404 Squadron, RCAF
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404 Squadron, RCAF
R.C.A.F. No. 404 "Buffalo" Squadron
The squadron was formed at Thorney Island in Sussex, England on 15 April 1941 under Royal Air Force operational control. Tasked with coastal patrol and attack, the squadron flew the Bristol Blenheim Mk.IV & later the Beaufighter. From May 1944 to September 1944 they were based at RAF Davidstow Moor in Cornwall, England. As part of the RAF Dallachy strike wing of four Beaufighter-equipped squadrons, they took part in an attack on German ships on the Norwegian coast on 9 February 1945. The ships included a destroyer and "flak" ships as well as merchantmen. The ships were located in a fjord and German fighter aircraft scrambled in defense. As a result of the heavy losses to the Dallachy Wing the attack was subsequently called "Black Friday".
Bristol Blenheim, L9337, November 5, 1941
Pilot: Flt Sgt J.G. MacKay, R/54293, RCAF, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: Sgt T.E. Hedefine, 986613, RAFVR, Withernsea, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
WAG: Flt Sgt W.J. Pearce, 755517, RAFVR, Headington, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
Aircraft on anti-shipping patrol off Norway, aircraft failed to return from mission, cause of loss has not been established. Crew is listed as Missing in Action
Bristol Blenheim, T1946 / Z6339, November 1, 1941, In-Flight Collision
T1946 Crew:
Pilot: Flt. Sgt. R.F. Leighton, R/74598, RCAF, Duncan, British Columbia, Canada
Passenger: AC2 T. Clapperton, 1341877, RAFVR, Morningside, Edinburgh, Scotland
Passenger: AC1 T.A. Gray, 1371299, RAFVR, Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland
Z6339 Crew:
Pilot: P/O D.H. Inglis, Survived crash, Injured
Passenger: Cpl H.E. Holmes, Survived crash, Injured
Flying a 3-ship formation of Blenheim’s, Blenheim 6339 piloted by P/O (D.H.) Inglis collided with Blenheim T1946 piloted by F/S R F Leighton near Lerwick, Shetland Islands. "Inglis' aircraft chewed off the elevators on Leighton's aircraft which from about 200 feet dived on the rocks and exploded." F/S Leighton and his two passengers, AC1 T A Gray and AC2 T Clapperton, died in the crash while P/O Inglis and his passengers survived with only minor injuries. This flight was being conducted as part of a three-plane formation in an Air Display over Lerwick in aid of War Weapons Week. Sgt Christison was the pilot of the third Blenheim with passengers Sgt Lewis and Cpl Barrett.
Bristol Blenheim, T1949, October 6, 1942
Pilot: W/O J.H. Patterson, J/15840, RCAF, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.
Navigator: Sgt. R.G. Tinsley, 1258914, RAFVR, Hadley, Shropshire, United Kingdom
W/O, Gnr: T.F. McCarthy, 751520, RAFVR, West Hartlepool, Co. Durham, United Kingdom
Aircraft took off from Sumburgh for a homing exercise with a Royal Navy destroyer, it was seen to be climbing into the teeth of a westerly gale when it was said by some that the port engine failed. It is thought the aircraft then stalled and the Blenheim crashed into the sea near Lady`s Holm, a skerry to the west of Sumburgh, the 3 crew members were killed .
Bristol Blenheim, V5433, EE-F, February 21, 1942
Pilot: Flt. Sgt. C.D.G. Brown, R/67587, RCAF, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: Flt. Sgt. J.H. Oliver, R/64236, RCAF, Brantford, Ontario, Canada
W/O, Gnr: Sgt. T.W. Coy, 992775, RAFVR, Neston, Chester, England
Aircraft returning from operations to Norway, had been attacked and damaged, attempted to land on the Island of Grunay, burst into flames on landing, all three crew members killed
Bristol Blenheim, V5765, EE-L, June 16, 1942
Pilot: Sgt J.I Mair, R/92048, RCAF, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
WAG: Flt Sgt D.W.Campbell, R/74710, RCAF, Hometown Unknown
Mechanic: AC 1 W.F. Dunbar, 1351752, RAFVR, Lower Edmonton, Middlesex, United Kingdom
Aircraft crashed, unknown cause, during target practice at the Tentsmuir Range which was located at Leuchars, Scotland, all 3 where killed in the crash
Bristol Blenheim, Z5753, October 19, 1941
Pilot: Sgt. I.A.M. Barber, R/77034, RCAF, Cornwall, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: Flt. Sgt. E. Gillam, 7467655, RAFVR, Bary, Lancashire, United Kingdom
W/O, Gnr: Sgt. J. Shaw, 946427, RAFVR, Hometown Unknown
Aircraft returned from a convoy escort but due to bad weather and darkness the crew was unable to locate the airfield flare path at Dyce, so directed to divert to Wick. The aircraft came down into the sea off Lerwick. Crew listed as Missing.
The squadron was formed at Thorney Island in Sussex, England on 15 April 1941 under Royal Air Force operational control. Tasked with coastal patrol and attack, the squadron flew the Bristol Blenheim Mk.IV & later the Beaufighter. From May 1944 to September 1944 they were based at RAF Davidstow Moor in Cornwall, England. As part of the RAF Dallachy strike wing of four Beaufighter-equipped squadrons, they took part in an attack on German ships on the Norwegian coast on 9 February 1945. The ships included a destroyer and "flak" ships as well as merchantmen. The ships were located in a fjord and German fighter aircraft scrambled in defense. As a result of the heavy losses to the Dallachy Wing the attack was subsequently called "Black Friday".
Bristol Blenheim, L9337, November 5, 1941
Pilot: Flt Sgt J.G. MacKay, R/54293, RCAF, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: Sgt T.E. Hedefine, 986613, RAFVR, Withernsea, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
WAG: Flt Sgt W.J. Pearce, 755517, RAFVR, Headington, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
Aircraft on anti-shipping patrol off Norway, aircraft failed to return from mission, cause of loss has not been established. Crew is listed as Missing in Action
Bristol Blenheim, T1946 / Z6339, November 1, 1941, In-Flight Collision
T1946 Crew:
Pilot: Flt. Sgt. R.F. Leighton, R/74598, RCAF, Duncan, British Columbia, Canada
Passenger: AC2 T. Clapperton, 1341877, RAFVR, Morningside, Edinburgh, Scotland
Passenger: AC1 T.A. Gray, 1371299, RAFVR, Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland
Z6339 Crew:
Pilot: P/O D.H. Inglis, Survived crash, Injured
Passenger: Cpl H.E. Holmes, Survived crash, Injured
Flying a 3-ship formation of Blenheim’s, Blenheim 6339 piloted by P/O (D.H.) Inglis collided with Blenheim T1946 piloted by F/S R F Leighton near Lerwick, Shetland Islands. "Inglis' aircraft chewed off the elevators on Leighton's aircraft which from about 200 feet dived on the rocks and exploded." F/S Leighton and his two passengers, AC1 T A Gray and AC2 T Clapperton, died in the crash while P/O Inglis and his passengers survived with only minor injuries. This flight was being conducted as part of a three-plane formation in an Air Display over Lerwick in aid of War Weapons Week. Sgt Christison was the pilot of the third Blenheim with passengers Sgt Lewis and Cpl Barrett.
