Loss of Ju 86 2nd July 1943

[AUS_RAAF]

Hi Brian,

To round out the claim from perspective of the claimant here are details from Freckelton’s logbook

2nd July 1943 - Spitfire Mk.IX, BS342 - Scrambled from Gamil

“Intercepted Ju 86 recce at 42,300’ ind. over Alexandria. First attack close range damaged underside of cabin. Second attack both main planes and engine (port). F/O Rowlands also attacked, scoring strikes. Crashed in sea after losing height and attacked by 80 SQ. Destroyed. (allotted total a/c).”

Note the second claimant of Rowlands.

Let me know if interested in further details of intercept as Freckelton had a copy of the Combat Report.

There was also a document attached to the LB page as per below.

In a memorandum dated 7th July 1943 from Air Defence HQ, Eastern Mediterranean.

“Subject:-Destruction of J.U.86 - 2nd July, 1943.
After study and consideration of the reports of the four pilots concerned in the destruction of the J.U.86 on 2nd July, 1943, I have decided to allocate the actual destruction to the pilot of S.B.342, F/O Freckelton, who was the first one to attack and in my opinion destroyed the enemy.

2. I appreciate that the other pilots, between them, left no doubt that the enemy aircraft could not return to its base and I am confident, these other pilots will be the first ones to give full credit to F/O Freckelton.”

Freckleton had further interceptions on 19 Jul 43 and 13 Aug 43 for which he also had Combat reports filed in the logbook.

regards, Drew