Sea Hurricanes - a definite success

[keith A]

During my research on the use of the Sea Hurricanes of the Fleet Air Arm it appears these are more successful than many types.

For example, after the initial kill in 1941 the type claims around fourteen kills during Operation Harpoon, about twenty-five during Pedestal, five more protecting PQ18 and then six during Torch. Two more follow in 1944. This tally equals that of the Martlet/Wildcat and Hellcat and is more than the Corsair.

Now I have your interest, can I ask if anyone knows more of the claims of 802/883 squadron during PQ18. Anthony Roger Laurie was awarded a DSC as was Ian Peter Garrow.The former appears to have claimed two victories, Garrow also (according to Sturtivant) claims two kills. It seems 883 claimed four of the kills, shared between Massy, Laurie and Garrow and that SLt PJ Williams added a single kill flying a Sea Hurricane of 802 squadron.

However it seems more likely that the Sea Hurricanes fought in sections. Does anyone have a more accurate view into the actions of the Sea Hurricanes?

K