Bristol Blenheim, T1949, October 6, 1942
Pilot: W/O J.H. Patterson, J/15840, RCAF, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.
Navigator: Sgt. R.G. Tinsley, 1258914, RAFVR, Hadley, Shropshire, United Kingdom
W/O, Gnr: T.F. McCarthy, 751520, RAFVR, West Hartlepool, Co. Durham, United Kingdom
Aircraft took off from Sumburgh for a homing exercise with a Royal Navy destroyer, it was seen to be climbing into the teeth of a westerly gale when it was said by some that the port engine failed. It is thought the aircraft then stalled and the Blenheim crashed into the sea near Lady`s Holm, a skerry to the west of Sumburgh, the 3 crew members were killed .
Bristol Blenheim, V5433, EE-F, February 21, 1942
Pilot: Flt. Sgt. C.D.G. Brown, R/67587, RCAF, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: Flt. Sgt. J.H. Oliver, R/64236, RCAF, Brantford, Ontario, Canada
W/O, Gnr: Sgt. T.W. Coy, 992775, RAFVR, Neston, Chester, England
Aircraft returning from operations to Norway, had been attacked and damaged, attempted to land on the Island of Grunay, burst into flames on landing, all three crew members killed
Bristol Blenheim, V5765, EE-L, June 16, 1942
Pilot: Sgt J.I Mair, R/92048, RCAF, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
WAG: Flt Sgt D.W.Campbell, R/74710, RCAF, Hometown Unknown
Mechanic: AC 1 W.F. Dunbar, 1351752, RAFVR, Lower Edmonton, Middlesex, United Kingdom
Aircraft crashed, unknown cause, during target practice at the Tentsmuir Range which was located at Leuchars, Scotland, all 3 where killed in the crash
Bristol Blenheim, Z5753, October 19, 1941
Pilot: Sgt. I.A.M. Barber, R/77034, RCAF, Cornwall, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: Flt. Sgt. E. Gillam, 7467655, RAFVR, Bary, Lancashire, United Kingdom
W/O, Gnr: Sgt. J. Shaw, 946427, RAFVR, Hometown Unknown
Aircraft returned from a convoy escort but due to bad weather and darkness the crew was unable to locate the airfield flare path at Dyce, so directed to divert to Wick. The aircraft came down into the sea off Lerwick. Crew listed as Missing.
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Re: R.C.A.F. No. 404 Squadron
Bristol Blenheim, Z6175, June 12, 1942
Pilot, Flt Sgt G.S. Brockington, R/75725, RCAF, Simcoe, Ontario, Canada
WAG: Sgt J.D. Moller, 1182841, RAFVR, Cheam, Surrey, United Kingdom
Aircraft had issues and had to attempt a forced landing, aircraft crashed during the forced landing at Fulwell, Sunderland, killing Flt Sgt Brockington and Sgt Moller. Could not find the Navigator on this flight.
Bristol Blenheim, Z6181, May 23, 1942
Pilot: Flt Sgt E.J. Morrow, R/78377, RCAF, Elma, New York, U.S.A.
WAG: Sgt. W.O. White, 1109871, RAFVR, Gilesgate Moor, Co. Durham, United Kingdom
WAG: P/O L.G.D. Thomas, J/15219, RCAF, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Aircraft dispatched on Air/Sea Rescue mission, crashed into a hill after flying to low in bad visibility weather, crashed near Belhevie, Abadeenshire, Scotland
Bristol Blenheim, Z6245, EE-L, May 26, 1942
Pilot: Sqdn Ldr P.H. Foster, 87408, RAFVR, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Navigator: P/O A.N. Briggs, J/15116, RCAF, P.O.W.
W/O, Gnr: J.M. Jamieson, R/58352, RCAF, Gladstone, Manitoba, Canada
Aircraft flying a North Stand Patrol, failed to return to base, cause of crash is unknown. 5 aircraft were launched in search of the missing aircraft but were not successful.
Bristol Blenheim, UNKNOWN Ser#, September 2, 1941
Pilot: W.E. Dale, R/72360, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
WAG: E.G. Allen, 975744, RAFVR, Penarth, Wales, United Kingdom
Cause of crash not found, 3rd crew member also not found
NOTE: Please see 3 posts down from Temujin for info on above, Thank You Temujin for the update !!!!
Pilot, Flt Sgt G.S. Brockington, R/75725, RCAF, Simcoe, Ontario, Canada
WAG: Sgt J.D. Moller, 1182841, RAFVR, Cheam, Surrey, United Kingdom
Aircraft had issues and had to attempt a forced landing, aircraft crashed during the forced landing at Fulwell, Sunderland, killing Flt Sgt Brockington and Sgt Moller. Could not find the Navigator on this flight.
Bristol Blenheim, Z6181, May 23, 1942
Pilot: Flt Sgt E.J. Morrow, R/78377, RCAF, Elma, New York, U.S.A.
WAG: Sgt. W.O. White, 1109871, RAFVR, Gilesgate Moor, Co. Durham, United Kingdom
WAG: P/O L.G.D. Thomas, J/15219, RCAF, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Aircraft dispatched on Air/Sea Rescue mission, crashed into a hill after flying to low in bad visibility weather, crashed near Belhevie, Abadeenshire, Scotland
Bristol Blenheim, Z6245, EE-L, May 26, 1942
Pilot: Sqdn Ldr P.H. Foster, 87408, RAFVR, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Navigator: P/O A.N. Briggs, J/15116, RCAF, P.O.W.
W/O, Gnr: J.M. Jamieson, R/58352, RCAF, Gladstone, Manitoba, Canada
Aircraft flying a North Stand Patrol, failed to return to base, cause of crash is unknown. 5 aircraft were launched in search of the missing aircraft but were not successful.
Bristol Blenheim, UNKNOWN Ser#, September 2, 1941
Pilot: W.E. Dale, R/72360, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
WAG: E.G. Allen, 975744, RAFVR, Penarth, Wales, United Kingdom
Cause of crash not found, 3rd crew member also not found
NOTE: Please see 3 posts down from Temujin for info on above, Thank You Temujin for the update !!!!
