358 Squadron RAF Form 541 February 1945

358 Squadron February 194520/2/45 F/O. A. J. C. PearceAus.436273F/S. S. Simpson1457956Sgt. R. G. Stanton1582233F/S. J. J. CostelloAus.421572W/O. R. McMaster,Aus.432009Sgt. M. McGarry.1880766Sgt. D. Mathews1862719LiberatorVI 'W'KH394F/O. J. C. MurrayCan.J.2767320/2/45 F/S. J. R. LarcombeAus.436643P/O. T. Kay 164079F/O. E. P. Field146307F/S. J. E. BatemanAus.424944F/S. A. F. AshbyAus.424012Sgt. J. F. Peters1853933Sgt. Frederick, H.1853345Sgt. A. M Cosh653388LiberatorVI. 'U'KG905F/O. J. G. Wood,Can.J18127120/2/45 F/S. C. E. Collins,Aus.429650P/O. S. C. Hull,163730Sgt. E. Ely, 1577275Sgt. J. McLuskey,1567157Sgt. Spencer,1818353Sgt. D. C. Hurley,1609041Sgt. R. Brogan,NZ.427182nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Capt. 11.30 01.052nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Eng.Capt. 11.30 01.452nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.(possibly 'G') dive through a gap in the clouds.This A/C did not drop it's load because of thecompletely covered DZ. The load was returnedto Base.D.N.C.O. (Weather). Similarly this A/C was notsuccessful owing to the weather. The load wasreturned to Base. 6 Pkts. of leaflets weredropped on Northern F.I.C. on the returnjourney.D.N.C.O. Fuel Shortage; Baled Out. This A/Cexperienced particularly bad weather on thetrip. It was unsuccessful at the DZ because ofweather conditions. 6 packages of leafletswere dropped over Tien Yen at 17.42 hrs.When in position 2330N 8955E the Captainordered the crew to bale out due to shortage offuel. The 1st WOP. Sgt. McLuskey, J. 1567157could not find his parachute so the 2nd. PilotF/S. Collins, C. E. Aus.429650 offered to carryhim on his back. Unfortunately, Sgt. McLuskeywas torn off F/S. Collins back when theparachute opened at 3000 ft. Sgt. McLuskey'sbody was subsequently found and buried byMission people at Faridpur. The rest of thecrew landed safely. The A/C crashed into anearby village and was a complete write off.Liberator F/S. W. Drummond Capt. 1135 1245 3 D.N.C.O. Landed Comilla. This aircraft was3 1245 us the time given in the record, but may be in error.9

358 Squadron February 1945VI. 'Q'KH3671133124 also unsuccessful having experienced similarweather conditions. 6 packages 420/2/45 F/S. K. W. Tunbridge 2nd.P.Aus.434569F/O. T. C. H. Winup B/A.164104F/S. F. Flynn, Nav.1396358F/S. C. J. Johnson 1.WOP.Aus.427708F/S. J. K. Lyons 2.WOP.Aus.436605Sgt. Salway 932050 M.U.G.Sgt. A. F. Dickson,1597378Rear.LiberatorVI. 'Z'KH397P/O. C. H. Hedley5614120/2/45 F/S. Nicholson, K.1801768Sgt. H. Hounslow,1320624W/O. J. H. Perkins,1215501P/O. J. E Tubb.188532W/O. R. C. Chalmers1152918W/O. Pepper, B. S.631789P/O. W. E. Hopkins186294F/S. W. H. Blee577626LiberatorVI. 'T'KH350F/O. R. W.Robinson, 5115920/2/45 F/O. H. V. Smith,Can.J.27671Sgt. J. H. Draper,1802370F/S. P. R. Brenchley,1390490Sgt. R. S. Wood,1398294Sgt. W. A. Pugh,206912Sgt. L. J. Pinckney,18025139Sgt. C. Copley,993351Capt.2nd.P.B/A.Nav.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Desp.Capt.2nd.P.B/A.Nav.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Cancelled.Cancelled.4 The record contains no further information.10

358 Squadron February 1945Sgt. L. Parsons,960606Desp.8 Aircraft were detailed for S.D. Operations over Northern F.I.C. All encountered bad weather on thejourney. All aircraft were unsuccessful due to weather at the target. One aircraft was lost over the DZ.Another Ran out of fuel and crashed. The crew of the latter bailed out with one life lost. One aircraftowing to fuel shortage landed at Comilla. Had this operation been detailed for an earlier E.T.A. at thetarget there would have been the possibility of some success.21/22nd. February, 1945RouteA/C:- 'X', 'Z', 'N', 'K', 'W', 'T', 'A', 'H'.'X':- Base – 1519N 9518E – 1404N 10658E – DZ and return.'Z':- Base – 2040N 9221E – 1853N 9720E – DZ and return.'N':-ditto'K':-ditto'W':- Base – 2210N 9033E – 2020N 9317E – 1856N 9720E – 1453N 10553E – 1433N 106026E –1350N 10750E – DZ and return.'T':- Base – 2040N 9221E – 1853N 9720E – DZ and return.'A':- Base – 1916N 9512E – 1310N 10342E – DZ and return.'H':- Base – 1600N 10310E – DZ and return.Load Leaflets Containers Packages'W' -- 7 5'Z' 8 7 5'N' -- 7 5'K' 4 7 5'N' 5 5 7 5'T' 6 7 6'A' 4 11 5'H' 12 11 5Opposition:LiberatorVI. 'K'392F/O. M. R. Davison,5049021/2/45 F/S. D. R.Crammond, 1458001P/O. T. Parham,161025P/O. A. N. Woods,164098Sgt. G. B. Pollock,1344598W/O. S. J. Webb,1307031Sgt.. Barber, G1629944W/O. G. White,1332279Sgt. T. Ainsworth,None encountered.Capt. 16.30 08.452nd.P.Nav.B/A.2.WOP.1.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Eng.16.15. After setting course the aircraftexperienced weak monsoonal conditions withan occasional electrical storm. At the target at0056 hours the cloud was thin. A DR run wasmade form a river and the target was located10 miles East of the expected position. Fireswere seen through thin cloud so the load wasdropped. All containers and packages fell onthe target area although one packagesomewhat overshot. On the return journeyleaflets were dropped form 8,000 feet on to thePossac area.5 'N' is listed twice, but 'X' is not listed.11

