Dernière mise à jour/ last updating:   21 janv. 2008  SOURCE  Raymond de Philip

3/4/43 - 26/7/43 

RAMROD 49   3/4/43
    8 Bombphoons from 181 Squadron Gravensend, cash carrying 2x500 lb. bombs were detailed to bomb Abbeville aerodrome at 1430 hours, 611 Squadron to make R/V. with them at Tunbridge wells and proceed, low flying to within 10 miles off the French coast at Cayeux, climbing to 12000 feet and approaching the target from a southerly direction, 341 Suqdron to act as rear cover, crossing the English coast at Rye, 9 minutes behind and remaining at 15000 feet 10 miles off the French coast between Crayeux and Le Touquet. 341 Squadron were to remain at call if necessary and ascort the bombers home.
    Comdt Mouchotte led the Squdron with G/C. Malan as Yellow Leader, Cptn. Martell acting as Yellow 2 and Cptn Boudier leading Blue section. The squadron took off at 1409 hours and flew in formation to Rye at low level where an orbit was made at 1418 hours but no sign of the others was seen. In mid-channel the Squadron started to climb, arriving 10 miles off Crayeux at 14000 feet. At this point a left turn was made when 2 E/A were reported 15 miles away in a WSW direction flying at 1000 feet but in view of the fact that visibility was very bad, cloud being 9/10 at 5000 feet and also the height at wich the Squadron was flying, it was not considered worth while to make a diversion. Shortly afterward 611 Squadron then turned left and received orders to pancake. The English coast was crossed at Dungeness at 2000 feet, the Squadron landing at 15.20 hours.
    P/O. Farman was the first to land as he was forced to return through his windscreen being blurred by the de-icing mixture, he was flying as Red 3. Lt. Deraud, Yellow 3, had engine trouble, the revolution counter being U/S for several minutes.
    G/C's Malans'radio was U/S shortly after crossing the English coast. The bad timing at the R/V. points was due to 611 Squadron taking off 6 minutes too soon and the bad symchronisation of the watches between the 3 Squdrons.
    RESULT : No fighter opposition was seen and only light flak encountered, 8 bombs were seen to burst on the aerodrome. 181 Squdron telephoned from Gravesend, congratulating the  2 Squadrons on their co-operation and hoped to put over another similar show.

T.S. Samnel
P/O Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
Biggin Hill


RAMROD 51   4/4/43
    341 Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailed to make rendezvous with 70 Fortresses at Beachy Head at 13.30 hrs at 25,000 ft., escorting bombers to within 25 miles off the French coast at Le Treport, then breaking off with the object of bouncing any Boche attracted by the bombers, the bombers to continue on their target, the Renault Works at Billancourt, Paris.
    Commandant Mouchotte led the Squadron, with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections respectively. The Squadron was airborne at 13.08 hrs., and climbing over the base to 14,000ft., arrived at Beach Head in a slow climb 5 minutes before the arrival of the Fortresses at 13.32 hrs. Here the Wing Commander retired with engine trouble, landing at Manston, handing over the Wing to Group Capt. Malan who was flying with 611 Squadron. The Wing broke away from the bombers 25 miles off Le Treport and continued to Abbeville, two orbits being made there. The Wing was then ordered to turn 90ø to port at 29,000 ft. to meet Boche which were coming up from the S.W. No enemy aircraft were seen and the Wing turned north owing to petrol shortage, crossing the French coast at 25,000 ft., making landfall on the English side, south of Dungeness, at 18,000 ft., landing Biggin Hill at 14.44 hrs. No activity was seen in the Abbeville area and no Flak experienced. The weather was clear for about 15 square miles over Abbeville with 6/10 cloud outside that area at 4000 ft. 10/10 cloud and haze over Channel at 3000 ft.
    Blue 4, Aspirant De Saxce, returned first with Blue 3, Lieut. Bouguen, experiencing trouble with his tanks when near the French coast. Red 3, S/Lieut. Borne and Yellow 2, Sgt. Closterman, landed at West Malling owing to shortage of petrol. Yellow 4, S/Lt. Chevalier, caused some slight consternation by landing down wing near 611 Dispersal, but it transpired that his engine had cut out just before turning to land, so his manoeuvre was amply justified.
    RESULT : The Americans were heavily engaged by Goering's Yellow Noses after Rouen and claimed 25 Boche destroyed. Their bombing was claimed in the same vein to be right on the target. Five Fortresses were lost, panic reported at the races at Longchamps during the bombing and a flow of vituperation on the Paris Radio the next morning.

Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron.


RODEO 197 : 6/4/43
    341 Squadron, 11 Spitfires IX, W/Cdr. Deere leading with Comm. Mouchotte leading Blue Section and Capt. Martell Yelllow Section, together with 611 Squadron set course at 11.21 hrs. for Hardelot, climbing from base. The French coast were crossed at 25,000 ft., the Wing penetrating about 25 miles inland east of Hardelot. They then turned south to a few miles north of Abbeville as Control had reported E/A in this aera. As nothing was seen the Wing came out, crossing the coast at Le Touquet and landing at Biggin Hill at 12.30 hrs. A height of 25.000 ft was maintained throught. 4/10 broken cloud at 5000 ft. was experienced over France, with good visibility above.

        S/Lt. de Bordas was forced to return when just over the English coast through his jettisonable tank being only partly filled and having insufficient petrol to complete this sweep on his main tank.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron.
R.A.F., Biggin Hill


CIRCUS 279 : 6/4/43
    341 Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailed to act as high rear cover for 8 Bombphoons, 181 Squadron, Gravesend, who were to bomb Fort Rouge Aerodrome at St. Omer, with the object of bouncing any Boche with might be aroused by the Typhoons.

    341 Squadron, led by W/Cdr. Deere with Capt. Martell leading Yellow Section and Capt. Boudier leading Blue Section, took off at 14.52 hrs. and set course for Berck in a slow climb. The French coast was crossed at 22,000 ft., where 2/10 cloud at 5000 ft. and good visibility was experienced. The Wing penetrated in a gentle turn to port to St. Omer, coming out between Cap Gris Nez and Gravelines. No E/A were seen or any Flak experienced, the sweep being most uneventful.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier
341 Squadron
Biggin Hill


RODEO 200 : 11/4/43.
    12 Spitfires IX F.F. Squadron led by W/C. Deere with S/Ldr. Mouchotte and Cptn. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue sections respectively, took off from Biggin Hill at 1502 hours with the object of sweeping the Calais-Boulogne area offshore and engaging any Boche who might be attracted by 91 Squadron who where acting as decoys. The Squadron crossed the English coast East of Dungeness on a course of 129ø flying at zero feet at 1513 hours. Arriving off Ambleteuse a left turn was made, squadron climbing to 1500ft. Several uneventfull patrols were made between Calais and boulogne. The Squadron returned back over Dungeness and arrived at base at 1608 hours.
    Weather : 10/10ths. at 2000fts.
              Shortly after taking off Red 4 (Sgt. Menuge) returned with engine trouble. The W/Cdr. reported having seen 2 E/A East of Boulogne and yellow 3 (Lt. de Bordas) saw a small cargo vessel of about 3000 tons entering Gravelines. Before breaking off on arrival at base everyone at the dispersal was delighted with the splendid vic formation, quite the best piece of formation flying the Squadron has yet done.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 F.F. Squadron.


RAMROD 56 / 13/4/43.
    12 Spitires IX 341 Squadron, led by W/Cdr. Deere with Comm. Mouchotte and Capt. Martell leading Blue and Yellow Sections, took off at 17.53 hrs. The Squadron proceeded over Hesdin, then made a wide turn to port, passing just behind St. Omer, coming out over Calais at the same height at 18.40 hrs. The Channel was crossed in a shallow dive, the squadron making landfall over Dover and arriving at base at 19.00 hrs.

    Weather : Thin wispy cloud at 27.000 ft. over France.
    No E/A were seen, the sweep being most boring and uneventfull.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.


CIRCUS 281 : 13/4/43.
    341 Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailed to act as top rear cover to twelve Venturas in two boxes, bombing the Marshalling Yards at Abbeville at 14.26 hrs.
    12 Spitfires IX, led by Comm. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections respectively, took off from Biggin Hill at 14.11 hrs., climbing to 15,000 ft. over base and then setting course for Hastings, which was crossed at 24,000 ft. at 14.35 hrs. The Squadron was continuing to Beachy, but received orders to vector 180ø, then 190ø, which brought them over the French Coast between Dieppe and St. Valery at 25,000 ft. at 14.52 hrs. A sweep was then made to port, crossing out over the French coast over Cayeux at 15.00 hrs., still at the same height. The Squadron then went into the shallow dive for the English coast which was crossed a few minutes later over Hasting, base being reached at 15.31 hrs. No E/A were seen.
    Weather : 3/10 cumulus cloud at 3/5000ft. over France. Over 5/10 stratus cloud at 30,000ft.
    All Blue Section and Red 4 came back before crossing the French coast owing to various engine and other troubles.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
R.A.F. Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 50 : 14/4/43
    341 F.F. and 611 Squadrons were detailled to act as 2nd Fighter Echelon with a force of eight Whirlibombers bombing the Marshalling Yards at Bruges.
    Twelve Spitfires IX, Comm. Mouchotte leading with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of yellow and Blue Sections, set course from Biggin Hill at 16.10 hrs., climbing to 10,000 ft. and crossing the coast at Rye at 16.20 hrs. The climb was continued until the French coast was crossed North of Berck at 16.30 hrs. at 16,000 ft. The Squadron turned S.E. sweeping across St. Omer to Bergues. A turn was then made due South for a short time and then West over St. Omer and Andricq. Turning North, the Squadron crossed the French coast at Gravelines at 16.57 hrs. at 16,000 ft. The english coast was crossed South of Ramsgate at 11,000 ft., base being reached at 17.21 hrs.
    Weather : Over France thin layers of cloud making 10/10 at 18,000 ft. 8/10 over the Channel in places. Good visibility.
    Yellow 3 (Lt. Beraud) turned back soon after taking off, having lost his jetisonable tank. Sgt. Closterman (Yellow 2) reported having seen a 3-island type cargo boat in Calais of about 2000 tons; the boat was lying against the mole just inside the outer breakwater on the port side from seawards.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 61 : 16/4/43.
    341 F.F. Squadron and 611 squadron were detailled to act as target support to a squadron of Bombphoons attacking Tricqueville aerodrome.
    10 Spitfires IX, led by W/Cdr. Deere with Comm. Mouchotte and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off at 17.26 hrs. and cross over Beachy Head at zero feet at 17.38 hrs. The squadron commenced to climb 10 miles north of Fecamp at 17.55 hrs., and crossed the French coast at 8000 ft. Course was set for Tricqueville, but when 10 miles inside the French coast, the Wing Leader developed engine trouble and returned to base with Red Section. Comm. Mouchotte took over the Wing and proceeded to the target area at 15,000 ft., observing the bombing which appeared to be good. No A/C were definitely identified as enemy by the Squadron. The Squadron accompanied the bombers and their escort back, making landfall over Beachy Head.
    Weather : Very hazy up to 10,000 ft., horizontal visibility good, vertical visibility poor.
    Yellow 3, Capt. Martell saw a Hun at 1000 ft. on the coast coming out from France.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.