Last edited by georgetanksherman on Fri Sep 14, 2018 3:45 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: R.C.A.F. No. 404 Squadron
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ173, January 14, 1944
Pilot: F/O W. Wilkie, J/22219, RCAF, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
Navigator: F/O W.L. Evans, 131012, RAFVR, Holne, Devon, United Kingdom
Cause of aircraft loss not found
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ175, EE-Y, September 3, 1943
Pilot: P/O Svein Josephson, J/18495, RCAF, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
Navigator: Sgt Gordon Llewellyn Seward, R/105558, RCAF, Strome, Alberta, Canada
Mechanic: Cpl Albert Edgar Woolhouse, R/91111, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
P/O S. Josephson, Sgt G.L. Seward and Cpl A.E. Woolhouse were proceeding to Leuchars when the aircraft crashed just outside of Ulster. “Very bad happening today again as Frank Woolhouse (Aircraft Rigger) was going on leave and caught a ride down to Leuchars in one of our new “Beaus.” They had no sooner left the drome than the pilot started to do some low flying and struck the top of a house knocking off the chimneys which broke the tail off the plane which crashed killing all three in the plane. The Squadron Scrapbook notes that the accident happened at Lybster
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ176, June 28, 1944
Pilot: F/O E.J. Keefe (DFC), J/14117, RCAF, Wainwright, Alberta, Canada
Navigator: P/O B.I.G. Steed, J/85990, RCAF, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
On 28 June, the squadron suffered a tragic loss with the death of F/O EJ Keefe, DFC and P/O BIG Steed. "Had another terrible happening this morning as Keefe and Steel (sic: Steed) were coming home off a sortie and over Launceston their kite went into a spin at about 4500 feet and crashed headlong to earth. " "P/O Keefe called up to say that his gyro had gone u/s, and that he was out of control, a few seconds later it was all over." On the next day, the scrapbook recorded, "We just received news that F/O Keefe had been awarded the DFC. Too bad - Jim would have been so proud." Keefe and Steed were a popular duo, and an effective team in their attacks against the enemy.
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ177, March 23, 1944
Pilot: F/O W.D. Armour, J/16462, RCAF, Keewatin, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: Sgt. E. Stephens, 1586082, RAFVR, Harlesden, London, United Kingdom
"Just as our boys were coming in one of our kites which was practicing with RPs went into a dive to shoot them off and he didn't level out properly and crashed into the water. On impact the kite disintegrated, and the boys were killed. " The ORB notes, "on practice RP splash target in Sinclair Bay was seen to make attack at a very steep dive. After releasing RP the A/C pulled up into a high speed stall and flipped over on its back then crashed into the water. The A/C broke up and the bodies have been recovered."
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ179, January 14, 1944
Pilot: P/O N.B. Hunt, J/19500, RCAF, Belleville, Ontario, Canada.
Navigator: F/O S.G. Joiner, 136380, RAFVR, Amersham, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
P/O N.B. Hunt and navigator F/O S.G. Joiner were lost when their aircraft was seen to emit smoke while diving to attack and was not seen again, likely a victim to a flak strike.
Bristol Beaufighters, LZ189 EE-Q and LZ444 EE-E, October 2, 1944, Mid-air collision
Crew of LZ189:
Pilot: F/O E.R. Davey, J23767, RCAF, London, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: L.E.F. Robinson, J/24546, RCAF, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Crew of LZ444:
Pilot: G.A. Long, J/15704, RCAF, Trak, British Columbia, Canada
Navigator: F.M. Stickel, J/26279, RCAF, Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada
Aircraft collided after take-off while forming up for a mission strike, both aircraft crashed near Wellhead Farm Near Postsoy, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. There were no survivors in either crash
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ289, EE-R, November 17, 1943
Pilot: F/O N.E. Long, J/20615, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: F/O J.H.G. Horne, 132715, RAFVR, Friarton, Perthshire, Scotland
Aircraft crashed at Stemster House, Caithness, Scotland, during fighter affiliation with Spitfires from Fighter Affiliation Unit in the morning. "The aircraft was observed by one of the Spitfire pilots to go into a spin to the right at approximately 5000 feet from which it failed to recover before striking into the ground between a farm house and barn.
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ295, August 13, 1944
Pilot: Flt. Sgt. G.A. Crow, 1320524, RAFVR, Unknown Hometown
Navigator: Flt. Sgt. W.E. Leake, 1602731, RAFVR, Southall, Middlesex, United Kingdom
Aircraft was on a mission to attack enemy ships in the mouth of the Gironde, a major waterway in southwest France. LZ295 was shot down by flak in the Gironde Estuary. Flt. Sgt. Leake’s body was recovered and buried, Flt. Sgt. Crow is listed as “Missing in Action”
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ296, January 16, 1944
Pilot: F/O M.A. Decloux, J/14440, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: F/O J. Gilhespy, 151027, RAFVR, Ryton, Co. Durham, United Kingdom
Five Beaufighter of 404 Sqn RCAF took off between 1153 and 1158 hrs from Wick and joined another Beaufighter from 144 Sqn RAF who took part as escorts for Torbeaus (Beaufighters bearing torpedoes) of 144 Sqn on a Rover Patrol on the Norwegian coast. Landfall was made at Storholm Light and the patrol turned south along the coast to Stadtlandet. During the transit, two armed trawlers were sighted who opened fire on the patrol. The Beaufighter TF.X LZ296 -N of 404 Sqn, flown by Flg Off Marcel Auguste Decloux RCAF and Flg Off John Gilhespy RAF, was apparently hit. The formation set course for base at 1426 from Gtterone Light and shortly afterward two explosions were seen from the starboard engine of LZ296. It carried on for three minutes, maintaining level course. The pilot was then heard on VHF to say, ‘This is it, chaps,’ the aircraft touched down in ditching position, navigator fired a red Very light. The Beaufighter then hit the water in a heavy sea and broke up. No survivors, wreckage or dinghy were seen.
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ297, March 30, 1944
Pilot: No. 404 Commanding Officer C. Willis, RCAF, Survived, Captured, P.O.W.
Navigator: F/O W.D.M. Devine, J/13987, RCAF, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Wing Commander Chuck Willis with his navigator, F/L FA Kent in 'A', Willis was later reported to be a prisoner of war, after being plucked from the sea by a German Blohm and Voss flying boat (BV.138) A dinghy was observed with two men swimming toward it, it is unknown if this was the Willis or Robinson crew. Smith and Kessler reported seeing a twin-engined aircraft crash into the sea, "It is hoped that this was Rancourt's ME 110 and not A/C 'A'". F/O Devine is listed as Missing in Action, was never recovered.
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ441 EE-V, August 12, 1944
Pilot: W/O 1 J/W/ Heavner, R/83209, RCAF, Flint, Michigan, U.S.A.
Navigator: E.E. Baker, J/85766, RCAF, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Aircraft was shot down by flak while attacking German shipping on the coast. Aircraft crashed somewhere between Ile de Re and La Rochelle
Pilot: F/O W. Wilkie, J/22219, RCAF, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
Navigator: F/O W.L. Evans, 131012, RAFVR, Holne, Devon, United Kingdom
Cause of aircraft loss not found
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ175, EE-Y, September 3, 1943
Pilot: P/O Svein Josephson, J/18495, RCAF, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
Navigator: Sgt Gordon Llewellyn Seward, R/105558, RCAF, Strome, Alberta, Canada
Mechanic: Cpl Albert Edgar Woolhouse, R/91111, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
P/O S. Josephson, Sgt G.L. Seward and Cpl A.E. Woolhouse were proceeding to Leuchars when the aircraft crashed just outside of Ulster. “Very bad happening today again as Frank Woolhouse (Aircraft Rigger) was going on leave and caught a ride down to Leuchars in one of our new “Beaus.” They had no sooner left the drome than the pilot started to do some low flying and struck the top of a house knocking off the chimneys which broke the tail off the plane which crashed killing all three in the plane. The Squadron Scrapbook notes that the accident happened at Lybster
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ176, June 28, 1944
Pilot: F/O E.J. Keefe (DFC), J/14117, RCAF, Wainwright, Alberta, Canada
Navigator: P/O B.I.G. Steed, J/85990, RCAF, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
On 28 June, the squadron suffered a tragic loss with the death of F/O EJ Keefe, DFC and P/O BIG Steed. "Had another terrible happening this morning as Keefe and Steel (sic: Steed) were coming home off a sortie and over Launceston their kite went into a spin at about 4500 feet and crashed headlong to earth. " "P/O Keefe called up to say that his gyro had gone u/s, and that he was out of control, a few seconds later it was all over." On the next day, the scrapbook recorded, "We just received news that F/O Keefe had been awarded the DFC. Too bad - Jim would have been so proud." Keefe and Steed were a popular duo, and an effective team in their attacks against the enemy.