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI 'T'KH3501627355Sgt. I. W. Wells.1512309F/O. R. W.Robinson, 5115921/2/45 F/O. H. V. Smith,Can.J.27671Sgt. J. H. Draper,1802370F/S. P. R. Brenchley,1390490Sgt. R. S. Wood,1398294Sgt. W. H. Pugh,2206912Sgt. W. J. Pinckney,18025139Sgt. C. Copley,993351Sgt. Parsons,960606Rear.Capt. 17.40 16.45 82nd.P.B/A.Nav.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Desp.D.N.C.O. Over the Eastern Burma area thisA/C encountered 8/10 cloud, as it flewEastward this thickened to 10/10. On reachingthe DZ the cloud thinned, but there stillremained a lot of valley mist and rain. Areception was found 10 miles East of briefedDZ, but as the incorrect letter was flashed theA/C did not drop it's load. On the return journeyleaflets were dropped in the Possas area. Thebalance of the load was returned to Base.LiberatorVI. 'X'KH312F/O. K. W. Jones17502221/2/45 F/S. K. R. JukesAus.428573W/O. E. T. Ball58193Sgt. H. Dunn1549512P/O. L. J Talbot.186538F/S. Dawson, H. T.NZ.425654Capt. 16.30 09.452nd.P.B/ANav.1.WOP2.WOPW/O. E. W. Rozee Rear.1338958 9W/O. E. A Richards.1338958M.U.G.D.C.O. This aircraft experienced cloudyconditions on the journey, but found the DZ byseeing the fires through the cloud. A run wasmade after circling for sometime awaiting areception, and the load was dropped. Coursewas then set for Base which was reachedwithout incident. The cloudy conditions stillpersisted on the homeward journey.LiberatorVI. 'R'EW287F/S. W. R. Mills110862821/2/45 Sgt. L. C. Loveless1604264P/O. T. Taylor163841W/O. S. E. HencherCan.R.93615Sgt. G. V. RoweCapt.2nd.P.Nav.B/A1.WOPCancelled.8 This time may be in error.9 Record gives 1338958 as service number, but this is Richards; 1332837 may be Rozee.13

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'Z'KH3971795801Sgt. C. C. Young1623858Sgt. D. S. Potter1867623Sgt. J. F. Hawkins1301823F/L. H. H. Monks12051421/2/45 Sgt. E. Goddard1585400W/O. F. D. PhillipsAus.405603P/O. W. McDonald164293F/S. G. M. HillAus.437419F/S. D. G. Morris,Aus.437437Sgt. Y. Taylor1896508Sgt. H. Miles1811869Sgt. W. H. Forde,1895589LiberatorVI. 'W'KH394P/O. C. H. Hedley5614121/2/45 F/S. K. Nicholson,18101768Sgt. H. Hounslow,1320624W/O. S. Perkins,1215501P/O. J. E Tubb.188532W/O. R. C. Chalmers1152918W/O. B? S. Pepper,631789Sgt. J. Turner,2221298F/S. W. H. Blee5776262.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Capt. 16.30 09.202nd. P.Nav.B/A1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Desp.Capt. 17.05 10.002nd.P.B/ANav.1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Desp.D.N.C.O. On the outward and return journeythis A/C encountered 10/10 cloud and stormsover most of the route. At the DZ, however, itwas quite clear with a visibility of 10 miles.Although a search was made for 25 minutesand many lights were seen, none of themcorresponded to the briefed reception, so theload, with the exception of the leaflets whichwere dropped over Pakse?, was returned toBase.This Aircraft encountered 9/10 to 10/10 Cuover Burma on both the Outward and Returnjourney. At the DZ area there was considerablemist with some low cloud and rain. Afterlocating and circling the DZ lights were shownwith the correct reception and the load wasdropped in 2 runs. The journey to Base wasuneventful.Eight Aircraft were detailed for S.D. Operations. Particularly cloudy conditions existed over the route, butthe target area was somewhat clear. Five aircraft were successful, two unsuccessful, the reason beingfaulty or no reception, while one did not drop because of 10/10 cloud at the target.22nd/23rd February, 1945RouteA/C:- 'Z', 'T', 'K', 'X'.14

358 Squadron February 1945A/C:- 'Z':- Base – 1246N 10417E – 1154N 10527E – DZ and Return." 'T':- Base – 2044N 9221E – 1851N 9720E – 1449N 10552E – DZ – 1353N 10253E – Base." 'K':- Base – 1517N 10520E – DZ – 16 mins. diversion on 200 – Base." 'X':- Base – 1950N 9435E – DZ and return.Load A/C. Leaflets Containers Packages Weight'Z' 12 7 6 3100 + leaflets'T' 12 7 6 3100 + leaflets'K' 7 7 5 2980 + leaflets'X' -- 7 6Opposition: None EncounteredLiberatorVI. 'Z'KH397F/S. W. R. Mills110862822/2/45 Sgt. L. C. Loveless16404264P/O. T. Taylor163541W/O. S. E. HencherCan.J93615Sgt. G. V. Rowe1795801Sgt. C. C. Young1623858Sgt. D. S. Potter1867623Sgt. J. F. Hawkins1301823LiberatorVI. 'T'KH350F/S. W. Drummond113312422/2/45 F/S. K. W. TunbridgeAus.434569F/S. F. Flynn,1396358F/O. T. Winup164104F/S. Johnson, C.Aus.27708F/S. K. LyonsAus.436605Sgt. Salway 932050Sgt. A. F. Dickson,1597378LiberatorVI. 'K'KH392S/L. S. A. Sharpe,4571222/2/45 F/O. B. C. Edwards157851Capt. 17.40 10.152nd.P.B/ANav.1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Capt. 17.45 09.502nd.P.Nav.B/A1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Capt. 16.30 10.002nd.P.D.C.O. On the Outward journey the weatherwas fair. At the DZ it was quite clear. Thereception was unmistakeable and the load wasdropped in two runs. On the homeward journeythe cloud was 10/10 above and below. Leafletswere dropped 100 miles N.E. of Rangoon at0540 hours.D.C.O. This aircraft found electrical storms anda rather large amount of cloud over EasternBurma but the DZ was clear. The receptionwas awaiting them and the load was droppedon the first run. The leaflets were dropped aftertravelling 12 mins. on a bearing of 300 from theD.Z. The aircraft returned to Base withoutfurther incident.After setting course the aircraft travelled inclear weather until reaching Central Burmawhere it encountered electrical storms. BeyondBurma the weather was clear. At the DZ therewere two lights awaiting the Aircraft, but it was15