CIRCUS 283 : 16/4/43
    341 F.F. Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailled to act as 2nd Fighter Echelon to a squadron of Bombphoons bombing the chemical work at Ostend.
    12 Spifires IX, with Comm. Mouchotte leading and Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off at 13.55 hrs. in a slow climb to North Foreland which was crossed at 14.55 hrs. at 18,000 ft. The Squadron then proceeded to Mardyk where the French coast was crossed at 14.25 hrs. at 20,000 ft. When just over the coast a large formation of Huns, approximately 20 FW190's, were seen about 23/24,000ft. The Huns saw the Wing a few minutes later directly above, but by this time the Wing had started to climb and made an orbit into the sun. A general dogfight followed in which only two pilots fired their guns, but no proper combat could take place owing to the quantity of E/A and due to the fact that they had the initial advantage of height over the Squadron. Owing to shortage of petrol and superiority in number of the opposition, the Squadron broke off and proceeded to the English coast with was crossed at Ramsgate, base being reached at 15.20 hrs.
    Weather : 5/10 cloud at 5000 ft. near the coast, increasing to 7-8/10 inland. Visibility : horizontal good, vertical hazy.
    Yellow 2, S/Lt de Bordas, had trouble with his R/T and was forced to come back after being airborne for only a few minutes. Yellow 1, Capt. Martell, fired a short burst from 150 yds. at an FW190 but was unable to see any result, unfortunatly there being no camera carried in his plane. Blue 3, S/Lt. Bouguen, also fired a short burst with no seen result.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.

RAMROD 206 : 17/4/43.
    341 F.F. Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailled to act as 2nd Figther Echelon while Thunderbolt Wings were operating between Ostend and Walcheren Island.
    12 Spitfires IX with Comm. Mouchotte leading and Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from base at 12.38 hrs. The squadron crossed the English coast at 12.55 hrs. at 16,000 ft. and procceeded to the French coast which was crossed at Sangatte at 13.15 hrs. at 30,000 ft. The Squadron set course for Aire (10 miles S.E. of St. Omer), turned left over St. Omer and came out to Gris Nez and then flew south from Griz Nez to Hardelot. From Hardelot the Wing flew back to St. Omer where freindly aircraft where sighted, and came out again at Gris Nez at 13.40 hrs. Blue 1, Capt. Boudier, at 27,000 ft., saw four large ships inside the breakwater and two smal ships futher inside at Boulogne. The Squadron returned to base, making landfall over Lympne. No E/A were seen.
    Weather : 1/10 wispy cloud about 35,000 ft. 2/10 low cloud at 10,000 ft. Horizontal visibility good, vertical visibility good. Slight haze over Channel.
    Red 2, Sgt. Gallay, had tank trouble over the French coast and Red 3, Lt. Pabiot, returned with him.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.


CIRCUS 286 : 17/4/43.
    341 F.F. Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailled to act as 1st Bouncing Wing while Venture were bombing Caen Marshalling Yards.
    12 Spitfires IX, led by Comm. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off base at 14.45 hrs., crossing the English coast at zero feet at 17.57 hrs. The Squadron proceeded on course until 18.20 hrs. (then due west of Le Havre) and commenced climbing, crossing over Trouville at 17,000 ft. Six plus E/A were at this moment reported to be at 10,000 ft. 10 miles south of Fecamp. The Squadron levelled out at 6000 ft. and went at full throttle for Tricqueville aerodrome. When 1 mile west of the aerodrome, aircraft were seen taking off and 611 Squadron dived down to attack. As the E/A crossed the perimeter of the airfield they were lost against a wood and in the haze. Just at this moment about 15/20 E/A were seen 1000 ft. above and approaching fast from the north. 611 Squadron broke up in a climbing turn and endeavoured to engage these E/A. A general melee followed in which bursts were taken but no claims made. After four or five minutes of full throttle fighting more Huns were seen above and the Wing leader gave the order to get out as the Wing was using too much petrol. The Squadron who had remained above did not see the first E/A which were sighted as there were turning into the sun at the time. They orbitted in sun and covered the melee and it appears that the original formation of E/A seen taking off climbing inland and into the sun behind the Squadron who were then engaged from below and behind. From this combat two pilots are missing. Blue 3 (Lt. Pabiot) saw Blue 4 (Lt. Raoul Duval) shot down 20 miles east of Le Havre. Yellow 3 (Lt. Beraud) was seen to dive away from his section when no E/A were near them, and nobody can explain why he should have gone down. Lt. Pabiot (Blue 3) was chased by 3 FW190's, receiving strikes. He shook them off and landed at Ford.
    Weather : Very hazy up to 5000 ft. Vertical and horizontal visibility poor. No cloud.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.


CIRCUS 287 : 18/4/43.
    341 F.F. Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailled to act as Fighter Echelon while 12 Venturas were carrying out a raid on some shipping in Dieppe Harbour.
    11 Spitfires 9L; led by Comm. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off base at 13.22 hrs. and crossed the English coast over Hasting at 13.40 hrs. at 16,000 ft. The Squadron continued the climb to Cayeux, crossing the French coast at 13.55 hrs. at 26,000 ft. and continued at this height on the same vector. On instructions from Control the Squadron commenced to climb, making 30,000 ft. 10 miles S.E. of Abbeville. Control then told the Squadron to turn to port, and just when the turn was completed aircraft were reported directly below. Two sections of 611 Squadron dived down to attack, but the E/A had abviously sighted the Wing, which was smoking, and when attacking sections were still about 1500 ft. above, E/A split in pairs and dived away. The Wing stayed in the vicinity with the Squadron at 30,000 ft. covering and then commenced to make their way out. The Squadron was attacked by Huns at about the same height as the original jump. These Huns come from south and were flying about 35,000 ft. On the way out a large formation of E/A were seen about 28,000 ft. making for the Somme, coming from the direction of St. Omer. Some of these A/C were engaged by 611 Squadron. No further engagements took place and the Squadron returned to base, making base at 14.39 hrs.
    Weather : 5-7/10 wispy cloud at 33,000 ft. No low cloud but considerable haze. Horizontal visibility good.
    When 20 miles inside France Comm. Mouchotte had trouble with his oxygen supply and was forced to return. Red Section returned with him.

Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 63 : 18/4/43.
    341 F.F. Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailled to act as Escort Cover and Free Lance Wing to eight Bombphoons carrying out an attack on Poix Aerodrome.
    9 Spitfires 9 L, led by Capt. Boudier with Capt. Martell and Asp. de Saxe at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from base at 17.44 hrs. Rendezvous was made over Hasting and course was set, the French coast being crossed over Cayeux at 18.25 hrs. at 7000 ft. The Squadron climbed to 15,000 ft. before reaching target and observed the bombing which appeared to be quite good. Red 1 (Capt. Boudier) saw a stick of bombs on both the east and west dispersals. The Squadron covered the bombers on the way out, crossing the coast at 11,000 ft. and the English coast over Rye at 19.00 hrs. Base was reached at 19.15 hrs. No E/A were seen.
    Weather : No cloud. Hazy . Visibility quite good.

Intelligence Officier
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 67 : 20/4/43
    341 F.F. Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailled to act as escort cover to 8 Bombphoons carrying out an attack on Triqueville aerodrome.
    Nine Spitfires IX L, 341 F.F. Squadron, took off from base at 18.19 hrs., and made rendevous at Shoreham on time, at 18.30 hrs. The Squadron proceeded at sea level to 10 miles N.W. of Trouville, climbed and crossed the coast just north of Trouville. The bombers levelled out at 10,000 ft. and the squadron levelled out at 12,000 ft. The bombing was seen to be successful with many hits on the western dispersal. One E/A was seen on the Ground to the west of Western Dispersal, believed to be a fighter, and another burnt out on the south of the aerodrome. There were no signs of activity. The airfield has obviously been evacuated. The Squadron came out with the Typhoons, crossing the coast just west of Fecamp at 6000 ft. at 19.08 hrs., crossed the English coast 5 miles west of Beachy Head at 4000 ft. and landed at base by 19.47 hrs.
    Weather : No cloud. Very heavy haze up to 4000 ft.
    Two or three burst of inaccurate flak were observed over the target.
  Sgt. Chef Bourges landed at Redhill at 19.38 hrs., due to engine trouble.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.


CIRCUS 288 : 20/4/43.
    341 F.F. Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailled to act as 1st Fighter Echelon while Venturas were bombing Boulogne Marshalling Yards.
    Eight Spitfires IX L, 341 F.F. Squadron, took off from base at 15.06 hrs. and crossed Beachy Head at 15.18 hrs. They commenced to climb immediatly and crossed the French coast south of Berck at 25,000 ft. at 15.37 hrs. Course was set 090ø until the squadron was just north of St. Pol. The Wing turned north to St. Omer and set course for Calais when Control told the Wing to orbit to port. Two orbits were completed, and on information from Control that nothing was available, the Wing set course for Dungeness, crossing over Boulogne at 15.52 hrs., losing height and crossing the English coast at 16.00 hrs. and landing base at 16.09 hrs. The bombing was observed to be good.
    Weather : No cloud. Horizontal and vertical visibility good.
    341 F.F. Squadron returned early under the following circumstance. Comm. Mouchotte's engine cut owing to trouble with jettisonable tank and he has forced to return to base. He indicated his intention to his squadron by diving and waggling his wings, but this was misunderstood whereupon the Squadron became detached from 611 Squadron, split up and returned to base, landing at 15.40 hrs.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.


