73 Sqn May-June 1940

[Bernard]

Hi Robert,

Here is what I have concerning F/O D S Thom loss.

AIR 35/252. 67 Wing Consolidated Combat Reports :
OPERATIONNAL SUMMARY.
No. 1 Squadron. 25th may 1940.

Two patrols of five aircaft covered the line
BERGERES to BRIENNE from 05.50 hours to 08.50 hours, and
LE CHATEAU from 10.00 to 11.00 hours and saw nothing.
A protection patrol for a french reconnaissance
Aircraft was carried out from 15.00 hours to 15.25 hours on the
Line CHAUNY-LAON at 16,000 feet, wich was as high as cloud
Would permit, no enemy aircraft were seen, but three of our
Aircraft were hit by very accurate A/A fire, wich was
Contiunuous during the whole patrol. F/O Thom was seen to break
Away from the formation with smoke or petrol pouring from his
Aircraft, and he was last seen heading North into german occupied
Territory. Two other aircraft were holed by fragments of schrapnel.
The patrol had been ordered for 45 mins. But after 25 mins. Two
Of the formation, those who had been doing the ‘ cross-over ’ were
On reserve, and the Flight was brought back to its base.


F/O D S Thom had been posted to No 1 Squadron on the 5th of may 1940. He was shot Down flying Hurricane P2880 and made POW. On this date, No 1 Squadron was operating from ANGLURE.


By the way Peter, very nice to read your precious informations, I am looking forward to read your book.

Very best regards.

Bernard.