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ177, March 23, 1944
Pilot: F/O W.D. Armour, J/16462, RCAF, Keewatin, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: Sgt. E. Stephens, 1586082, RAFVR, Harlesden, London, United Kingdom
"Just as our boys were coming in one of our kites which was practicing with RPs went into a dive to shoot them off and he didn't level out properly and crashed into the water. On impact the kite disintegrated, and the boys were killed. " The ORB notes, "on practice RP splash target in Sinclair Bay was seen to make attack at a very steep dive. After releasing RP the A/C pulled up into a high speed stall and flipped over on its back then crashed into the water. The A/C broke up and the bodies have been recovered."
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ179, January 14, 1944
Pilot: P/O N.B. Hunt, J/19500, RCAF, Belleville, Ontario, Canada.
Navigator: F/O S.G. Joiner, 136380, RAFVR, Amersham, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
P/O N.B. Hunt and navigator F/O S.G. Joiner were lost when their aircraft was seen to emit smoke while diving to attack and was not seen again, likely a victim to a flak strike.
Bristol Beaufighters, LZ189 EE-Q and LZ444 EE-E, October 2, 1944, Mid-air collision
Crew of LZ189:
Pilot: F/O E.R. Davey, J23767, RCAF, London, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: L.E.F. Robinson, J/24546, RCAF, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Crew of LZ444:
Pilot: G.A. Long, J/15704, RCAF, Trak, British Columbia, Canada
Navigator: F.M. Stickel, J/26279, RCAF, Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada
Aircraft collided after take-off while forming up for a mission strike, both aircraft crashed near Wellhead Farm Near Postsoy, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. There were no survivors in either crash
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ289, EE-R, November 17, 1943
Pilot: F/O N.E. Long, J/20615, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: F/O J.H.G. Horne, 132715, RAFVR, Friarton, Perthshire, Scotland
Aircraft crashed at Stemster House, Caithness, Scotland, during fighter affiliation with Spitfires from Fighter Affiliation Unit in the morning. "The aircraft was observed by one of the Spitfire pilots to go into a spin to the right at approximately 5000 feet from which it failed to recover before striking into the ground between a farm house and barn.
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ295, August 13, 1944
Pilot: Flt. Sgt. G.A. Crow, 1320524, RAFVR, Unknown Hometown
Navigator: Flt. Sgt. W.E. Leake, 1602731, RAFVR, Southall, Middlesex, United Kingdom
Aircraft was on a mission to attack enemy ships in the mouth of the Gironde, a major waterway in southwest France. LZ295 was shot down by flak in the Gironde Estuary. Flt. Sgt. Leake’s body was recovered and buried, Flt. Sgt. Crow is listed as “Missing in Action”
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ296, January 16, 1944
Pilot: F/O M.A. Decloux, J/14440, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: F/O J. Gilhespy, 151027, RAFVR, Ryton, Co. Durham, United Kingdom
Five Beaufighter of 404 Sqn RCAF took off between 1153 and 1158 hrs from Wick and joined another Beaufighter from 144 Sqn RAF who took part as escorts for Torbeaus (Beaufighters bearing torpedoes) of 144 Sqn on a Rover Patrol on the Norwegian coast. Landfall was made at Storholm Light and the patrol turned south along the coast to Stadtlandet. During the transit, two armed trawlers were sighted who opened fire on the patrol. The Beaufighter TF.X LZ296 -N of 404 Sqn, flown by Flg Off Marcel Auguste Decloux RCAF and Flg Off John Gilhespy RAF, was apparently hit. The formation set course for base at 1426 from Gtterone Light and shortly afterward two explosions were seen from the starboard engine of LZ296. It carried on for three minutes, maintaining level course. The pilot was then heard on VHF to say, ‘This is it, chaps,’ the aircraft touched down in ditching position, navigator fired a red Very light. The Beaufighter then hit the water in a heavy sea and broke up. No survivors, wreckage or dinghy were seen.
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ297, March 30, 1944
Pilot: No. 404 Commanding Officer C. Willis, RCAF, Survived, Captured, P.O.W.
Navigator: F/O W.D.M. Devine, J/13987, RCAF, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Wing Commander Chuck Willis with his navigator, F/L FA Kent in 'A', Willis was later reported to be a prisoner of war, after being plucked from the sea by a German Blohm and Voss flying boat (BV.138) A dinghy was observed with two men swimming toward it, it is unknown if this was the Willis or Robinson crew. Smith and Kessler reported seeing a twin-engined aircraft crash into the sea, "It is hoped that this was Rancourt's ME 110 and not A/C 'A'". F/O Devine is listed as Missing in Action, was never recovered.
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ441 EE-V, August 12, 1944
Pilot: W/O 1 J/W/ Heavner, R/83209, RCAF, Flint, Michigan, U.S.A.
Navigator: E.E. Baker, J/85766, RCAF, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Aircraft was shot down by flak while attacking German shipping on the coast. Aircraft crashed somewhere between Ile de Re and La Rochelle
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Re: R.C.A.F. No. 404 Squadron
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ446, May 6, 1944
Pilot: Flt Lt A.A. Adams, J/5700, RCAF, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada
Navigator: F/O F.E. Pickering, J/14795, RCAF, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Aircraft on return from mission called lead about concerns as he was losing oil pressure to the starboard engineas a result of flak hits. Evidently aircraft was hit prior to run in as H.E. R.P.s where still loaded, Lead instructed pilot to jettison R.P.s one was stuck, while trying to release the R.P. , the engise started running rough and coughing, pilot was advised to feather prop before all oil pressure was lost. The engine failed causing the aircraft to lose airspeed rapidly, lost height and impacted the sea. Search for survivors was not successful, crew listed as missing believed killed.
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ452, December 22, 1943
Pilot: F/O I.G. Gillespie, J/14698 RCAF, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Navigator: P/O G.E. Glendinning, 151029, RAFVR, Hometown Unknown
Aircraft was shot down while attacking German U-Boat U-1062 and Minesweeper M-489. The aircraft crashed into the sea crew did not survive, listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, JM124, May 1, 1943
Pilot: F/O S.J. Flannery, C/13460, RCAF, Fergus, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: F/O B.J. Wright, J/11185, RCAF, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Aircraft was lost off Lsiter, Southern Norway, failed to return, possibly shot down by Fw-190, both crew members are listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, JM130, August 4, 1943
Pilot: Sgt, G.J. Dale, R/96848, RCAF, Schenectady, New York, U.S.A.