CIRCUS 290 : 21/4/43.
    341 F.F. Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailled to act as escort cover to Venturas carrying out a raid on Abbeville Marshalling Yards.
    Ten Spitfires IX, 341 Squadrons, took off base at 11.32 hrs. and made rendezvous over Beachy Head at 0 ft. at 11.45 hrs. Course was set for the Somme, the French coast being crossed at 12,000 ft. at 12.08 hrs. Here the Wing Leader and a section of 611 Squadron returned to base owing to trouble with jettisonable tank. Group Captain Malan took over the lead of the Wing. The Squadron climbed after the bombers and escort to 16,000 ft. When approaching Abbeville Aerodrome about 8 FW190's were seen 2000ft. below, but when 611 Squadron dived to attack they half-rolled inland. After the bombers left the target area the Squadron crossed over the French coast at Le Crotoy and turned right up-Channel to Boulogne and returned to base, crossing the English coast at Dungeness. The squadron landed at base by 12.45 hrs.
    Weather : 10/10 cloud at 18,000 ft. Hazy in Channel.
    Comm. Mouchotte and Capt. Martell report a large patch of disturbed water in the sea approximately 5 miles west of the mouth of the Somme. P/O de Bordas report seeing bombs fall south of Abbeville, some of which fell in the river. Capt. Boudier reports seeing an explosion with a lot of black smoke between 9 and 10,000 ft. over the mouth of the Somme, 5 miles out.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron,
R.A.F., Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 66 : 21/4/43.
    Nos. 341 (F.F.) and 611 Squadrons were detailled to act as fighter cover to 8 Whirlibombers bombing the railway yard at Eu.
    12 Spitfires IXs led by Commandant R. Mouchotte, who was also leading the Biggin Hill Wing, with S/Lt de Bordas and Lt. Bouguen who were leading Yellow and Blue Sections respectively, took off at 11.51 crossing the English coast at Beach Head at zero feet at 12.04 hrs. The Squadron then climbed to 23,000 feet and arrived at Dieppe at 12.25 hrs. Here, one orbit to port was made when control vectored the Squadron 080ø and then due to south to intercept some Boche coming up from the west. The Wing Leader sighted the E/A, but did not attack as they were too far inland of his position.
    Commandant Mouchotte led the Wing to 10 miles west of Neuchatel and was then ordered to return. The coast was crossed at Dieppe at 23,000 ft landfall being made at Beachy Head, base being reached at 13.18 hrs.
    Weather : Huge haze over France. Visibility : 4/5 miles, scattered clouds 4/10 at 5,000 ft.
    Enemy casualties : Nil
    Our casualties : Nil

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
R.A.F. Station,
Biggin Hill.


RODEO 212 : 3/5/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfires IX, led by Cmdt. Mouchotte, with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue sections respectively, took off from Biggin Hill at 17.29 hrs. and set course in a slow climb to Dungeness, where the coast was crossed at 12,000 ft. at 17.45 hrs. A course was then set for Hardelot, the Squadron still climbing. Ten miles off coast the Wing Commander, who was flying with No. 611 Squadron was forced to return through engine trouble, No 611 Squadron's C.O. taking over leadership of the Wing. About mid-channel a thick layer of cloud at 15,000 ft. was encountered, which prevented the Squadron from climbing any higher. The French coast was crossed at Hardelot at 15,000 ft. at 18.00 hrs. where a turn to port at 0.30ø was made, near St. Omer the Squadron turned left for Gravelines, but were vectored south by control. Shortly afterwards 4 Huns were seen flying south at 19,000 ft. No. 611 Squadron who were bottom squadron attacked without any result, No. 341 Squadron acting as top cover. The Squadron then orbitted twice between St. Omer and Gris Nez. A course was then set to north but control again vetored the squadron south. On this course the French coast was crossed at Boulogne at 15,000 ft. where heavy flak was encountered at the same height. Red 2 Sgt. Menuge particulary noticing 3 heavy guns firing simultaneously where the river cross the road near Wimile. When half way over the channel the Squadron was again vetored to starboard on a notherly course as far as Ambleteuse, here a return course was set and the Squadron was detailled to climb rapidly in order to go to the assistance of the Kenley Wing who was being engaged by the Boche. Nothing was seen and the Squadron continued on their course to Rye which was reached at 18.39 hrs. at 10,000 ft., base being reached at 18.54 hrs. Blue 3 S/Lt. Bourguen eperienced trouble with his oxygen over the channel on his way out and was forced to return.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier
341 Squadron


RAMROD 68 : 4/5/43
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron and No. 611 Squadron were detailled to act as 2nd Fighter Cover to a force of 80 Fortresses bombing the docks at Antwerp.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron took off from Biggin Hill for Manston at 14.20 hrs where the squadron was refuelled, taking off again at 17.47. A direct course was set for Knocke which was reached at 18.25 hrs at 26,000 ft. At this point, the Wing made a left turn in order to position themselves with the bombers who were 7 minutes late. They continued on to Antwerp and back as far as the Dutch coast. No Boche were seen to attack the bombers enroute to the target but many pairs and single aircraft attacked them both from below and above on the outward journey from Antwerp to Flushing. Here Capt. Boudier and S/Lt. Bouguen saw a Spitfires IX going down out of control, which subsequently turned out to be one of No. 611 Squadron's. Very slight flak was encountered going in over the target and coming out. The Squadron returned to base after an uneventful passage home at 19.35 hrs. Weather 10/10 cloud at 28,000 ft. south of a line Ostend, Ghent and Antwerp. Visibility good.
    Only four aircraft, Capt. Boudier, S/Lt. Bouguen, S/Lt. de Bordas, and Sgt. Menuge complete the sweep; the remainder turning back when 3/4 way over on the outward journey owing to various mechanical troubles.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RODEO 213 : 7/5/43.
    12 Spitifre IXs of No. 341 Squadron led by Commandant Mouchotte, with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading yellow and Blue Sections respectively took off from Biggin Hill at 15.32 hrs. arriving over Le Touquet at 21,000 feet at 15.57 hrs.
    Control then gave a vector of 190ø, after a few minutes climbing the vector was changed to 100ø and again to 050ø. The Squadron increased height during the vector to 27,000 ft. Shortly afterwards the Squadron was again vectored to 330ø and informed that Huns were directly ahead when just north of Le Touquet. On this vector about 12 M.E.109F were sighted 5000 feet below and flying in the opposite direction. Unfortunately at the same moment a friendly Wing flying south from Gris Nez towards Bereck spotted our squadron and obiously mistook us for the Huns of which no doubt they had been warned. This friendly Wing understood to be Kenley came down to our Squadron and as were forced to break the Huns dived underneath us and were lost. The Squadron then dived out having become split up, crossing Dungeness at 15.25 hrs. arriving base at 16.45 hrs.
    Weather : 4/10 cloud at 5000 ft. Horizontal visibility good. Vertical visibility bad.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
Nø. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


ROMROD 71 : 13/5/43
    Nø. 341 (F.F.) Squadron were acting as 2nd Hight Cover to a force of Fortresses bombing the Potez Factory at Maulte.
    Nø. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 10 Spitfires IXs led by Cmdt. Mouchotte, with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue sections respectively, took off from base at 15.37 hrs and arrived at Berck at 27,000 ft. at 16.04 hrs. As the Wing was 8 minutes early they orbitted to await the arrival of the Fortresses which were dead on time. The bombers and escort were followed towards the target. In between Abbeville and Amiens, the Wing was jumped by a Squadron of Spitfires which forced them to breack. The bombers being by then a long way ahead the squadron busted back to its original position. Just N.E. of Amiens 12 M.E. 109s came down on the Wing which once again went into an orbit, continuing in this orbit until height was made on the Boche, who then dived away into France. The Wing then reformed and proceeded to target but once again when just near the target a short melee with small numbers of enemy aircraft took place, the Wing becoming split up again, various sections working their way out independently. In most cases the French coast was crossed at Berck, landing at Biggin Hill at 17.10 hrs.
    Yellow 4 (Sgt/Chef. Gallay) came back when a third of the way out over the channel, throught oxygen trouble. Blue 4 (S/Lt. Borne) and Yellow 2 (S/Lt. de Bordas) landed at Hawkinge and Gatwick respectively through shortage of petrol.
    Weather : Layer of haze at 25,000 ft. Vertical visibility hazy. horizontal visibility good.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


CIRCUS 296 : 13/5/43
    The Biggin Hill Wing was detailled to act as 1st Fighter Echelon to 6 Mitchells bombing Boulogne Marshalling Yards.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfires IXs led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from base at 11.28 hrs and proceeded at ground level to 5 miles off Hastings. Here the Wing started to climb, making landfall of Berck at 20,000 ft. at 11.53 hrs. The Squadron was then vectored to 090ø and told to keep climbing. This vector was changed to 120ø and when in a position 15 miles N.E. of Amiens was ordered to orbit and climb to 30,000 ft. Huns were reported 12 miles to the East, but as they were too far away, the Squadron turned left going west crossing over Berck at 28,000 ft. at 12.07 hrs. Dungeness was crossed at 25,000 ft., the Squadron landing at Biggin Hill at 12.40 hrs after a very routine and uneventful sweep.
    Weather scattered low cloud over France at about 5000 ft. Visibility good.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 73 : 14/5/43.
    Nos. 341 (F.F.) and 611 Squadrons were acting as high cover to a force of 40 Fortresses bombing the airfield at Courtrai.
    12 Spitfire IX H of 341 (F.F.) Squadron lead by W/Cmdr. Deere with Capt. Martell and Cmdt. Duperier DFC at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections respectively, took off at 11.45 arriving over Dunkirk at 12.19, and after one orbit to port, positioned themselves in front and to the port of the bombers at 27,000 feet. En route to the target the Sqaudron was very busily engaged with several Hun formations and particularly two, one of about 15 plus and one about 20 plus, both of which were diverted and split up before they could attack the bombers.
    After the bombers had unleaded with very good visual results, the Squadron became split up and were once again heavily engaged in preventing Huns from getting into position to attack. In one attack on 4 F.W.109s Capt. Martell (Yellow 1) shot one down in flames, the others diving away inland.
    The Squadron crossed out over Nieuport at 22,000 feet at 12.40 and accompanied the Fortresses back as far as the N. Foreland where they left them, base being reached at 13.25 hrs.
    Red 4, S/Lt. Mailfert, was hit in his ammunition pans by a long range shot and was forced to give a "M'AIDEZ". Large pieces were blown up from both his wings, nevertheless he managed to make a good belly landing at Manston. Yellow 2 and Yellow 4 also landing at Manston through lack of fuel.
    CLAIMS:
        ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1 FW190 destroyed by Capt. Martell
        OUR CASUALTIES:   1 Spitfire IX H - Category B.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
R.A.F. Biggin Hill.


