homepage Forums Air Combat & Civil Aviation Wings: Over Flanders Fields Deep Immersion DiD campaign -- Player Instructions (UPDATED 28 Nov 2018)

Albert Tross: The plot thickens

Trooper, thank you for noticing it. As Albert writes, Strutters and Bréguets fly impossible maneuvers - it’s something you’d expect from Brisfits and still wonder if it’s possible.
We’ll just have to deal with them the only way we know. Shoot them down.

Albert, Red Baron had its day. We now have 80 planes to fly in high-res with millions of skins and the engines now shake! Speaking of shaking, Klaus dodged a bullet with that Strutter. Thankfully August took care of him so that Klaus could take care of the SPADs.
Now, Kevin is taking care of some business as well. First that double presentation with the General, then the encounter with the lovely nurse Olivia. Well done to the Major for being discrete. I just have to say that this latest story feels like déjà vu. I really hope Kevin isn’t about to fly his last mission.

6 July, 1918 06:45 morning mission
Montingen, Verdun Sector
Jasta 18
Leutnant Klaus Gustav Raben EK1 EK2
Fokker D.VII
33 confirmed kills

Both SPADs claimed by Klaus yesterday have been confirmed.
In the morning Jasta 18 was sent to patrol friendly front lines near Nancy. The Schwarm completed their patrol over the city without spotting any enemy opposition. The thick clouds they were flying over could conceal any number of hostile aeroplanes without any of the German pilots knowing about it. As they were returning home they could see Schwarm Eins, who raced ahead was now embroiled in a furball with enemy planes. Klaus decided to keep his Fokker as high as possible to avoid any planes diving on him. He observed a few fights which were constantly coming down in altitude. By doing that he himself was flying lower. By the time he realized it, the main battle was already well above him. So much for that. He would now have to climb back up to their level. Thankfully none of the enemy pilots targeted him. He was free to choose a target and go after him. He fired on one SPAD, which immediately went into a tumbling spin. Klaus knew this was all staged to draw him lower, but he continued to target the machines at the highest level. He eventually was left with the last machine still battling another Fokker at high altitude. Together they’ve brought him down and once the dust settled, it was clear all the enemy machines were chased away.

YouTube Link



As Raben was guiding his plane to land at the airfield he could see the full scale of carnage that raged above just a few short minutes ago.



6 July, 1918 13:30 afternoon mission
Montingen, Verdun Sector
Jasta 18
Leutnant Klaus Gustav Raben EK1 EK2
Fokker D.VII
33 confirmed kills
Awaiting two claim confirmations

The afternoon show was a repeat of the morning orders. Patrol of friendly front lines near Nancy.
Throughout the entire mission they were flying high above the towering clouds. In fact they were flying so high, Klaus didn’t bother to check the sky above him for any bandits. The only thing that continued to occupy his attention was the constant turbulence. The shaking was so violent, he was sure both of his testicles were now properly descended. That is if they haven’t done so before.

NR - Wonderful news that Baptiste survived his "Running Homme" scenario avec Les Boches. Oliver can empathize having been in a similar predicament last May. Capitaine Pinsard is one of the good ones to visit his man in hospital. Unfortunate that Baptiste will be hors du combat until July 25 but at least he's still kicking and who knows if l'amour is hidden in the darkness of the future.

Albert - Blimey! It's a Gong/Promotion/Adulation Fest for young Kevin. Well earned young man. Congrats all around. Now beware the aftereffects of cigar ash and Tuille. Go cautiously.
Moving mud is so intensely satisfying. Also dangerous. Glad Kevin made it through unscathed. That Gilly fellow might be salvageable after all. Time will tell.
Bravo on the Captaincy. I find it the perfect rank, as do wiser men. A Captain must combine the fire of the Subaltern with the discretion of the Field Officer. Enjoy it while you can. 42? We all know what that means, but what is the question?
At his current rate, Kevin will be challenging Oliver's tally in short order. As for Nurse Olivia, I'd offer congrats but I fear Kevin has strayed into deeper waters here. We all await the next chapter in the saga with baited breath. Well crafted episode and superb pics all around.

Fullofit - I feel as though I should be linking the late great Gavin Macleod's scene from Kelly's Heroes to your fights with Strutters. "We was assaulted by them Strutters. You know what I mean by assaulted?!" My dilemma then becomes who should chide him about the negative waves...?
Klaus' flying skills remain intact. As for his Yarbles, that's a separate question. Best wishes on that score and congrats on reaching the Masonicly significant number 33.

Carrick - Les femmes en rouge?! Quel Dommage! Henri is in Le Zone Dangereuse now. What beckons, I wonder?

VonS - Good to see you stopping by. I agree that the terror of balloon AAA should be flying thicker but that's a question for DID4. Hop on in. The water's fine.

Raine - My best wishes for your continued recovery and return to the fray. The DID is nothing without the CM, Great and Terrible. Hope yesterday's procedure went as smoothly as the one previous. We all look forward to your next man.
______________________________________

À la Recherche du Temps Perdu - Part 93



2 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Change of Command. Cpl Jenkins, my new Batman brought me tea and a biscuit at 4.30. C Flight briefed the night before. I saw them off at first light.

Once again, my life is no longer my own. It belongs now to these pilots and men who I command. I’ve had exceptional teachers: Captain Hollis, Strugnell and that randy old satyr Stewpot. Majors Horn, Blomfield and Douglas. Then there was the magnificent example of Colonel Rees. Also Mr. Fairbairn and of course, Smokey himself. The Old Bull molded an elite crew on Astoria. I must do the same with 24 Squadron.

I remembered my March conversation with Grid Caldwell at the RFC Club. He had his three rules, one of which I would copy outright.

The overlapping three days here with Major Robeson were a godsend and I used the opportunity to have informal conversations with all the pilots and NCOs. I felt like I’d established a bit of a rapport, especially with the pilots. Now it was time they learned what I expected of them. 24 Squadron was a crack outfit and they knew it. Time to shake them up a little.

I spoke to the assembled pilots after lunch.

“No. 24 Squadron is one of the finest fighting units on the Western Front, with a record of achievement speaks for itself, but if that tradition is to continue, we cannot be content, nor can we rest on our laurels. We must improve. A new kind of air war is coming. Those of you who flew during the March Retreat saw that future. We must be ready.

“As your Commanding Officer, I will be flying with you on patrol, so what I now ask of you is nothing less than I demand of myself. To that end, I draw your attention to these 4 cardinal rules:

1. Put the squadron first. Your first duty is to the men you fly and fight with. Work as a team and there will be plenty of Huns to go round. Victories will come.
2. Take care of one another. You will always fly to the assistance of a comrade, whatever the risk, whatever the cost.
3. Become an expert shot. Practice frequently and sight your guns often. A pilot who can’t hit the enemy is useless.
4. Keep physically and mentally fit. Hard training, competitive play, and sufficient rest will see you through. Your life, and the lives of your comrades depend on it."