Navigator: W/O 2 K.E. Riddell, R/108478, RCAF, Sutton Junction, Quebec, Canada
Aircraft on strike mission off Norway, saw 2 enemy Motor Transports with escorts, whent in to attack, aircraft was hit by flak in the port engine, which started smoking, then burst into flames. Aircraft last seen ditching into the sea. Both crew members listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, JM166, July 4, 1943
Pilot: F/O J.R. Rumbel. J/13741, RCAF, Kokomo, Indiana, U.S.A.
Navigator: P/O J.M.G. Lalonde, J/18455, RCAF, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Aircraft seen to engage enemy fighter over German convoy near Kristiansund, Norway, Aircraft failed to return from mission, crew listed as missing.
Bristol Beaufighter, NE323, December 22, 1943
Pilot: Flt Lt R. Munro, J/6022, RCAF, Hometown Unknown
Navigator: F/O W.B. Conn, 51883, RAF Newcastle-on -Tyne, United Kingdom
Aircraft was shot down while attacking German U-Boat U-1062 and Minesweeper M-489. The aircraft crashed into the sea crew did not survive, listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, NE328, January 26, 1944
Pilot: F/O J.A.C. Dixon, J/23433, RCAF, Grimshaw, Alberta, Canada.
Navigator: Sgt. E. Pearce, 1459222, RAFVR, Furness, Lancashire, United Kingdom
Aircraft made a successful attack on the leading M/V but they almost immediately fell victim to three Me-109s and plunged into the sea. The 109s may have been alerted to the presence of the hostile aircraft when the unserviceable Beau broke radio silence rules by sending a Morse code message. This transmission "probably alerted German listening posts along the Norwegian coast. "
Bristol Beaufighter, NE341, September 14, 1944
Pilot: F/O J. Beribeau, RCAF, survived crash, captured, P.O.W
Navigator: Flt Lt C.H. Taylor, J/9905, RCAF, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
While attacking Merchantmen and Escort Vessels, the aircraft was hit and shuddered out of control, F/O Beribeau was able to get the aircraft under control, but the aircraft was so damaged they had to ditch. The ditching was successful and both crew members were able to get out, F/O Beribeau made it to the dinghy, was captured and became a P.O.W., unfortunately Flt Lt Taylor did not survive, through exhaustion trying to get to the dinghy, he drowned
Pilot: Flt Lt A.A. Adams, J/5700, RCAF, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada
Navigator: F/O F.E. Pickering, J/14795, RCAF, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Aircraft on return from mission called lead about concerns as he was losing oil pressure to the starboard engineas a result of flak hits. Evidently aircraft was hit prior to run in as H.E. R.P.s where still loaded, Lead instructed pilot to jettison R.P.s one was stuck, while trying to release the R.P. , the engise started running rough and coughing, pilot was advised to feather prop before all oil pressure was lost. The engine failed causing the aircraft to lose airspeed rapidly, lost height and impacted the sea. Search for survivors was not successful, crew listed as missing believed killed.
Bristol Beaufighter, LZ452, December 22, 1943
Pilot: F/O I.G. Gillespie, J/14698 RCAF, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Navigator: P/O G.E. Glendinning, 151029, RAFVR, Hometown Unknown
Aircraft was shot down while attacking German U-Boat U-1062 and Minesweeper M-489. The aircraft crashed into the sea crew did not survive, listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, JM124, May 1, 1943
Pilot: F/O S.J. Flannery, C/13460, RCAF, Fergus, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: F/O B.J. Wright, J/11185, RCAF, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Aircraft was lost off Lsiter, Southern Norway, failed to return, possibly shot down by Fw-190, both crew members are listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, JM130, August 4, 1943
Pilot: Sgt, G.J. Dale, R/96848, RCAF, Schenectady, New York, U.S.A.
Navigator: W/O 2 K.E. Riddell, R/108478, RCAF, Sutton Junction, Quebec, Canada
Aircraft on strike mission off Norway, saw 2 enemy Motor Transports with escorts, whent in to attack, aircraft was hit by flak in the port engine, which started smoking, then burst into flames. Aircraft last seen ditching into the sea. Both crew members listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, JM166, July 4, 1943
Pilot: F/O J.R. Rumbel. J/13741, RCAF, Kokomo, Indiana, U.S.A.
Navigator: P/O J.M.G. Lalonde, J/18455, RCAF, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Aircraft seen to engage enemy fighter over German convoy near Kristiansund, Norway, Aircraft failed to return from mission, crew listed as missing.
Bristol Beaufighter, NE323, December 22, 1943
Pilot: Flt Lt R. Munro, J/6022, RCAF, Hometown Unknown
Navigator: F/O W.B. Conn, 51883, RAF Newcastle-on -Tyne, United Kingdom
Aircraft was shot down while attacking German U-Boat U-1062 and Minesweeper M-489. The aircraft crashed into the sea crew did not survive, listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, NE328, January 26, 1944
Pilot: F/O J.A.C. Dixon, J/23433, RCAF, Grimshaw, Alberta, Canada.
Navigator: Sgt. E. Pearce, 1459222, RAFVR, Furness, Lancashire, United Kingdom
Aircraft made a successful attack on the leading M/V but they almost immediately fell victim to three Me-109s and plunged into the sea. The 109s may have been alerted to the presence of the hostile aircraft when the unserviceable Beau broke radio silence rules by sending a Morse code message. This transmission "probably alerted German listening posts along the Norwegian coast. "
Bristol Beaufighter, NE341, September 14, 1944
Pilot: F/O J. Beribeau, RCAF, survived crash, captured, P.O.W
Navigator: Flt Lt C.H. Taylor, J/9905, RCAF, North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
While attacking Merchantmen and Escort Vessels, the aircraft was hit and shuddered out of control, F/O Beribeau was able to get the aircraft under control, but the aircraft was so damaged they had to ditch. The ditching was successful and both crew members were able to get out, F/O Beribeau made it to the dinghy, was captured and became a P.O.W., unfortunately Flt Lt Taylor did not survive, through exhaustion trying to get to the dinghy, he drowned
Re: R.C.A.F. No. 404 Squadron
William Edward Dale and Cpl L. W. McKinlay (RAF)georgetanksherman wrote: ↑Fri Sep 14, 2018 2:33 pmBristol Blenheim, UNKNOWN Ser#, September 2, 1941
Pilot: W.E. Dale, R/72360, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
WAG: E.G. Allen, 975744, RAFVR, Penarth, Wales, United Kingdom
Cause of crash not found, 3rd crew member also not found
Bieheim aircraft # L9394 crashed near Castletown, Scotland
Source: “They Shall Not Grow Old”
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Re: R.C.A.F. No. 404 Squadron
Bristol Beaufighter, NE354, August 3, 1944
Pilot: F/O R.S. Forestell, J/24962, RCAF, Coniston, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: I.C. Robbie, J/17247, RCAF, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Attacking 3 “M” class minesweepers and a smaller type ship that was sighted. The flight attacked off Belle Isle. Aircraft did not return to base is believed to have been shot down by flak and crashed into the sea. Both crew members were killed in the crash.