CIRCUS 297 : 15/5/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron was acting with 611 Squadron as a free lance Wing with the object of bouncing any Huns which might be aroused after 6 Mitchells, followed five minutes later by 8 Bomphoons had bombed Caun airfield.
    12 Spitfires IX H's led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections respectively, took off Biggin Hill at 16.21 on a course 15 miles west of Le Havre. The Squadron flew at zero feet until 16.41 when they started to climb arriving at the aforementioned point at 16.58 at 21,000 feet. The French coast was crossed at Trouville at 17.00 hrs at the same height the Squadron continuing south to Bonnebosq where they turned right and swept in behind the target.
    When about 10 miles south east of Caen, 611 Squadron were mixed up in a general dogfight about 2,000 feet below. Cmdt. Mouchotte however, continued flying on a westerly course hoping to turn right and bounce any stragglers which might have been split up by 611 Squadron. When just about to turn to starboard after two minutes flying, he had the good luck to pounce on a lone FW190 which exploded in mid-air after a long burst from astern and slightly above. As no other aircraft were seen, the Squadron re-formed and made its way out landing at Biggin Hill at 17.54 hrs.
    Bombs were seen to burst by Capt. Boudier on the runway and on either side.
    Weather: Haze over France at about 15,000 feet, small amounts of cloud inland. Horizontal visibility good - vertical hazy.
    In the first dogfight in which 611 Sqdn. were engaged, S/Ldr. Charle shot down 2 FW 190's which brought the Biggin Hill score to 999, Cmdt. Mouchotte's Hun being the 1,000th : as both these engagements took place practically simultaneously, the honour of shooting down the 1,000th may be shared. This is for G/Capt. Malan to decide.
    CLAIMS:
    ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1FW190 destroyed by Cmdt. Mouchotte DFC.
    OUR CASUALTIES:   NIL.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
R.A.F. Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 66 : 16/5/43.
    Eleven Spitfires IX's H, led by Commandant Mouchotte, No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, with Capitaine Martell and Capitaine Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 11.00 hours for Portreath which was reached at 12.25 hr.
    At 16.45 hours the Squadron again took off and flew with the 16 Venturas when it was escorting in a slow climb, arriving over the French Coast at Morlaix at 21,000 feet. The Squadron then turned left to cross Morlaix aerodrome as the bombers were doing their bombing run; a right hand turn was made South of Morlaix, the Squadron flying almost due North up to Estuary into position behind the bombers, as they left the Target. Flak was seen over the Target, but below, no Huns being seen at all.
    The Squadron returned to Portreath at 18.30 hours, taking off again for Biggin Hill at 19.00 hours, which was reached at 20.30 hours, after a very tiring and uneventful day.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,


CIRCUS 299 : 17/5/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were detailed to act as High cover to 12 Venturas bombing Caen Aerodrome.
    341 (F.F.) Squadron, 11 Spitfires IX H's led by Commandant Mouchotte with Capitaine Martell and Capitaine Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 09.59 hours flying at zero feet for Shoreham which was reached at 10.10 hours; climbing over the Channel to 23,000 feet, the French Coast was crossed at Cabourg at 10.35 hours. Shortly afterwards, when a third of the way between the Coast and Caen, Commandant Mouchotte attacked the Leader of a Section of ME 109s who were diving on Yellow Section below, they split up and the Commandant followed his Boche down in a dive, giving him a long burst; the E/A never recovered and went staight into the ground. Several minutes later, Blue Section who were diving to another formation of FW190s were attacked in turn by 12 FW190s. The Section split up and found its way out. Capitaine Boudier getting behind one of the original FW190s, and with a long burst sent him crashing to earth, following him down to 1,000 feet. During this melee Blue 4 - Sgt/Chef. Bourges was hit from eastern by a FW190 his plane bursting into flames, fortunately he was seen to bale out by Blue 3 - S/Lt. Bouguen - who turned back and dived for the Coast which he crossed at 7,000 feet at Boulogne. Here he saw a FW190 flying East, which turned on him and on executing a violent turn to starboard fired several short bursts into the Hun, who was attempt to emulate the same tactics, lost control and was spinning seawards; he followed the Boche down and saw it dive into the sea, leaving only a large patch of oil. Blue 2 - Sergent Guinaward - got on FW190 in his sight at 300 yards and fired nearly all his ammunitions, but saw no results, having to break off as he was himself attacked from astern.
    Red 2 S/Lt. Chevalier fired a long burst at a Hun from about 500 yards, but with no results.
    Sgt. Closterman fired at a new species of ME109 with 2 large air intakes on the starboard side of an extra large motor, a yellow tail, a long red arrow the whole lenght of the plane, a small hump behind the cockpit and a wireless mast beneath the fuselage. Two large Baloons were seen over the Coast at Cabourg at 30,000 feet. S/Lt. Bouguen fired at a mine 10 miles North of Boulgate.
    The Squadron reached base by 11.40 hours.
    Weather: No cloud, Good visibility.
    ENEMY CASULATIES:
        1 ME109 destroyed by Commandant Mouchotte,
        1 FW190     "     by Capitaine Boudier,
        1 FW190     "     by S/lt. Bouguen.
    OUR CASUALTIES:
        1 Spitfire IX Sgt/Chef. Bourges baled out over Caen.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier.


CIRCUS 300: 18/5/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron and No. 611 Squadron were acting as high cover to a force of 12 Bostons in two boxes of six, bombing Abbeville airfield.
    341 (F.F.) Squadron - 10 Spitfires IX Hs - led by Commandant Mouchotte with Capitaine Martell and Capitaine Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 14.16 and set course for Bexhill where rendzvous was made with the bombers at 14.30. A course was then set for the mouth of the Somme, the Squadron climbing gently to 17,000 feet. By now, the Squadron had drawn ahead of the bombers and arrived to a position 15 miles out of the target. A right turn was then made behind the bombers, bursts being observed by most people in the Squadron on the Northern side of the aerodrome.
    The squadron followed the bombers out to about mid-channel where they turned right and from a report that the two Wings who were taking part in the operation had been engaged, returned to the Somme estuary, patrolling between Berck and Le Treport at 27,000 feet until the other two Wings had withdrawn, finally, leaving at 15.15 hours North of the Somme.
    No enemy aircraft were seen, and the Squadron touched down at base at 15.43 hours.
    Weather: No cloud, heavy haze about 20,000 feet over
            France and clear over the Channel.
            Horizontal visibility : very good.
            Vertical       "      : hazy over France.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RODEO 221 : 19/5/43.
    The Biggin Hill wing were detailled to make a sweep with the Hornchurch Wing from Mardyck to St. Omer, and then at Wing Leader's discretion.
    341 (F.F.) Squadron - 11 Spitfires IX H's - led by Wing Commander Deere, with Commandant Mouchotte and Capitaine Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off in a slow climb from base at 20.00 hours, crossing the English Coast at Dover, and the French Coast being crossed east of Mardyck at 20.34 hours at 26,000 feet. Control then gave a vector of 190ø changing to 180ø and again to 090ø. When about 16 miles East of St. Omer, 12 enemy aircraft were seen 6,000 feet below, by 611 Squadron, who were on top. 611 dived to attack, 341 covering their tails. From this engagement 1 FW190 was seen to go down in flames. Nothing else being seen or reported, the Wing crossed out over Calais at 20,000 ft. at 20.45 hours; here very heavy and accurate flak was encountered and when just over the coast a large formation of enemy aircraft were seen to be following the Wing about 7 miles behind and 5,000 feet above. The enemy aircraft were unable to take advantage of their height owing to their being too far behind, and the Wing made its way back uneventfully to base, which was reached at 21.00 hours.
    Weather: Very heavy haze over France.
            Vertical visibility - Bad.
            Horizontal    "     - Good.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RODEO 222 : 20/5/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 10 Spitfires IX H's - led by Wing Commander Deere with Capt. Martell and Cmdt. Mouchotte at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 11.44 and set course for Gravelines, which was reached at 12.15 hrs at 25,000 ft.
    The Squadron continued on a course for Merville, but as a thick layer of 10/10ths cloud stretching from a line St. Inglert, St. Omer, Lilliers, to about 40 miles south stretched before them, the Wing Commander decided not to go any further south as the Squadron would have been silhouetted. This cloud was at 10,000 ft. with further 3/10 cloud at about 5,000 ft.
    The Squadron turned over Merville airfield, on which no activity was observed, and continued to St. Omer where one orbit was completed before setting course for home.
    The French coast was crossed just north of Grisnez at 12.30 at 24,000 ft. No enemy aircraft was seen or flak encountered. Base being reached at 12.56.
    Capt. Boudier, Blue 3, returned soon after taking off owing to his jettison tank falling off whilst taxying for the take off.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Pilot Officier, Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (Free French) Squadron.


CIRCUS 302 : 23/5/43.
Nos. 341 (F.F.) Squadron and 611 Squadron were detailled to act as High Cover to 2 Boxes of 12 Venturas bombing the Coke Ovens at Zeebruge.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 11 Spitfires IX, led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 11.47 hrs flying at zero feet for Bradwell Bay, which was reached at 12.00 hrs, rendezvous there being made with the bombers. A course was then set for a position just west of Ostend. The Squadron flying for the first minutes at zero feet, then climbing at 21,000 feet. At this point the Squadron turned and flew up the coast for about 5 miles for Zeebruge where a left turn was made, the Squadron sweeping over Knoche, turning right and coming out behind the bombers across Zeebruge. The Squadron accompanied the Venturas until 20 miles off the French coast and then turned S.W. to cover the withdrawal of two other diversionary Wings. On being informed that these Wings were not engaged the Squadron set course for the North Foreland in a slow dive, which was crossed at 8,000 feet, base being reached at 13.34 hrs.
    Flak from Ostend was reasonably heavy and accurate, the same being experienced over the target. Cmdt. Mouchotte was able to pin point a 5 Flak gun position 1800 yards due west of the northerly tip of the Nouveau Bassin de Chasse at Ostend, the guns being in line parrallel to the coast.
    Weather: 8/10 cloud over France at 4000 feet commencing from a point 10 miles inland from the French coast. Very little cloud over the Channel.
    Blue 1 (Capt. Boudier) and Blue 3 (Lt. Pabiot) lost their jettison tanks just after taking off and returned. Blue 2 (F/Sgt. Leguie) returned soon after with R/T trouble.