Nobody said anything. There were a few nods, especially from Johnson and Southey who knew me and undoubtedly knew what was coming, but the rest were silent. I wasn’t sure what that meant, nor did I care.

“There’s one last thing, gentlemen. I expect all of you to become students of aerial warfare. That one has a longer list that goes with it.”

When the group dispersed, I met with the Flight Commanders:



Top men all, though I won’t have the three for long. McDonald joined the squadron in July of 1917, and Johnson shipped for France in October. Both are due for HE soon. I’ll need to make use of their talents while I can.

Long discussion of tactics and training. I put to rest any concerns about the role of a flying CO.

“When I join you on patrol, it will be as your deputy. Your flights are yours to command. Train your pilots, especially the new men who didn’t attend the School of Aerial Gunnery. Get them all practicing. Might as well get used to shooting at the ground, we’ll be doing it often enough when the push comes.”

News today of the Huns bombing the hospital at Etaples two nights ago. No word on casualties. I hope Eliza wasn’t there. She should be in Rouen or down south with the fighting. Who was the donkey who decided that the largest army camp in Europe should sit adjacent to an enormous, sprawling hospital complex?

The squadron lost 4 men to injury and illness between May 28-29. Two were highly experienced men: Reuben Hammersley had 8 Huns to his credit and Ronald Mark, MC had 14 victories. Robeson recommended him for another decoration, along with Lowe for their May 20 action. Four new men arrived May 29-31: Passmore, Balmer, Clark and Watkins. Of this group, Clark is the by far the worst flier. He made a dreadful landing yesterday and wrote off an SE. I can’t allow him into combat.

Watkins and Passmore ferried two new machines from No. 4 ASD this afternoon. D330 will be mine. 1/AMs Nicholls and Webb, started a thorough inspection. I begin flight tests begin tomorrow.

3 Confirmed kills for No. 24 sqn on my first day as CO. McDonald, Daley & Lambert.



3 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Saw A Flight off on the dawn patrol off then immediately took D330 up. Plenty of power in the Wolseley. The reduced dihedral adds some agility.

Gave Grevelink’s drawings of the bag to Flight Sergeant A. J. Fisher. The senior NCOs are a seasoned lot. Five of the six Flight Sergeants are founding members of the squadron. J H Langston, the ‘new man,’ joined in 1916.

Other non-flying personnel of note:

Lt. Geoffrey Lindo – Recording Officer
2/Lt. Harry South – Equipment Officer and Mess President
Lt. Edgar Hallam – Armaments Officer

T. Sgt. Maj F. Schofield
Flt. Sgt A J Fisher

Cpl. Jenkins – Batman for myself as well as Lindo and Hallam.

The newly arrived pilots need more hours before I’ll send them over the lines. As a consequence, Lowe and B Flight are short experienced pilots. Only fair that the Officer Commanding do his bit aloft…


Flying deputy to Lowe on afternoon patrol. Skies devoid of Huns. Marvelous to be up again.
 



4 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Weather bad. H J Youngman off to hospital. NYD but it’s probably the d@mn flu. All pilots stuck to the field because wing refused to wash out 24 Squadron. It was obvious the weather wouldn’t clear. Several increasingly sharp telephone calls to Colonel Cairnes later and the situation remained unchanged.

I was in a foul mood all day and it had nothing to do with Wing or the weather. One year ago today that b@stard Voss killed Reg Pixley.

“Pay attention, Ripper. There will be a test later.”

All praise to Flt. Sgt. Fisher and the men of A Flight for their quick work. My afternoon tour of the sheds revealed The Bag hanging in the back of A Flight hangar. Perfect timing. I needed to hit something.




5 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Endless paperwork and administrative details require my attention. Everything about squadron command is new, and I feel like a chicken with its head cut off. The fact that I’ll be flying combat patrols each day complicates matters significantly. Thank goodness for Lt. Lindo. I’ve placed much of the additional burden on his shoulders. He’s beavering away but I can tell he’s stretched to the limit. I spoke to Col. Cairnes today about an assistant RO.

Youngman’s replacement, W J Miller, arrived today.

Four indecisive combats against a flight of LVGs but to the good, McDonald sent a balloon down in flames.

Dashed off a quick letter to Freddy. I can see him laughing now as he reads about my current predicament. “Haw! They got you, Old Top!”



6 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Joined B Flight again on a dawn patrol of our lines east of Amiens. Huns all sleeping. No e/a sighted.

Took the four new men up on practice patrol after lunch. Clark very shaky. He nearly collided with Passmore. Gunnery practice for the four afterwards. Clark’s control of the machine very erratic. I spoke to him afterwards and he said all the right things but his performance continues to alarm.

Summoned an unusual level of violence against the bag this afternoon. The echo and impact of my blows resounded with a particular snap. Even long serving men took notice.

Grevors was killed a year ago today. Sutcliffe too.

Try not to dwell on it.

Not so easy. I continued hammering the bag for another thirty minutes as I waited for the evening patrol to return. I feel an increasing agitation, a sense of unease. I need to get into a fight and soon.

“I know how to storm my way into the struggle of flying horses;
I know how to tread my measures on the grim floor of the war god.”



7 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

A strong day for 24 Sqn. Lowe, McDonald, Bunny Foster and ‘Perc’ Crossen all scored this afternoon. Southey drove down a machine damaged, alas unconfirmed. Four victories should be cause for elation but James Jeffrey Dawe did not return from the patrol. He went down with two Fokkers on his tail over Roseries. McDonald shot the wing off one, but the other Hun followed Dawe all the way to the ground. We hold out hope he may be alive and a prisoner of war however unlikely the possibility.

Men will die and it will be you who sent them…

#%&*$# ! Dawe came out last October when he was only 17. He was due for Home Establishment this month. Eight victories. Another experienced hand gone. It’s too soon for this.

Try not to dwell on it…

News from Wing today that Lowe has the Military Cross and Mark has a bar for his. Both awarded for their actions on May 20th. Well-earned on both counts. How strange these mixed celebrations. Joy for those decorated. Hurrah for the next man who dies. After 18 months I’ve learned how to put a good face on it. Even more important now that I’m the CO, and all will look to me as example. I gave it an hour then retired and left the men to their evening.

Midnight now. The many failed attempts at a letter to Dawe’s parents surround my desk like so much wreckage. I shall have little sleep tonight.



8 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Weather dud. No Flying today. Tried to get ahead on the numerous reports and details which command so much of my attention. Lindo standing at his desk for much of the day in obvious discomfort but uncomplaining. I remembered Major Blomfield setting up a canteen last Summer at Estrée Blanche. Set Lindo on finding personnel who were store clerks in civilian life.

Two new men posted today. Lt. W.C. Sterling who will join A Flight, and Lt. Edward Archibald Lawson, MC. who will serve as assistant Recording Officer to the much beleaguered Lindo. Lawson earned his MC with the Royal Field Artillery before transferring to the RFC in 1917.

I see the restlessness Robeson mentioned, in the pilots, but especially in myself. Working the bag doesn’t provide the solace it once did.

Wing telephoned after dinner. Huns have attacked between Montdidier and Noyon and the French are requesting help.