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'X'EH312 10F/S. C. F. Kirby,1391233W/O. R. H. Cross,1337426W/O. J. A.Buchanan, 1365057F/S. F. W. Noble,Aus.437539W/O. S. W. Fayle,1357609W/O. B. W.Seymour, 1300922F/S. R. C. Fenbow,1672757.W/O. H. S. MartellAus.42184922/2/45 F/S. K. J. Steele,Aus.429674F/S. G. Whale1324510F/O. W. McStea163736W/O. D. I. Graham,Aus.413853F/S. D. C. JolleyAus.436522Sgt. G. C. Attwood1869269Sgt. W. F, Ayton1091192Nav.B/A1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Eng.Capt. 17.30 22.402nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.not until the aircraft had made three circuitsthat the complete reception was given. Theload was dropped at 0047 hours. The leafletswere dropped on Ten Salviaro from 3/4000 feetat 0112 hours. The Aircraft returned to Base.05.10. After take off the aircraft flew on courseuntil reaching the Chin Hills where bad weatherwas encountered. The Aircraft then returned toBase with it's load intact.Four aircraft were detailed for S.D. Operations. Three aircraft were successful after passing throughcloudy weather over Burma. The fourth turned back on reaching the area where the weather existed.23/24th February, 1945.RouteA/C:- 'A', 'K', 'H', 'L', 'W', 'R', 'C', 'T', 'X'.'A':- Base – 2044N 9221E – 1853N 9720E – DZ and return..'K':- Base – 1751N 9644E – DZ and return.'H':- Base – ditto.'L':- Base – ditto.'W':- Base – 1507N 10105E – 1314N 10341E – DZ and return.'R':- Base – ditto.'C' :- Base – 1700N 9800E – DZ and return.'T' :- Base – 1507N 10105E – 1314N 10341E – DZ and return.'X':- Base – ditto.Load A/C. Leaflets Containers Packages'A' -- 11 6'K' 12 7 610 Record gives serial as EH312; this is not a Liberator Serial. KH312 was 'X' on 358 Squadron.16

358 Squadron February 1945'H' -- 9 6'L' 12 11 6'W' 12 7 6'R' 12 7 6'C' 12 11 6'T' 12 7 6'X' 10 7 6Opposition:One Aircraft reported a 'yellow flare' like Chute Verey light at 1915N 9400E. Another reported E/A atDZ, but no engagement.Liberator W/C. P. G. D. Farr Capt. 18.30 0250VI. 'A'KH16723/2/45 F/S. P. C. Banks, 2nd.P.1603971F/Lt. E. L. Ryan, Nav.125641F/S. R. Jackman,967248B/A.F/O. S. Brace, 1.WOP162156Sgt. C. Thirkettle, 2.WOP1025625F/Lt. P. J. Kydd, Rear.82745Sgt. J. Stanley, M.U.G.1894296F/S. K. Wells, Eng.189047406.20. The weather was quite satisfactory untilthe immediate vicinity of the target area when10/10 Cu with tops to 11,000' wasencountered, but it was found to be downalmost the hills. After further unsuccessfulattempts to reach the DZ via the valleys theaircraft set course for Base which was reachedafter an uneventful return journey.LiberatorVI. 'K'KH392F/O. M. R. Davison,5409023/2/45 F/S. D. R.Crammond, 1458001P/O. T. Parham,161025P/O. A. N. Woods,164098W/O. S. J. Webb,1307031Sgt. G. B. Pollock,1344598Sgt.. Barber, G1629944W/O. G. White,1332279LiberatorVI. 'H'188F/O. L. P. CloutierCan.J2481723/2/45 F/S. R. G. Pryor,Aus.437058Capt. 16.30 08.302nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Capt. 17.00 08.252nd.P.16.00. This aircraft experienced fair weather onroute. At the DZ area there was considerableground mist which made pinpointingimpossible. A thorough search was made forthe DZ, but without success. The leaflets weredropped over M?aunu-In from 8000'. Theremainder of the load was returned to Base.15.25. This aircraft experienced fair weather onroute. At the DZ area there was considerableground mist which mad pinpointing impossible.A thorough search was made for the DZ, butwithout success. The leaflets were dropped17

