Dernière mise à jour/ last updating: 22 janv. 2008 SOURCE Raymond de Philip
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Dernière mise à jour/ last updating: 22 janv. 2008 SOURCE Raymond de Philip |
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Turnhouse
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21/01/43
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19/03/43
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Biggin Hill
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19/03/43
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11/10/43
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Perranporth
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11/10/43
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08/03/44
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27/7/43 - 25/2/44
Disparition du Cdt Mouchotte
27/8/43
Plus
les 2 missions du 8/5/42 et du 23/8/42 au 340 Squadron
RAMROD 162 : 27/7/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was acting as high cover to a force
of 12 Venturas bombing the petrol installations and docks at Zeebruge.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66s led by Cmdt.
Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing, with Lt. Roos and Capt. Boudier
at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 10.45
hours and set course for Bradwell Bay where rendezvous was made with the
bombers.
Placing themselves above and to port of the main formation,
the Squadron climbed over Zeebruge and covering their withdrawl.
Owing to the heavy haze it was difficult to ascertain
the result but the bomb burst appeared to be well on the target erea.
No flak or enemy opposition was encountered on the way
in or out. Blue 1 (Capt. Boudier) saw a convoy of 15 ships both large and
small 10 miles off the coast to the south of Zeebruge going in a north east
direction.
Leaving the bombers at North Foreland the Squadron arrived
back at base at 12.15.
NOTE : it subsequently transpired that this convoy had
not been detected by any other aircraft or shipping which was rather remarkable
in view of the number of flighter sweeps and diversions around this area.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 164 ; 27/7/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as high cover
to a force of 18 Marauders bombing Tricqueville aerodrome from 11,000 feet.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfires IX 66S 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 17.45 hours and made rendezvous with the bombers at Beachy Head at
12,000 feet.
Placing themselves on the port side of the bombers, the
Squadron climbed to 14,000 feet on a direct course to Tricqueville. When
over the target the Squadron flew further to the south to cover their withdrawal
and coming up behind just after the bombing run saw burts amongst the trees
to the north west of the aerodrome. No bombing was observed on the aerodrome.
Turning right with the bombers, the main gaggle flew on
a westerly course, intending to come out at Trouville, when however 15 miles
south of Trouville, control reported a formation of 14 Huns coming up from
the south-east. Turning to port in order to get between the sun and the Huns,
the Squadron was called to the assistance of No. 485 Squadron who had been
engaged by the enemy formation.
Orbitting to port, the Squadron climbed to their assistance and a general
dog fight ensued at 21,000 feet. Cmdt. Mouchotte fired at a F.W.190 without
any observed results. His Number 2 (F/Sgt. Bruno) giving two quick bursts
on another F.W.190 which went down in a spin and was subsequently confirmed
as destroyed by this time Yellow Section were also engaged. Capt. Martell
(Yellow 1) shooting down two F.W.190s in quick succession, followed by his
Number 2 (Sgt. Clostermann) who also disposed of two more Huns.The engagement
lasted for about 8 minutes, the Cmdt. finally giving a rendezvous to the
wing above Trouville, where the Squadron reformed and returned to base passing
over Brighton at 9,000 feet and arriving at Biggin Hill at 19.15.
Weather - horizontal visibility 30 miles, slight haze
over France - no cloud.
Enemy casualties :
2 F.W.190.s destroyed by Capt. Martell,
2 F.W.190.s destroyed by Sgt. Clostermann,
1 F.W.190.s destroyed by F/Sgt. Bruno.
Our casualties : NIL.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD : 28/7/43.
The Squadron had previously moved to Bradwell Bay the
night before and on the morning of the 28th had again moved to Coltishall.
The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as high cover to 18 Bostons
bombing the Focke Wulf Factory at Amsterdam.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66s led by Cmdt.
Mouchotte who was also leading tthe Wing took off from Coltishall at 08.22
and rendezvous above the aerodrome with the bombers. Flying on a direct course
to Amsterdam at zero feet, the Squadron started to climb at 08.54 passing
over the Dutch coast at 17,000 feet.
Heavy flak was encountered over the target, bu no bombing
was observed.
Covering the withdrawal a formation of M.E.109's came
up behing but did not catch up with the main formation and only managed to
put a few machine gun bullets into S/Chef Galleys aircraft which was straggling
behind.
Cmdt. Mouchotte, Capt. Boudier, S/lt. Bouguen, and S/Chef
Bruno landed at Bradwell Bay, the rest of the Squadron landing at Coltishall
at 10.04.
Weather - slight haze, very little cloud, visibility
moderate.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 165 : 28/7/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as Free Lancers covering
the withdrawal of the third box of a formation of Fortresses returning from
Western Germany.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 10 Spitfires 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 Coltishall at 11.50
climbing from base on a direct course to a point 8 miles south of Amsterdam
where rendezvous had been arranged with the Fortresses at 12.32 hrs. When
half way accross the sea, control informed the Wing Leader that rendezvous
had been changed to Rotterdam.
Altering course the Squadron made contact with the bombers
and escorted them as far as the English Coast where they broke away and came
back to Biggin Hill landing at 13.10 hours. No enemy aircraft or flak were
seen.
Weather - slight haze, very little cloud, visibility moderate.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailed to act as high cover to a force of Maruaders
bombing the airfield of Tricqueville.
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 Biggin Hill at 18.30
hours and set course for Beachy Head arriving there at 18.45 hours.
After two minutes a formarion of bombers arrived and the
Squadron positioned itself above them. After flying for 2.30 minutes, the
Wing Leader noticed that the formation was flying on a course to Abbeville.
Shortly afterwards it was reported that the bombers formation for Tricqueville
was behind.
Returning and positioning itself above this fresh formation
which was ten minutes late at rendezvous, the Squadron proceeded to mid-channel
where the bombers turned back having insufficient fighter protection owing
to the fact that the remain escort had carried on with the first formation
of bombers and had not returned with the Biggin Hill Wing to pick up the
correct formation.
On instructions from control, the Squadron turned south
crossing 10 miles west of Dieppe sweeping over Duclair and Bolbec at 22,000
feet coming out at Fecamp returning to base at 20.00 hours. No enemy aircraft
was seen.
Weather : 3/10 cloud at 8,000 feet; Slight haze, horizontal
visibility 30 miles. Vertical visibility moderate.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 172 : 29/7/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as High cover
to a force of 21 Marauders bombing the airfield at Fort Rouge, St. Omer.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 11 Spitfire IX 66 - led by Cmdt.
Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing, with Cmdt. Duperier and Capt. Boudier
at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 17.55
hrs and R/V at the North Foreland at 12,000 feet.
Proceeding to the target via Mardycke, the Squadron covered
the withdrawal of the bombers and bomb bursts were observed amongst the trees
and woods surrounding the airfield. Light flak was encountered - 1 Marauder
going down in flames.
Following the bombers as far as Desvres, the Squadron
orbitted in order to catch up with 485 Sqdn, who had reported that Huns were
in the vicinity. On catching up with 485 Squadron, the Wing Leader asked
control if our friends were O.K. On being given the affirmative, the Squadron
turned south sweeping as far as Le Touquet and back again to St. Omer at
21,000 feet. Here a formation of Huns was reported by Control to be 50 miles
to N.E., continuing as far as Ypres, 20 unidentified aircraft were seen to
the East and 12 above. Climbing into sun, the Squadron lost slight of the
aircraft and came back to St. Omer continuing to Hazebrouck were an orbit
was made, finally coming out south of Dunkirk and crossing the English coast
at Deal, landing at base at 19.20 hrs.
Weather : Horizontal visibility unlimited, 2/10ths clod
in patches at 10,000 feet along coast, no cloud over target area, no haze.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 176 : 30/7/43.
The Biggin Hill Squadron were covering a force of 12 Mitchells
bombing the Electriacl Power Supply Plant at Yainville.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 11 Spitfire IX 66 led by Cmdt.
Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing, with Capt. Duperier and Capt. Boudier
at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 14.20
hrs in a straight climb for Newhaven where R/V was made with the bombers.
Proceeding with the main gaggle at 14,000 feet, the Squadron
drew slightly ahead to cover the withdrawal of the bombers over the target
area. Exellent bombing results were observed, being the best for many weeks.
Coming back on the reciprocal, Cmdt. Duperier saw 5 empty
barges and a sand dredger at Mailleraye, near the ferry at Candebec. No flak
or E/A were seen by the Squadron.
Weather : Haze over the Channel, visibility excellent.
No haze or cloud over France.
NOTE : It is to be hoped that this important Electrical
Power Plant at Yainville which supplies power for the Submarine Building
and Reapair Yards has definitely been put out of action as all bombs were
on the target.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 179 : 31/7/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was acting as high cover to 21 Marauders
bombing the aerodrome at Poix.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfires IX 66's led by Cmdt.
Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing with,Capt. Martel and Capt. Boudier
at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 10.45
hours in a climb for Bexhill where rendezvous was made with the bombers at
12,000 feet at 11.00 hours.
Continuing on a direct course to the target, the Squadron
went ahead of the bombers to cover their withdrawal observing bomb burst
all around the aerodrome but only one stick on the northern perimeter of
the aerodrome itself. One Marauder was seen to be hit by flak and blow up
and a Spitfire pilot was also seen to bale out.
Following the bombers back on the reciprocal course, the
Squadron landed at base at 12.05 hours.
Weather - visibility good - no cloud - haze over France.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 181 : 31/7/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was acting as high cover to a force
of Marauders bombing Triqueville aerodrome.
341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IXs 66 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 15.45
and set course for Beachy Head where rendezvous was made at 12,000 feet,
setting a direct course for Triqueville, the Squadron positionned itself
above and on the port side of the bombers. Going ahead just before reaching
the target, the Squadron drew ahead in order to cover the withdrawal.
The bombing was very bad indeed - burst being seen all
round the field and only one stick on the western perimeter.
Following the bombers out the Squadron went to the assistance
of 485 Squadron who were engaged with some Huns 20 miles south of Tricqueville.
Blue Section saw 20 enemy aircraft above but no engagement took place.
The Commandnat gave the order to get out as the other
Huns had dived away inland, and re-forming, Beachy Head was crossed at 10,000
ft., eventually landing at Biggin Hill at 17.15.
Weather : Haze up to 8,000 feet.
Visibility : Good, no cloud.
Yellow 2 - S/Lt. Laurent came back with motor trouble,
which was cutting intermittendly.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 184 : 2/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was detailled to act as high cover
to a force of 36 Marauders bombing Merville aerodrome.