Bristol Beaufighter, NE399, March 24, 1945
Pilot: Flt Sgt. C.E. Orser, J/95471, RCAF, Hartland, New Brunswick, Canada
Navigator: F/O L.R. Aljoe, J/28525, RCAF, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
Aircraft forced down on the coast of Egersund, Norway. Witnesses said that they saw the two crew members get into their dinghy and waving at friendly aircraft as they flew over. It is not known what happened after, as Flt Sgt. Orser was killed and F/O L.R. Aljoe is listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, NE744, July 7, 1944
Pilot: F/O J.W. Blyth, J/17657, RCAF, North Battleford. Saskatchewan, Canada
Mechanic: Cpl R.E. Colwell, R/70810, RCAF, Portreeve, Saskatchewan, Canada
Aircraft after completing airframe and engine flight test, while on final approach to the airfield, the port engine failed causing loss of control to the aircraft. The aircraft crashed onto the runway killing both occupants. "Had one of our worst accidents again today. Blythe and Colwell went out for a test flight and when they were coming in for a landing the craft seemed to lose flying speed. Blythe then seemed to bank to the right and the plane kept getting lower all the time. Just before it got to the ground it rolled over on its back and crashed upside down, instantly bursting into flame, both boys being killed. "
Bristol Beaufighter, NV173, EE-X, August 26, 1944
Pilot: F/O A.K. Cooper, J/36135, RCAF Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Navigator: P/O C.F. Smith, J/95442, RCAF, Hometown Unknown
Aircraft attacking motor vessel off Utvaer, Norway, the aircraft is believed to have struck the ships mast, causing the port wing to be severed, losing control and exploded upon impact with the sea killing both crew members.
Bristol Beaufighter, NV191, August 26, 1944
Pilot: Sqd Ldr J.A. Hanway (AFC), J/5986, RCAF, Hometown unknown
Navigator: F/O M.F. Payne, 132877, RAFVR, Harrogate, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Aircraft to lead six 404 Squadron in company with 236 Squadron on a recce sortie along the Brittany Coast to the Gironde, France. Three small vessels were sighted near Ile de Sein and immediately attacked and left smoking. The patrol continued with nothing being sighted in the Gironde so Hanway decided to attack a 2000-ton merchantman in Royan Harbour. The attack was conducted from town-side with the aircraft experiencing heavy and light accurate flak, as well as flak from auxiliary vessels on one side of the harbour. Hits were seen on the merchant vessel, with it being left enveloped in smoke. Hanway failed to respond to voice communications after two minutes of the attacks aircraft failed to return to base.
Bristol Beaufighter, NV427, March 8, 1945
Pilot: Flt Lt R.C. Ridge (DFC), J/24425, RCAF, Augusville, Manitoba, Canada
Navigator: P/O P. McCartney (DFC), 187955, RAFVR, North Cheam, Surrey, United Kingdom
Aircraft target was 6 ships that were located and sheltered under high cliff walls in a narrow fjord located south of Vindspol, Midgulen, Norway. During the attack the aircraft was hit by shipborne-flak and crashed, the crew was never found and are listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, NV428, March 24, 1945
Pilot: Sqdn Ldr W.R. Christison (DFC), J/15143, RCAF, Lennoxville, Quebec, Canada.
Navigator: Flt Lt F.J. Toon (DFC), 131939, RAFVR, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, U. K.
Aircraft was hit by enemy gunfire while engaged in operations over Egersund Harbor, Norway. The aircraft was damaged and ditched 15 miles southeast of the harbor. The crew was never found and listed as Missing in Action
Bristol Beaufighter, T3155, EE-N, March 28, 1943
Pilot: F/O R.C. Field, J/10498, RCAF, Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada
Navigator: Sgt C.F. Ford, 1130288, RAFVR, Lostock, Bolton, United Kingdom
Aircraft stalled and crashed at St. Columb Major while on approach to R.A.F. St. Eval, both crew members were killed in the crash
Pilot: F/O R.S. Forestell, J/24962, RCAF, Coniston, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: I.C. Robbie, J/17247, RCAF, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Attacking 3 “M” class minesweepers and a smaller type ship that was sighted. The flight attacked off Belle Isle. Aircraft did not return to base is believed to have been shot down by flak and crashed into the sea. Both crew members were killed in the crash.
Bristol Beaufighter, NE399, March 24, 1945
Pilot: Flt Sgt. C.E. Orser, J/95471, RCAF, Hartland, New Brunswick, Canada
Navigator: F/O L.R. Aljoe, J/28525, RCAF, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
Aircraft forced down on the coast of Egersund, Norway. Witnesses said that they saw the two crew members get into their dinghy and waving at friendly aircraft as they flew over. It is not known what happened after, as Flt Sgt. Orser was killed and F/O L.R. Aljoe is listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, NE744, July 7, 1944
Pilot: F/O J.W. Blyth, J/17657, RCAF, North Battleford. Saskatchewan, Canada
Mechanic: Cpl R.E. Colwell, R/70810, RCAF, Portreeve, Saskatchewan, Canada
Aircraft after completing airframe and engine flight test, while on final approach to the airfield, the port engine failed causing loss of control to the aircraft. The aircraft crashed onto the runway killing both occupants. "Had one of our worst accidents again today. Blythe and Colwell went out for a test flight and when they were coming in for a landing the craft seemed to lose flying speed. Blythe then seemed to bank to the right and the plane kept getting lower all the time. Just before it got to the ground it rolled over on its back and crashed upside down, instantly bursting into flame, both boys being killed. "
Bristol Beaufighter, NV173, EE-X, August 26, 1944
Pilot: F/O A.K. Cooper, J/36135, RCAF Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Navigator: P/O C.F. Smith, J/95442, RCAF, Hometown Unknown
Aircraft attacking motor vessel off Utvaer, Norway, the aircraft is believed to have struck the ships mast, causing the port wing to be severed, losing control and exploded upon impact with the sea killing both crew members.
Bristol Beaufighter, NV191, August 26, 1944
Pilot: Sqd Ldr J.A. Hanway (AFC), J/5986, RCAF, Hometown unknown
Navigator: F/O M.F. Payne, 132877, RAFVR, Harrogate, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Aircraft to lead six 404 Squadron in company with 236 Squadron on a recce sortie along the Brittany Coast to the Gironde, France. Three small vessels were sighted near Ile de Sein and immediately attacked and left smoking. The patrol continued with nothing being sighted in the Gironde so Hanway decided to attack a 2000-ton merchantman in Royan Harbour. The attack was conducted from town-side with the aircraft experiencing heavy and light accurate flak, as well as flak from auxiliary vessels on one side of the harbour. Hits were seen on the merchant vessel, with it being left enveloped in smoke. Hanway failed to respond to voice communications after two minutes of the attacks aircraft failed to return to base.
Bristol Beaufighter, NV427, March 8, 1945
Pilot: Flt Lt R.C. Ridge (DFC), J/24425, RCAF, Augusville, Manitoba, Canada
Navigator: P/O P. McCartney (DFC), 187955, RAFVR, North Cheam, Surrey, United Kingdom
Aircraft target was 6 ships that were located and sheltered under high cliff walls in a narrow fjord located south of Vindspol, Midgulen, Norway. During the attack the aircraft was hit by shipborne-flak and crashed, the crew was never found and are listed as Missing in Action.