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'L'977F/S. G. E. Foster,657237P/O. D. J. Boston,164443F/S. M. R. Vagg,Aus.430230F/S. E. Warmer,Aus.419146Sgt. J. Power,1796476Sgt. G. Mount,934689W/O. J. H. Jones52772523/2/45 F/S. G. YeatesAus.437245F/S. H. C Murphy.922489F/L. P. M. Williams132806Sgt. W. J. Donnelly1820882Sgt. G. Fletcher.1589917Sgt. A. P. Lock659147Sgt. A. J. Mansfield2213867LiberatorVI. 'W'KH394F/L. H. H. Monks12051423/2/45 Sgt. E. Goddard1585900W/O. F. PhillipsAus.405603LiberatorVI. 'R'EW287P/O. W. McDonald164293F/S. G. HillAus.437419F/S. D. G. Morris,Aus.437437Sgt. V. Taylor1896508Sgt. H. Miles1811869W/O. R. M. Bullen,NZ.42588023/2/45 F/S. R. Woodcock1623084Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Capt. 17.15 00.452nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Capt. 16.20 07.402nd. P.Nav.B/A1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Capt. 16.00 07.102nd.P.over Maunue?in from 8,000'. The remainder ofthe load was returned to Base.07.30. This aircraft due to a U/S ArtificialHorizon was late in taking off. An endeavourwas made to reach the DZ. during the specifiedperiod of reception, but the higher fuelconsumption to do this would have caused ashortage of fuel. The aircraft then returned toBase. The weather was good over the route. At1915N 9400E, 2150 hours, a yellow flare like achute Verey light was observed. The aircraftwas at 9000' at the time.D.C.O. Fair weather prevailed throughout thejourney. The DZ. area was clear and nodifficulty was experienced in locating thereception. Two runs were made and the chuteswere all seen to open. The leaflets weredropped in the Shirecan area at 03.15 hours.The aircraft returned to Base without furtherevent.D.N.C.O. Landed at Cox's. The weather wassatisfactory en route. The DZ area was clear.Four separate D.R. runs were made and eachtime the area was located but no reception.The crew had been to this area previously and18

358 Squadron February 1945F/S. R. H. Weldrake.1684845W/O. C. L. SmithNZ.429213F/S. A. W. Thomas1256009Sgt. Tunnell, D.1866234Sgt. H. Clarke1627355Sgt. Wells. 1512309B/A.Nav.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.were positive of their whereabouts. The leafletswere dropped from 10,000' over Prome. 5packtgs. did not open. The rest of the load wasreturned to Base.LiberatorVI. 'C'KH271F/O. H. V. SmithCan.J.27671F/S. C. Poole1434100Sgt. J. Draper1802370F/S. Brenchley, P. R.1390490Sgt. R. Woods1398294Sgt. W. Pinckney,1805139Sgt. W. Pugh2206912Sgt. C. Copley993351Sgt. Parsons 960606Capt. 15.55 00.302nd. P.B/A1.WOP 111.WOPM.U.G.2.WOPRear.Desp.D.N.C.O. This aircraft encountered heavyturbulent cloud en route. The DZ area wasmisty and although several D.R. Runs weremade the reception was not located. Leafletswere dropped West of Prome from 9,000'. Thebalance of the load was returned to Base.LiberatorVI. 'T'KH350F/L. R. W. Robinson5115923/3/45 F/O. I. N. Wilson164419Sgt. A. J. Sherwood1583263P/O. W. H. Bull165575P/O. L. C. Bartlett160606Sgt. H. Andrews1357596Sgt. T. F Clarke.636459Sgt. H. Burling1877098Sgt. R. Bell 1595905Capt. 16.25 09.152nd. PilotB/ANav.1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Desp.D.N.C.O. Over the route the aircraftexperienced moderate to cloudy conditions.The DZ area was covered with ground haze.Many fires were seen in the area, but noproper reception was seen. Leaflets weredropped in position 1918N 9512E. Aircraft thenreturned to base bringing the balance of theload.11 Record list Brenchley as "1.WOP", but he is usually the Nav. and Wood is also listed as "1.WOP" on this operation.19

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'X'KH312F/O. K. W. Jones17502223/3/45 F/S. K. R. JukesAus.428543Sgt. H. Dunn1549512W/O. E. T. Ball581493P/O. L. J Talbot.186538F/S. H. T. DawsonNZ.425654W/O. E. A Richards.1338958W/O. E. W. Rozee1332037Capt. 15.50 08.552nd.P.B/ANav.1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.D.C.O. This aircraft after setting course foundthe weather clear until the Irrawaddy areawhere it encountered 5/10th cloud. The DZarea was clear and while circling it an E/A wasseen within 500/600 yds. There was noengagement. It is believed that the E/A wasstrafing the reception committee. The aircraftdid not drop at the DZ. Leaflets were droppedon the Shwegyin area and the balance of theload returned to Base.Nine aircraft were detailed for S.D. Operations. Eight of these went to F.I.C., the other to Burma. Twowere successful, five unsuccessful due to no reception, one unsuccessful due to weather, the otherunsuccessful because of a late start. On the whole, weather conditions were favourable.24/25th February, 1945RouteA/C:- 'H', 'L', 'C', 'A'.'H':- Base – 2045N 9220E – 1853N 9720E – DZ and return.'L':- Base – 2048N 9210E – DZ and return.'C':- Base – 2046N 9220E – 1853N 9720E – DZ and return.'A':- Base – 2259N 9422E – 2208N 9845E – DZ and return.Load A/C. Leaflets Containers Packages Weight'H' 12 11 -- 3950 + leaflets'L' 12 11 1 4080 + leaflets'C' -- 11 -- 3950 + leaflets'A' -- 11 -- 3950 + leafletsOpposition: No Opposition was EncounteredLiberatorVI. 'C'KH271W/O. E. P. AdamsNZ.41216524/2/45 F/O. A. J. C.Pearce 12Aus.436273F/S. S. Simpson1457916Sgt. R. G. Stanton1582233F/S. J. J. CostelloAus.421572W/O. R. McMaster,Aus.432009Capt. 1925 04252nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.09.00. Good conditions prevailed throughoutthe journey. No difficulty was experienced inlocating the DZ. The load was dropped in onerun and the aircraft returned to Base.12 Name spelt "Perace" in this entry, and obvious error which has been changed.20