341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX 66 led by Commandant
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 07.35 and
set course for North Foreland, where rendezvous was made with the bombers
at 12,000 feet, positioning itself above and to port side of the bombers
the Squadron drew ahead when over Merville in order to cover the Withdrawal
of the bombers.
The bombing appeared to be good and only light flak was
encountered. When going out over Hardelot, Control gave 80 Huns 10 miles
behind and on the same course. The squadron climbed but only saw some unidentified
aircraft in the distance.
One orbit was made in mid-channel, the Squadron eventually
crossing over Dungeness at 12,000 feet and arriving at Base at 08.50.
Weather : 3/10 cloud over France at 7,000 feet.
Visibility : Good. No haze.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 187 : 4/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were acting as high cover to a force
of 36 Marauders bombing the ship building yards at Le Trait.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX 66 - led by Cmdt.
Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing, with Cmdt. Duperier and Capt. Boudier
leading Yellow and Blue Sections respectively, took off from Biggin Hill
at 18.45 hrs and set course for Hastings where R/V was made with the bombers.
Placing themselves above and on the port side of the bombers,
the French coast was crossed at 20,000 feet. Whilst approaching Le Trait,
a formation of E/A was seen flying south west over Rouen but were unfortunately
lost sight of in cloud. The bombing itself appeared excellent. On the return
journey, the bombers were attacked by an unknown quantity of F.W. 190s who
attacked from cloud. These however were driven off by fighter cover; continuing
back on the reciprocal, the Squadron landed at base at 20.15 hrs.
Weather 6/10ths cloud from 7 - 10,000 feet in target area
extending far out into the Channel. Clear above and inland. Visibility good.
Yellow 3 (Capt. Martell) returned soon after taking off
with engine trouble.
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 190 : 8/8/43.
INTENTION - High cover to a force of 36 Marauders in 2
boxes of
18, bombing the airfied at Poix.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX 66 - led by Cmdt.
Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections
respectively, took off from Biggin Hill at 09.18 hrs and set course for Hasting
where R/V was made with the bombers at 12,000 feet.
Setting course for Poix, the Squadron flew on the port
side of the bombers, stepping itself up to 15,000 feet.
When south of Abbeville, the Wing Commander Flying asked
Control to recall the bombers owing to adverse weather conditions. When midway
on the return journey between Le Treport and Hastings, two larges splashes
were seen in the sea which was though to be the bombers jettisoning their
bombs.
No A/C or flak was encountered and the Squadron landed
at base at 10.30 hrs.
WEATHER - 5/10ths cloud over the Channel at 5,000 feet,
10/10ths cloud inland over France at 10,000 feet breaking very slightly towards
Calais.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 191 : 9/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were covering two boxes of 18 Marauders
each with the intention of bombing the Fort Rouge aerodrome at St. Omer.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 spitfire IX 66's led by W/Cdr.
Deere with Capt. Duperier and Lt. Bouguen leading Yellow and Blue Sections
took off from Biggin Hill at 18.30 hours and set course in a slow climb to
North Foreland where rendezvous was made with the bombers at 12,000 feet.
Setting course for Gravelines, the Squadron flew with the main gaggle stopping
itself up another 2,000 feet.
After crossing the French coast, the two boxes of bombers
became widely separated and a little further inland one box turned completely
away from the other, the Wing Leader detailling No. 485 Squadron to escort
the starboard box whilst our Squadron escorted the other. Reducing their
height in order to keep with the bombers as the other escorting wings were
also widely separated, the Sqdn. flew with this box far beyong the target
area. No bombing was observed and it is estimated that the other box had
penetrated as far as Lille.
No enemy aircraft were encountered bu No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
although one flak shell burst in the middle of our Sqdn. leaving powder marks
on Yellow 3 (S/Lt. Chevalier) plane.
Returning via Gravelines and Beachy Head, base was reached
at 20.08 hours.
Weather : - 6/10 cloud at 5,000 feet. Horizontal visibility
excellent.
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 196 : 12/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as high cover
to a force of 36 Marauders bombing the aerodrome at Poix.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by W/Cdr.
Deere with Capt. Martell and Lt. Bouguen at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections
took off from Biggin Hill at 10.15 hours and set course in a gentle climb
for Rye where rendezvous was made with the bombers at 10.30 at 12,000 feet.
Climbing up to 15,000 feet, the Squadron flew on with
the main gaggle as far as the target where a large orbit was made to cover
the bombing run and withdrawal. The bombing appeared very bad, most of the
bursts being observed in the fields in the S.W. corner of the aerodrome.
Inaccurate flak at 3,000 feet above was observed and no enemy aircraft were
encountered.
Coming home via Tocqueville and rye, the Squadron landed
at base at 11.35 hours.
Weather - visibility moderate, 4/10 cloud at 10,000 ft.
patches of high cirrus above.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Offcier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 197 : 12/8/43.
INTENTION : To cover the bombing of Poix Airfield by 36
Mitchelle
in two boxes of 18 each.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX 66 - led by W/Cmdr.
Deere with Capt. Martell and Sous/Lt. Bouguen at the head of Yellow and Blue
Sections respectively, took off from Biggin Hill at 17.45 hrs and set course
for Rye, where R/V was made with the bombers.
Shortly after crossing the French coast, the bombers turned
back, the Squadron remaining with them until within 15 miles of the French
coast. No. 485 Squadron had, however, turned back to investigate some other
aircraft which turned out to be friendly. No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron were also
turned back to investigate and assist No. 485 Squadron if necessary, orbitted
the Somme Estuary, coming back over Beachy Head and landing at base at 19.20
hrs.
It is not understood why the bombers did not carry on
the target which was clear.
Weather - Heavy haze over the Channel and Continent. 7/10ths
cloud from E. of Amiens stretching far inland. Visibility good above haze.
Red 3 (S/Lt. Farman) came back with his engine surging
badly when near the Somme Estuary accompanied by Red 4 (Sgt. Remlinger).
Blue 2 (Asp. Boucher) also returned owing to trouble with his jettisonable
tank.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 201 : 15/8/43.
MISSION : The Biggin Hill Wing was briefed as high cover
to 2 boxes of 18 Marauders each, who were endeavouring to bomb the airfields
at St. Omer.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX 66 - led by Commandant
Duperier assisted by his two Flight Commanders, Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier,
took off from Biggin Hill at 09.25 hrs and set course in a slow climb for
N. Foreland. After one orbit at 12,000 feet, contact was made with the bombers
and the whole force set course for the taget erea our Squadron being in its
usual position to the port of the bombers. Climbing at 17,000 feet, the French
Coast was crossed at Graveline, when the bombers started flying in an esterly
direction and when about 15/20 miles S.E. of Dunkirk, they turned right passing
10 miles E. of St. Omer, heading in the direction of the Somme Estuary. 10
miles N. of Frouges, the Marauders turned about and crossed out E. of Calais.
The Squadron did not see any bombing, and owing to the
tactics employed by the bombers, the escort and close escort were lost necessitating
the Biggin Hill wing to come down to 13,000 feet to fill dual rell escort
and high cover. Intensive flak was experienced over various part of the course.
Weather 3/10ths cloud at 5,000 feet gradually increasing
to 10/10ths in the Lille area. Visibility excellent.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 202 : 15/8/43.
The Wing was briefed as close escort to a Wing of 60 Fortresses
bombing Poix and Amiens airfields, half the bomb loadon each respectively.
This was part of a large scale operation comprising of 404 bombers of which
only 36 were Marauders and 8 Bomphoons, the rest being Fortresses, softening
up various Boshe airfields in Northern Occupied France.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfires IX (66) - led by
Cmdt. Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow
and Blue Sections respectively, took off from base at 18.45 hrs and set course
in a steady clim for Le Treport, where R/V was made with the Fortresses at
24,000 feet. Flying at the same heigh as the bombers and on the port side,
never approaching nearer than 3,000 yds., the Squadron had the pleasure of
observing fair results at Poix airfield, bomb burst being seen on houses
and huts on the E. and W. side of the airfield, but further on at Amiens
4 large fires with masses of flame amongst the hangars and dispersals with
D/A bombs dropped by the leading bombers explosing at odd intervals. On it
one solitary Huns was observed during the whole flight, the Fortresses and
escort returning unmolested - our Squadron touching down at 20.30 hrs.
Weather : - Clear, slight haze.
NOTE : The spectacle of the bombing was one of the finest
shows ever witnessed by the Squadron and the various accounts made whose
duty it was to remain behind green with envy at not being there.
The German radio in instructing
40 FW 190s to land at Poix just after the bombing, informed them to exercise
the greatest care as the airfield was in very bad state indeed.
Yellow 2 (Lt. Roos) and yellow 3 (Lt. Pabiot) came back
with engine cutting whilst running on the jettison tank. Red 4 (F/S. Gallay)
lost his jettisonable tank on take off and did not participate in the operation.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 203 : 16/8/43.
The Wing Commander Flying briefed the Wing as high cover
to 36 Marauders who were bombing the airfield at bernay.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cmdt. Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow
and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 10.30 hrs and R/V'd with
the bombers at 12,000 feet over Brighton and crossed the French coast directly
over Le Havre. The squadron then proceeded on to the target which was reached
five minutes late caused by the bombers altering course on one or two occasions.
Ine box of bombers dropped their bombs at least a mile
from the western side of the airfield, the other box bombing to the east
of the airfield. Some bombs fell on a hangar or dispersal causing a fire
which was still burning as the Wing crossed the French coast. The Wing then
passed on to the East of Tricqueville on the way back and observed the bombing
there which was good - one large fire still burning. Black smoke rising to
20,000 feet from Le Bourget Airfield, which had been bombed by 120 Fortresses
was also seen by the Squadron. No E/A were encountered.
Weather : Cloudless with haze at 22,000 feet visibility
excellent.
T.S Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 205 : 16/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was detailled to act as high cover
to a force of 36 Marauders bombing the airfield at Beaumont Le Roger.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cmdt. Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow
and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 16.15 hrs and R/V'd with
the bombers at 12,000 feet at Beachy Head. The bombers crossed West of St.
Valery, and after changing course four times for no apparent reason, proceeded
on the target area. The bombing appeared to be very scattered, one or two
burst being seen on the target. The Squadron then turned right and crossed
out over Trouville. 25 Huns were reported over the Somme and the Squadron
climbed to 22,000 feet but saw nothing. No flak encountered.
Blue 3 (Lt. Pabiot) came down at Westhampnet and Blue
2 (Lt. Girardon) returned when over mid channel owing to engine cutting while
running on jettison tank.