 
9 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

4.00 am Entire Squadron, minus Sterling, up over the Amiens – Roye – Noyon road. We were now 60 miles from Conteville and would have to watch our fuel carefully. Bertangles or a French aerodrome might serve in an emergency. No Huns about. Clark very erratic in formation.

Entire squadron at breakfast together. A rare event and one the men obviously relished. Good to see them in high spirits. All three flights to repeat the morning patrol again after lunch.

1.00 Up with A Flight in the afternoon. Lowe leading Lindberg, Farrell, Palmer, Passmore. I flew as deputy. Over Roye we caught a flight of Rumplers at 14000 ft.


Fired the Vickers in short bursts from range then opened up with both guns from 100 yards in.


My burst struck the pilot square in the back. His death throes sent the Rumpler up on its tail.


The observer stared glassy-eyed and motionless.
“And the mist mantled over his eyes, and the life left him.”

Tangled with another mixed flight of Fokker biplanes and red nosed Pfalz. Snapshots at the various Fokkers. How agile they are! Caught onto a wily Pfalz and fought him down to low altitude where I finally put a good burst into him from both guns.


“He fell, clawing the dust in his fingers.”

I was alone and well over. No friendlies in sight. I made haste to British lines.

Lowe saw the Rumpler but no pilots or forward observers saw the Pfalz go down. I sent only the one claim up to wing.



10 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Squadron grounded all morning by heavy rain. At 2.00pm I sent A and B Flights to the Montdidier-Noyon area. Only two groups of e/a sighted and those were too far distant to engage. Light rain reported from Amiens to French lines. Ground action bogging down in the muck.

Lindo continues his new habit of standing at the desk. Something is amiss but he’s making light of it.
I’m grounding myself for the next few days. As much as I want to fly combat patrols right now, it’s more important to get things under control on the ground. With Lindo and Lawson here I’m starting to get a feel for the administrative flow. Lowe, McDonald, and Johnson have things well in hand in the air.

Two men with civilian shop keeping experience reassigned to run the new Conteville Canteen. It’s getting hot lately, so fruit squashes and sodas should sell aplenty. All proceeds to go to the men’s mess fund. All hail Colonel Dickie Blomfield!

I’m under canvas here, which I don’t mind. I’ve my own tent in a perfectly cool spot in the apple orchard. Last night, Bill Lambert, my fellow American and his accomplice South made off with a portable hut they found in the nearby fields. They’ve set it up, christened it ‘Buckingham Palace’, and are lording it over the rest of the squadron. The wretched creatures might have had the common decency to offer it first to their Commanding Officer. So much for the privilege of command.

Rumpler from yesterday confirmed. One Hundred Thirty-Five.



11 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Lindo is off to the nearby CCS this morning. Now I know why the poor devil has been standing these past days. Piles! I hope he recovers quickly. Thankfully Lawson is here and will take over as RO until Lindo returns.

More patrolling over Montdidier in support of the French. Ground action quiet. Neither patrol reported e/a. Clark nearly hit the hangar coming in to land. He’s not fit for war flying.

Went over to visit Beery at 41 Squadron after dinner. We caught up over drinks and some discussion of the horrors of Command. I miss the easy days of being a mere Flight Commander.


12 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

German attacks in Montdidier-Noyon area ended. We’re back to our normal patrol area, this time over Moreuil.

l transferred Clark to the pilot pool at No. 4 ASD. He’s going to get somebody killed. I can’t have him in the squadron.

After 5 days of no Huns, Johnson broke the drought and sent a Fokker biplane down.



13 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Jenkins woke me at 5.00. Low Clouds and zero visibility this morning. I can feel the glass falling even as I dressed. No possibility of going up in this soup to get a look at the weather. It’s only going to get worse. I have an idea…thank you Vyvyan Robeson.

Squadron in limbo all morning. Much speculation as to the weather. I took a long look at the clouds and felt the glass continuing to fall. The weather wouldn’t improve either today or tomorrow. Smokey taught me that much at least. Wing refused to wash out the squadron so everyone remained on edge. Just before lunch Col. Cairnes called with the news which I kept to myself. By the end of the midday meal the men were ready to explode. They knew something was up. All eyes were on me as I finished lunch and casually walked toward the door of the mess.

“What about a binge in Abbeville?” I ventured.

It was the pebble that starts the avalanche. By 2.00 all three flights were piled into a brace of tenders and my squadron Crossley heading to Abbeville. First destination was the bathhouse. A long soak in hot water, what bliss!

What a binge! This was just what the squadron needed. No broken furniture but I can’t say the same for hearts and other things. Wine, women, celebration. The RAF, or in my case RFC, wings cast their magic and we all had coin to spend. All the men, myself included, were soon embroiled with the fair sex. I sent mine to the others. Everyone was having a grand time. Daley had quite the firecracker redhead on his lap most of the evening before they both vanished. I was happy for them all, even if I felt the loss of Eliza and Clarissa too.

Finally returned to Conteville at 3.00 am. Pushed through ‘til dawn in the mess with Lawson and South, the latter’s Aussie accent becoming more pronounced as dawn approached. Tonight was exactly what the squadron needed. We’ll see what becomes of it.

Carrick - That looked like a tough outing for Henri and the Escadrille, outnumbered and outgunned but they did well in the end. As for Kevin, there's nothing quite like a thickening plot to destroy a career.

Fullofit - Klaus had a good day again, but had to be patient although that first Frenchman went down quickly enough. Wow, so many funeral pyres that's where the claims board earn their pay, sifting through all that lot. Then a bit of a 'ball jangler' on the second outing....as the nurse used to say in school, a good cough should be just enough to ensure they're still present and correct. As for Kevin, welllll a pretty smile from across the room, who can resist. He's back in the air today so all thoughts of Canadian cherubs will be firmly put to one side.

Epower - Oliver is most definitely in command it seems. A good pep talk with the men a tough but correct decision with Clark (you can teach a man to fly but not to be a pilot) at least he's got a chance to improve at the depot rather than die at the front. Shame about young Dawe, but that's the side Winningstad is going to have to learn to cope with. Those #%&*$# letters to loved ones. He even had a catch up with Kevin's CO 'Beery' Bowman. Then onto the main business, leading from the front. That Rumpler was the first of many I think in this latest chapter of Oliver's story, he's going to lead from the front.....good show.

As for Kevin, it's been real journey for him and captaincy brings about a new chapter for him too. He's used to leading a platoon across no man's land but to lead a flight, a squadron across the skies into battle, that's something else. The medals and promotions have been great but it's in the skies he's at his best. Olivia has definitely been put to one side for another time, a quieter time.

Captain Kevin Carroll, MC, DFC
41 Squadron
Conteville

42 confirmed kills

7th July 1918

Morning sortie

Kevin and Bowman were picked up at 8.45am from the Grand Hotel de la Gare in Abbeville. The journey back was considerably quicker than the previous journey. Mainly thanks to them going in the same direction as most of the traffic. The rain had come which meant the top was up on the Crossley. Several times, trucks and columns of men moved out the way to let the staff car through. "For all they know it could be Haig in here" said Bowman smiling.