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'H'EW124Sgt. M. McGarry.1880766Sgt. D. Mathews1862719F/S. W. R. Mills110862824/2/45 Sgt. L. C. Loveless16404264P/O. T. R. Taylor163541W/O. S. E. HencherCan.R93615Sgt. G. V. Rowe1795801Sgt. C. C. Young1623858Sgt. D. S. Potter1867623Sgt. J. F. Hawkins1301823LiberatorVI. 'A'KH167P/O. C. H. Hedley5614124/2/45 F/S. K. Nicholson,1801768Sgt. H. Hounslow,1320624W/O. J. H. Perkins,1215501P/O. J. E Tubb.188532W/O. R. C. Chalmers1152918Sgt. G. Maiden,1880343W/O. B. S. Pepper,631789F/S. W. H. Blee577626M.U.G.Rear.Capt. 19.05 04.302nd.P.B/ANav.1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Capt. 1820 03.002nd.P.B/A.Nav.1.WOP.2.WOP.Rear.M.U.G.Desp.D.C.O. Good conditions prevailed throughoutthe journey. No difficulty was experienced inlocating the DZ. The load was dropped in onerun and the aircraft returned to Base. This A/Creported that as the dropping area had beenlaid in a bearing of 040 the dropping run had tobe made toward the hills. Leaflets weredropped on position 1815N 9633E at 23.55hours.D.C.O. Good conditions prevailed through thejourney. No difficulty was experienced inlocating the DZ. The load was dropped in onerun and the aircraft returned to Base.LiberatorVI. 'L'EW977F/O. J. C. MurrayCan.J.2767224/2/45 F/S. J. R. LarcombeAus.436643P/O. T. Kay 164079Capt. 19.30 23.052nd.P.B/A.F/O. H. Fielder Nav.146307 13F/S. J. E. BatemanAus.4249441.WOP.D.N.C.O. Aircraft U/S. This aircraft flew in goodweather conditions to position 2040N 9210Ewhere due to the compass and 'George'becoming U/S it decided to return to Base. Theload was returned.13 Previous entries for this crew have listed F/O. E. P. Field with this service number.21

358 Squadron February 1945F/S. A. AshbyAus.424012Sgt. J. F. Peters1853933Sgt. S. Collins,1545131Sgt. H. M Cosh6533882.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Eng.Four aircraft were detailed for S.D. Operations. Three were successful and one returned to Base withtechnical trouble. Weather conditions were good.25/26th February, 1945RouteA/C:- 'N', 'W', 'A', 'K', 'C', 'Z', 'L', 'H'.'N':- Base – 2044N 9221E – 1950N 9745E – 1750N 10129E – 1714N 10403E – DZ and return.'W':- Base – ditto.'A':- Base – 2044N 9221E – DZ and return.'K':- Base – 2044N 9221E – 1853N 9720E – DZ – 1942N 9507E – 2044N 9221E – Base.'C':- Base – ditto.'Z':- Base – ditto.'L':- Base – ditto.'H':- Base – Unknown.Load Leaflets Containers Packages'A' -- 9 5'K' -- 11 1'C' -- 11 5'Z' -- 11 5'L' -- 11 5'H' -- Unknown --'N' -- 11 6'W' -- 11 6Opposition: Nil.LiberatorVI. 'N'KH365F/O. M. R. Davison,54090F/S. D. R.Crammond, 1458001F/O. T. Parham,161025F/O. A. N. Woods,164098W/O. S. J. Webb,1307031Sgt. G. B. Pollock,1344598Sgt. G. Barber,1629944W/O. G. White,1332279Capt. 17.20 09.35½2nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.16.15. This aircraft experienced perfectconditions to within 50 miles of the DZ. Thetarget was completely covered with thick cloudwhich was so dense that had the aircraftpenetrated it, it would have been too darkbeneath. Leaflets were dropped over QuangTri. The return journey was uneventful. Theload was returned to Base.22

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI 'H'EW188F/O. L. CloutierCan.J24817F/S. R. Pryor,Aus.437058F/S. G. E. Foster,657237P/O. D. J. Boston,164443F/S. M. R. Vagg,Aus.430230F/S. E. Warmer,Aus.419146Sgt. J. Power,1796476Sgt. G. Mount,934689Capt. 17.002nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Missing. This aircraft took off from Base.Nothing further was heard until next morningwhen weak signals were picked up from it.Nothing further has been heard of the aircraftor crew.LiberatorVI. 'Z'KH397F/O. H. V. SmithCan.J.2767125/2/45 F/S. B. Pool1434100Sgt. J. H. Draper1802340F/S. P. R. Brenchley,1390490Sgt. R. S. Woods1398294Sgt. W. A. Pugh2206912Sgt. L. S. Ladd,653708Sgt. C. Copley993351Sgt. Parsons, L.960606LiberatorVI. 'W'KH394F/S. W. R.Drummind 14113312425/2/45 F/S. K. W.TunbridegeAus.434569P/O. T. C. Winup164104F/S. F. Flynn,1396358F/S. JohnsonAus.427708F/S. K. LyonsAus.436605Sgt. Salway, J. S.Capt. 1900 03002nd. P.B/ANav.1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Desp.Capt. 1710 08302nd.P.B/ANav.1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.D.C.O. Aircraft took off and had an uneventfuljourney to the DZ area. It immediately locatedthe reception and dropped in one run. It thenproceeded to position 1818N 9623E where theleaflets were dropped, and thence to Base.D.N.C.O. This aircraft experienced perfectconditions to with in 50 miles of the DZ. Thetarget was completely covered with thick cloudwhich was so dense that had the aircraftpenetrated it, it would have been too darkbeneath. Leaflets were dropped over position1650N 10700E. The return journey wasuneventful The load was returned to Base.14 Name spelt "Drummond" in previous entries.23