Flying Officier, Intelligence for Squadron Leader Commanding,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


CIRCUS 304 : 25/5/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) and No. 611 Squadrons were acting as high cover to 12 Mitchells bombing Abbeville airfield at 12,000 ft.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfires IX H led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 10.18 hrs and made rendezvous with the bombers at Bexhil at zero feet.
    The Squadron kept on the port flank, crossing the French coast at Le Treport at 10.49 at 21,000 feet. Contact was kept with the bombers which crossed over Abbeville Town, quite a lot of flak being seen at levels 12,000 to 19,000 feet. One large mushroom of flak was seen 3,000 yards to the right of the Squadron. After bombing, the Squadron turned and proceeded towards Cayeux.
    A formation of about 18 enemy aircraft were seen to be following the Wing 10 miles behind and 5,000 feet higher up. This formation followed the Squadron very closely, executing the same tactics, but broke off when over the coast. The English coast was crossed between Bexhill and Hasting at 3,000 feet.
    One Mitchell was seen to be hit over Abbeville and exploded in mid-air.
    Yellow 3, Lt. Roos, lost his tank whilst taxying for the take off and did not participate in the sweep.
    Weather: 8/10 cloud at 10,000/12,000 feet over France.
            Clear over the Somme estuary, heavy ground haze
            which prevented the bombing being observed.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Pilot officier, Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (Free French) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RODEO 223 : 26/5/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX H's, led by Cmdt. Mouchotte who was also acting as Wing Leader with 611 Sqdn., with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections, set course for Folkestone where the Squadron started to climb, crossing the French Coast at Sangatte at 13.15 at 21,000 feet. Here, a turn to starboard was made which brought the Suqadron to a point 10 miles south east of St. Omer. Here, course was altered to 042ø to Nieuport, but when 20 miles south of Dunkirk, Control reported some Huns over Gravelines and the Wing Leader gave orders to turn 90ø to port, while turning, control reported some Huns 10 miles south of St. Omer going in the same direction.
    When near Dunkirk, as no more information was given by Control, the Squadron made an orbit to port, turning west to Griznez where 18 Huns were reported at 18,000 feet. The Squadron started climbing and when over Calais were told that some Boches were going in the direction of Folkeston at 10,000 feet. The Squadron set course for Folkestone in a dive, but were told by Control that they had no more information to give regarding these Huns, but that there were 25 at 20,000 feet. As the Squadron had already lost height, the Wing Leader decided to come out and continued to Folkeston which was crossed at 15,000 feet.
    No enemy aircraft were seen during this sweep which was most uneventfull and unsatisfactory from the point of view of control.
    Weather: 9/10 cloud at 6,000 feet over France. Channel
            clear, visibility medium.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Pilot Officier, Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


CIRCUS 305 : 28/5/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing was detailled to act as High Cover to a force of 12 Venturas in two boxes of 6 bombing the Coke Ovens at Zeebruge.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, twelve Spitfire IX with Cmdt. Mouchotte at the head and Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 16.45 setting course for Bradwell Bay at zero feet were rendezvous was made with the bombers at 17.00 hrs. The Squadron flew the first 12 minutes at sea level and then started to climb. When about 22,000 ft. the Squadron lost touch with No. 611 Sqdn. who had remained at 16,000 ft. and seeing another Wing slightly ahead and above continnued to climb with the intention of following them. This formation turned out to be one of the three Thunderbolt formations which was flying at 30,000 ft. The Squadron flattened out at 28,000 ft and swept the north-west tip of Walcheron Island, Bruges, Dixmude, coming out of the French coast at Dunkirk. The Channel was crossed in a slow dive, landfall being made at the South Foreland, the Wing touching down at base at 18.20 hrs after a very dull and uneventfull sweep.
    Weather conditions were very poor, very heavy haze being experienced, with a great deal of low cloud over Holland and Belgium. No enemy aircraft were seen or any flak encountered.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


CIRCUS 306 : 29/5/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing was detailled to act as high cover to 12 Venturas in two boxes of six bombing Caen airfield.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, led by Commandant Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing, with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 14.19 and made rendezvous with the bombers at Selsey Bill at 14.34 at zero feet. The Squadron flew for the first 20 minutes at sea level and then climbed to a point 10 miles west of Le Havre at 14,000 feet. The Squadron then altered course for Caen still climbing, crossing the French coast at Cabourg at 15.05 at 20,000 feet and continued to 5 miles south of the target, when the bombers were 5 miles north on the homeward run. The Squadron then started a slight dive, coming out at St. Aubin at 17,000 feet at 15.15.
    When 20 miles north of the coast, control gave 25+, 35 miles east of the target going north, but owing to lack of fuel, the Commandant decided to continue home crossing our side at Littlehampton at 7,000 feet at 15.41 hrs, reaching base at 15.55 hrs.
    No enemy aircraft were seen, nor was the bombing observed.
    Weather: Scattered cloud 3/10 at 4/5,000 feet - clear over
            Channel - visibility 40 miles.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 81 : 30/5/43.
    12 Spitfire IX H's of No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 15.04 hrs and set course for Pevensey Bay at zero feet which was crossed at 15.15 hrs.
    After flying at sea level on course for Fecamp for 8 minutes , the Squadron started to climb crossing Fecamp at 18,000 ft. The Squadron then flattened out and set course for Tricqueville.
    When over Pont L'Heveque, 6 FW 190's dived above and behind on to the Squadron. Several pilots fired short bursts while these aircraft were diving through us without and observed results. No. 611 Squadron came up to assist the Squadron and in the melee which followed Yellow 2 S/Lt. Laurent found himself with Blue Section of No. 611 Sqdn. Continuing with them he followed them in a dive of some other Huns who were slightly below. Seeing a F.W. 190 about 800 yds away to port who was trying to get behing No. 611's Blue Section, he closed to within 175 yds and with 2 long bursts sent the Hun down in flammes.
    After this engagement the Squadron made its way out crossing the French coast at Deauville landing at base at 16.25 hrs. No flak was experienced.
    Weather: No cloud in the Channel - 7/10 at 5,000 ft over France, thickening inland. High layer 17,000 ft over Fecamp rising to 24,000 feet over combat area. Visibility - good.
    Red 2 Sgt. Remlinger came back soon after taling off throught R/T failure.
    ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1 F.W. 190 destoyed by S/Lt. Laurent.
    OUR CASUALTIES:   NIL.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


CIRCUS 309 : 31/5/43.
    11 Spitfire IX H's of No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron with 611 Squadron with Cmdt. Mouchotte leading the Squadron and Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections were acting as high cover for bombers bombing Zeebrugge.
    The Squadron took off from Biggin Hill at 16.42 and set course for Bradwell Bay. Contact was made with the bombers and arrived over the target at 17.33 hrs at 17,000 feet. Friends were observed over Flushing where there was much flak. Flak from Zeebrugge was also very heavy and appeared to be reasonably accurate. More heavy flak from Ostend was being fired at the Kenley Wing who were observed going in above.
    4 enemy aircraft were seen just inland of the target, but they turned away and did not attack.
    The Wing returned with the bombers, leaving them 15 miles off the North Foreland reaching base at 18.15 hrs.
    The bombing results were not observed.
    Weather: High Cirrus cloud at about 25,000 feet, visibility good in all directions.

Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RODEO 225 : 01/6/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 11 Spitfire IX s led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 11.28 hrs and set course for Le Crotoy, where the coast was crossed at 12.00 hrs at 20,000 ft, continuing on a vector of 150ø for Abbeville.
    When just north of Abbeville, the Squadron was told to climb in order to intercept some Boche who were reported 10 miles ahead on a vector of 010ø. The Squadron had been on this vector for about two minutes when control reported that the Hun formation had been engaged by the Kenley Wing. The Squadron then opened up and flew to the assistance of Kenley arriving over the dog fight just as the last two Huns disappeared diving into cloud. The Sqaudron orbitted above Kenley and covered them on the way out, crossing the coast between Boulogne and Griz Nez at 21 - 25,000 ft, landing at base at 12.50 hrs. Light but very effective flak encountered at Abbeville.
    Weather: 7/10 cloud at 7,000 ft over France. Visibility good.
    Lt. Lafont returned at 11.54 with engine trouble and Sgt. Remlinger returned at 11.40 owing to trouble with his jettison tank.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RODEO 227 : 7/6/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron with 12 Spitfire IXs led by Commandant Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 11.06 hrs and set course for Pevensey Bay, where the English Coast was crossed. The Squadron continued at zero feet until half way across the Channel. Here the Squadron started to climb, crossing the French coast at 18,000ft., and still climbing, swept from to St. Pol, returning home on a reciprocal course without seeing either any Huns or even the ground owing to the thick haze with 7/10ths. cloud down to 1,000 ft. This Rodeo was most uninteresting and a complete waste of time as far as the Squadron was concerned, as under these conditions nobody would expect the enemy to leave their airfield.
    Red 3 - Asp. de Xasce - returned when half way over the Channel owing to trouble with his wind screen.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 86 : 10/6/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron and No. 611 Squadron were detailled to act as high cover to a force of 6 Mitchells bombing the electrical work at Langerbruge just north of Ghent.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX s, led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off at 17.57 from base and set course arriving just south of Knoche at 20,000 at 18.34. As the bombers were not seen the Wing continued on to the target which was reached at 18.41 hrs. Here the Squadron orbitted to port and turned back for Dunkirk. A few second later the bombers were sighted, the Squadron positioning themselves just behind and above. From here to about 10 miles north of Dunkirk, the bombers and escort were engaged from below mostly by various groups of enemy aircraft, No. 611 Squadron being engaged three times. Our Squadron remainded however about 1500 feet above 611 Squadron protecting their rear and was not envolved in any combats. Three of the bombers came back before reaching the target, one was shot down in flames over Ghent, another one crashing into the sea.
    Red 2's (Sgt. Bruno) main oxygen supply tube came apart when over Ghent at 20,000 ft. He lost consciousness, but happily regained control of his aircraft between 2-3000 ft. returning to Hawkinge at zero feet. The rest of the Squadron touched down at Biggin Hill at 19.35.
    It was considered by the majority taking part that this operation was extremely abortive and should never have been attempted in view of the unfavourable weather, extremly heavy haze up to 15,000 ft. being encountered, making vertical visibility practically impossible. In view of this the bombing had it been observed would not have been successful.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 87 : 11/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as high Cover to 12 Bostons bombing the electrical plant at Gesnay just south-west of Bethune.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IXs led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections and including Cmdt. Duperier as Red 3, took off from Biggin Hill at 12.59 and set course for Pevensey Bay where rendezvous was made with the bombers. The Squadron proceeded for 6 minutes at zero feet and then climbed to 16,000 feet crossing the French Coast just south of Le Touquet. A course was then set for the target and when over St. Omer some quite intense flak was experienced at the same height. On reaching the target just behind the bombers, the Squadron turned hard to port and escorted them back over Gravelines, leaving them in midchannel in order to return to base which was reached at 14.20 hrs.
    Two layers of heavy haze were encountered over most of North France the gap in between extending from 7 -16,000 ft. The bombing was not observed nor were any Boche aroused by the operation. Blue 4 (Sgt. Guinamard) had trouble with his R/T when 10 miles west of Bethune and came back with Blue 3 (S/Lt. Bougune) escorting him.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RODEO 229 : 11/6/43.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX led by Cmdt. Mouchotte who was also leading the Biggin Hill Wing, with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Beggin Hill at 16.00 hrs and set course in a slow climb for Cayeux crossing Hasting at 12,000 ft.
    Arriving at Cayeux at 16.25 at 24,000 feet they carried on to the south of Abbeville and then turned to port on a course of 060ø as far as St. Pol. A few seconds afterwards, No. 611 Squadron saw 12 Boche going south below them; 611 Sqdn. turned to starboard and 341 Sqdn. to port and dived to attack. The Wing became split up, 611 Sqdn. climbed again quickly 341 Sqdn. following them, and set course for home crossing out at 18,000 ft.at Berck. Halfway over the Channel, Control gave 12 Boche going northwards 25 miles west of Le Touquet. The Squadron turned but saw nothing and came back over Hastings at 7000 feet to base arriving at 17.15 hrs.
    Red 2 S/Lt. Farman returned early, his oil pressure having become dangerously low.
    Weather: Clear over Channel - 6/10 cloud at 8,000 ft. Medium haze over Northern France.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 92 : 12/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing was detailled to act as High Cover to a force of 12 Bostons bombing Grande Quevilly.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IXs led by Cmdt. Mouchotte who was also leading the Biggin Hill Wing, with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections took off from base at 18.47 hrs and set course for Newhaven at zero feet were rendezvous was made with the bombers at 19.03 hrs. They set course in a slow climb over the Channel, arriving over the target behind the bombers at 19,000 ft., seeing bursts in the Seine, on the quay, and 3-4 miles east of the target but nothing on the factory. They then followed the bombers out to fecampwho were attracting a fair amount of flak but with no results. Theu set course for Beachy Head, when control gave Boche going north 18 miles west of St. Valery en Caux. The Squadron orbitted to port but the aircraft were then given as friendly so they continued home, crossing at beachy Head at 12,000 ft arriving at base at 20.15 hrs.
    Red 2 Asp. Buiron returned to base early, being unable to rerelease his jettison tank when over the Channel.
    Weather: visibility good, no cloud, no haze.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 93 : 13/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as high cover to a force of 12 Bostons bombing the Electrical Power Plant and Coke Ovens at Gosnay, south west of Bethune.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 11 Spitfire IX H's led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 09.44 hrs and set course at zero feet for Pevensey Bay where rendezvous was made with the bombers at 09.55 hrs. Here a course was set to a point 4 miles south of Le Touquet, the Squadron climbing over the Channel. The coast was crossed about the aformentined place at 10.12 hrs at 14,000 ft. Continuing on to the target still climbing, the Squadron were led by the bombers towards Lille, the above-mentioned target appearing to be ignored. When over Douai at 19,000 ft. the bombers and escort were seen to turn west and start going due north. When over Lille/Vendeville aerodrome at 10.34 hrs, 30 F.W.190 where seen in 3 waves of 10 to be taking off. No bombing was observed although the weather was perfect, the Squadron coming back 15 miles east of Dunkirk landing at base at 11.15 hrs.
    Weather: Visibility excellent in all directions. 5/10 cloud at 5,000 feet.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 94 : 13/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as High Cover to a force of 12 Bostons bombing Abbeville airfield.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 11 Spitfire IX's, led by Capt. Martell with Commandant R. Mouchotte flying as his No. 2 with Lt. Roos and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 13.49 hrs and set course for Pevensey Bay at zero feet. A third of the way over the Channel, the Squadron started to climb crossing the French coast at Le Crotoy. The Squadron then swept Abbeville/St. Pol after climbing to 22,000 feet. Returning to Abbeville a course was set for Hesdin and then to Desvres, coming out just south of Boulogne.
    One two master grain carrier type ship and three possible flak ships were observed in Boulogne Harbour.
    The Squadron returned via Povensey Bay to base which was reached at 15.15 hrs after an uninteresting and uneventful outing.
    Weather: 5/10 cloud at 5,000 feet - visibility good.
    Yellow 2 (S/Chef Gallay) came back just after take off though being unable to retract one of his wheels.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Pilot Officier, Intelligence Officier
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 95 : 15/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as high cover to a force of 40 Fortresses bombing Abbeville airfield.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 11 Spitfire IX's with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 07.35 hrs and set course in a climb for Beachy Head. No sign of the bombers being seen, the Squadron proceeded still climbing to fecamp. Here the Squadron orbitted three times and on receiving information that the bombers were not coming set course for home coming back on the reciprocal, reaching base at 08.50 hrs.
    Weather: 9/10 cloud at varying heights from 1,000 feet with top cumulus cloud at 27,000 feet. Horizontal visibility excellent. Bombing would have been impossible.

Pilot Officier, Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


CIRCUS 311 : 17/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as High Cover to a force of 12 Bostons bombing the Shell Oil Plant at Flushing.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX's led by Commandant Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 09.40 hrs and set course for Clacton at zero feet, where rendezvous was made with the bombers. Here, course was set in a slow climb for Flushing. On approaching the Dutch coast, the bombers turned round on account of the weather and set course for the N. Foreland. The Squadron accompanied the bombers down to sea level and returned to base at 1010 hrs.
    The weather was hopelessly bad, even from Clacton. From 15 miles off Clacton, there was small layers of cloud, steadily incresing from 2,000 to 15,000 feet forming heavy cumulus cloud over Walchern, the target being completely obscured. The heavy haze at Clacton also made the rendezvous a highly dangerous operation.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Pilot Officier, Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


CIRCUS 313 : 20/6/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as High Cover to a force of 12 Bostons bombing Abbeville airfield.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 10 Spitfire IX's - led by Commandant Mouchotte withy Capt. Martell and capt. Boudier leading yellow and Blue Sections, took off from base at 12.35 hrs and set course for Bexhill at zero feet. After 6 mins. flying over the channel, the Squadron flew directly to Abbeville in a slow climb. A layer of 10/10 cloud at 16,000 ft. prevented the Squadron from reaching higher altitude.
    Bombing was observed on the runway and on one dispersal point the Squadron returning with the bombers after a very uneventful passage, no enemy aircraft being seen or engaged.
    Weather: No cloud over Channel - 10/10 cloud over the target at 16,000 feet - visibility excellent.
    S/Chef Gallay (Red 2) did not take off owing to burst tyre on take off. S/Lt. Mailfert (Red 3) returned 10 minutes after leaving base owing to the loss of his jettison tank.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Pilot Officier, Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Biggin Hill

RAMROD 99 : 22/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as escort to a force of Fortresses in 5 boxes of 20 each bombing an industrial target in the Rhuhr, the Wing providing cover from Sliedrecht, N.E. of Dordrecht on the return journey.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX's - led by Commandant Mouchotte with Commandant Duperier flying as Red 3 and Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill for Manston at 06.00, having been briefed at 05.30 hrs; here the crews had breakfast whilst the machines were refuelled. Taking off from Manston at 09.35 hrs., the squadron set course for Sliedritch in a slow climb arriving there at 10.20 at 20,000 feet. The Fortresses were picked up in this position and the Squadron positioned itself on the port flank of the front half of the bombers. Many enemy aircraft flying in ones up to half of dozen strong attempted to attack the bombers, but when the Spitfires turned on them they dived away into France.
    Commandant Duperier returning home fired two bursts at a FW190 seeing strickes. No large formation of enemy aircraft were seen near the bombers, but one wes seen well above and appeared to be engaged by the top wings. The whole Squadron remained, although split up in fours and twos, with the bombers until they crossed the English coast at Orfordness. Only one enemy aircraft was seen to fire at the bombers from the time they were picked up, but there may have been others due to the large area covered by the bombers. When about 20 miles off the Dutch coast a formation appeared about 27,000 feet and it was thought they were friendly. However, large splashes were seen in the sea and it is thought that the formation may have been Focke Wulfes dropping bombs, although at the same time they could have been Fortresses jettisoning bombs. It was no thought that they were actually Fortresses hitting the water, though one was seen to force land on the sea because no parachutes were seen. The Squadron landed at Biggin Hill at 11.25 hrs.
    Weather: Over France high scattered cloud. Visibility very good.
    The Spectacle provided by the numerous Fighter Wings protecting the bombers was one of the most inspiring yet witnessed by the Sqadron since operating in 11 Group.
    ENEMY CASULATIES: 1 FW190 damaged by Cmdt. Duperier.
    OUR CASULATIES:   NIL.
    Red 2 (Sgt/Chef Gallay) returned soon after leaving Manston with a leak in his petrol tank.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Offcier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Biggin Hill.


CIRCUS 314 22/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as High Cover to a force of 12 Venturas bombing Abbeville aerodrome. No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron twelves Spitfire IX's led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 15.50 hrs and set course for Pevensey bay were rendezvous with the bombers was made at zero feet. Climbing slowly towards the target which was reached in front of the bombers. The Squadron went slightly further inland in order to cover the bombers after their run in. Eight bomb burst were observed on the east perimeter and five on the N.E. dispersal points. On the way home one was seen to explose 10 miles north of Abbeville, having been hit by flak. Five small boats were also noticed in the harbour of Boulogne, the height being too great to ascertain their identity. Base was reached at 17.10 hrs without Squadron seeing any enemu aircraft or being trouble by flak.
    Weather: Clear, visibility good, 4/10 high cirrus.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.