They arrived back in time for some late breakfast and to learn from Captain Payne that HQ had requested a balloon busting mission out to Vimy. Payne was just about to get a trio together when Bowman said "I'll take this run, fancy it Captain Carroll?". Kevin nodded, so there it was. Major Bowman and Captains Payne and Carroll got changed into their gear.

The weather was still lousy, rain and winds prevailed although some hope of it clearing later abound.

The trio knew exactly where the balloon was, it was one they'd taken on before and was crucial to keeping tabs on Vimy ridge.

They took off and headed east after climbing upto 10000 feet.

The journey was uneventful apart from the driving rain making everyone and everything soaking wet.

Eventually though they could see the front and the trio started down towards the balloon. Right as expected Kevin could see the familiar shape of the Draken, bobbing around in the wind.

He lined up as he got closer and poured both barrels into the gasbag. All three pilots opened fire in unison and the balloon exploded in a ball of orange and red flames.

Kevin kept his eyes up above but the thick clouds provided good cover to them as they made their homeward journey.

They landed safely after about an hour.


Afternoon sortie

After some lunch and a chat with some of the pilots about yesterday's presentation, Kevin was on his way to the briefing room. At that moment the airfield alarm sounded. Flak guns opened up and aimed high to the east.

Kevin yelled for the mechanics to start his and the other aircraft engines.

The weather had cleared somewhat, the rain had stopped and some blue skies were around but so we're some monstrous cumulo clouds as Kevin took off and climbed steeply up towards the flak bursts.

Several other pilots were now taking off as well but Kevin had a couple of thousand feet on them already.

He could now see the Hun bombers high up and continued climbing as fast as he could.

He now saw the two seaters were DFW's and headed after a trio of them who had formed up and we're heading home.

He used his tried and tested technique of targeting the leader from behind and beneath.

He got in close and nosed up. He blasted the hapless Hun hard and the aircraft visibly rocked. The pilot tried to give his gunner a shot but in doing so presented the open cockpit to Kevin. Kevin poured bullets into the cockpit and both the gunner and pilot were hit.

The German aircraft slid to the right and nosed down and continued right into the ground west of Bruay airfield.

Kevin came around for another target and lined up on another Hun. He could also see other SE's now getting behind targets as well.

As he closed on his foe the Hun tried to evade so Kevin swung with him using his rudder to get and stay behind the tail.

He'd changed the lewis gun drum and now blasted the Hun hard. The gunner tried to get rid of Kevin but another burst must have hit the wires as the DFW lurched over and spiralled down and down into the ground near Bruay airfield once more.

Kevin could see the remaining Huns being decimated so decided to head home.

He landed safely and went to make his report as the others came in too.

Six DFW's had been downed for three SE's damaged.

Later on Major Bowman called Kevin to his office. "Captain, good news, both of your claims today have been confirmed. Indeed the stricken aircraft nearly landed on my head as they fell past" the Major said with a smile.

"By the way, I meant to ask in the car, how did you get on with that nurse yesterday?" asked Bowman.

"Very well sir, we've agreed to keep in touch" replied Kevin.

"Jolly good. She was a sort my friend" said the Major.

e power: U have outdone yourself in pics and story.

Fullofit: Well done.

Henri N. du Fay
Spa 94,Adjutant, C.G.
Brabant-le-Roi ,
Aerodrome, Verdun
8 Victory's
5 Unconfirmed

Engaged the Huns over the lines this morning, I may have got one. Spotted Zee Boche and alerted the flight # a/c + 3 High cover the e/a appeared to be 6 or 7 in a loose Vee formation.slightly below. I was johnny on the spot snap firing at all of them then scatter and hide and seek in the clouds. I seemed to be all alone pulling thru a cloud and caught one under my guns. He rolled as fabric flew off the spun Pulling up I lost sight ,b ut heard a loud noise . Never saw zee e/a again. My claim was rejected. Total Score 2 Albatross with Red elevators and white Rudders for 3 damaged Spads.

Epower, I need to rewatch that movie again. After 30 years all I remember is Donald Sutherland barking.
So, here we have it, Dicta Winningstad. All valid points. Hope the troops take them all to heart.
Oliver caught that Jasta 18 Pfalz just in time. Soon they’ll be transferring to Verdun. What was he doing this far south anyway? Congrats on the confirmed kill. What a catch-up.

Albert, I have a feeling that First SPAD faked it, but Klaus didn’t want to follow and miss out on all the action still above.
As for Kevin, I’m on the edge of my seat. Will he survive this next mission or succumb to the curse of the fairer sex?
Well, the morning mission came and went without tragedy (except for the observers in that balloon). Then the afternoon scramble. Two Huns down and Kevin is safe and sound. I think the worst is over. Just take it easy for the next few days and the curse should lift soon enough. Congrats on the confirmed two-seaters.

Thanks Carrick, it looked worse on the ground than in the air.
Lucky Henri had all these clouds to hide in.

7 July, 1918 06:45 morning mission
Montingen, Verdun Sector
Jasta 18
Leutnant Klaus Gustav Raben EK1 EK2
Fokker D.VII
34 confirmed kills

One of the claims Klaus made yesterday has been confirmed.
New man arrived this morning, Ltn Heinz Kunster, but even bigger news was that most of the D.VIIs were replaced with Dreideckers overnight. No one had the faintest idea why. At least Klaus was able to keep his machine, but for how long?
During the morning mission briefing there were some grumblings and the questions started to fly as soon as the Staffelführer walked into the room. He assured everyone this situation was temporary. Their planes were needed more elsewhere and as a sign of good will he would also fly a Dreidecker.
“- Don’t envy those who were allowed to keep their Type Sevens. They are to fly ahead of the main force as bait. They will need fast planes to survive their new role. If anyone has any problems with that, come see me in my office. Now, to business.”

There was no need for being the bait this time around. The Jasta was sent to defend the Mars-la-Tour aerodrome. They all circled the field together, but no enemy planes materialized. Perhaps this time the front observers got it wrong? It wouldn’t be the first time.



7 July, 1918 13:30 afternoon mission
Montingen, Verdun Sector
Jasta 18
Leutnant Klaus Gustav Raben EK1 EK2
Fokker D.VII
34 confirmed kills

In the afternoon ground forces support south of Pont-à-Mousson was the order of the day. Klaus was the bait flying alone ahead of the Dreideckers. He was nervous, not because he was the prime target but because his throttle wasn’t working properly. After a while of patrolling the Front he found a lonely SPAD flying over the lines at a lower altitude. Klaus made a pass at the enemy but overshot his target due to the sticky throttle and watched the rest of the Dreideckers pick him apart like a pack of vultures.
He then found himself beneath the rest of the SPAD flight, which just appeared out of the clouds. He swooped on one that has already dived on one of the triplanes beneath and gave it a good squirt. The French plane went into a dive, occasionally spinning uncontrollably and in the end crashed into the mud below. Klaus with his faulty throttle didn’t engage in any more scuffles, but proceeded toward Montingen and gingerly landed his plane.

