Info on NF attack on 425 Squadron Halifax MZ621, 4-5 November 1944?

[Theo Boiten]

Dear all,

I am looking for info on an encounter between a German night fighter and 425 Squadron Halifax MZ621 on 4-5 November 1944. The Halifax was attacked at 19.40 hrs and struck by bombs from another bomber, and was written off charge on return to base. Did the encounter/attack take place over the target of Bochum?

Cheers and thanks for any info, Theo

[SteveR]

The F541 states that bombs were dropped at 19.40 hours.

Both the F540 and F541 speak about the incendiaries from another bomber hitting MZ621; the F541 states that it happened at 19.40 hours and makes it appear to be just after bombs gone.

Neither the F540 or the F541 mention anything about an attack on MZ621 by a night fighter.

The ORB Appendices does have some Combat Reports in it and there IS one for the night of 4/5 November 1944. It's not from MZ621 however, it's from NA634 - code KW-X, flown by the Forman crew.

NA634 dropped bombs at 19.42 hours; at 19.44 hours the MU/G sighted and fired upon a Fw 190 above NA634. The Fw 190 was attacking another Halifax; MU/G Sgt. Byers, A.C., observed his rounds hitting the fighter. The Fw 190 was last seen smoking badly and breaking away to port. It was claimed as "severely damaged if not destroyed."

Hope this helps rather than confusing things. I've got the 540, 541, and Appendices downloaded if you want them or have any questions.

[Theo Boiten]

Hi Steve,

Thanks for these elaborate details. The claim by NA634 can be tied to the loss of a 3./NJG11 Bf109 G-6 that was shot down over the target (Bochum), will give full details in the NCA 1944 vol 5.

Cheers, Theo

[andy bird]

Hi Theo,

Been given a bulk of narratives for BC from June 1943 to November 1944, some do included combat reports. Along with details types of fuses, routes used in and out, height, etc., for this op the one thing that pops out is:

Bombing attack on Bochum:

"Enemy jet-propelled aircraft out in strength for the first time. . . Command lost 27 aircraft over the target . . ."

Best regards

Andy Bird

[Theo Boiten]

Hi Andy,

Yes that's one that pops out. Actually, these jet prenomena were V-1 flying bombs. I'll explain in detail in the NCA 1944 concluding volume!

Cheers, Theo