Weather : - Good, visibility excellent.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 206 : 17/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was briefed to act as high cover
to a force of 36 Marauders with the intention of bombing the airfield at
Bryas Sud.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cmdt. Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow
and Blue Sections, took off from base at 10.00 hrs and set course in a slow
climb for Dungeness where Wing orbitted at 15,000 feet in search of the bombers
who eventually turned up 10 minutes later over Beachy. Proceeding towards
Dungeness, the bombers sailed merrily along toward Dover, but when however,
over Deal one boxe turned sharp right while the other kept going ahead. Eventually
this box also turned right and set course for Le Touquet 15 miles behind
the others. The Squadron arrived over Le Touquet 20 minutes late.
Doing a general tour over Northern France, the Marauders
were in the vicinity of Arras 20 minutes later, shortly afterwards bombing
what appeared to be a small satallite field, but only about 15/20 bomb bursts
were observed. On the return journey in the Fruges area, the Squadron orbitted
to starboard to catch up with No. 485 Squadron, who had orbitted to port.
At this moment Blue Section saw 12 FW 190s 2,000 feet below going in to attack
the bombers. Shoutting to his Section Leader that he was going down, Blue
3 (Lt. Bouguen) fired a moderate burst from 400 yds dead astern on the last
Bosche seeing strickes on the fuselage and wing roots. The Hun turned over
on his back and dived away omitting large volumes of black smoke, the others
diving away also. Blue 3 was forced to break away as eight more Huns were
diving on him from behind. As they passed by he particularly noticed that
two of the aircraft were bearing Italian markings. About a minute later,
12 ME 109's dived on the Squadron from out of cloud, one getting on to the
tail of Red 4 (Sgt. Poirier) who was warned to break away, but was unfortunatly
seen to go down with white smoke coming from his engine, his motor most probably
having received a direct hit, the glycol leak causing the white smoke. The
squadron broke away and reforming crossed out over Le Touquet 20 miles behind
the bombers reaching base at 11.40 hrs.
Weather : 2/10ths cloud at 18,000 feet - Visibility good.
Yellow 2 (S/L Laurent) lost his tank on take off and had
to return and Blue 4 (Sgt Remlinger) had trouble with the supply pipe from
the jettisonable tank and returned also.
ENEMY CASUALTIES - 1 FW 190 probably destoyed by S/Lt Bouguen.
OUR CASUALTIES - 1 Spitfire IX (66) Sgt Poirier (Missing).
T.S. Samnel
Pilot Officier,
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
S E C R E T : 19/7/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing undertook a calibration flight over
Northern France under Appledore G.C.I. Control.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Capt. Boudier with Lt. Roos and Lt. Bouguen leading Yellow and Blue Sections
respectively, took of from base at 15.25 hrs and set course in a slow climb
for the North Foreland, arriving over the North Foreland at 17,000 feet,
the squadron still climbing to 24,000 feet sweeping over Dungeness, Amiens,
Ypres and back between Dunkirk and Calais where fairly accurate flak was
encountered, Red 2 (Lt Girardon) being hit in the oil tank by shrapnel.
The Squadron reached base at 17.05 hrs. No Huns were reported
by Control, the flight be most uneventful and rather tiring as the Squadron
flew at 240 I.A.S. all the time.
Weather:- Heavy haze over France, small patches of cloud,
visibility moderate.
Yellow 3 (S/Lt Chevalier) was unable to drop his jettisonable
tank and returned as did Blue 2 (S/Lt Borne) whose engine was cutting.
NOTE:- Red 4 (S/Chef Bruno) noticed that the airfield
Amiens Glisy was still heavily scarred by the bombardment of the Fortresses
three days ago.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 209 : 19/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as high cover
to a force of 36 Marauders bombing the aerodrome at Amiens Glisy.
341 Squadron - 12 Spitfires 66 led by Wing Commander Deere
with Capt. Martell and Comandant Mouchotte at the head of Yellow and Blue
Sections took off from base at 10.45 hours in a slow climb for Rye where
rendezvous was made with the bombers at 12,000 ft. setting course for the
target the Squadron passed over Le Touquet at 17,500 ft. proceeding to Amiens,
the bombers had just dropped their load with particularly good results, when
our Squadron were engaged with a formation of 15 to 20 FWs and ME109s. Blue
1 - Cmdt. Mouchotte in a head-on combat which he only broke off when about
15 yards away, probably destroyed a FW 190.
The Wing Leader ordered 341 Squadron to break off the
engagement and come up behing the bombers again. When about 15 miles West
of Amiens the Squadron was again engaged by a formation of FW190s and ME109s.
Capt. Boudier - Red 3 - firing first at a ME109, and later, head-on to a
FW190 damaging both of them. From this point outwards the Squadron was split
up in sections all of which were continually attacked by enemy aircraft coming
out of the sun. In these engagements Yellow 4 (S/Chef Bruno) had an A.P.
shell which passed clean through the cockpit, grazing his glove.
Red 4 - S/Lt Borne's plane was hit by a machine gun bullet
which travelled the length of the cockpit on the starboard side.
Blue 3 and 4 landed at Lympne and Shoreham. The rest of
the Squadron landing at Biggin Hill by 12.25 hrs.
Weather : thick haze at 18,000 ft.
7/10 cloud at 7,000 ft. in ereas North
of the Seine.
ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1 FW190 probably destroyed by Cmdt. Mouchotte
1 FW190 and 1 ME109 damaged by Capt. Boudier
OUR CASUALTIES: NIL.
NOTE: Blue 4 - S/Chef Girard passed within 100 yards of 2 FW190s and clearly
distinguished Italian markings of them.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 210 : 19/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was detailled to R/V with a formation
of 60 Fortresses and escort them back to the English coast.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) led by Cdt.
Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections,
took off from Biggin Hill and landed at Bradwell Bay where all aircraft were
refuelled. Leaving Bradwell Bay at 17.20 hrs, the Squadron climbed at 20,000
feet on a direct course to Brussels. When near Ghent however, some bombers
were sighted over Walchern Island, who turned out to be the Fortresses. Why
they were flying over this heavily defended flak area no one seems to know.
Changing course to come up with the bombers, the Squadron climbed to 23,000
feet and escorted the bombers back to the English coast, returning to Biggin
Hill at 18.50 hrs. 4 E/A were seen being chased by Spitfires north of Ghent.
Weather:-10/10ths cloud at 7,000 feet over N. France and
Belgium, breaking towards Holland.
Yellow 2 (S/Lt. Laurent), Yellow 3 (Lt. Roos), Yellow
4 (Asp. de Saxce) and Blue 4 (Adjt. Leguie) all returned with engine trouble,
their motors continually cutting. Blue 2 (S/Chef Guinamard) returned owing
to an oxygen leak.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RODEO 251 : 22/8/43.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cmdt. Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing, with Lt Roos and Lt. Bouguen
at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 14.35
hrs in a slow climb for Le Treport where French Coast was crossed at 24,000
feet. After two vectors had been given by Control, the squadron was informed
that a formation of Huns was north of Douai, 4,000 feet below, the Squadron
was then vectored S.W. to enable the Wing to come up on the port side. Blue
Section saw the enemy first and led the attack followed by Red and yellow
Sections. A number of dog fights ensued, the E/A diving down below cloud
which was 7/10ths, but we did not pursue them for this reason. During the
engagement, Blue 3 (Capt. Boudier) shot down 1 ME109 following him down and
seeing him crash in the Douai area. Cdt. Mouchotte got in a quick burst at
an ME109 which flew across at 350 yards, damaging the E/A in the motor and
around the cockpit. The guns of Blue 1 and 2 (Lt. Bouguen and Asp. Buiron)
jammed for some mysterious reason. Otherwise the total bag would have definitely
been increased.
The Squadron reformed and returned over Berck, no other
E/A being seen.
Weather: 7/10ths from 10/13,000 feet with some stratus
at 28,000 feet.
ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1 ME109 destroyed by Capt. Boudier,
1 ME109 damaged by Cdt. Mouchotte.
OUR CASUALTIES: NIL.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 212 : 22/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was briefed as high cover to a force
of 36 Marauders bombing the airfield at Beaumont Le Roger.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Capt. Martell with Lt. Roos and Lt. Bouguen leading Yellow and Blue Sections,
took off from Biggin Hill at 18.10 hrs in a slow climb for Shoreham. Capt.
Martell's aircraft developed propeller trouble necessitating his return to
base, Lt Bouguen taking over the Squadron and Blue Section becoming Red Section.
Rendezvousing with the bombers at 12,000 feet over Shoreham and positioning
themselves to starboard and when flying at 20,000 feet half way between the
French coast and Beaumont Le Roger, a large number of E/A were seen approching
from head on the same height. These turned out to be 40/50 FW 190s, many
of which were flying in sections of four in line astern. The E/A passed clean
through No. 485 Squadron who were below us, but our Squadron were able to
climb above and turn in behind them. A number of engagements took place in
which a further 15/20 E/A joined in from above. During the melee, Red 1 (Lt
Bouguen) got on to the tail od a FW 190 and firing all his ammunition practically
blew the aircraft to pieces the pilot of which, much to Lt Bouguens disgust,
saving himself by parachute. Asp. de Saxce sent another FW 190 crashing down
in flames.
Having lost the bombers, most Sections returned to base
independently, the last landing at 19.50 hrs.
Weather: 5/10ths cumulus cloud.
ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1 FW190 destroyed by Lt Bouguen,
1 FW190 destroyed by Asp. de Saxce.
OUR CASUALTIES: NIL.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RODEO 252 : 23/8/43.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by W/Cdr.
Deere with Lt. Roos and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections took
off from Biggin Hill at 16.50 hours in a climb for Le Crotoy, where the French
coast was passed at 17.20.
The Squadron swept St. Pol, Amiens and St. Omer crossing
out south of Boulogne at 17.45 hours. No enemy aircraft or any other activity
was seen, the Squadron flying at 24,000 feet throughout the sweep.
Weather: 3/10 cloud Pas de Calais increasing to 7/10 cloud
inland, about 7-10,000 feet. Visibility excellent.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 215 : 24/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailed to act as escort cover
to a force of 60 Fortresses bombing Evreux and Beaumont le Roger, our task
being to escort the Fortresses as far as Evreux only, other formations of
fighters taking over the escort at this point.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfires IX 66's led by Capt.
Martell with Cmdt. Duperier and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue
Sections took of from base at 17.55 hours and set course in a slow climb
for a point 4 miles west of Dieppe where rendezvous was made with the bombers,
our Squadron being then at 27,000 feet.