YouTube Link

Carrick - A good sortie for Henri and the Escadrille, bagging a couple of Boche without loss. Henri got one too but for the lack of witnesses. Here's to more eyes on his prize next time.

Fullofit - All thoughts of nurses have been firmly put away (well maybe the odd dream). The curse will come alive again when Kevin writes a letter, or receives one. As for Klaus, what's going on with the Dreideckers? They're still handy in a fight but at least he still has his DVII. Then the CO getting all shirty saying the DVII flyers will be out front as bait? At least it gives Klaus first chance at grabbing the enemy. Which he went and did well, downing that SPAD. The dodgy throttle put paid to any more though, right choice to head home.

Captain Kevin Carroll, MC, DFC
41 Squadron
Conteville

44 confirmed kills

8th July 1918

Morning sortie

Kevin took the morning briefing and confirmed that 'B' flight would be heading towards the lines between Bethune and Lens. 'A' flight had already set off escorting some RE8's down to Arras earlier on.

The weather was good although some sizeable clouds remained behind which dangers could lurk.

Kevin and the others took off, Fred McCall was on Kevin's left shoulder and Captain Hemming on his right, Bill Shields, Stan Puffer, Harry Watson and Lieutenant Gilly making up the rest of the flight.

They formed up and headed east, reaching 14000 feet on the way. They'd been gone about 30 minutes and were approaching the lines when Kevin saw another formation coming through clouds ahead. He signalled and carried on, then he saw the other formation nose up and head towards 'B' flight.

Kevin signalled to attack and nosed down. He now saw they were up against a flight of Albatros scouts and headed straight into the centre of their formation, scattering them to hell.

He swung around and selected a target. The rest of 'B' flight had now joined him. He went after a hun who was ahead and circling. Kevin fired and the Albatros rolled and dived. Kevin was just about to go with him when he saw another formation of aircraft entering the fight.....Fokkers.

Now suddenly the Huns had the advantage, 2 to 1 in terms of aircraft.

He carried on after the Albatros but kept a keen eye on his six.

The German turned and Kevin went with him, a series of turns ensued but Kevin was winning. The Albatros rolled out and tried to dive again but Kevin blasted him as he came out of his own turn.

The Albatros nosed down and went straight into the ground.

Kevin checked his six which was clear but he saw a Fokker coming down towards him from the right. Kevin had good speed and zoom climbed up towards the foe and fired. The Fokker panicked and rolled away. Kevin followed although now he was much slower.

He changed his lewis gun drum and turned after the Hun. The Fokker climbed up and came around over Kevin's right shoulder so Kevin half rolled and dived down and underneath. He came up directly behind the German. He blasted the Hun hard. Another burst was tearing chunks out of the Fokker who was now spewing thick smoke.

A final burst went straight into the pilot who fell forward and the Fokker nosed down into the ground.

Kevin now took stock, several battles were still going on. He saw another Fokker trying to get on the tail of a fleeing SE. He throttled up and raced after him.

He nosed down and fired at the Hun at maximum range but it did the trick, the Fokker rolled left and climbed. Kevin went with him as the other SE continued his escape.

The Fokker continued turning and a ducking and weaving set of scissors ensued. Kevin was always the aggressor though.

He finally got a bead on the enemy aircraft and poured both barrels into the Hun. The Fokker had smoke pouring from his engine as Kevin put another lewis gun drum in. He caught the Hun up and blasted him. The Fokker burst into flames and went straight down into the ground.

Kevin checked around and could see two SE's nearby and formed up with them.

Together they headed home. On landing Kevin learned seven enemy aircraft had been downed but an SE was lost and Captain Hemming confirmed that the way it went into the ground, there was little hope Lieutenant Gilly was still alive.

Kevin was shaken for a moment, his thoughts flitted back to his previous encounters with Gilly, he could suddenly see every freckle, every contour. He pulled himself together and went to make his report.


Afternoon sortie (awaiting three confirmations)

After lunch, Major Bowman took the briefing and confirmed the whole squadron would be heading back towards the lines in front of Lens. Kevin would again be leading 'B' flight.

The weather was still pretty good as both flights took off and headed out east towards the lines.

Kevin kept checking around as they approached the lines. As the formation turned north Kevin saw a large formation of aircraft ahead and a bit above 'B' flight.

He was about to signal when the other formation turned towards 'B' flight and headed down towards them.

'B' flight nosed up and met the attack. It was a whole Jasta of Fokkers. An enemy aircraft whistled past Kevin so closely he could see the other pilots face. Kevin turned to follow but at that moment bullets ripped into his wing.

Kevin rolled away but more bullets followed, damaging his aileron. It still worked but was sluggish rolling right now.

Kevin dived and nervously checked the left wing hoping it held out. It did and he looked back at the Fokker now scrambling for his tail.

He turned left and held it, the damaged aileron pushed his nose down and only a touch of rudder corrected it which slowed him down.

The Fokker closed in again and Kevin feared the worst, so he tried something, he throttled right back. The impatient hun flew past Kevin. Who lined up and blasted the Hun. The Hun dived down and raced for his own lines. Kevin nosed down "No way, not this time Fritz" said Kevin to himself.

He caught the German up and blasted a long burst into the Fokker.

The German spiralled down and down and Kevin watched as it smashed into the trees.

Kevin realised he was now over German lines in a damaged aircraft. He started back for home keeping tabs on the skies around as he did.

He managed to fly level with a touch of rudder and stick and eventually made it back home. He landed safely by which time the rest of the squadron had already returned.

He made his damage report and went in to clean up.

Later on he learned five Fokkers had been downed although another SE had been lost. 2nd Lieutenant Will Marshall was dead as was Lieutenant Gilly as confirmation had been received. Marshall, from Staines in Surrey had been with the squadron since May.

Kevin was in Major Bowman's office. The Major had confirmed two of Kevin's claims. The Albatros and the Fokker in the afternoon couldn't be confirmed. Kevin wasn't surprised by the Fokker seeing as it was over the lines.

That brought Kevin to 46 confirmed kills.

"Well done today Captain, it was a tough day but we came through it. There will be many more of those before this war is won believe me" said the Major.

"Thank you sir, I feel for our losses. Poor Gilly, I thought he'd finally got himself sorted" said Kevin.

"This war is no place for learners Kevin, it's kill or be killed. You of all people know that" said the Major.

"I know sir, but it is still a hard pill to swallow" said Kevin.

"It's one you're going to have to get used to if you want your own squadron my friend." said Bowman.

Good day gents! Dropped in to see how things were fairing. Seems some good pilots have gone west. Some very famous ones at that. Raine, I hope all is on the mend. Good luck mate.

