FAA Avenger Crew configuration during bombing runs

[Juha]

Hello Atckyrre
because the risk of enemy fighter attacks probably would be greatest near target, I would guess that the gunner would man his turret during the attack. I think that was the reason for 3 men crew. IIRC in Fairey Battle in level bombing run the observer bombed and the gunner stau behind his gun. A different a/c, I know.

Juha
Helsinki, Finland

[atckyrre]

Juha,

I agree and having discussed this with my fellow FAA enthusiast we've come to the "conclusion" that the gunner must have been positioned in the turret.
It is interesting to note that it seems most FAA Avengers flew without the 50 Cal in the dorsal position, even though it would be natural to actually give the enemy a "squirt" as you flew on. Guess the window was used for observation and photographing hits instead.

Thanks for chipping in.

Kyrre

[Juha]

Hello Kyrre

one more on RAF practicies, during 1941 shipping strikes one of the tasks of Blenheim dorsal gunners was to observe hits and sometimes also to take pictures on results. Their main task at that time was of course to watch on enemy fighters.

Juha