Flying on a direct course to Evreux two Squadrons of Thunderbolts
attacked the Squadron when just North of Rouen. Orbitting in a steep climb
the Squadron evaded any possible direct from attack and continued with the
bombers. No bombing results were observed, the Squadron returning to base
at 19.35 hours.
Weather: 7-8/10 cloud at 15,000 feet over the target area.
Visibility good.
Red 2 (Asp. Buiron) and Red 4 (Asp. de Saxce) did not
participate in the sweep owing to engine trouble. Asp. Boucher also lost
his tank and returned early. Blue 3 (Lt. Pabiot) when 30 miles inland in
France was unable to jettison his tank and returned accompanied by Blue 4
(S/Chef Guinamard).
NOTE: The unpardonable attack on the Squadron by the Thunderbolts
can only be explained by their inexperience and poor efforts at aircraft
recognition.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 15A: 25/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was detailled to act as high cover
to a force of 36 Marauders bombing the airfield at Tricqueville.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) led by Cdt.
Mouchotte with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections,
took off from base at 17.50 hrs and set course for Rye in a slow climb, where
R/V was made with the bombers at 12,000 feet. Placing themselves on the port
side of the bombers, the Squadron climbed to 18,000 feet. Arriving over the
target area, the Squadron then proceeded further south to cover the withdrawal.
Bomb bursts were observed on building on the S.W. corner
of the airfield. Flying on the starboard side of the bombers, the Squadron
broke off in mid-channel, reaching base at 19.35 hrs.
Weather: 6-8/10ths cloud at 12,000 feet, visibility good.
Red 3 (Asp. Buiron) and Red 4 (F/Sgt. Magrot) landed at
Ford on the way and thence came back to base.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 5 : 26/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were flying as high cover to a force
of 36 Marauders in two boxes of 18 bombing the aerodrome at Caen.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by Cmdt.
Mouchotte with Lt. Roos and Lt. Bouguen at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections
took off from base at 18.00 hours in a slow climb for Selsey Bill where rendezvous
wad made with the bombers at 12,000 feet.
Climbing to 18,000 feet, the Squadron stayed on the port
hand of the bombers until over the target area where excellent bombing result
were seen. One stick was seen to explode on a hangar in the S.W. corner,
another on the buildings on the eastern side and several straddling the N.E.
- S.W. runway.
Coming back on the starboard side of the bombers, the
Squadron broke away in mid-channel and returned to base at 19.30 hours. No
enemy aircraft were seen or anything unusual encountered.
Weather: 5-6/10 cloud over the target area, visibility
excellent.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD S.8 : 27/8/43. Disparition du Cdt Mouchotte
 
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as escort to the first box of 60 Fortresses bombing a target 4 miles north of the Marshalling Yards at St. Omer. In all 240 Fortresses were taking part in 4 boxes of 60, our Wing to cover the withdrawal of the first boxe and to come to the assistance of the other boxes if required. No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by Cmdt. Mouchotte who was also leading the Wing assisted by Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections respectively took off from Biggin Hill at 18.02 hours in a slow climb for Berck. Arriving over Berck at 15,000 feet at 18.26 hrs., the Squadron climbed to 20,000 feet and made contact with the bombers 10 miles to the south positioning themselves slightly above on the starboard side. The Squadron flew with the bombers to a point 5 miles N.W. of St. Pol where the whole formation turned to port on a direct course for the target. Halfway between St. Pol and St. Omer the Fortresses were attacked by several formation of FW 190's diving out of the sun. Breaking to meet these attacks which where coming mostly from behind, the Squadron became split up and a general melee followed which lasted for about 15 - 17 minutes. Cmdt. Mouchotte became separated from the Squadron and was last heard to say on the R/T "I am alone with the bomber". Nothing more was seen or heard of him. Sgt. Magrot (Blue 4) was seen going down in a dive with a FW 190 on his tail. In the meantime, S/Lt. Laurent (Blue 3) got three sharp bursts on 3 FW190's probably destroying one and damaging another; Capt. Boudier (Blue 1) got on the tail of another FW 190 and sent him crashing to the ground; Sgt. Clostermann (Red 2), who had lost his No. 1, found himself mixed up with about 8 FW190's and getting on the tail of one that was firing at 2 Spitfires fired all his ammunition at him eventually seeing him crash in flames; Asp. Buiron in another dog-fight managed to damage a further FW190. Several other pilots fired their guns and in particular F/Sgt Guinamard (Blue 2) who got in a long burst at a FW190 mainly using his machine guns. Unfortunately he saw no strickes although the Boche dived away as if he had been hit. Reforming as best they could the Squadron rejoined the bombers on the starboard side again climbing to 20,000 feet and passing out over Mardyck. Just after crossing the French coast orders were received to pancake at foward bases and leaving the bombers in mid-channel, the Squadron landed at Manston with the exeption of S/lt. Laurent (Blue 3) who landed at West Malling. The Sqdn. returned to Bigghin Hill at 20.20 hours. Bomb bursts were seen by several members of the Squadron but owing to the preoccupation caused by enemies continual attacks, it being estimated that 40 FW190's took part in the first attack, there being at one point in the negagement about 100+ attacking the bombers, no one had the slightest idea what the target was or what the bombs were hitting. Weather: 3/10 cloud at 7,000 feet. Visibility excellent. ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1 FW190 destroyed by Capt. Boudier, 1 FW190 destroyed by Sgt. Clostermann, 1 FW190 probably destoyed by S/Lt. Laurent, 1 FW190 damaged by S/Lt. Laurent, 1 FW190 damaged by Asp. Buiron. OUR CASUALTIES: 1 Spitfire IX 66 Cat.E. - Cmdt. Mouchotte missing, 1 Spitfire IX 66 Cat.E. - F/Sgt. Magrot missing. Lt. Bouguen (Blue 3) came back when over the Channel owing to boost trouble, his place being taken by the thirteenth aircraft (S/Lt. Laurent). Asp. de Saxce (Yellow 2) when landing at Manston tipped up and broke his propellor. T.S. Samnel P/O Intelligence Officier, No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
|
RAMROD 6 : 27/8/43.
Task : - High cover to two boxes of 18 Marauders bombing
the aerodrome at Poix.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by Wing
Commander Deere with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow
and Blue Sections took off from base at 07.40 hours in a slow climb for Dungeness
where rendezvous was made with the bombers at 14,000 feet.
Flying at altitude varying from 14,000 - 2,000 feet on
account of intense layers of cloud which rendered any attempt at formation
and cooperation highly dangerous, the Squadron arrived over Poix with the
bombers at 8,000 feet observing bomb bursts in the middle of the aerodrome
with one stick on a building on the eastern perimeter.
No flak or enemy reaction was encountered, the Squadron
accompanying the bombers back as far as mid-channel and returning to base
at 09.20 hours.
Weather : - Over France 10/10 cloud at 10-12,000 feet,
4/10 cloud at 5,000 feet. Visibility good.
Yellow 2 (S/Lt. Laurent) forced landed at New Ronney with
engine trouble. Blue 2 (Asp. Boucher) had trouble with his motor between
the Somme estuary and Poix which was continually cutting and came back early
with Sgt. Girard (Blue 4).
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 14 : 30/8/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailled to act as high cover
to a force of 24 Mitchell bombers bombing a target in a wood 4 miles north
of St. Omer.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
W/Cmdr. Deere with Capt. Martell and Cdt. Duperier at the head of Yellow
and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 18.30 hrs and set course
for Horne Bay where R/V was made with the bombers at 12,000 feet. Flying
above the bombers on a course to the target, the Squadron drew slightly ahead
to cover the withdrawal and were able to observe with accuracy any bombing
results being at 17/18,000 feet.
On the return journey to the N. Foreland a considerable
amount of flak was noticed in the Calais area, when half way over the Channal,
Blue 1 (Cdt. Duperier) saw an E/A which had joined up with Red Section and
was following then as they were orbitting to port. Leading his Section to
within 1500 yds, the E/A broke away in a steep climb and was lost by Blue
Section, having followed him in the direction of Ostend.
No further was encountered, the Squadron landing at base
at 19.45 hrs.
Weather: 5-6/10ths cloud at 8/12,000 ft., visibility
good.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD S 18 : 31/8/43.
The Wing was briefed to act as general high cover to a
mixed force of 72 Marauders and an unknown number of Mitchells and Venturas
bombing the forest of Hesdib, our Wing to act as a general free lance and
to cover the withdrawal of the Venturas who were bombing last, the Wing to
be controlled by a separate control.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cmdt. Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue
Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 17.15 hrs. and set course in a slow
climb to a point on the French coast between Berck and Le Touquet. Arriving
over the French coast at 20,000 feet the Squadron found 10/10ths cloud at
7,000 feet and after several vectors had been given by Control, the Squadron
became split up, crossing out separately, Blue Section landing at Biggin
Hill first, Yellow Section arriving via Dungeness and Blue Section via Dover,
all landing at base at 18.50 hours. Blue Section on the return journey saw
a box of Fortresses who had been bombing target in Holland.
Owing to the weather conditions the Squadron saw nothing
over France, not even the ground at any time and had not idea where they
were. No bombing results were observed at all and in most pilots opinion
the whole affair was completely abortive.
Weather: 10/10ths cloud, visibility above cloud excellent.
Cmdt. Duperier (Red 1) returned soon after take off through
stoppage in petrol pipe, the leadership of the Squadron being taken over
by Blue 1, Capt. Boudier.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 16 : 31/8/43.
The Wing was briefed as high cover to a force of 36 Marauders
bombing the power station at Mazingarbe.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 11 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cdt. Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow
and Blue Sections, took off from Biggin Hill in a slow climb for Dungeness
where R/V was made with the bombers. Setting course for the target, about
20 E/A flying in pairs attacked the bombers from 18,000 feet. The Squadron
broke up into Sections and warded off this attack, but were unable to engage.
Red 4 (Lt. Lents) was unfortunate in just being unable
to get behind a FW 190 as it was firing at Red 2 (Lt. Girardon) the Boches
breaking away very sharply. Lt. Girardon's plane was hit by an explosive
cannon shell in the wireless set and damaging elevators, also by an A.P.
shell in the right wing, diving out of control from 15,000 feet Lt. Girardon
righted his aircraft at 3,000 feet and alone with his R/T U/S the rear portion
of fuselage and controls badly damaged, brought his aircraft back to Lympone
in a manner which must be described as most laudible, since the area where
he was hit between St. Omer and St. Pol was infested by E/A and he would
have had no chance whatsoever had he been attacked.