I hope I can rejoin before the end of the fun, you folks stay safe. In the words of Sgt. Esterhaus, “let’s be careful out there”

MFair: Howdy

Henri N. du Fay
Spa 94,Adjutant, C.G.
Brabant-le-Roi ,
Aerodrome, Verdun
10 Victory's
5 Unconfirmed

2 Boche in Zee bag in one flight. Run in with a 8 or 10 e/a Pflaz Types ? Sadly we lost the Escort B14 from Esc 229. Our 5 a/c were close escort with 3 high cover. The e/a swarmed us and 2 broke off to fly in circles as the B 14 tried to Run. I dove on thos two after getting one. my mates drew off one and I struck out after the other, The e/a wobbled a lot as I closed to 100 meters ( Been Hit ? broken spar ? } I held down the triggers and fired off 150 rds jamming one gun. The e/a made a wide turn and pancaked breaking apart. The flight claimed 4 e/a destroyed we lost the Recon B 14, 1 Spad + 3 damaged.

Albert, no idea what went “wrong” with the Dreideckers. A bug? I wonder if there is a file that can be edited to correct it. The D.VII pilots are bait, because their planes are that much faster. They’ll be leaving the Dreideckers behind, like it or not. As for the first dibs on enemy planes, well that goes both ways. He’ll probably be the first one to be attacked and shot down.
Kevin, should think of his nurse as much as possible. Who knows how much time he’s got left before the curse develops fully? For now, he seems to be okay. Shooting everything the Huns can throw at him. Well done on the three claims, but shame about Gilly. He was probably running away when he was shot down.
Then that afternoon mission. Kevin is becoming reckless, chasing Huns into their territory, all by himself in a damaged machine. That nurse may not see a letter from Carroll if he continues this way. Luckily for him he made it back home. This time. An expensive day for 41st. Two dead pilots that won’t be so easily replaced. C’est la guerre!

MFair, it’s been a while Amigo. Hope you’re enjoying your time off. Hurry up, the nurses are getting impatient.

Carrick, well done! Two in one day. That’s a record for Henri.

8 July, 1918 07:45 morning mission
Montingen, Verdun Sector
Jasta 18
Leutnant Klaus Gustav Raben EK1 EK2
Fokker D.VII
34 confirmed kills

The SPAD claim has been denied. No one could tell for certain who shot him down in all these clouds.
The HQ ordered a Repeat of the ground forces support mission from yesterday. The Schwarm was flying along the Front when Klaus’ Fokker made a loud bang and black smoke began to pour out of the Mercedes-Benz motor. Raben had to detach from the formation and turn back for home. The engine gave up the ghost soon after.

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Klaus began his long glide to base, the 4 km of altitude afforded him to return and land at Ars aerodrome, just a short walking distance from their own airfield at Montingen.

YouTube Link



8 July, 1918 14:00 afternoon mission
Montingen, Verdun Sector
Jasta 18
Leutnant Klaus Gustav Raben EK1 EK2
Fokker D.VII
34 confirmed kills

In the afternoon they were sent to patrol enemy front lines between Marbache and Nancy.
The flight over the mud seemed to go smoothly until the Schwarmfürher took a dive into the clouds and everyone followed. Once they’ve pierced through the cloud cover they were greeted by a flight of large two-seaters preparing to land. Klaus was lucky this time and shot down a DH.4 on fire over Malzeville, then the entire Schwarm reformed and returned home with no further incidents.

YouTube Link

MFair - Good to see you around. Yes get your derriere back in the air again soon I hope.

Carrick - A tough day for the Escadrille and that Breguet (maybe that's the way to tackle them, hit them before they hit you, or maybe it was because there was only one). It was a very good day for Henri though, two down and both confirmed.....formidable!

Fullofit - There's nothing wrong with Dr1's (not my choice of mount though) but it's a bit like having your Spitfires taken away and replaced with Hurricanes....not a disaster but a bit of a kick in the buster browns. Kevin is realistic, he knows there'll be some dodgy weather soon and he can put all his feelings about Olivia into a letter then. Kevin took a chance with that afternoon Fokker but sometimes an idiot has to do what an idiot has to do. There was no way he was letting that little fokker get back safely whilst he could still fly, just about.

As for Klaus, he's not having much luck on the mechanical front. Is this a ploy by HQ to explain the Dreideckers? By having the DVII's play up. Well done getting down to an airfield with no engine. Then a DH4 in the afternoon, well done they're up there with Breguets and Strutters in the 'dangerous' pigeon hole. His kameraden did well with the other two seaters as well judging by the film.

Captain Kevin Carroll, MC, DFC
41 Squadron
Conteville

46 confirmed kills

9th July 1918

Morning sortie

Major Bowman called Kevin and Captain Payne to his office in the morning.

"Gentlemen, we've been asked to take down another Hun balloon. This one is up near Ypres and is overlooking the salient." said Bowman.

"You know the score, no loitering and tangling unnecessarily. Prang the bugger and get straight back" he concluded.

The weather had taken a decided turn for the worse, rain danced down and thick clouds were everywhere.

The three airmen took off and formed up. They climbed up to 12000 feet and then headed north east.

The weather made accurate navigation difficult but they eventually saw the blackened mud and ruins of the front as they started down towards the target.

As they came under the clouds Kevin saw the cylindrical shape of the German balloon.

Although being thrown around by the wind, Kevin lined up on the target and blasted the balloon. Another burst had smoke pouring from it and as Kevin passed over it exploded in a blur of flame and smoke.

Kevin climbed back up to the other two and they headed off towards home.

The return journey went without incident and all three landed safely.


Afternoon sortie

'A' flight had already left on their patrol of the Arras lines as Kevin took the afternoon briefing for 'B' flight and explained they'd be heading up towards Ypres.

The weather had not improved, in fact it had worsened. The rain was driving into the pilots as they took off and headed out north east.

Despite visibility being seriously reduced the sortie progressed quietly and the flight landed about 90 minutes later.

Later on in the evening Major Bowman and Kevin were in Bowman's office arranging tomorrow's sorties. Bowman's phone rang..........

The Major answered and listened intently. Kevin couldn't hear the caller but Bowman visibly whitened.

"Has this been confirmed?" asked Bowman.

"Thank you" said the Major as he put the receiver down.

The Major stood staring at the phone for what seemed like an eternity, but was probably only seconds.

"What's wrong sir?" asked Kevin.

"McCudden is dead" said the Major, still staring at the phone.

Kevin gasped, "How? Was he back on active duty?"

"He was meant to join up with 60 Squadron. His aircraft crashed on take off" said Bowman, visibly upset.

"Do you want me to leave you alone sir?" asked Kevin.

"If you don't mind Captain. I just need to process this." said Bowman.

"Of course sir, shall I go and brief the others?" said Kevin.

"Yes thank you." said Bowman.

Kevin saluted and left and went to the mess with the news.

Once he'd briefed the squadron he grabbed a drink....he needed one.

Albert, I suspect Fokker shortages are behind those Dreideckers. Some fat Jasta C.O. broke all his and asked for more. The HQ couldn’t supply new ones, so they took Jasta 18’s. Hopefully more are on the way soon. Another sign of shortages is the constantly breaking down plane. Using used spare parts results in subpar performance.
Kevin has no problems with performance. Neither in cockpit nor out of it, when chatting up nurses.
So another gasbag termination sortie in the morning and then a quiet afternoon romp. All culminated with bad news. There’d be a lot of toasts raised to the fallen that evening.

