SFTS 1940

[Observer1940]

Two No. 4 Group Whitleys 14/15th August 1940

The friendly aircraft which attacked one of the two Whitleys (P5044 or P4982) before they both became victims to balloon cables, remains a mystery!

Although, I have now heard from four separate sources (Blackburn, Scotland, New Zealand and occupants of the adjacent house to the crash) that Whitley P5044 was actually shot down. The initial official Casualty Form for P5044 was changed from "FA" to "FB" ["Flying Accident" to "Flying Battle Casualty" - definition A.P. 1301 War Manual - 1939].

There was also (as you stated) firing in the Solent area during the night 14/15th August 1940.

Regarding Whitley P4982, I have discovered that P4982 was illuminated by searchlights, the Balloon Command Signal in the file reporting the crashes states "Searchlight played on it before crash".

Whitley P4982 definitely crashed at Larborne Farm, West Drayton per No. 11 Group Signal to HQFC Intelligence. I also noted in the The Battle of Britain Then and Now that an RAF Fighter was coincidentally also given as Larborne Farm on the 15th August 1940?

Searchlight homing, should have directed friendly aircraft away from Balloons and A. A.

Mark