july 1943, Lancasters over north italy

[micky]

Hello friends, i have a question: On the night between 15th and 16th july 1943, Lancasters from 50, 9 and 617 Squadron hit some electrical stations in north italy (San Polo and Arquata Scrivia). Two Lanc was lost, but the other join their base in north africa. There, if remember correctly, they stay until the 21 july, when returning in England they hit Livorno Harbour.

Well, on the night between 17th and 18th july, six Lanc hit the Electrical power station of Reggio Emilia, and any source i have found tell me that they was from 617 Squadron, and was they that hit San Polo.

Thanks to the 617 Sqn Operation Book, i know that the 617's Lanc remains in africa until 21 july, how is possible that they hit Reggio Emilia? Thanks in advance.

Michele