(1 Fw190 destroyed)

 

 

I was flying Blue 2 and returning from an armed recce to the Hanover area. Shortly after leaving Gutersloh A/D on course for base, Blue 1 (F/O Vassiliades) reported formation of E/A on deck going almost in the opposite direction to us. He turned and dived on them and I followed, together with Blue 3 (F/Lt. Wright). We overtook E/A which were FW.190’s very rapidly and immediately on closing to firing range Blue 1 attacked a FW.190 which I saw blow up in the air, Blue 3 attacked another FW.190 which also blew up in the air.
     

I was to port of Blue 1 and Blue 3 and following a FW.190 which was further ahead. I opened fire from dead astern at about 500 – 600 yards range, seeing strikes on the Port wing and forward part of the fuselage. This appeared to stop his engine and immediately afterwards the FW.190 dropped its long range tank, and did a medium turn to Port. I was now overtaking very rapidly and overshot but on doing a 180° turn to Port I found myself on the tail of the E/A once more. It now appeared to be attempting to force land and I gave a long burst from 400 yards to very short range seeing strikes and small amounts of smoke. The E/A made a forced landing and I gave it a further burst as it was on the ground and left it burning.
     

I claim 1 FW.190 destroyed. Cine camera used.

 

F/O H.W. Longley