RAMROD 100 : 23/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as High Cover to a force of 12 Bostons bombing Abbeville airfield. This was a diversionary sweep to a major raid by two strong forces of Fortresses bombing Le Mans and Brest.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfires IX's - led by Commandant Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 17.05 hrs and set course for Pevensey Bay were rendezvous was made with the bombers at zero feet. Course was then set for 10 miles west of Le Touquet, the Squadron taking up position on the starboard side of the bombers. The French coast was crossed at 17.35 hrs at 9,000 on a course direct to Abbeville. It was noticed that the bombers were quite a bit south of their course, and when at 15.47 hrs, the target time, they turned north evidently still seeking the target.
    No bombing results were seen, nor is it known weather the bombers eventually reached the target or not. At the point where the bombers turned about, a formation of about 12 E/A was seen above the Squadron into sun. This formation did not attack until the Squadron had turned, when it dived down below the Squadron which broke to engage, but the Huns dived away and the Squadron reformed. From this point out to the Coast, many E/A operating from single aircraft up to fours endeavoured to attack but were engaged and immediatly dived away. The Squadron crossed out from French coast at Berck at 18.05 hrs still in position behind the bombers and escort and accompanied the bombers back to the English coast.
    Weather: Over France, visibility excellent - 4/10 cloud at
            about 5,000 feet.
    NOTE: Two 109Fs seen with tanks three quarters from wing root protuding beyong leading and trailing edge of both wings.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 103 : 24/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were noting as high cover to a force of 12 Bostons bombing the airfield at St. Omer.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 11 Spitfire IX H's - led by Commandant Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 11.16 hrs and set course for Bradwell Bay where rendezvous was made with the bombers at zero feet. Here the Squadron flew with the main body to 4 miles N.E. Gravelines in a low climb. Arriving over the target at 21,000 feet, no sign was seen of the bombers or any bombing at this point, it being the opinion of the majority that the bombers had lost the target and were searching for about 10 miles to north. Soon afterwards the Squadron picked up the bombers on the way home and escorted them back over Gravellines, only leaving them three quarters of the way over the Channel, arriving back base at 12.42 hrs.
    Red - Sgt Marquis - had trouble with his fjettison tank and returned approx. 5 mins after take off.
Blue 4 - S/Lt Borne - had engine trouble and came back when over the Channel.
    Weather : - Clear over the Channel, slight haze over the target area, visibility good.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 106 : 24/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing was detailled to set as hight cover to a force of bombers from N…. 2 Group bombing the Electrical Power Station at Yanville on the bend of the Seine, West of Rouen.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 10 Spitfire IX H's - led by Commandant Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 16.50 hrs and set course for Newhaven where R/V was made with the bombers at zero feet at 17.00 hrs. The Squadron proceeded at sea level for the next 9 mins then the formation started a gentle climb, the Squadron arriving slightly ahead of the bombers over the target. Turning to cover their run in, one stick of bombs was observed to straddle the Power Station and another sitck of bombs falling in the wood near the railway line about 150 yards from the target. On the return journey, which was made on the reciprocal course, no E/A were seen or any incident of mark observed, base being reached at 18.05 hrs.
    Weather : - Slight haze over France, visibility good, no
              cloud.
    Yellow 4 - S/Chef Leguie - returned when near to the French coast due to engine cutting very badly.
     Blue 3 - Lt. Pabiot - returned about the same time as Blue 3 due to trouble with his jettison tank and his R/T being U/S.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 102 : 24/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as high cover to a force of 12 Venturas bombing the petrol installations at Flushing.
    No. 341 (F.F.) squadron - 12 Spitfire IX H's led by Commandant Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 07.46 hrs and set course for Bradwell Bay where rendezvous was made with the bombersat zero feet. Continuing at sea level for 9 mins with the bombers, the Squadron climbed at 21,000 feet, reaching the target erea slightly in front of the bombers in order to cover their retreat. Heavy flak was experienced over the target erea, the bombing appearing to be very good indeed.
    On the way home to the north of Foreland, 15 'E' boats in three lines were observed travelling N.E. 5 miles off in a westerly direction of Walcheren Island.
    No EA were slighted by the Squadron and after an uneventful passage, base was reached at 09.20 hrs.
    Weather : - No cloud over Holland - Visibility good.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 107 : 25/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as First Fighter Sweep to a force of bombers from 83 Group who were bombing main hangar at Caen airfield.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX H's - led by Commandant Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing, with Commandant Duperier flying as Red 3 and capt. Martell and S/Lt. Bouguen at the head of Yellow and Blue section, took off from Biggin Hill at 13.56 hrs and set course direct for Caen on a vector of 198ø. Staying at zero feet until 14.23, the Squadron arrived slightly to the west of Caen and then turned hard to port sweeping over Lisieux at 20,000 feet and then on to Fecamp where the French coast was crossed about the same hight. Going into a gentle dive, the Squadron crossed the Channel uneventfully reaching base at 15.36 hrs. No E/A were seen or any shipping.
    Weather : - Slight haze over France - no cloud over the Channel or target erea - visibility good.
    Red 3 - Cmdt. Duperier - returned owing to trouble with his electrical circuit.
    Yellow 4 - Sgt Merage - also returned having difficulty with his jettisonable tank.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Offcier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Sation, Biggin Hill.

RAMROD 108 : 26/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as high cover to a force of 12 Bostons bombing Abbeville aerodrome from 12,000 feet.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 11 Spitfire IX H's led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 16.30 hrs and set course for Dungeness where rendezvous was made with the bombers at zero feet at 16.45 hrs. Proceeding at sea level for 7 minutes the squadron started to climb arriving at a point 10 miles west of Cayeux where direct course for Abbeville aerodrome was taken.  Coming out of the target area after the Bostons, the Squadron was given several vectors by control over the coastal area, but each time the Huns was unwilling to engage. The Squadron eventually set course for base which was reached at 18.00 hrs.
    Blue 4 (F/Sgt. Guinamard) did not take off through being unable to close his cockpit door.
    Weather - visibility good - slight haze over France. Scattered cloud over channel, clear over France.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 113 : 28/6/43.
    The Biggin Hill Squadron were detailled to act as escort of 2 boxes of 20 Fortresses, bombing the airfield at Beaumont le Roger.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire UX H's - led by W/Cmdr. A.L. Deere with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 16.55 hrs in a slow climb on a course direct to Beaumont le Roger. The bombers were picked up 10 miles N. of the French Coast and the Squadron positioned itself on the port side going in. Arriving over the target at 26,000 feet, good bombing was observed.
    On the way back, accurate flak was experienced up to 27,000 feet over Rouen, and just after, a formation of 100 enemy fighters were seen to be following just behind the bombers. They did not attack however, but turned back into France still in formation when reaching the coast. Their action was most extraordinary and quite unaccountable. The Squadron left the bombers in mid-channel and touched down at base at 18.33 hrs.
    Weather : - Haze up to 28.000 feet over the Channel and France.

Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 114 : 29/6/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as close escort to 20 Fortresses bombing the Tricqueville airfield.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 10 Spitfire IX H's - led by Commandant Mouchotte with Commandant Duperier and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 18.10 hrs in a slow climb for Tricqueville, making R/V with the bombers just after crossing the English channel. Positioning themselves on the port side of the bombers, who continued on for 7 mins. after the bombing time, then returned home owing to bad weather conditions, crossing the English coast at Beachy Head at 7,000 feet below another formation of Fortresses which was on its way out. Base was reached at 19.43 hrs after an uneventful and abortive outing owing to the cloud conditions which were 10/10 at 5 - 10,000 feet from miles off French coast right up to Paris where a slight break was evident.
    Commandnat Duperier (Yellow 1) returned when over the Channel owing to trouble with his jettisonable tank.

-ITEM OF INTEREST -

    Soon after crossing the French coast, the German Control ordered all their aircraft to land at once.

Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RODEO 241 : 6/7/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as first fighter sweep.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX H's - led by Commandant R. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 18.55 hrs and set course in a climb for Le Treport, crossing the French coast just south of Cayeaux at 23,000 feet at 19.30 hrs and continued to west of Amiens and then turned north towards St. Omer.
    Several Hun plots were given in this sector, but nothing was seen owing to 8/10th cloud which extended from the coast to well inland of Amiens. West of St. Omer, the Squadron turned to port coming out over Gris Nez at 25,000 feet owing to the other wings which were operating in this erea, the Wing Leader did not consider it advisable and return towards St. Omer, but continued in a shallow dive of the Channel, crossing Dungeness at 8,000 feet and landing at base at 20.20 hrs.
    Weather : - From the French Coast to west of Amiens - 8/10ths at 20,000 feet, clear beyong. Visibility good, no haze.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RODEO 242 : 7/7/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 11 Spitfire IX H - led by Cmdt. R. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from base at 12.45 hrs, and set course for Eastbourne at zero feet.
    Flying on a course of 170ø, the Squadron started to climb at 13.04 hrs, crossing the French coast at St. Valery at 18,000 feet. Still climbing, a sweep was made to Yvetote and over theSeine and coming out of France just north of Le Havre at 20,000 feet, landed at base at 14.00 hrs.
    Weather : - Clear over the Channel. French coast 4/10ths cloud increasing to 9/10ths inland at 26,000 feet. Visibility exellent.
    Red 2 (Asp. Buiron) lost his jettisonable tank soon after take off and returned to base.
    Blue 3 (Lt. Pabiot) also return through losing his jettisonable tank.
    Blue 2 (Asp. de Saxe) developed engine trouble over the Channel - his boost registering -2 and 3 and was accompanied back by Sgt. Clerc (Yellow 4) eventually landing at Friston.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Offcier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 127 : 9/7/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) and 485 Squadron were detailled to act as high cover to a force of 12 Mitchells bombing the marshalling yards at St. Omer.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 11 spitfire IX H's - led by Cmdt Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing with Capt. Martell and capt. Boudier at the head of yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 07.20 hrs and set course for Pevensey Bay were R/V was made with the bombers at zero feet.
    Climbing with the main gaggle, they crossed the French coast 4 miles north of Le Touquet at 16,000 feet and then continued on to St. Omer.
    The bombing appeared to be very bad, scattered burst being seen all round the target. Following the Mitchells out as far as Dunkirk, the Squadron turned to port and when 10 miles north ofMardyk turned again to port coming back to the west of St. Omer. Here, they were informed that friends were being engaged 20 milesto the south. The Sqadron continued south and made one orbit, butseing nothing, came back to Le Touquet which was crossed at 17,000 feet and then back to base, crossing the English coast at Hastings.
    Weather : - Clear over the Channel and Northern France.
              Visibility good - slight haze.
Blue 4 (Lt. Girardon) came back soon after take off though being unanble to close his hood.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 128 : 10/7/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron and No. 485 Squadron were acting as close escort to two boxes of Fortresses, 120 in each bombing the aerodrome of Villacoublay and Le Bourget.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX H with Cmdt. Mouchotte leading and Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 07.10 hrs and climbing directly on a course of 190ø made rendezvous with the 2nd box of bombers at 26,000 feet, 10 miles north of Fecamp at 07.44 hrs. Still climbing the Wing continued with the Fortresses until just beyong Evreux where the Wing Leader gave the order to return. As the wing was turning the Fortresses also turned and came back due to the bad weather conditions, there being 9 - 10/10 cloud stretching from the Frenc coast right beyong Evreux. The Squadron came back without the bombers crossing out at St. Valery and landing at base at 08.45 hrs. Weather 10/10 cloud over Northen France.
    Yellow 4 (Sgt. Remlinger) took off 4 minutes after the Squadron and proceeded to fecamp but being unable to make contact returned.
    Blue 3 (Lt. Pabiot) came back through lack of oxygen in his container.
    Blue 2 (F/Sgt. Leguie) also returned when over the Channel on account of illness.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RODEO 244 : 13/7/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX's - led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Cmdt. Duperier and capt. Boudier at the head of yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 08.30 hrs. and after one right hand orbit of the airfield, set course in a steady climb for Cayeux.
    The Mouth of the somme was crossed at 09.00 hrs at 23,000 feet, the Squadron sweeping Abbeville/St. Pol and back again to the Somme estuary. Here, the Squadron turned to port, and after flying along the coast as far as Dieppe, again turned northwards coming back to base at 10.00 hrs.
    Several Hun formations were out in the Amiens area, but nothing was seen by the Squadron.
    Weather : - 7-9/10ths cloud at 9,000 feet, visibility
               excellent.
    Red 2 (Asp. Buiron) came back when over the Somme owing to trouble in releasing his jettisonable tank.

