6 Group Unavailable
Lancaster, took off from Gransden Lodge approximately 2200 hours. Set course, target Dortmund. Due on target at H plus 2 (approximately, i.e. about 0030 hours), 21 February 1945 as visual centrer (P.F.F.). Ran up on target through slight barrage flak. Dropped about one minute late (i.e. H plus 3) and waited for picture. Camera was turning over when hit by flak in port outer and No.2 starboard tank - both on fire. Ordered crew prepare bale out. About one minute later ordered crew bale out, having feathered and put out fire in port outer but tank fire was spreading rapidly. .All crew except Mid Upper Gunner and Rear Gunner baled out..
G.E. Bolland (killed, DFM gazetted 1 March 1946; left the aircraft by parachute but did not survive the descent); Squadron Leader H.F.Marcou, DFC, AFC, RCAF (injured); Flying Officer T.W.Downey (injured); Flying Officer R.O.Norse, RNZAF (injured); Flying Officer B.G.Smoker (injured); Flying Officer J.A. Lewis (injured); Flying Officer J.T.Ross. RCAF (POW); Technical Sergeant J.W.Verner, USAAF (injured). Survivors were confined in hospital due to injuries until liberation. No POW numbers.
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