Considerable flak was experienced over the target at 19,000
feet and no further attacks were made by E/A on the bombers on way home,
the Squadron landing at base at 08.10 hrs.
Weather: 5/10ths cloud at 7,000 feet - visibility good.
Red 2 (S/Lt. Farman) punctured his tail wheel whilst taxying
for take off and did not participate in the operation.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD S24 : 2/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was briefed as high cover to a force
of 36 Marauders in two boxes of 18 bombing the electrical power plant at
Mazingarbe.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
W/Cmdr. Deere with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue
Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 18.05 hrs and set course in a slow
climb for Dungeness where rendezvous was made with the bombers. Climbing
to 18,000 feet, the Squadron placed itself above and to port of the bombers
on a direct course for the target. When approaching the target area the Squadron
drew ahead in order to cover the withdrawal, and when S/W of the target on
an easterly course, a mixed formation of 15 FW190 and ME 109s flying at the
same level approaching the Squadron from the port side and about 15ø
from a head on attack. The Squadron turned sharply to port and dived on the
E/A who had by now also dived away. Following them down in a very steep dive
to 2,000 feet with 480 registered on the clock, Blue 3 (Lt. Bouguen) fired
a serie of short bursts at 400 yards range at a FW 190 seeing it crash into
the ground. Yellow 1 (Capt. Martell) also fired a 4 second burst at an ME
109, but unfortunately saw no results owing to the steep angle of his dive.
Yellow 2 (S/Lt. Laurent) however, saw two aircraft crash into the ground,
as did Lt. Bouguen and it is quite feasible that this second aircraft might
have been the Bosche that Capt. Martell fired at, although lack of evidence
at the moment did not justify a claim. Re-forming, the Squadron climbed and
accompanied the bombers back to mid-channel where the Squadron broke away,
landing at base at 19.30 hrs. The bombing appeared good, bomb bursts being
observed all round the power station and on it.
Weather: 5/10ths cloud at 20,000 ft, visibility excellent.
Blue 4 (S/Chef Guinamard) came back owing to oxygen trouble
and did not participate in the operation.
ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1 FW 190 destoyed by Lt. Bouguen.
OUR CASUALTIES: NIL.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 Squadron.
RAMROD S 26 : 3/9/43.
The Wing was acting as high cover to a force of 36 Marauders
bombing Beauvais.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) led by W/Cmdr
Deere with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue
Sections, took off from Biggin Hill at 08.25 hrs in a slow climb for Hastings
where R/V was made with the bombers at 08.40 hrs. Placing themselves on the
port side and slightly above the bombers at 18,000 feet the Squadron flew
without incident to the target where bomb bursts were observed on the east
and west dispersals also on the S/W corner of the airfield.
Returning with the bombers to within 10 miles of the English
coast on the starboard side, the squadron broke away, landing at base at
09.55 hrs.
Weather: Haze over France, 10/10ths cloud at 5,000 feet
N/W of Beauvais, elsewhere 2/10ths, visibility moderate.
Blue 3 (Lt. Bouguen) returned early owing to his de-icing
mixture overflowing.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD S 27 : 3/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was detailed to act as high cover
to a force of 24 Mitchells bombing the forest 8 miles N/W of St. Omer.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cdt. Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue
Sections, took off from base at 12.40 hrs and set course in a slow climb
for Dungeness, where R/V was made with the bombers. Climbing to 18,000 feet
the Squadron swept with the bombers over the target area crossing the French
coast 5 miles S. of Hardelot and continuing to 6 miles N/W of St. Pol. Owing
to the cloud formations - 10/10ths at 15,000 feet - no bombing was observed
or E/A seen, a Hornchurch Wing being the only aircraft seen.
Base was reached uneventfully after a very disappointing
outing.
Weather: 10/10ths cloud at 15,000 ft, visibility moderate.
Red 4 (S/Lt. Mailfert) returned soon after taking off
owing to his windsceen being obscured by oil. Soon after crossing the French
coast, Cdt. Duperier had trouble with his supercharger and came back with
Red 2, a Canadian Flight Lieutenant. Yellow 2 (S/Lt Laurent) and Yellow 4
(S/Chef Callay) and a spare man (S/Chef Leguie) also came back, the former
two having experienced trouble with their jettisonable tanks, the latters
engine continually cutting.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD S 29 : 4/9/43.
The Wing was again detailed to act as high cover to a
force of 18 Mitchells bombing the Marshalling Yards at Rouen.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) led by W/Cmdr.
Deere with Cdt. Duperier and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections,
took off from Biggin Hill at 08.35 hrs and set course for Beachy Head where
after one orbit had been made, rendezvous with the bombers below 500 feet.
Climbing gently over the Channel, the Squadron arrived over Fecamp at 17,000
feet, sweeping behind the target and covering the withdrawal of the bombers
after their run in. One stick of bombs was observed on the railway station
and another on the lines, other sticks falling in the town on the south bank
of the Seinne and one on the S/E corner of the town.
On the way out the Squadron lost slight of the bombers
just after crossing the coast east of Dieppe owing to heavy haze, base being
reached at 10.00 hrs., no E/A being seen.
Weather: Heavy haze, no cloud, visibility good above haze.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD S 30 : 4/9/43.
The Wing was acting as general high cover to a mixed force
of 24 Bostons, 18 Venturas and 18 Mitchells bombing shipping in Boulogne
harbourg, our Squadron to remain over the target area as high cover to cover
the last force of bombers.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cdt. Duperier with Lt. Roos and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections
took off from base at 13.50 hrs and set course in a slow climb for Boulogne,
where the French coast was crossed at 19,000 feet. Penetrating further inland
towards St Omer, the Squadron twice swept up and down in a N/S direction
between St. omer and Boulogne. Coming out behind the last force of bombers,
the Squadron turned away and swept over the mouth of the Somme penetrating
inland. Several plots of Huns were given by control bu no E/A was seen, the
Squadron returning to base at 15.20 hrs.
Bomb bursts were seen in and around the harbourg, but
the heigh (21,000 feet) forbade closer observation.
Weather: Visibility excellent, 3-4/10ths cloud at 5/10,000
feet.
Yellow 4 (Sgt Marquis) came back when over St. Omer owing
to trouble with his jettisonable tank accompanied by Yellow 3 (S/Lt. Laurent).
Red 1 on the return journey landed at 125 Airfield owing to lack of petrol.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 31 : 4/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was covering a force of 36 Marauders
bombing Courtrai.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cdt. Duperier with Lt. Roos and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections,
took off from Biggin Hill at 17.10 hrs, and after one orbit proceeded in
a gentle climb to the North Foreland where R/V was made with the bombers
at 17.30 hrs.
Positioning themselves above and to the port of the bombers,
the Squadron swept slightly ahead over the target area, but was unable to
see any bombing results with any degree of accuracy owing to ground haze.
One terrific explosion was observed, but wheather in the town or on the airfield
it is difficult to say. When half way back to the coast Red 1 (Cdt. Duperier)
warned No. 485 Sqdn. of a formation of ME 109s who, however, climbed into
the sun and dived between the two Squadron, 485 Squadron following them down
to the deck, but eventually losing them. Our Squadron continued with the
bombers as far as the coast, sweeping the target area without seeing E/A,
returning to base at 18.40 hrs.
Weather: Heavy ground haze, visibility moderate, small
amounts of high cirrus.
NOTE: F/Lt. Wood, a canadian, flew as Red 2 in this operation.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 33 : 5/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was detailled to act as high cover
to a force of 36 Marauders bombing Courtrai.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
W/Cmdr Deer with Capt. Martell and Cdt. Duperier leading Yellow and Blue
Sections took off from base at 07.45 hrs in a slow climb for Deal where R/V
was made with the bombers at 12,000 feet at 08.05 hrs. Placing themselves
to theport of the bombers, the Squadron climbed to 17,000 feet passing over
Furnes and when 5 miles N/E of Courtrai turned right, coming up behind the
bombers on their run in, well grouped bursts being seen on the E. and W.
of the airfield.
On the way home, one bomber was seen to unload its bombs
in the sea just off Dunkirk, at this point 6 E/A were sighted diving down
behind the bombers, our Squadron gave chase, but the Boche abandoned and
turning back into France. Another formation of E/A were seen in the Ostend
area but were too far away to engage. After investigating several other formations
of aircraft which turned out to be friendly, the Squadron came back over
the North Foreland landing at base at 09.25 hrs.
Wether : Slight mist on ground, 7/10ths light Alto Stratus
at 20,000 feet.
Blue 4 (S/Chef Girard) landed at Manston and after refuelling
came back to base.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD S 35 : 6/9/43.
The Wing was detailled to act as high cover to a force
of 72 Marauders bombing the marshalling yards at Rouen.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cdt. Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow
and Blue Sections, took off from base at 06.50 hrs in a slow climb for Shoreham
where R/V was made with the bombers at 12,000 feet, climbing to 18,000 feet,
the Squadron passed over the French coast over Fecamp. Coming round behind
Rouen, bomb bursts were observed on the railway yard, two bursts on the quay
on the south bank of the Seinne and two more bursts near the south end of
the railway bridge over the Seinne.
The Squadron accompanied the bombers back over the same
route, breaking off near the coast, reaching base at 08.30. No E/A was seen
or anything unusual worth while reporting.
Weather : Slight haze on ground, visibility good, small
amount of cloud at 800 feet.
Blue 1 (Capt. Boudier) came back after take off with an
oil leak, Red 2 (Asp. Buiron) and Yellow 4 (S/Chef Bruno) also came back
with surging troubles. Blue 4 (Asp. Boucher) when just approaching the Seinne
was also forced to return with his engine surging.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD S 35 (Pt. 2.) : 6/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were detailed to meet a force of
140 Fortresses 10 miles S.W. of Bernay on their return journay from the bombardment
of Stuttgart.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfires IX 66's, led by
Cmdt. Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow
and Blue Sections took off from Biggin Hill at 11.25 in a slow climb for
Bernay. The Squadron arrived at 20,000 feet to the south of Bernay at 11.52
and being five minutes ahead of time made two large orbit. A formation of
Fortresses was seen fifty miles to the east which eventually crossed out
over Fecamp; our box then came up on the horizon, the Squadron placing themselves
behing and below at 17,000 feet, there being only 59 Fortresses in all.
Before making contact with the bombers 4 enemy aircraft
were seen to be above the Fortresses but these made off on our approach.
Escorting the bombers over Pont L'Eveque, the whole gaggle crossed out over
Trouville, our Squadron leaving them at Selsey Bill landing at base at 13.15
hours.