Bristol Beaufighter, NV428, March 24, 1945
Pilot: Sqdn Ldr W.R. Christison (DFC), J/15143, RCAF, Lennoxville, Quebec, Canada.
Navigator: Flt Lt F.J. Toon (DFC), 131939, RAFVR, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, U. K.
Aircraft was hit by enemy gunfire while engaged in operations over Egersund Harbor, Norway. The aircraft was damaged and ditched 15 miles southeast of the harbor. The crew was never found and listed as Missing in Action
Bristol Beaufighter, T3155, EE-N, March 28, 1943
Pilot: F/O R.C. Field, J/10498, RCAF, Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada
Navigator: Sgt C.F. Ford, 1130288, RAFVR, Lostock, Bolton, United Kingdom
Aircraft stalled and crashed at St. Columb Major while on approach to R.A.F. St. Eval, both crew members were killed in the crash
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Re: R.C.A.F. No. 404 Squadron
Bristol Beaufighter, V8157, December 5, 1942
Pilot: P/O N. Taylor, J/18677, RCAF, Wainwright, Alberta, Canada
Navigator: Sgt. S.E. Pike, 656495, R.AF, Radcliffe-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom
Aircraft crashed near Bucksburn, Dyce, Aberdeen, Scotland, aircraft suffered a high-speed stall and dived into the ground killing both crew members on impact.
Bristol Beaufighter, V8211, December 7, 1942
Pilot: P/O J.V. Ensom, J/17054, RCAF, Unknown Hometown
Navigator: J.B. Elder, RAFVR, 922231, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Aircraft for unknown cause nosed over and dived into the ground just after take offon a night flight near Bucksburn, Aberdeen, Scotland. The aircraft crashed between a farm house and the barn, aircraft burned on impact, crew did not survive.
NOTE: Please page 2, Post 1 for update info from Temujin, Thank You !!!
Pilot: P/O N. Taylor, J/18677, RCAF, Wainwright, Alberta, Canada
Navigator: Sgt. S.E. Pike, 656495, R.AF, Radcliffe-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom
Aircraft crashed near Bucksburn, Dyce, Aberdeen, Scotland, aircraft suffered a high-speed stall and dived into the ground killing both crew members on impact.
Bristol Beaufighter, V8211, December 7, 1942
Pilot: P/O J.V. Ensom, J/17054, RCAF, Unknown Hometown
Navigator: J.B. Elder, RAFVR, 922231, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Aircraft for unknown cause nosed over and dived into the ground just after take offon a night flight near Bucksburn, Aberdeen, Scotland. The aircraft crashed between a farm house and the barn, aircraft burned on impact, crew did not survive.
NOTE: Please page 2, Post 1 for update info from Temujin, Thank You !!!
Last edited by georgetanksherman on Fri Sep 14, 2018 6:12 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: R.C.A.F. No. 404 Squadron
No. 404 Squadron, “Black Friday”, February 9, 1945
On 9 February 1945 the largest air-battle in WW 2 Norway was fought over this fiord. Nearly fifty British and Commonwealth anti-shipping aircraft from RAF Dallachy were engaged by twelve Fw-190's from the Luftwaffe base at Herdla. In the ensuing battle nine Beaufighters and one Mustang were downed. The Germany convoy carrying iron ore was largely untouched. Six of the lost Beau's were from RCAF 404 Squadron. Mentioned below.
Bristol Beaufighter, NV292 EE-O
Pilot: F/O J.R. Savard, RCAF, survived but captured, P.O.W.
Navigator: P.O. J Middleton, RAF, 187929, Norwood Green, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
F/O JR Savard made a wheels-up landing on the ice with his aircraft on fire, likely after being hit by flak. The Beaufighter survived the crash but turned upside down and trapped the crew. Norwegian civilians ran out to the aircraft but had to retreat when they were fired at by German soldiers. Savard and Middleton were seen to be pulled from their aircraft by flak crews, but Middleton was so severely wounded that he did not survive. Savard spent the rest of the war as a POW.
Bristol Beaufighter, NV422 EE-C
Pilot: F/O H.C. Lynch, J/35785, RCAF, Mallory town, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: F.O. Knight, J/36373, RCAF, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Aircraft damaged, the pilot tried to land on an elevation, but the terrain makes this an impossibility. The plane breaks in half during the ensuing crash and the cockpit section slides down the hillside for more than 500 meters. Sadly, the crew did not survive in the crash.
Bristol Beaufighter, NT890 EE-F
Pilot: C. Smerneos, J/29021, RCAF,
Navigator: F.O N.D. Cochrane, J/23704, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Aircraft cause of loss has not been established
Bristol Beaufighter, NT922 EE-V
Pilot: P/O W.J Jackson, J/92936, RCAF, Winnipeg, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: W.E. Blunderfield, J/92165, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
P/O Blunderfield and P/O Jackson was the first of the Beaufighters to be shot down. A German narrative reports that a Fw-190 attacked from above and the Beau lost its tail, exploding on impact with the ocean. A Canadian body was later found in the water, but the identity is not known.
Bristol Beaufighter, NE761 EE-W
Pilot: F/O P.R. Myrick, J/35788, RCAF, Tilsonburg, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: P/O C.G. Berges, J/95209, RCAF, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
Aircraft cause of loss has not been established
Bristol Beaufighter, RD136 EE-Q1
Pilot: F/O H. Smook, J/36168, RCAF, St. Malo, Manitoba, Canada
Navigator: W/O A.M. Duckworth, J/97139, RCAF, Angus, Ontario, Canada
Aircraft cause of loss has not been established
On 9 February 1945 the largest air-battle in WW 2 Norway was fought over this fiord. Nearly fifty British and Commonwealth anti-shipping aircraft from RAF Dallachy were engaged by twelve Fw-190's from the Luftwaffe base at Herdla. In the ensuing battle nine Beaufighters and one Mustang were downed. The Germany convoy carrying iron ore was largely untouched. Six of the lost Beau's were from RCAF 404 Squadron. Mentioned below.
Bristol Beaufighter, NV292 EE-O
Pilot: F/O J.R. Savard, RCAF, survived but captured, P.O.W.
Navigator: P.O. J Middleton, RAF, 187929, Norwood Green, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
F/O JR Savard made a wheels-up landing on the ice with his aircraft on fire, likely after being hit by flak. The Beaufighter survived the crash but turned upside down and trapped the crew. Norwegian civilians ran out to the aircraft but had to retreat when they were fired at by German soldiers. Savard and Middleton were seen to be pulled from their aircraft by flak crews, but Middleton was so severely wounded that he did not survive. Savard spent the rest of the war as a POW.
Bristol Beaufighter, NV422 EE-C
Pilot: F/O H.C. Lynch, J/35785, RCAF, Mallory town, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: F.O. Knight, J/36373, RCAF, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Aircraft damaged, the pilot tried to land on an elevation, but the terrain makes this an impossibility. The plane breaks in half during the ensuing crash and the cockpit section slides down the hillside for more than 500 meters. Sadly, the crew did not survive in the crash.