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'K'KH394932050Sgt.. Dickson, A. F1597378S/L. S. A. Sharpe,4570225/2/45 F/O. B. S. C.Edwards 157851F/S. C. F. Kirby,1391233W/O. R. H. Cross,1337426W/O. J. A.Buchanan, 1365057F/S. F. W. Noble,Aus.439539W/O. J. W. Fayle,1357309W/O. E. W.Seymour, 1300922F/S. R. C. Fenbow,1672757.LiberatorVI. 'A'KH167F/L. S. W. BridgesCan.J2122325/2/45 F/S. G. E. Smith1622770F/O. S. LuhterCan.J24562F/O. W. Mesher164454W/O. K. McLaughlin1021724F/S. A. LukeAus.430549Sgt. K. R. Banks2221297W/O. W. C.McCaffrey 642539P/O. K. P. Goodison652211LiberatorVI. 'C'KH271W/O. H. S. MartellAus.42184925/2/45 F/S. K. Steele,Aus.429674F/S. G. Whale1324510F/O. W. McStea163736W/O. D. I. Graham,Aus.413853Rear.Capt. 18.25 02352nd.P.Nav.B/A1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Eng.Capt. 20.00 01.052nd. P.Nav.B/A1.W/OP2.W/OPA/G.M.U.G.Rear.Capt. 18.50 03.002nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.08.10. Aircraft had uneventful journey to andfrom DZ which was picked up easily. Load wasdropped on first run. Leaflets were droppedover Kyung-Yaung from 8000'.05.55. Aircraft had uneventful journey to andfrom DZ which was picked up easily. Load wasdropped on first run. Leaflets were dropped atposition 10 miles South of Dalat at 8000 ft.08.10. Aircraft had uneventful journey to andfrom DZ which was picked up easily. Load wasdropped on first run. Leaflets were droppedover Railway from 10,000 feet.24

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'C'KH271F/S. D. C. JolleyAus.436522Sgt. G. C. Attwood1869269Sgt. F. Simmonite,1877199Sgt. W. F, Ayton1091192F/L. Robinson, R. W.5115925/2/45 F/O. I. N. Wilson164419S/Ldr. McConnellP/O. W. H. Bull165575Sgt. A. J. Sherwood1583263Sgt. E. H. Andrews1357596P/O. Bartlett, L. C.165606Sgt. T. E Clarke.636459Sgt. A. Burling1877098Sgt. R. Bell 15959052.WOP.M.U.G.Desp.Rear.Capt. 19.15 13.45 D.C.O. Aircraft had uneventful journey to andfrom DZ which was picked up easily. Load wasdropped on first run. Leaflets were dropped atPyu from 9,000 feet.2nd. PilotObsvr.Nav.B/A2.WOP1.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Desp.Eight aircraft were detailed for S.D. Operations. One failed to return to Base; two failed due to weatherover F.I.C. and five were successful in Burma.26/27th February, 1945.RouteA/C:- 'L', 'R', 'T', 'C', 'K', 'A'.'L':- Base – 2044N 9221E – 1950N 9745E – 1750N 10129E –DZ and return.'R':- Base – 2046N 9220E – 1955N 9750E – 1801N 10139E – 1713N 10403E – DZ – 1729N 10345E –Base.'T':- Base – 2044N 9221E – 1950N 9745E – 1750N 10129E –DZ and return.'C':- Base – Narcondoim – Penang Island – DZ and return.'A':- Base – 2259N 9422E – 2203N 9825E – 2120N 10511E – DZ – 2203N 9845E –2259N 9422E –Base.'K':- Base – 2259N 9422E – 2203N 9845E – 2154N 10020E – DZ – 2215N 9600E – 2255N 9400E –Base.Load Leaflets Containers Packages'L' -- 9 4'R' 12 9 3'T' 12 9 4'C' -- 7 --'A' -- 11 --'K' -- 11 --25

358 Squadron February 1945Opposition: One aircraft reported inaccurate flak, inaccurate for height at Yenargyam?yLiberatorVI. 'C'KH271W/C. P. G. D. Farr,3993626/2/45 F/S. P. K. Banks,1603971F/Lt. P. L. Ryan,125641F/O. A. Fielding,157931W/O. R. Jackman,967248F/O. S. J. Brace,162856Sgt. C. Thirkettle,1025625F/S. K. Wells,1890474Sgt. J. Stanley,1894296F/Lt. P. J. Kydd,82745LiberatorVI. 'K'KH392F/L. S. W. BridgesCan.2122326/2/45 F/S. G. E. Smith162770F/O. S. LuhterCan.J24562F/O. W. Mesher164454W/O. K. McLaughlin1021724F/S. A. LukeAus.430549Sgt. K. R. Banks2221297W/O. W. C.McCaffrey 642539P/O. K. P. Goodison652211LiberatorVI. 'K'977W/O. E. P. AdamsNZ.41216526/2/45 F/O. A. J. C. PearceAus.436273F/S. S. Simpson1457916Sgt. R. G. Stanton1582233F/S. J. J. CostelloAus.421572Capt. 15.15 11.302nd.P.Nav.Nav.B/A.1.WOP2.WOPF/Eng.M.U.G.Rear.Capt. 16.50 01.532nd. P.Nav.B/A1.W/OP2.W/OPDesp.M.U.G.Rear.Capt. 19.12 08.222nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.Throughout the journey this aircraftexperienced fair weather. The DZ was foundwithout delay and the load was dropped in onerun. On the return journey the aircraft flew lowto avoid enemy aircraft and R.D.F. system.This was the Squadron's longest journey todate ( 20 hrs. 15 mins.) and was carried outwith a petrol consumption of 1.2 A.H?.P.G.Many lessons on the manipulation of fuel werelearnt on this trip.This aircraft experienced good condition enrout. Some distance before the DZ a defect inthe fuel system occurred and made itimperative for the Aircraft to return to Base.This was done without further event; the loadwas returned.Aircraft reached DZ area without difficulty. Thereception was immediately located and theload was dropped in one run. On the returnjourney leaflets were dropped at 16.07N102.42E from 5,500'. Flak, inaccurate forheight, was encountered at Yenargyacy. Theaircraft reached base at 08.20 hours.26

