Fairey Battle crash in Channel

[Chris Goss]

I have just obtained a photo of a Battle which has come down in the sea (on the reverse it says Dunkirk 1940). According to Peter C, there are a number of photos which is of a 142 Sqn ac. BofF T&N only has 142's Battles crashing on land unless it is either L5503 or L5582 lost attacking Boulogne 22 Aug 40. Does anyone have any thoughts?

[andy bird]

Hi Chris,

I've got the AM Daily Reports for June on my desk so will check.

Kind Regards

Andy Bird

[Chris Goss]

Thanks Andy

[andy bird]

Hi Chris,

This probably doesn't help, will carry on checking.

AB

Daily Report Dated 17 June 1940. Page No. 8

British Air Forces in France.

No reports have been received from the period ended 18.00 hours 15th June.

Organisational Changes.
The following Battle Squadrons have landed without loss at ABINGDON from France:
Nos. 12, 83, 103, 142, 150 and 226

[Chris Goss]

Thanks Andy. As you say, no help here!

[Iain Torrance]

Most likely to be a 142 Squadron plane lost on the raid - post BofF -noted in this thread. Photos of this plane of German and French origin regularly crop up and the codes are definitely Q[T] - L, the T not visible and serial number never seen. Up beach shots give a background that is, I understand, consistent with Boulogne. I have no idea which of the two Battles lost it might be & have not researched it.

Of course can't be sure if it is that plane without seeing your photo.

Kind regards

Iain