Bristol Beaufighter, NT890 EE-F
Pilot: C. Smerneos, J/29021, RCAF,
Navigator: F.O N.D. Cochrane, J/23704, RCAF, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Aircraft cause of loss has not been established
Bristol Beaufighter, NT922 EE-V
Pilot: P/O W.J Jackson, J/92936, RCAF, Winnipeg, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: W.E. Blunderfield, J/92165, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
P/O Blunderfield and P/O Jackson was the first of the Beaufighters to be shot down. A German narrative reports that a Fw-190 attacked from above and the Beau lost its tail, exploding on impact with the ocean. A Canadian body was later found in the water, but the identity is not known.
Bristol Beaufighter, NE761 EE-W
Pilot: F/O P.R. Myrick, J/35788, RCAF, Tilsonburg, Ontario, Canada
Navigator: P/O C.G. Berges, J/95209, RCAF, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
Aircraft cause of loss has not been established
Bristol Beaufighter, RD136 EE-Q1
Pilot: F/O H. Smook, J/36168, RCAF, St. Malo, Manitoba, Canada
Navigator: W/O A.M. Duckworth, J/97139, RCAF, Angus, Ontario, Canada
Aircraft cause of loss has not been established
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Re: R.C.A.F. No. 404 Squadron
Unknow Aircraft Serial Number, cause of loss:
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, July 13, 1942
Pilot: W/C J.A. Dixon, 32004, RAF, Hometown Unknown
Navigator: Sgt A.C. Sallis, 1180389, RAFVR, Dorchester, Dorset, United Kingdom
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, October 14, 1943
Pilot: W/O 2 J.W. Adamson, R/116130, RCAF, Hinchcliffe, Saskatchewan, Canada
Navigator: W/O 2 R.H. Prest, R/99704, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, November 16, 1943
Pilot: F/O R.J. McCruden, J/21389, RCAF, Pointe du Bois, Manitoba, Canada.
Navigator: Sgt J.D. Owens, 1324038, RAFVR, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, December 8, 1943
Pilot: F/O D.N. Turner, J/11583, RCAF, Magrath, Alberta, Canada
Navigator: F/O H.W. Duckitt, 151031, RAFVR, Appleby, Lincolnshire, United Kingdom
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, March 30, 1944
Pilot: Flt Lt V.T. Robinson, J/8210, RCAF, Hortonville, Kings Co., Nova Scotia, Canada.
Navigator: Flt Lt: F.A. Kent, 131495, RAFVR, Sunderland, Co. Durham, United Kingdom
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, March 6, 1945
Pilot: F/O W.A. Tustin, J/28580, RCAF, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
Navigator: P/O J.W. Wettlaufer, J/93696, RCAF, Burgessville, Ontario, Canada.
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, July 13, 1942
Pilot: W/C J.A. Dixon, 32004, RAF, Hometown Unknown
Navigator: Sgt A.C. Sallis, 1180389, RAFVR, Dorchester, Dorset, United Kingdom
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, October 14, 1943
Pilot: W/O 2 J.W. Adamson, R/116130, RCAF, Hinchcliffe, Saskatchewan, Canada
Navigator: W/O 2 R.H. Prest, R/99704, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, November 16, 1943
Pilot: F/O R.J. McCruden, J/21389, RCAF, Pointe du Bois, Manitoba, Canada.
Navigator: Sgt J.D. Owens, 1324038, RAFVR, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, December 8, 1943
Pilot: F/O D.N. Turner, J/11583, RCAF, Magrath, Alberta, Canada
Navigator: F/O H.W. Duckitt, 151031, RAFVR, Appleby, Lincolnshire, United Kingdom
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, March 30, 1944
Pilot: Flt Lt V.T. Robinson, J/8210, RCAF, Hortonville, Kings Co., Nova Scotia, Canada.
Navigator: Flt Lt: F.A. Kent, 131495, RAFVR, Sunderland, Co. Durham, United Kingdom
Bristol Beaufighter, ?????, March 6, 1945
Pilot: F/O W.A. Tustin, J/28580, RCAF, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
Navigator: P/O J.W. Wettlaufer, J/93696, RCAF, Burgessville, Ontario, Canada.
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- Meritorious
- Posts: 680
- Joined: Sun Apr 15, 2018 10:53 pm
- Location: Fort Worth, Texas, U.S.A.
- Commendations: 21
- Contact:
Re: R.C.A.F. No. 404 Squadron
Killed on the Ground
AC1 D.M. Clark, 989572, RAFVR, Carnoustie, Scotland
AC2 N. Leitch, 1096133, RAFVR, Willington Quay, Tyne and Wear, northern England
A lone German aircraft shook the everyday grind of life on station at Sumburgh on 1 February 1942 Late in the afternoon, the Ju-88 dropped a 500 and 200-pound bomb on the station, which fell beyond the hangar lines causing little damage. After the bombs had been dropped, the 88 returned to strafe the barracks and hangar areas. As a result of the gunfire, six airmen were injured. Two of the injured succumbed to their wounds; AC1 DM Clark and AC2 N Leitch. Seven squadron aircraft were hit and rendered temporarily unserviceable for seven days
AC2 S.L. Gregory 1238538, RAFVR, Walthamstow, Essex, United Kingdom
January 8, 1942 AC2 Gregory was killed when he walked into a running airscrew (Propeller), board of inquiry deemed the accident an error of judgement
Unknown Info
November 15, 1941
P/O J.G. Dunlop, J/4754, RCAF, Foam Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada.
P/O Dunlop lost his life as a result of injuries received on Active Service on November 15
September 7, 1943
Cpl E.J.M. Ferrier, R/56640, RCAF, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Killed Overseas, unknown cause
NOTE: Please see page two, post two from Ludford 101 for update on these two Fallen Warriors, Thank You Ludford 101 for sharing the info
AC1 D.M. Clark, 989572, RAFVR, Carnoustie, Scotland
AC2 N. Leitch, 1096133, RAFVR, Willington Quay, Tyne and Wear, northern England
A lone German aircraft shook the everyday grind of life on station at Sumburgh on 1 February 1942 Late in the afternoon, the Ju-88 dropped a 500 and 200-pound bomb on the station, which fell beyond the hangar lines causing little damage. After the bombs had been dropped, the 88 returned to strafe the barracks and hangar areas. As a result of the gunfire, six airmen were injured. Two of the injured succumbed to their wounds; AC1 DM Clark and AC2 N Leitch. Seven squadron aircraft were hit and rendered temporarily unserviceable for seven days
AC2 S.L. Gregory 1238538, RAFVR, Walthamstow, Essex, United Kingdom
January 8, 1942 AC2 Gregory was killed when he walked into a running airscrew (Propeller), board of inquiry deemed the accident an error of judgement
Unknown Info
November 15, 1941
P/O J.G. Dunlop, J/4754, RCAF, Foam Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada.
P/O Dunlop lost his life as a result of injuries received on Active Service on November 15
September 7, 1943
Cpl E.J.M. Ferrier, R/56640, RCAF, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Killed Overseas, unknown cause
NOTE: Please see page two, post two from Ludford 101 for update on these two Fallen Warriors, Thank You Ludford 101 for sharing the info
Last edited by georgetanksherman on Sat Sep 15, 2018 4:41 pm, edited 1 time in total.