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'R'EW287W/O. R. McMaster,Aus.432009Sgt. M. McGarry.1880766Sgt. D. Mathews1862719W/O. R. M. Bullen,NZ.42558026/2/45 F/S. R. Woodcock1623084F/S. R. H. Weldrake.1654845W/O. C. L. SmithNZ.42913W/O. A. W. Thomas1256009Sgt. D. P Tunnell,1866334Sgt. J. H. Clarke1627355Sgt. Wells. 1512309LiberatorVI. 'A'KH167F/S. W. R. Mills110862826/2/45 Sgt. L. C. Loveless16404264P/O. T. D. Taylor163841W/O. S. E. HencherCan.R93615Sgt. G. V. Rowe1795801Sgt. C. C. Young1623858Sgt. D. S. Potter1867623Sgt. Hawkins, J. F.1301823LiberatorVI. 'T'KH350F/O. J. C. MurrayCan.J.2767326/2/45 F/S. J. R. LarcombeAus.436643F/O. A. Fielder, P.146307P/O. T. Kay 164079F/S. J. E. BatemanAus.424944F/S. A. AshbyAus.424012Sgt. J. F. Peters2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Capt. 17.45 06.302nd.P.B/A.Nav.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Rear.Capt. 17.05 13.302nd.P.B/ANav.1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Capt. 18.50 06.402nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.D.C.O. Landed at Cox's. Aircraft found theweather en route excellent except for slightground haze. From a nearby lake the aircraftmade a DR run which took it right to thereception. The load was dropped on the firstrun and all were seen to land in the centre ofthe field. Leaflets were dropped on position19.29N 103.45E. Because of shortage of fuelthe aircraft landed at Cox's Bazaar on thereturn journey.D.C.O. On the trip this aircraft found theweather good. It found the DZ without difficulty,but although there was a reception the wrongletter was flashed, so the aircraft did not drop.Leaflets were dropped from 9,000' overLangson. The load was returned to Base.D.C.O. Small patches of Cu were encounteredon the trip. The weather was excellent at theDZ and no difficulty was encountered inlocating the reception. This was correctly givenand the load was dropped in 2 runs. Thenaircraft then set course for Kahmgean? wherethe leaflets were dropped. The aircraft then setcourse for Cox's Bazaar owing to shortage offuel. This was reached without further incident.27

358 Squadron February 19451853933Sgt. S. Collins,1545131Sgt. A. M Cosh653388Rear.Desp.Six aircraft were detailed for S.D. Operations. Four were successful; one did not receive the correctreception; one turned back because of failure of fuel transfer system which would have eventuated into afuel shortage had the aircraft gone out.27/28th February, 1945.Route.A/C:- 'N', 'K', 'X'.'N':- Base – 2259N 9422E –DZ and return.'K':- Base – Narcandarm Isle – Victoria Pt. – DZ andreturn.'X':- Base – 2049N 9052E – Base.Load. A/C Containers Packages.'N' 6 13'K' 11 5'X' 7 --Opposition: Nil.LiberatorVI. 'X'KH312P/O. J. C. Stuart18429327/2/45 F/S. J. McAlister1566861WO. E. Phillips,Aus.405603F/S. J. Batchelor1316082Sgt. S. Blackburn,1020030Sgt. E. Vickers,1817431W/O. W. Hendry,1123732P/O. F. S. Edwards,185307LiberatorVI. 'K'KH392F/O. K. W. Jones17502227/2/45 F/S. K. R. JukesAus.428573W/O. E. T. Ball581493Sgt. H. Dunn1549512P/O. L. J Talbot.186538Capt. 14.20 16.002nd.P.Nav.Nav.1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Capt. 15.30 22.202nd.P.Nav.B/A1.WOPD.N.C.O. Oil leak. Aircraft took off and afterone hour's flying developed an oil leak in No. 2engine. Immediately set course for Base.D.C.O. After an uneventful journey the Aircraftreached the DZ at a height of 8,000 feet. Lightswere seen, and an investigation, proved to bethe target. The load was dropped in one runafter which the aircraft returned to Base.28

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'N'KH365F/S. H. T. DawsonNZ.425654W/O. E. A Richards.1338958W/O. E. W. Rozee1332037S/L. S. A. Sharpe,4570227/2/45 F/O. B. J. Edwards157851F/S. C. S. Kirby,1391233W/O. R. H. Cross,1337426W/O. J. A.Buchanan, 1365057F/S. Noble, F. W.Aus.439539W/O. J. W. Fayle,13576309W/O. E. W.Seymour, 1300922F/S. R. C. Fenbow,1672757.2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Capt. 12.00 01.352nd.P.Nav.B/A1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Eng.13.35. After an uneventful long sea trip thisaircraft reached the DZ. The position of thetarget was such that a rapid drop over the hillswas necessary. However, the load wasdropped on the first run and the aircraftreturned to Base.There aircraft were detailed for S.D. Operations, one to an island off the Malay Peninsula wassuccessful; one returned because of a Technical failure. The other was successful in dropping it's load inBurma.28th/2-1st/3.1945RouteA/C:- 'X', 'W', 'Z', 'D', 'K', 'T', 'R'.'X':- Base – 1918N 9512E – 1728N 0745E – 1541N 100009E – 1314N 10341E – 1200N 10530E –DZ.'W':- Base – 2259N 9443E – 2204N 9844E – 2204N 10317E – DZ and return.'Z':- Base – 2259N 9422E – 2203N 9845E – 2148N 10106E – 2120N 10511E – DZ and return.'D':- Base – Ganges River – Base.'K':- Base – 2043N 9221E – 1918N 9512E – 1729N 9746E – 1542N 10009E –1314N 10341E – DZ.'T':- Base – 2259N 9422E – 2203N 9845E – 2148N 10106E – 2120N 10511E – DZ and return.'R':- Base – 2301N 9208E – 2205N 9846E – 2132N 10241E.Load Containers Leaflets Packages7 -- 411 -- 611 -- 611 -- 49 -- 611 -- 611 -- 6Opposition: Nil.29

