Norman, Ernest Albert (Flight Sergeant)

21 Squadron (Viribus Vincimus). Ventura aircraft AE 726 had the tail shot off by flak in the vicinity of the target. Warrant Officer T.C. Dubose, FS K.E. Price, and Sergeant H.E. Blundell (RAF) were also killed. Twelve Venturas refueled at their advance base and took off for an attack against an oil tanker in the Harbour at Brest, France, they were screened by Spitfires from 10 Group. On final approach to Brest a swarm of German FW-190 aircraft ambushed them. A fierce battle ensued. Intrepid Luftwaffe pilots were little worried by the heavy anti-aircraft fire which always welcomed the RAF to Brest, and soon downed a Ventura. The others pressed on, their bombs falling alongside the ship. A large explosion was seen. Then came the return journey. The German aircraft held off over the docks but were ready to pounce again, British fighters having been placed to high to protect the bombers. As the Venturas headed home one was ablaze and came down in the water. Although evasive action was good the Venturas could not escape. Forty miles off the Lizard another crashed into the sea and a fourth came down off Portreath, this crew was lucky to survive. Eight of the twelve Venturas returned. Cenotaph at Riverview Cemetery, Wallaceburg, Chatham-Kent Municipality, Ontario, Canada