FAA Squadrons 778. and 888.

[Hallvor]

I am trying to track a particular pilot, the South African Guy Brokensha. He served in the 303. Squadron until February 1941, was then transfered to the 778. Squadron, and from November 1941 until his death in August 1942 he served with the 888. Squadron (HMS Formidable).

Being a novice in these matters, I am hoping that someone might help recommend books, source material and/or any other useful information concerning him and his squadrons. (I have everything in the Norwegian campaign covered - until June 1940.)

[Bruce Dennis]

Hello,
You may already know about this file at the UK National Archives:

ADM 358/887

... which states the situation at the point where he is declared 'missing presumed dead'.

Also, the log of Formidable for the date of his death is ADM 53/115930.

Follow the link in my signature if I can help further.
Regards,
Bruce

[Larry]

According to Fleet Air Arm Aircraft 1939-45 by Ray Sturtivant and Mick Burrow, by Air Britain Publications 1995, he was involved in incidents in these aircraft:

Blackburn Skua L2997 - ditched after aircraft engine suffered a fuel leak during attack on escort ships to Strasbourg on 3.7.1940 with 803 MAS

Blackburn Skua L2927 - Shared in the destruction of Cant Z501 and Savoia Marchetti SM.79 on 31.8.1940 with 803 NAS

Blackburn Roc L3162 - damaged it on landing on 11.7.1941 with 778 NAS

The book also references him to Fairey Fulmar N4017 - but then gives no details for him in the section covering each Fulmar!!!!!!!!!!

No doubt he was lost in a Fulmar in 1942 - but which one?

[Hallvor]

Bruce: Thanks. I'll contact you in a few days.

Larry: Thank you. He presumably fell over board in august 1942 and drowned.

Are there any other recommended books where I can get info about these naval air squadrons from 1940-42?

[Larry]

Well Ray Sturtivant of Air Britain Publications together with Theo Ballance also produced; The Squadrons of the Fleet Air Arm in 1994

ISBN 0 85130 223 8

[Mark E Horan]

Hallvor;

My extensive interest in the FAA and its aircrew is primarily through 1941. Here is what I have on Guy Warwick Brokensha, DSC, RN (Pilot), who was listed as missing and presumed dead at age 24.

Mid.(A) 19.04.38
---posted 757 Squadron 09.08.39
---posted 803 Squadron [Skua II] 19.09.39 - [sevice ashore, on HMS Glorious, and HMS Ark Royal]

S-Lt.(A) by 01.11.39 [seniority date unspecified]
---still with 803 Squadron
----- From RNAS Hatston - Operation "Duck", 17.04.40 - defense of HMS Suffolk returning from Norway
----- From HMS Glorious - numerous operations over Norway
------- Mentioned in Despatches
----- From HMS Ark Royal - numerous operations including attack on Scharnhorst in Trondheim Harbour, 13.06.40
------- Awarded DSC
---remained 803 Squadron through 08.10.40 when HMS Ark Royal returned to the UK and the squadron reformed - he and the other veteran aircrew were given leave

Lt.(A) [exact date not known to me]
---posted to 778 Squadron [exact date not know to me]
-----second-line/training throughout most of 1941
---posted 888 Squadron [Martlet] 11.41 as Senior Pilot
----- Squadron joined HMS Formidable 01.02.42
--------missing overboard from HMS Formidable, at night, 11.08.42, presumed dead

In regards to the "numerous operations" in1940, I have the details for most of them. Hope this helps.

Mark E. Horan

[Brian]

Hi Hallvor

Have you seen FLYING SAILORS AT WAR?

Cheers
Brian