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'KKH392F/O. M. R. Davison,5409028/2/45 F/S. D. R.Crammond, 1458001F/O. T. Parham,161025F/O. A. N. Woods,164098W/O. S. J. Webb,1307031Sgt. G. B. Pollock,1344598Sgt. G. Barber,1629944Sgt. W. J. Jacques,1597988W/O. G. White,1332279Capt. 18.00 10.502nd.P.Nav.B/A1.WOP2.WOPA/G.M.U.G.Desp.Rear.16.50. The weather throughout the journey wasgood. The reception was picked up from5 milesaway on the approach. At this time the Aircraftwas at 2000'. The load was dropped in 2 runsafter which the aircraft returned to Base.Leaflets were dropped at Ch. Hang on thereturn journey.LiberatorVI. 'D'KH353W/O. H. S. MartellAus.42184928/2/45 F/S. K. Steele,Aus.429674F/S. G. Whale1324510F/O. W. McStea163736W/O. J. T. Graham,Aus.413853F/S. D. C. JolleyAus.436522Sgt. G. C. Attwood1869269Sgt. F. Simmonite,1877199Sgt. W. F. Ayton1091192Capt. 18.45 21.55 03.10. After take off while in the Ganges Riverarea the A/C compass failed so the A/Creturned to Base immediately with it's load.2nd.P.Nav.B/A.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.Desp.Rear.LiberatorVI. 'X'KH312P/O. C. H. Hedley5614128/2/45 F/S. K. E. Nicholson,1801768S/L. L. C.McConnell, 18938W/O. J. H. Perkins,1215501P/O. J. E Tubb.188532W/O. R. C. Chalmers1152918W/O. B. S. Pepper,631781Capt. 17.00 09.402nd.P.Nav.Nav.1.WOP.2.WOP.M.U.G.D.C.O. The aircraft encountered fair weatherthroughout the trip. On approaching the DZarea the reception was seen ahead in a longnarrow wood. Two runs were made to drop thecontainers and packages. On the return tripleaflets were dropped from10,000' on position1541N 100.06E.30

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. 'W"KH394W/O. W. Hendry,1123732F/S. W. H. Blee577626Sgt. G. Maiden,1880343F/L. H. H. Monks12051428/2/45 Sgt. E. G. Goddard15885900W/O. F. D. PhillipsAus.405603P/O. W. McDonald164293F/S. G. M. HillAus.437419F/S. D. G. Morris,Aus.437437Sgt. V. Taylor1896508Sgt. H. Miles1811869Sgt. G. W. Mills,1892593LiberatorVI. 'R'EW287F/O. H. V. SmithCan.J.2767128/2/45 F/S. B. Pool,1434100Sgt. J. H. Draper1802340F/S. P. R. Brenchley,1390490Sgt. R. S. Woods1398294Sgt. W. A. Pugh2206912Sgt. W. Pinckney,1805139Sgt. Copley 993351Sgt. L. Parsons,960606LiberatorVI. 'T'KH350F/L. R. W. Robinson5115928/2/45 F/O. I. N. Wilson164419Sgt. Sherwood1583263P/O. W. H. Bull165545Rear.F/Eng.Desp.Capt. 19.00 08.052nd. P.Nav.B/A1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Desp.Capt. 19.40 08.052nd. P.B/ANav.1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Desp.Capt. 19.15 08.352nd. PilotB/ANav.D.N.C.O. Weather. Until within 20 miles of theDZ this A/C experienced good weather. TheDZ itself was completely covered with lowcloud, so it was not possible to drop. On thereturn journey leaflets were dropped from11,000' at position 21.17N 105.34E.D.N.C.O. Landed – Chittagong. All through thetrip to and from the DZ. area the weather wasgood. At the DZ itself there was a large amountof CU cloud which obscured it andconsequently the load was not dropped. At0125 hrs on the return journey No. 4 engine cutand was feathered. At 0200 hrs. the Pilotsuccessfully started the motor. Owing to havinghad to climb on 3 motors there was a shortageof fuel and the Aircraft landed at Chittagong forrefuelling.D.N.C.O. Weather. Until within 30 miles of theDZ this aircraft experienced good weather. TheDZ itself was completely covered with lowcloud, so it was not possible to drop. On thereturn journey leaflets were dropped from11000' on Phuto.31

358 Squadron February 1945LiberatorVI. ?KH397P/O. L. C. Bartlett165606Sgt. E. H. Andrews1357596Sgt. T. F Clarke.636459Sgt. A. Burling1877098Sgt. R. Bell 1595905F/S. W. Drummond113312428/2/45 F/S. K. W. TunbridgeAus.434569F/S. Flynn, F.1396358F/O. T. C. H. Winup164104F/S. C. J. JohnsonAus.427708F/S. J. K. LyonsAus.436605Sgt. Salway 932050Sgt. Copeland,15954421.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.Desp.Capt. 19.05 08.30 D.N.C.O. Weather. Until within 30 miles of theDZ this aircraft experienced good weather. TheDZ itself was completely covered with lowcloud, so it was not possible to drop. On thereturn journey leaflets were dropped at 21.30N103.55E.2nd.P.Nav.B/A1.WOP2.WOPM.U.G.Rear.7 aircraft were detailed for S.D. Operations. One returned shortly after take off with a U/S compass. 4aircraft were unsuccessful because of weather at the DZ. 2 were successful.32

348 Squadron February 194533