Seeking info on a Bf110C-5 of 1./Aufkl.Gr. Ob.d.L. shot down S. of Calais, France, on 24.5.40

[Larry Hickey]

Hello,

We've recently obtained photographic evidence for the following Bf110 loss during the WC:

"May 24, 1940: 1./AufklGr.Ob.d.L Messerschmitt Bf110C-5. Shot down during reconnaissance sortie over the English Channel and believed belly-landed and burned out south of Calais. Possibly that claimed by F/L Whitehouse and P/O Whitley of No.264 Squadron 1.05 p.m. FF Lt Werner Kans and BO Lt Heinrich-Johannes Neuermann both wounded – returned later."

1) Since this is a possible subject of a color profile for the EOE book series, does anyone know if a/c from this unit, specifically Bf110Cs, carried any unit insignia on the nose during this period? The photos show the front of the plane burnt out, possibly fired by the crew, so this isn't visible in our photo. Reference material documents insignias used by this Gruppe during the Russian Campaign, but nothing is apparently known for the 1940 period.

2) We're trying to document this incident further, including the specific location of the crash, which was on open ground, probably a farm field or pasture, with no prominent landmarks or buildings visible. Other than "south of Calais," does anyone have any further information for a specific location of this crash? The general area was under German control by May 24th, and both men, WIA, apparently were not captured. Any further info on this incident would be appreciated.

Anybody know of the existence of any other photos of this crash or showing aircraft from this unit during 1940? The plane carried a "K9" unit code. This is one of only three Bf110s from this Gruppe lost during 1939-40, and the other two, lost on July 6th and Aug 24th, apparently crashed into the sea.

Thanx,

[Larry Hickey]

Hello,

Although we think that we have this one nailed, can someone whose data base extends through 1941 provide a listing of any Bf110s from 1./Augkl.Gr Ob.d.L that were lost in the east during 1941? We particularly need a/c codes. Our detailed DB only covers through the end of 1940.

Thanx,