9 July, 1918 06:45 morning mission
Montingen, Verdun Sector
Jasta 18
Leutnant Klaus Gustav Raben EK1 EK2
Fokker D.VII
34 confirmed kills

The two-seater on fire from yesterday had been rejected.
This morning Schwarm Zwei was sent to patrol enemy front lines south of Pont-à-Mousson. He was the bait again. Luckily for him the Strutters weren’t biting. The Schwarm completed their patrol route and returned to base unscathed.

9 July, 1918 13:25 afternoon mission
Montingen, Verdun Sector
Jasta 18
Leutnant Klaus Gustav Raben EK1 EK2
Fokker D.VII
34 confirmed kills

There was another ground forces support mission in the afternoon. The orders targeted the same area as in the morning, just a tad further west though.
Just as in the morning the Strutters were nowhere to be found. This was a good thing. What was bad was a flight of Bréguets looming ahead and coming at him. Klaus knew these were tough customers and approached them with caution. He was now sparring with one and not making much headway. Then, by chance, another Bréguet crossed his path and his rear gunner began to pester Klaus. Raben was annoyed alright. He fired a burst at the side of the two-seater but missed. He corrected and sent another burst into the flank of the beast. To his great astonishment the wings came off the bomber and began their long way down. The rest of the Bréguet did something similar, but at a much quicker pace.

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Klaus returned to his original target, which now was being processed by a Dreidecker. Raben’s machine was damaged and the controls were not as responsive as he was used to. Nevertheless he pressed home his attack by diving on the enemy plane. The Dreidecker managed to get the Renault motor smoking, but he himself had to disengage. Klaus took over and renewed his hunt. He came from behind and opened fire, but most of his rounds flew by the target harmlessly. Raben went around and could see the propeller wasn’t turning anymore. The beast was going down. He risked one final assault from above. Klaus dropped the nose of his Fokker and waited for the Bréguet to fly right into the stream of bullets. It worked! The engine caught on fire and the Franzose was going down like a comet. Raben watched him hit the ground and immediately after turned his damaged machine for home.

YouTube Link

Henri N. du Fay
Spa 94,Adjutant, C.G.
Brabant-le-Roi ,
Aerodrome, Verdun
10 Victory's
5 Unconfirmed


July 9, 1918.

Balloon mission: The hook area of St Michiel. Stayed high as the Esc 7 a/c swooped down on Zee Gas Bag Then smoke and fire. As I looked around I spotted two 2 seats flying by. Made an attack and went zooming pass. The guy in the rear seat nailed my machine with 2 bursts. The right wing kept pulling down as I wobbled all over the sky made for our lines. I t seemed more controllable till I tried landing on a farm then hard pull to the right and bumpy Daisies, smack and I was down. The e/a is a write off , but I made it.

Albert - Those foolish DFWs looked a bit low when they bombed the field. They pay the price for their lack of vision...
Here I thought Kevin was going to head into a romance, so did Beery, but we were both of us wrong apparently. Kevin is an Oak. No doubt the horrors of the ground war have given him some thicker skin.
Many Huns falling but the butcher's bill is high. Unfortunate about young Gilly and Marshall.
Congratulations on 46! In a month no less. Good Show!

Carrick - The wily Henri has some hunting instincts it appears. Nicely done on the stalk through the clouds. Takes some nerve to pull that off. Sacre bleu! These claims officers reject Henri again. C'est une outrage!
Way to bounce back! Doom on les Pfalz. Alas for the poor Breguet. Congrats on number 10.
Holy Merde! I saw that last pic of Henri's SPAD halfway into the ground and feared the worst. Glad he walked away unscathed. Whew!

Fullofit - on the subject of impossible maneuvers the DVIIs have some funky pirouette thing going on. Maybe it's realistic since the were known to hang on their props but it does look a bit weird. Scary as all hell too as you will learn below.
Devastating pic of the airfield funeral pyres there.
What's with the great DVII switcheroo? Not liking this plan at all.
I like the sticky throttle even less. Just not a fan of sticky, unless it's toffee pudding at that only at Christmas.
Are the material shortages starting to show up as defective engine parts. Good thing there weren't pesky Franzmen about when the Mercedes coughed up a hairball.
Those high alt dead stick landings always command one's full attention. Nicely done getting home safely.
Another two seater takedown clinic. The two planes circling on top of that cloud shelf was very cool.
Klaus pushing it there staying engaged with the proverbial sluggish controls. Dangerous. Very dangerous.

MFair - The iconic Michael Conrad. What an amazing show that was.
Time for you to get back into the WOFF, my friend. Hope all goes well. Hurry back.

Raine - Fingers crossed that eye#2 went as the first procedure.
___________________________________________________

OK Folks, this is gonna be a long one. I'll pause while you get a coffee or make your preparations. Figured it would be easier to follow if I dropped it all at once.
_________________________________________

À la Recherche du Temps Perdu - Part 94



14 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Up early despite the late night. Foul weather continues. Solid low overcast and increasingly high winds. We won’t be flying today. Good thing. The revels went late last night. Let the boys sleep in. They’ll need the rest.

Thirty minutes on the bag set me right. Col. Cairnes called just after breakfast and washed us out for the day. Most of the men slept thru lunch, a few I didn’t see until dinner.

Poor Lindo won’t return to the squadron. He’s on a hospital ship to England. I’ve promoted Lawson to acting Recording Officer.


15 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

No flying for me today, except the desk. Just as well, neither patrol found any Huns.
Gave the bag a full hour, then took D330 up for some gunnery practice.



16 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Weather unsettled. Tagged along with B Flight on the afternoon patrol. No e/a sighted. Where are all the Huns?

Johnson has orders to Home Establishment. He’s certainly earned a rest but his departure leaves 24 squadron without one of it’s best Flight Commanders. I told him I didn’t want him flying combat patrols now that he’s for England. Typical Johnson, he wouldn’t hear it and I didn’t force the issue.

 
17 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

No patrols until mid-morning. Slept until 7.00. Bliss!

11.15 Combined patrol of all three flights. A Flight had the top cover. I flew deputy to Lowe with B Flight in the middle. C Flight was on the bottom. Over Villers-Bretonneux we got into one hell of a fight. At least 10 Fokker biplanes, painted all different colors tangled with C Flight. One red-nosed job had a blue fuselage with white skull and crossbones.

As A and B Flights descended to the attack, I latched onto a white tail chasing Lambert. When Lambert broke high left and I gave the Hun a solid burst from 30 yards. The bullet stream lanced through the cockpit. I could see the pilot slump to the right. His machine followed.


“…His life came out through the wound of the spear-stab
in beating haste, and a mist of darkness closed over both eyes.”

The rest was snap shooting and clearing Huns off SEs. The remaining DVIIs scattered east like roaches, their numbers much reduced. Reformed the squadron and continued to the patrol until 12.40.

