82 squadron W/cdr Lart

[ElgerAbbink]

I'm doing some preliminary research into the markings of W/cdr Lart's Blenheim that he flew in the summer of 1940. So far all I know is the serial number of the aircraft he flew when he crashed (T1934), but I was wondering if that was his personal aircraft with a personal radio code (e.g UX-A).

This is for a scale modeling/historic research project, so if anyone knows if there is a book on (or good pictures) of 82 squadron's activities during the summer of 1940, and/or W/cdr Lart personally in particular, any information would be greatly appreciated.

[Hans Nauta]

Hi Elger,

I've filed W/Cdr Lart on 28th July 1940 whilst flying with F/Sgt Robertson and Sgt Beeby DFM in T1818. They were sent out together with 3 other Blenheims of 82 Squadron to targets in Germany. Owing to lack of cloud W/Cdr Lart bombed Leeuwarden airfield.
While homebound at 20.36 hrs local time and at 10,000 ft near Den Helder on western course, they were approached by a Bf.109 head on. The Bf.109 attacked from port above, while at the same time two other Bf.109's attacked from the rear up to 75 yards distance. The last Bf.109 dived away steeply after being hit by the airgunner Sgt Beeby.
A 4th Bf.109 made a beam attack from port side, but the Blenheim dived to 6,000 ft into the cloud layer and managed to get away. The Blenheim was hit, but the crew unhurt.
During the landing the port under carriage collapsed.

T1818 however, never served with 82 Squadron, but saw action with 14 Squadron. This might be a typo in the ORB, or a typo of me, while copying. Perhaps the serial was T1828 which had UX-V as code.

If you're patient enough I will have a definite answer in February 2006 when I return to the National Archives in London for further research.

Regads,
Hans Nauta

[Hans Nauta]

Hi again Elger,

Not being satisfied with the incorrect serial I cross checked other sources and it indeed turned out to be T1828 UX-V.

Apart from this I can add that the 3rd Bf.109 managed to limp back to airfield Leeuwarden where it made a crashlanding. Damage to this E-3 type was 60% and the pilot, Oblt Karl Preiser was seriously wounded during the crashlanding. He belonged to the Stab II/JG27. I've no Werknr or Kennzeichen.

Perhaps other researchers are able to add this from their files or sources?

Regards,
Hans

[robert]

Hi,

I can add that this Blenheim was claimed shot down by Lt.H.Kargel from 4/JG27 at 20.35 (SW of Den Helder). Olt.K.Preiser is listed WIA on 29.07.40 after air combat with Blenheims (belly landed south of Franeker, 60%). This were again 82 RAF Blenheims.

Regards

Robert

[Blenheim]

W/Cdr Lart was flying T1934, coded UX-R, when he was killed on 13th August 1940.


Blenheim

[ElgerAbbink]

thanks everyone!