T.S. Samnel
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 133 : 14/7/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) and 485 Squadrons were detailled to act as escort cover to a force of American Fortresses on Withdrawal from the Bombing of Le Bourget and Villacoublay airfields.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 spitfire IX's - led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 08.05 hrs, and set course in a slow climb to Bernay direct where the bombers were met at 08.43 hrs., the Squadron flying on the port and above the rear box of the bombers at 18,000 feet.
    From bernay homewards, many E/A came in to attack the bombers, some of which were successful in getting in and one which was shot down by a Fortresses.
    On account of the height at which the bombers were flying namely 13,000 feet, the Squadron were flying too high to be actually engaged in any of the combats. One straggler was escorted back to the English coast where the Squadron landed at various forward airfields owing to lack of petrol. Yellow Section put dwon at Tangmere and Red Section, with the exception of Red 2 (S/Lt Mailfert) who landed at Thorney Island, came down at Westhampnet and the Suqadron arrived back at base at 10.30 hrs.
    Weather : South of caen - clear, N. france and iland 9/10ths cloud. Visibility - good.
        NOTE :
            Out of the whole Squadron, Red 2 (S/Lt Mailfert) was the only pilot who managed to get through to his Intelligence Officier and inform him of his whereabouts on landing at Thorney Island, the poisition of the others being unknown for about 1/2 hr. thereby causing great distress at the Dispersal and the usual shambles at Ops., and headache at group.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 142 : 15/7/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to set as high cover to a force of 12 Bostons bombing Poix airfield.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squdron - 12 Spitfire IX H's - led by Cmdt. Mouchotte, who was also leading the Wing, with capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from base at 16.00 hrs for Rye, where R/V was made with the bombers at zero feet at 16.13 hrs.
    In mid-channel Cmdt. Mouchotte experienced oxygen trouble and handed over the Wing to capt. Boudier. The Wing positioned itself on the port side of the bombers and crossing North of Cayeux at 16.33 hrs at 10,000 feet, following the bombers to the target where the bombing results appeared to be good. The Squadron then turned to port and followed the bombers out.
    When over Abbeville, No. 485 Squadron were attacked by 15/20 F.W. 190's and on our Squadron coming to their assistance, the Huns dived away inland. The squadron crossed out over the Somme estuary at 15,000 feet at 17.00 hrs and reached base at 17.35 hrs.
    Weather : 2/10ths cloud at 30,000 feet, slight haze over France, clear over Channel - visibility good.
    Sgt Closterman (Yellow 2) was unuable to lower his undercarriage and crash landed at base. Aircraft cat. B - pilot unhurt.
    Lt. Lafont (Red 2) accompanied Cmdt. Mouchotte back from mid-channel.
    Asp. de Saxe (Red 3) cloud not drop his jettisonable tank when over the Channel and came back accompanied by Sgt Mathey.
    Yellow 4 (F/Sgt Bruno) turned back when approaching the French coast owing to engine trouble - his motor cutting several times.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RODEO 246 : 15/7/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX H's - led by Capt. Martell with Capt. Boudier and Lt. Bouguen at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 19.45 hrs on a direct course for Dieppe.
    The Squadron started climbing in mid-channel and crossing the French coast at 18,000 feet, sweeping round behind Abbeville and out at Hardelot. Two formations of Huns were reported to the south of Abbeville, but nothing was seen of them by the Squadron, the sweep being very uneventful.
    The Squadron came back over Boulogne where considerably accurate flak was encountered, eventually landing at base at 21.05 hrs.
    Weather : 1/10th cloud at 18,000 feet over France, clear over Channel. 8/10ths cloud from East Coast to base at 1,500 feet.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.


RAMROD 144 : 16/7/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as high cover to a force of 18 Marauders in three boxes of six, bombing the marshalling yards at Abbeville.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX - led by Cmdt. Mouchotte with Capt. Boudier and Capt. Martell at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from base at 19.23 hrs. and set course for Beachy Head where R/V was made with the bombers.
    The whole formation climbed over the Channel and crossed in over Cayeux, continuing south of Abbeville. When 20 miles inland of Cayeux, Cmdt. Mouchotte was unable to free his jettisonable tank and came back, handling the Squadron over to Capt. Boudier. At the same time, Red 2 (Asp. Buiron) accompanied Cmdt. Mouchotte home, also Red 3, whose release apparatus became frozen, Red 4 joining Blue Section.
    Coming out from the target, the squadron sighted a formation of aircraft above and blimbed to attack. This formation turned out to be friendly. Almost immediately afterwards, Capt. Boudier saw about 20 FW 190's immediatly below and ordered the Squadron to dive. In the general dog fight which followed, Capt. Boudier fired at several aircraft, damaging two. Blue 2 (S/Chef Guinamard) also damaged one, but both pilots were unanble to follow up the attack as they werecompelled to take evasive action, also to rejoin the Squadron who were in danger of becoming split up. The Squadron re-formed and having lost sight of the bombers, made its way out landing at base at 20.50 hrs.
    Weather : - Layers of 10/10ths cloud in area Gris Nez to berck. Inland - little cloud, visibility good.
    Cmdt. Mouchotte (Red 1) came back with tank trouble accompanied by Asp. Buiron (Red 2). Red 3 also returne with tank release gear frozen.
    Enemy casualties : - 3 FW 190 Damaged (Capt. Boudier 2,
                     S/Chef Guinamard - 1)
    NOTE : This was the first time that Marauders were used in daylight operations over France, and it was due to the quick intervention bu our Squadron that they were not attacked by the 20 FW which our Squadron dispersed.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F Station, Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 154 : 25/7/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as high cover to 18 Marauders bombing an industrial target just north of Ghent.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX B's led by Cmdt. Mouchotte, who was also leading the Wing, with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections respectively, took off from Biggin Hill at 10.30 hrs and landed at Bradwell Bay at 10.45 hrs.
    Here the planes were refuelled and after lunch the Wing took off again at 14.17 hrs, rendezvous was made with bombers at Orfordness. A direct course was set for Ghent, the bomberscliming to 12,000 feet, our Squadron stepping up to 16,000 ft.
    One quarter of the way over the North Sea, Cmdt Mouchotte's plane de.....d a seriuos glycol leak forcing him to turn back, Capt. Boudier taking over the Wing leadership. Capt. Martell was unable to drop his jettisonable tank and was also forced to return with Blue 2 (Sgt/Chef. Leguie) who was having difficulty with his boost. Lt. Farman took over Yellow Section.
    Inaccurate flak was experienced just before reaching target and a formation of 4 - 5 F.W.190's dived towards the bombers but broke away without attacking. A further 6 - 7 F.W.190's were seen going for the bombers just before they bombed, but these also broke away before reaching them. No bombing results were observed the Squadron coming back to Bradwell Bay at 16.00 hrs., returning to Biggin Hill at 20.00 hrs.
    Weather - heavy haze up to 15,000 feet - visibility good.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.


RAMROD 159 : 26/7/43.
    The Biggin Hill Wing were again acting as high cover to 18 Marauders bombing the aerodrome at St. Omer.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX B's led by Cmdt. Mouchotte, who was also leading the Wing, with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue respectively took off from base at 10.35 hrs and made rendezvous with the bombers at North Foreland at 12,000 feet. positioning themselves on the port side at 16,000 feet, the main gaggle flew over Mardyck and on to St. Omer. Bomb bursts were observed but owing to the heavy haze it was difficult to say where.
    Coming back the French coast was crossed just north of Dieppe where light flak was noticed at 11,000 feet. The Squadron eventually arriving at Biggin hill at 12.00 hours.
    Weather - heavy haze over the Channel and North france.
            6 - 10/10 cloud stretching from Dieppe inland at
            4000 feet.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,

RODEO 250 : 26/7/43.
    No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by Cmdt. Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections took off from the base at 15.58 and made rendezvous with Kenley at 300 feet above the aerodrome at 16.00 hrs.
    Placing the Squadron at the head of the two Wings, the Cmdt. led them in a gentle climb to Mardyck with was crossed at 16.31 at 17,000 feet. Still climbing the Squadron swept to Armentiers where the Squadron levelled out at 23,000 feet going north to Cassel. When north of St. Omer, the Squadron turned due south and swept from St. Omer to Fruges, turning starboard and coming out over Le Touquet touching down at base at 17.20 hours.
    Weather - heavy haze over France, vertical developement of cumulus at 28,000 feet, thin patches of cloud below visibility moderate.

T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.