6 Bomber Group August 17/18, 1943
54 Halifaxes from 419, 427, 428, and 434 squadron were joined by 9 Lancasters from 426 squadron, on an attack of the experimental rocket site at Peenemunde. The crews were over the target at between 7,000 and 9,000 feet, releasing 335,000 lbs of high explosives and 3,600 lbs of incendiaries. The target was successfully hit, and the V-2 rocket program was set back. The first 2 waves of bombing did not suffer many losses but the 3rd wave, which included the 6 group, were attacked fiercely by Night fighters. This was also the first night of the master bomber technique, and of the slanted cannon by the German airforce, that would take down so many bombers in the months to come. This was also the first operation by 426 squadron since converting to the Lancaster II. Richard Koval (6bombergroup.ca)
Mission: 11 aircraft were bombed up and took of to attack beach targets between Briatico and Capo Suvero Italy. There were no noticeable concentrations of personnel or barges on the beaches. Bombs were seen to burst in the vicinity of the aiming point. It is believed fuel storage supplies were struck, causing flames to reach 400 feet.
DF686 and crew not heard from again. Some sources say targeting Pizzo Italy
Bomber Command Museum Monthly ORB