The Fortresses were badly split up on their return journey
some flying in pairs and single in all directions. Five landed at Biggin
Hill and informed the Squadron Intelligence Officier that the view of the
Alps was magnificient and that 5 Fortresses were seen going in the direction
of Switserland, one even crashing into Lake Constance.
Weather : 2/10 cloud at 3,000 feet; Visibility good.
Yellow 4 (Lt. Lents) returned soon after take off having
trouble with his jettison tank.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 36 : 6/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was briefed to act as high cover
to a force of 72 Marauders bombing the Marshalling Yards at St. Serqueux.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfires IX 66's led by W/Cdr.
Deere with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue
Sections, and Cmdt. Duperier flying Red 3 took off from Biggin Hill at 17.15
hrs in a slow climb for Beachy Head where rendezvous was made with the bombers
at 12,000 feet at 17.30 hours. Setting course for the target, the whole formation
crossed the French coast our Squadron flying at 17,000 feet. When however
20 miles inland, the Wing Commander's motor stopped and he glided down inland
preparing to make a forced landing, the motor, however, picked up at about
7,000 feet. This accident caused the two Squadron to become separated our
Squadron reformed and climbing up to 18,000 feet rejoined the bombers who
were just turning away from the target after bombing.
Almost at the same moment about 20 ME 109's jumped on
us out of the sun coming down in relays of 4 and 6; owing to their high speed
and their top cover, it was pratically impossible for anyone to get in a
shot at these aircraft, although No. 485 Squadron followed them down, their
C.O. S/Ldr. Checkette shooting one down in flames but being himself shot
down in turn. He was seen to bale out successfully at about 7,000 feet.
No enemy aircraft molested the bombers, the squadron returning
back over the channel with them, breaking off just before the ENglish coast
reaching base at 18.50 hours.
Just at the start of the enemu's attack, Red 2 (S/Chef
Girard) saw a hun explode in mid-air. Red 3 (Cmdt. Duperier) also seing another
Hun going down in a vertical spin.
Weather : 2/10 cloud at 3,000 feet. Visibility good.
Yellow 3 (Lt. Roos) came back soon after taking off with
an oil leak.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD S 38 : 7/9/43.
Task : High cover to a force of 72 Marauders bombing aerodrome
at St. Pol.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron led by Cmdt. Duperier with Capt.
Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections, took off
from Biggin Hill at 08.05 hours in a slow climb for Pevensey Bay where rendezvous
was made with the bombers at 08.20 hours.
Climbing to 18,000 feet, the Squadron placed themselves
on the port side of the bombers and passing over Berck and 10 miles south
of St. Pol, the Squadron covered the withdrawal after the bombu=ing run,
recrossing the French coast at Le Touquet coming back to base after breaking
off from the bombers in mid channel at 09.35.
Norrholt who were acting as top cover would insist on
coming down top of our Squadron and restricting the manoeuvreability of our
boys. (Several pilots complained of these polish airmen who must have felt
a bit cold on top and came down (for a warm))(*).
Weather : 9/10 cloud at 6,000 feet over the Channel. Heavy
haze over France. Slight altostratus. Visibility moderate.
Blue 4 (S/Chef Guinamard) came back soon after take off
with engine trouble.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
(*) Do not insert this in 541. (Ecris … la main).
RAMROD S 42 : 8/9/43.
The Wing was briefed to act as high cover to a mixed force
of Mitchells. Marauders and Venturas bombing gun emplacements on the coastline
in the Boulogne area, our specific duty being to cover the bombing of 18
Mitchells of a large factory situated at the shore end of the northern breakwater
at Boulogne.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cdt. Duperier, 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 17.15
hrs in a slow climb to a point 10 miles inland of Boulogne and slightly to
the north. Arriving over the Boulogne area at 18,000 feet, the Squadron patrolled
up and down several times staying in the area for 30 minutes. No E/A were
seen and apart from the spectacle of the bombing which was difficult to assess
from this height, the operation was singulary uneventful, the Squadron returning
to base at 19.00 hrs.
Weather: Visibility moderate, 3/10ths cloud at 7,000 feet.
Yellow 4 (Sgt. Marquis) returned just before the Squadron
landed with his radio on fire. Yellow 2(S/Lt. Laurent) landed at 122 Airfield
in order to re-fuel returning to base later.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 218 : 14/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was acting as high cover to a force
of 72 Marauders bombing the airfield north of Lille.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cdt. Duperier, who was also leading the Wing, with Capt. Martell and Capt.
Boudier leading Yellow and Blue Sections, took off from base at 17.00 hrs
in a slow climb to the South Foreland where R/V was made with the bombers
at 14,000 feet. Climbing to 17,000 feet, the whole gaggle crossed the French
coast at Gravelines, but when over Cassel the bombers turned back our Squadron
accompanying them as far as the coast and leaving them over Dunkirk, patrolled
from Dunkirk to the S/W up and down sun. A Hun formation were reported by
Control to be over Ypres at +25,000 feet, but was obviously well over 30,000
feet owing to cloud conditions. The Wing climbed at 30,000 feet, but the
Commandant decided not to engaged as our aircraft would have been the disavantage
being silhouetted against the cloud. Coming back over Dunkirk and Dover,
the Squadron reached base at 18.20 hrs.
Weather: 10/10ths cloud over some area up to 30,000 feet
south of a line Furnes/St. Omer, visibility good above cloud.
Yellow 3 (S/Lt Chevallier) lost his jettisonable tank
soon after take off and returned to base. Yellow 2 (S/Chef Bruno) also returned
when over France with engine trouble.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 220 : 15/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was briefed to act as top cover to
a force of 72 Marauders bombing Lille Nore airfield.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron - 12 Spitfire IX (66) - led by
Cdt. Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier leading Yellow and Blue
Sections, took of from base at 16.56 hrs in a slow climb to the North Foreland.
At 16.53 hrs however, instructions had been received that the Wing shoulf
R/V at the North Foreland at 17.00 and not 17.15 hrs; being recalled, the
Wing landed at 17.15 hrs and 35 minutes later was again aitborne with instructions
to proceed to Merville without any instructions as to time, task or height.
Having been vectored by the Biggin Hill Control toward Le Touquet, after
leaving the English coast Appledore took over the Control, the Squadron sweeping
at 20,000 feet over Berck where 12 bombers with escort were seen to the North
about 30 miles away, Perrone, Montdidier and back via Perrone crossing out
at Le Touquet at 20,000 feet. Some flak was experienced over Albert and Control
gave a Hun formation over Le Touquet at 25,000 feet going north, but these
turned out to be friendly and the Squadron returned to base toutching down
at 19.10 hrs.
Weather : 10/10ths cloud in places, fairly clear north
of the Somme, but deteriorating south of the Somme.
Blue 2 (Lt. Girardon) had trouble with his jettisonable
tank and did not participate in the sweep.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 233 : 19/9/43.
The Wing was briefed to act as Top Cover to a force of
12 Mitchells bombing the Synthetic Petrol Plant and Coke Ovens at Lieven,
a small suburb south west of Lens.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by Cmdt.
Duperier with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue
Sections took off from base at 16.55 hours in a slow climb for Dungeness.
The bombers were seen coming out at Lymone where rendezvous was made at 12,000
feet. Climbing to 16,000 feet, the Squadron placed itself in the usual position
over the bombers who crossed the French coast at 4 miles south of Le Touquet
proceeding on a zig zag course to the target.
Just north of the target before started to run it, a formation
of about 8 M.E. 109's dived though our Squadron, no one however being able
to get in even a short burst. This formation had obviously been attacked
by the Top Cover and were diving away, as their tactics in no way resembled
an attack. Excellent bomb bursts were observed on the target, large flammes
and smoke being seen.
Accompanying the bombers back over Le Touquet and across
the Channel, the Squadron left them when about 20 miles out to sea to come
to the assistance of another Wing which was reported to be engaged 20 miles
east of Le Touquet. Arriving over this area, a conglomeration of friendly
Spitfires was observed, so the Squadron came home reaching base at 18.30
hours. All the bombers returned also.
Weather: 5/10 cumulus at 10,000 ft. mounting in place
to 27,000 feet. Visibility above cloud moderate.
Red 4 (Sgt. Marquis) returned early with oil presure trouble
and did not participate in the sweep.
NOTE: The task of high cover to the bombers was rendered
extremely difficult to the fact that Close Cover, Escort Cover and Close
Cover were flying at any height their Wing Leader seemed to fancy. At one
time, a Squadron of Spitfire V's being at 20,000 ft. between the High Cover
and Top Cover.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 235 : 21/9/43.
The Wing was briefed to act as Top Cover to a force of
72 Marauders bombing the aerodrome at Beauvais.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by Cmdt.
Duperier with Lt. Roos and Lt. Bouguen at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections
took off from base at 09.00 hours in a slow climb to a point 20 miles N.W.
of Le Treport where R/V was made with the bombers. Climbing to 16,000 feet,
the Suqadron flew on the starboard side of the bombers passing over the French
coast at Le Treport. The Squadron climbed to 20,000 feet and drew slightly
ahead of the bombers were over the target.
One stick was seen to fall on a dispersal in the N.W of
the bombs falling outside the target area. Slight flak was experienced over
the target but only at 16,000 feet (4,000 ft. below us).
Coming back on the port side of the bombers the Squadron
flew over Le Treport and Hastings reaching base at 10.35 hours. No enemy
aircraft were seen or anything of interest worth reporting.
Weather: 5/10 cloud heavy cumulus at 10,000 ft. Visibility
moderate.
Blue 4 (Sgt. Leguie) and Red 4 (Lt. Girardon) came back
with oxygen trouble. Red 3 (S/Lt. Mailfert) came back with a glycol leak
as did Blue 1 (Lt. Bouguen) whose generator packed up. None of these took
part of the sweep.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 237 : 22/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing were briefed to act as high cover
to a force of 36 Marauders bombing the airfield at Evreux.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by Cmdt.
Duperier 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 15.35 hours
in a slow climb for the R/V point 20 miles N.W. of St. Valery.
The bombers were early on R/V, the Squadron arriving just
after they had completed one orbit. Setting off on course with only one other
escort, a Spitfire V Wing, the remaining escort joined up with the main gaggle
when just crossing the French coast.
In the target area, several formation of Huns were seen
below but the C.O. ordered the Squadron to remain with the bombers and not
to go down. Blue Section however, were bounced by a section of 9 Huns Blue
4 (S/Lt. Borne) firing a short butst at one from dead astern, but was unable
to observe strickes, although Blue 1 saw white smoke coming from the aircraft.
