Bomber loss over Molde April 29/30th 1940

[Bob Pearson]

As part of my ongoing research I am trying to identify the type of bomber and unit of the aircraft that was lost close to Molde (Norway) on the night of 29th/30th April 1940. The a/c was flying over the bombed town of Molde when it was hit by single anti-aircraft fire from HMS Glasgow - then docked at Molde and loading the Norwegian Royal party and various members of the government and other diplomats.

An eye-witness account states that this a/c was hit in the mid underside and flew on a short distance before blowing up mid-air about 1-2 miles from Molde. HMS Glasgow's log book states that they opened fire at 01:00 and ceased fire at 01:11.

If anyone has information on this or indeed other a/c in relation to the bombing of Molde then I would be very pleased and thankful to hear from them.

Bob Pearson

[Andreas Brekken]

Hi.

I have one loss recorded that might fit Your description.

It is recorded as 3. K.Gr.126, a clerical error for 3./K.G.26 I believe. There were 1 aircraft recorded as total loss and a crew of four, including two officers, posted as missing.

I haven't really studied Weserübung and the very early days that much and others might have more information.

Regards,
Andreas

[Bob Pearson]

Hi Andreas,

Many thanks for your prompt reply, it is very much appreciated. I now have a starting point.

Thanks again.

Kind regards,

Bob

[Jim P.]

See Shores, 'Fledgling Eagles'. It should be in there.

[Bob Pearson]

Hi Jim,

Thanks for that lead. I have checked with Abebooks and they have it so will place an order with them.

Thanks again for your input.

Kind regards,

Bob

[RT]

I hv a source confirming 3.Kgr.126 a He111h-4, 4 missing 2+2, something ...beschuss, maybe schiffbeschuss

on 300440, a He111h-4 from 2.LG1 made a bruchlandung nach feindflug, on schleswig.

rt