I would appreciate hearing from you.

Thanks in advance,
Tom

[Frank Olynyk]

Tom,
The correct unit is 615 Sqn. I have it as between 1145 and 1320, 10 m from French coast, in Hurricane II BD722, from the ORB.

Enjoy!

Frank.

[Tom Semenza]

Many thanks, Frank. Do you have any further info on the pilot, given names, etc.? If he had the DFM it's unlikely to have been as a fighter pilot since I find no previous claims for him.

Regards,
Tom

[Frank Olynyk]

Sgt. Robert Cyril Finn, 778244. L.G. 19/12/1941, Pilot, Air 2/8463.

Text of recommendation, from Air 2/8463:

Since Sergeant Finn joined No.615 Squadron on 15th May, 1941, he has carried out 48 operational sorties consisting of interception and convoy patrols. In addition, he has taken part in 43 operational sorties against enemy shipping and targets in Northenr France during which six enemy ships of various types have been destroyed, two set on fire and five damaged. A transformer station and a distillery and He.59 were destroyed. This pilot has carried out the duties of Section Leader for five months and taken part in the training of new pilots, displaying great keenness and devotion to duty. It is recommended that he be awarded the D.F.M. 25th November, 1941.

From Ian Tavender: The Distinguished Flying Medal Register for the Second World War. Vol 1 (of 2), published 2000, by Savannah, ISBN 1-902366-03-4.

Fnjoy!

Frank.

[Tom Semenza]

Terrific! Thanks so much, Frank, just the kind of stuff I'm looking for.

Best regards,
Tom