The enemy aircraft dived though the section and dived away inland. Excellent
bombing results were observed, a petrol dump also appeared to be hit.
Coming back over the Seine, the bombers reported Huns
ahead at 12 o'clock; going ahead to investigate, the Wing Leader saw nothing
and came back to assist Blue Section who had come across 3 F.W. 190's flying
line abreast in a northerly direction 10 miles south of St. Valery. Blue
3 (Lt. Bouguen) shot one down in flames, his No. 2 (S/Lt. Borne) also firing
two bursts of one second each at another one seeing strickes around the cockpit.
When over St. Valery Yellow Section went down after another formation of
Huns but unfortunately lost them. The Squadron reformed coming back to base
at 17.15 hours.
Weather: 1/10 cloud at 8,000 feet. Visibility good.
ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1 F.W.190 destroyed by Lt. Bouguen,
1 F.W.190 damaged by S/Lt. Borne.
OUR CASUALTIES: NIL.
Red 3 (S/Lt. Farman) came back early through engine trouble. Blue 2 (Capt.
Soufflet) forced landed at Coolham owing to shortage of petrol.
NOTE: In all probablity S/Lt. Borne damamge a F.W.190
in his first combat, assessment and results are awaited before this can be
claimed however.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 239 : 23/9/43.
The Hill was briefed as high cover to a force of 72 Marauders
bombing the aerodrome of Concbes.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by Cmdt.
Duperier who was also leading the Wing with Capt. Martell and Capt. Boudier
atthe head of Yellow and Blue Sections took off from base at 08.15 hours
in a slow climb to a R/V point 35 miles N.N.W. of St. Valery. When about
mid-channel the Squadron howevermade contact with the bombers at 12,000 feet
and climbing to 18,000 feet and passing over Guilleboeuf and then on to the
target where sticks were observed on the runaways in the middle of the aerodrome
and also on the dispersals on the N.W., N.E. and S.E. corners, a few stricks
falling in the wood to the west of the aerodrome.
Coming back on a reciprocal course, fairly accrurate flak
was experienced at 15,000 feet from a single battery situated 10 miles S.S.E.
of St. Valery en Caux. The Squadron reached base at 10.00 hrs.
Weather: 2/10 cloud at 10,000 feet. Visibility good.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.ø Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 240 : 23/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was briefed to act as high cover
to a force of 72 Marauders bombing the aerodrome at Beauvais.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by Cmdt.
Duperier 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 15.00 hours
in a slow climb for a sea R/V with the bombers. Contact was established with
the bombers, 15 miles south of Beachy Bay. Climbing to 18,000 ft, the Squadron
stayed on the port side of the bombers and when just approaching the target
several formations of F.W.190's attacked the bombers. Both Yellow and Blue
Sections were engaged in our counter attack, Yellow 1 (Capt. Martell) and
Blue 1 (Capt. Boudier) each destroying a F.W.190.
The bombing of the aerodrome appeared good and even after
the turn for home a running flight ensued with various formation of enemy
aircraft who were driven off diving away into the heavy haze. The heaviest
attack seemed to take place between Abbeville and Amiens. When over the coast
the Cmdt. came back to assist Yellow Section who had became engaged with
2 formation of enemy aircraft consisiting of 12 and 20 aircraft. Out of the
engagement, Capt. Martell shot down an M.E.109 which crassed into the ground.
Reforming the Squadron came back landing at base at 16.35 hours.
Weather - heavy haze over France, some cirrus. Visibility
good above haze.
ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1 FW190 destroyed by Capt. Martell.
1 ME109 destroyed by Capt. Martell.
1 FW190 destroyed by Capt. Boudier.
Red 4 (Capt. Layec) came back soon after taking off having
lost his jettison tank.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 242 : 24/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was briefed to act as high cover
to a force of 72 Marauders bombing the aerodrome at Evreux.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 11 Spitfire IX 66's led by Cmdt.
Duperier who was also leading the Wing, with Capt. Martell and Lt.
Bouguen at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections took off from base at 11.00
hours in a slow climb for a R/V 35 miles N.N.W. of St. Valery, where the
Squadron made contact with the bombers at 12,000 feet as planned. Placing
themselves on the starboard side of the rear box the Squadron flew on rather
a zig zag course to the target.
Just before reaching the target Yellow Section went down
to investigate some aircraft and finding they were about 15 F.W.190's dived
on them and split them up before they could attack the bombers, the Boches
diving away inland toward Lisieux.
Some very good bombing was observed in particular several
stricks falling on the railway near the aerodrome, two other stricks being
observed on the dispersal nearly.
Coming back from the target, the Squadron returned when
near the Seine in order to assist another Wing which was reported to be engaged.
On arrival no enemy aircraft were seen and the Squadron turned round landing
at base at 12.40 hours.
Weather - haze over France, large patches of cumulus in
places at 12,000 feet. Visibility good.
Before the take off Red 4 (S/Lt. Borne) taxied into Blue
3 (Lt. Pabiot) both plane being damaged. Yellow 4 (Sgt. Marquis) came back
having only flown on his jettison tank for 15 minutes and would have been
unable to complete the sweep through lack of fuel.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 243 : 24/9/43.
Task : High cover to 72 Marauders bombing the aerodrome
at Beauvais.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX led by Cmdt. Duperier
with capt. Martell and Lt. Bougune at the head of Yellow and Blue sections,
took off from base at 15.15 hours for a sea R/V at 15,000 feet with the bombers.
Contact, however, was made with the bombers at Beachy Head and course was
set for Beauvais, the Squadron climbing to 18,000 ft. on the starboard side.
When 25 miles N. of the target a formation of about 20
Huns passed in front of the bombers, the Squadron went ahead to investigate
but lost them in cloud. Coming back to cover the bombing run, bursts were
seen on the corner of the town near the aerodrome and one Marauder was seen
to be shot down by flak. Coming back from the target the Squadron were engaged
in beating off a succession of attacks from several groups of F.W.109's comprising
about 60 aircraft in all. Several combats ensued at various heights from
1,000 feet to 10,000 feet, the last engagement being fought just near the
coast.
Cmdt. Duperier fired at one F.W. 190 but was forced to
beak though the intervention of another Spitfire between himself and the
Boche. This F.W.190 was eventually destroyed by Red 3 (Lt. Roos). The Cmdt.
however, managed to shoot down another one whilst Capt. Martell destroyed
yet another F.W.190 which was coming on to the tail of the C.O. The Squadron
reformed over the coast coming back to base by 16.55 hrs.
Weather:- heavy haze - patches of large cumulus. Visibility
above haze good.
ENEMY CASUALTIES: 1 F.W.190 destroyed by Cmdt. Duperier.
1 F.W.190 destroyed by Capt. Martell.
1 F.W.190 destroyed by Lt. Roos.
OUR CASUALTIES: 1 Spitfire IX (66) Cat.B.
(S/Lt. Farman)
unhurt not due to enemy action.
Yellow 3 (S/Lt. Farman) had trouble with his motor which
out completely on his jettison tank neccessitating him to make a crash landing
not far from the aerodrome. Yellow 2 (S/Lt. Laurent) came back with engine
trouble. Red 2 (Adjt. Leguie) came back when over Beauvais his boost not
working.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 246 : 25/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was briefed to act as 3rd Fighter
Sweep under Beachy Head Control, whilst a force of 72 Marauders was bombing
the aerodrome at St. Omer.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX's led by Capt.
Martell with S/Lt. Farman and Lt. Bouguen leading Yellow and Blue Sections
respectively took off from Biggin Hill at 16.35 hours in a slow climb for
Abbeville. Variuos vectors were given by control bu no enemy aircraft
were seen, the Squadron eventually crossing out at Le Touquet and going up
the coast to Boulogne where accurate flak was experienced. Turning north
the Squadron landed at base at 18.00 hours.
Weather:-10/10 cloud, layers at heavy cumulus from 1000
ft to 20,000 ft.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Biggin Hill.
RAMROD 247 : 26/9/43.
The Biggin Hill Wing was flying as 2nd Fighter sweep whilst
a force of 120 Fortresses were bombing Champon near Rheims, 120 on the Marshalling
Yard at Nantes, 60 on the Citron Work at Paris and 60 on the aerodrome at
Melan near Paris.
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX 66's led by Cmdt.
Duperier with Capt. Martell leading Yellow and Lt. Bouguen leading Blue Section
took off from base at 16.25 hours in a slow climb to St. Pol. Control sent
the Wing on a course of 140ø and then due west finally turning north
and passing St. Omer where very heavy and accurate flak was experienced at
22,000 feet, Yellow 4 (Sgt. Mathey) receiving a small piece of sharpnel near
the cockpit. Passing over Dunkirk the Squadron went north to Calais returning
to base at 17.50 hours.
Weather : 10/10 cloud cumulus at 18,000.
Red 4 (Sgt. Marquin) returned, his constant speed indicator
being unserviceable.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron,
R.A.F. Station, Bigiin Hill.
RAMROD 256 : 2/10/43.
The wing was briefed to act as High Cover to a force of
72 Marauders bombing the aerodrome at Longuenesse/St. Omer.
341 Squadron, 12 Spitfire IX (66's) led by Commandant
Duperier, the Wing Leader, with Lt. Roos and Capt. Martell leading Yellow
and Blue Sections, took off from Beggin Hill at 16.35 in a slow climb for
Dungeness. On arriving at Dungeness, the bombers were slighted at Folkeston
where the Squadron formated with them.
Passing again close to Dungeness, the whole gaggle flew
south passing the French coast 4 miles south of Hardelot and then on to St.
Omer. Here the bombers continued on past the target eventually turning
north to Nieuport and then on to Bruges coming out over Knocke.
Our Squadron left the bombers in mid channel and returned
to base at 18.15. No E/A were seen nor was any bombing carried out by the
bombers owing to weather conditions. Quite accurate flak was experienced
at 14,000 feet from Boulogne to St. Omer.
Weather: 10/10ths cloud at 10,000 feet east of Devres.
Yellow 3, F/Sgt. Bruno had trouble with his motor which
was serging and did not participate in the sweep.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 257 : 3/10/43.
The Wing was briefed to act as High Cover to 72 Marauders
bombing the Aerodrome at Woernsdrecht.
341 Squadron, 10 Spitfires IX (66's) led by S/Ldr. Martell,
with Lt. Roos and Lt. Bouguen leading yellow and Blue Sections, took off
from Biggin Hill at 09.20 for Manston where the Squadron refuelled leaving
again at 10.40 in a slow climb for a sea R/V 75 miles east of Manston. Here
the bombers were picked up, our Squadron flying at 16,000 feet on the starboard
side of the rear box.
Escorting the bombers to the target, the Squadron continued
escort duty over the Walcheron area, no E/A being seen nor any bombing results
observed.
Half way back on the return journey, the Squadron climbed
to 26,000 feet and penetrated the French coast near Calais to investigate
some A/C which had been reported there. Nothing was seen, however, the Squadron
coming back to base at 12.30.
Weather: 9/10ths cloud at 10,000 feet. Visibility moderate.
Just before the take-off, Red 2, Capt. Layec taxied into
Blue 3, Lt. Pabiot, both machine being damaged.
Red 3, Adjudant Legui, Blue 4, Sgt/Chef Guinamard and
Yellow 4, Sgt. Marquis, landed at Manston after the Sweep though shortage
of fuel.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 (F.F.) Squadron.
RAMROD 258 : 3/10/43.
The Wing was briefed to R/V over Creve-Coeur with 12 Bostons
at 10,000 feet who had been bombing a target in France.
341 Squadron, 10 Spitfires IX (66's) led by W/Cdr. Duperier
with Capt. Martell and Lt. Bouguen leading yellow and Blue sections, took
off from base on a direct course for Le Treport flying at zero feet. Climbing
to 6,000 feet just before crossing the French Coast, the Suqadron arrived
over Creve-Coeur at 9,000 feet orbitting round this area for 15 minutes.
Several Huns were reported in the area but none engaged. The Bostons were
reported to be making for the coast, so the Squadron turned north and arrived
over the Somme Estuary at the same time as the bombers were reported to be
crossing out, but were unable to make contact with them.
At this point, a Spitfire V Squadron was reported to be
engaged by Huns south of the estuary; our Squadron turned back to their assistance
and whom a few miles to the south of the Eastuary, encountered two formations
of F.W.190's and M.E.109's who were flying at the same heigh as us going
north and East. In a general melee which ensued, W/Cdr. Duperier damaged
one F.W. 190's and together with his number 2, S/Lt. Chevallier, forced another
Boche to crash into a tree without even firing guns at him. Red 3, S/Lt.
Laurent, in the meantime, bounced upon a lone F.W.190 and after three well
delivered bursts, sent it crashing to the ground. Red 4, Lt. Lents, had been
lost sight of at the beginning of this action and a Spitfire going down with
smoke coming from it about 8 miles west of Abbeville must be considered,
in view of the lack of evidence, to have been him.
The Squadron reformed returning to base by 15.25.
Weather: 5/10ths cloud at 5,000 feet. Visibility above
cloud excellent.
ENEMY CASUALTIES:
1 M.E.109 destroyed by W/Cdr. Duperier and S/Lt. Chevallier
1 F.W.190 destroyed by S/Lt. Laurent.
1 F.W.190 damaged by W/Cdr. Duperier.
OUR CASUALTIES:
1 Spitfire IX (66) Cat E. Lt. Lents missing.
Red Section landed at Hawkinge through lack of fuel and
came back to base afterwards, as did Blue 3 at 121 Airfield.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
No. 341 (F.F.) Squadron.
SECRET. RAMROD 261 : 4/10/43.
The Wing was briefed to act as Withdrawal Cover to 3 boxes
of Fortresses returning from an attack on the Ruhr, the R/V point being fixed
at St. Nicolas.
341 Squadron, 12 Spitfires IX (66), led by W/Cdr. Duperier
with Lt. Roos and Lt. Bouguen at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections respectively,
took off from Biggin Hill at 09.45 for Manston where the Squadron refuelled
and took off again at 11.35 in a slow climb for Knocke where the coast was
crossed at 20,000 feet. 10/10ths. cloud was experienced over the whole of
this area, the Squadron proceeding to slightly north of Ghent.
From here, the Squadron was vectored to St. Nicolas, shortly
afterwards seeing the first box of Fortresses coming from the North East.
The Squadron flew behind the last box and escorted a few stragglers passing
over Flushing and breaking away from the Fortresses near the North Foreland
to return to Biggin at 13.55.
Weather: 10/10ths. cloud. Visibility moderate.
Yellow 3, Asp. de Saxce, landed at Lympne on the return
journey through engine trouble.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier,
341 (F.F.) Squadron.
INTERCEPTION PATROL : 19/2/44.
3 Patrols were flown by the Squadron in the Order shown
below in the hope of intercapting a formation of J.U.88's who were escorting
a disabled U boat which was returning on the surface to its base in France.
All the patrols were flown at the sea level from the Wolf Rock to a point
120 miles west of Quiberon operating from Porranporth.
No contact however was made.
12,30-14,30 3 SpitIXB with 4 SpitIXs of 340 led by W/O Marples
13,02-14,55 8 SpitIXB lead by Capt. Martell
16,34-18,15 4 SpitIXB with 4 Spit of 340 lead by Lt. Pabiot.
Weather: 10/10 cloud at 3000 feet becoming clear 60 miles
from coast. Visibility
7 miles.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier.
RAMROD 592 : 25/2/44.
The Squadron left Perranporth at first light (0745 hours)
for Lympne and was briefed with 340 Squadron to act as withdrawal support
to the third formation of Fortresses who were bombing three aircraft factories
in Germany.
341 (F.F.) Squadron 10 Spitfires IX B's led by Capt. Martell
with Lt. Girardon and Capt. Boudier at the head of Yellow and Blue Sections
took off from Lympne at 1515 hours and climbing over the Channel through
cloud lost sight of 340 Squadron the W/Co handling over the lead of the Wing
to Capt. Martell who took the Squadron over Le Touquet and on to Albert here
an orbit was made. Returning to the coast, Blue Sections orbitted and returned
inland the Squadron eventually reforming and passing out again over Le Touquet
where Capt. Martell developed engine trouble and handed over to Capt. Boudier,
the Squadron landing at Tangmene at 1705. The Squadron flow over France at
1700 feet but was unable to contact the Forts. who were no doubt well off
their course; Lighnings, Thunderbolts and Mustangs were seen however.
Weather: 9/10 cloud at 2000 visibility good, patches of
snow on the ground in France.
T.S. Samnel P/O
Intelligence Officier.
RAJOUTS AU CARNET DE VOL.
May 8 1942 :
Spitfire V B No.GWZ SCRAMBLE X RAID 1.00Hr 1/2 ME109 DAMAGED.
Spitfire V B No.GWP SCRAMBLE X RAID 0.20Hr 1 ME109 DAMAGED.
Fait intéressant : Le 8 mai, le S/C Debec et le S/C Boudier faisaient une
patrouille de la région Beachy Hear-Selsey Bill. Ils ont intercepté quatre
chasseurs ennemis qui s'approchaient de la cote et les ont forces a lancer
leurs bombes dans la mer. A cause de l'avertissement venu trop tard de la présence des avions ennemis, ceux-ci avaient l'avantage sur nos appareils
qui, bien qu'ils aient poursuivi les avions ennemis sur une distance de 50
milles et aient fait feu, se trouvaient dans l'impossibilité de les atteindre.
Une heure et demi plus tard, les mêmes pilotes étaient désignés à nouveau
pour patrouiller Selsey Bill et ont intercepté douze ME109 qui s'approchaient
de la côte. De nouveau les avions ennemis ont lancé leurs bombes à la mer
et, attaqués par nos deux avions, ont tenté d'échapper mais cette fois avec
moins de chance. Sans tenir compte du nombre supérieur des ennemis, nos deux
pilotes les ont attaqués, le S/C Debec a réussi à en abattre un, tandis que
le S/C Boudier en a endommagé un autre, qui, vu sa position près de la mer,
s'est trouvé probablement dans l'impossibilité de regagner sa base. Nos pilotes
sont revenus à leur base qu'après avoir épuisé toutes leurs munitions.
Herrera P/O
pour le Capitaine Commandant
340 Squadron.
RHUBARB : 23/8/42.
Yellow, Blue and Red Sections 340 Squadron, 6 Spitfires
VB, took off on a Rhubarb operation from Hornchurch at 1052 hrs., to attack
objectives in the Dieppe/St.Valery area. Yellow Section acted as forward
relay, and remained in mid-Channel at about 10,000ft., orbitting until the
conclusion of the operation.
Blue Section left the English coast at Rye and flew to
Pourville. From there they went south to Bacqueville then up to St.Pierre
whence they followed the railway to Anglesqueville. Here, both pilots delivered
two attacks on the locomotive of an empty goods train going east, the train
stopping after the second attack. Both pilots saw hits followed by much steam.
The section returned to base via St.Valery and Newhaven. No flak was experienced.
Red Section went out via Rye to St.Valery, and then flew
towards Doudeville, returning to St.Valery to make a second search. They
fired at and hit a locomotive in a small station north of Doudeville, and
one pilot attacked and saw hits on a factory at Neville. On theway out at
St.Valery, the Section climbed into cloud (base 1,000ft.) and Red1 was seen
to be in trouble. Red 2 saw him open his hood and prepared to bale out, but
did not actually see any parachute. His view was obstructed for a moment
by cloud. Red 2 transmitted a distress call which was picked up. Slight light
flak had been observed from the west side of St.Valery. Red 1's A/C seen
to crash into the sea.
Weather: 7/10 cloud in Channel at 8,000ft., 8/10 at 1,000
and 5,000ft. over
French coast.
Our casualties : Lt.Coignard missing. 1 Spitfire VB cat
E.
Enemy casualties : ground target hit.
Red Section : -Lt.Coignard, Lt.de Tedesco.
Blue Section : -S/Lt.Boudier, Sgt/C.Taconet.
Yellow " : -S/Lt.Massart, Sgt.Bouguen.
Herrera F/O.
COPY
FIGHTER COMMAND SCHOOL OF TACTICS R.A.F. STATION
ASTON DOWN.
No. 11 COURSE
FROM 25.9.43. TO 15.10.43.
NUMBER 30152 RANK F/Lt.
NAME Boudier M.
PARENT UNIT 341 Squadron
OPERATIONAL HOURS FLOWN 340 HOURS FLOWN ON COURSE 29.25
PROFICIENCY AS AN OFFICIER A sound steady reliable type of
officier. Very conscientious.
GENERAL REMARKS.
This Officiers leadership, tactics and navigation have been first class.
He is a quiet confident pilot with an excellent pair of eyes. He is possessed
of great operational experience and should go far.
DATE 15.10.43.
W. Birch SQUADRON COMMANDER
E.H. Thomas COMMANDING OFFICIER
W/Cdr.