Four victories, no losses. In addition to my white tail DVII, McDonald, Barton, and Johnson tangled with the blue skull and crossbones Fokker. The Hun gave a very good account of himself but they shot him about and forced him to land in French lines. Lambert destroyed two, Hellett also drove down two damaged. Only mishap was Southey who broke his undercarriage landing. His machine pitchpoled but Southey walked away unhurt.


18 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Fair weather this morning but the clouds and rain closed in after lunch.

Sent a letter to George MacAlister. He’s with Grid Caldwell in 74 Squadron now and knocking down Huns at a fearful rate. With Johnson going to HE, I’ll need a top-notch Flight Commander. No way Grid would ever let him go. Spoke to Col. Cairnes about Johnson’s successor.

The skull and crossbones Hun turns out to be Kurt Wustoff! Currently fourth on the German list with 27 victories, he holds Blue Max, as the Huns call the Pour le Mérite. He was wounded in the leg. I considered going to visit him in hospital but thought better of it. If I come to know the enemy as men, it will make killing them that much harder. They need to remain anonymous Huns.

Sent Flight Sgt. Fisher and a crew to retrieve the blue Fokker from the French. The fin and rudder will grace our notice board. Fisher had the idea to make walking sticks from the propeller for General Rawlinson. I had him make one for Colonel Cairnes as well.

Yesterday’s Fokker confirmed. One Hundred Thirty-six.


19 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Low clouds and rain all day. No flying. Time for the men to catch up on rest, or more likely Les Femmes d’Abbeville. Tonight was Johnson’s farewell. He’s off to HE. Telegram from Wing that he’ll not go empty handed. The French have awarded him the Croix de Guerre avec palm. I shall miss him greatly. We flew and fought together with 84 Sqn during the March Retreat.

Promoted Selwyn to command of C Flight in Johnson’s place. Col. Cairnes endorsed the posting and Selwyn’s Captaincy.


20 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Low clouds and rain all day. All flights grounded.
Another new man, 2nd Lt. Alexander Wren, arrived today.


21 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Weather still holding us on the ground. This morning McDonald was off to No. 1 British Red Cross Hospital in Le Touquet. He’s done in. I’m amazed he’s lasted this long. He came to 24 squadron in February of 1917. 14 months on continuous frontline service! 20 victories. Absolutely brilliant! He is a man of iron but he’s reached the end.

This afternoon, along with the news of Selwyn’s promotion to Captain, I received a telegram from Wing. McDonald has the Distinguished Flying Cross. I must visit him tomorrow.

Grid Caldwell telephoned unexpectedly. George MacAlister was killed yesterday. My letter only arrived today. I told Grid to send it along to George’s parents. I need to write them too.


22 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Took McDonald’s place leading A Flight this morning. On standby. At 10.00 exactly orders to intercept Huns at the lines north of Beaumont Hamel.

Found a flight of 5 Rumplers and chased them east. I started firing short bursts with the Vickers from 250 yards. Then opened up with both guns as I closed.


My approach lacked subtlety but a full drum of Lewis and 100 rounds of Vickers did the job.

Moved off to change drums then onto a second Rumpler. I hit him hard but the Lewis jammed after 20 rounds. He was smoking as I drew away to clear the stoppage. I’m certain I hit the Observer.

Chased down a third Hun and this time I held fire until I was within 100 yards.


I emptied my remaining Vickers belt and the Lewis drum into the third Rumpler. Trailing smoke, it began the long deadly spiral from which there would be no recovery. The Observer did not go gently.

His long-range parting gift ricocheted off the top of the Vickers gun, bouncing the shell or a chunk of metal across the frame of my goggles and shattering the right lens. I saw a huge flash in my right eye as the blow landed. It was like walking into one of Smokey’s jabs. It hurt like hell but when I forced my right eye back open a crack I could still see. There was something gritty in my right eye so I just kept it closed as I broke off and made for Conteville.


Watched the flight land with my one good eye.

Couldn’t remove my goggles without stabbing pain. The Medical Orderly finally undid the strap and gently worked them free. The frame of the goggle had slammed into the bone surrounding my right eye. Amazingly, the skin was unbroken. Several applications of an eye flush removed the irritating grit, but the surrounding tissue started swelling badly and I had trouble keeping it open.

Submitted a claim for the first Rumpler. Nobody saw the other two crash. Two Huns driven down damaged. Indecisive combat.

The MO made quite a fuss about what he called an orbital fracture. He calmed down when I told him I was heading to No. 1 BRX Hospital to see McDonald.

Corporal Chorley had the squadron Crossley in Le Touquet in under an hour. Long visit with McDonald. He looked exhausted but perked up when I gave him the telegram from General Rawlinson informing him of his DFC. McDonald ships to England tomorrow. I will miss him.

Doctor also made a fuss about potential orbital fracture. Wanted to keep me overnight which was out of the question. Radiograph showed no broken bone. Just a bump and a black eye then. Chorley had us back at Conteville in time for dinner.


23 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Woke to a painful right eye which I couldn’t open. Jenkins tut-tutted as he brought me tea and a biscuit. Looking in the mirror I saw the reason. Eye swollen completely shut. I had one hell of a shiner.

Weather barely flyable. A Flight went off early and aborted the patrol as conditions deteriorated. Nichols and Webb took advantage of my predicament to start a thorough overhaul of D330’s Wolseley.

Wing confirmed the Rumpler. One Hundred Thirty-seven


24 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

No flying today. Letter today from Cal. Mac Grider is missing and Cal wasn’t optimistic about him being a POW. Springs is convinced Mac is still alive but he’s the only one who really believes it.

My instincts about J. N. Clark were unfortunately correct. I’m glad now that I sent him back to the No. 4 ASD. The man’s done something so incredibly selfish and stupid that I won’t sully this chronicle with the details. He’s to go before a Court Martial in two days’ time.

2nd Lt. Thomas Harries posted to the squadron today.


25 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Eye still swollen but I can see some of the white now that the blood has drained away. I won’t be flying for at least another day.

E. B. Wilson of C Flight forced landed in flames on our side of the lines. Burns on his face and neck but he’s expected to live.

Lt. Edgar Hallam, our Armaments Officer has orders to the No 2 ASD. Not good news. Colonel Cairnes also perplexed by the decision. Flight Sgt. Ord will take over as Squadron Armorer.

Foster scored his 4th victory today, a Triplane. The fellows call him ‘Bunny” for reasons I don’t comprehend.

Lowe had a most exceptional show today. He shot down a DVII for his 8th victory, then seeing Daley attacked by a Triplane, he drove the offending Hun down to 500 feet. At this altitude, ground fire shot away half his prop. With Lawson’s assistance, I’ve put Lowe up for the Distinguished Flying Cross. My first such recommendation.


26 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

The third new man in a week arrived today. Lt. Robert Rose. They keep getting younger. What I need is my new A Flight Commander! I set Lowe training the three youngsters. I’m determined not to lose men unnecessarily. These three will not see a combat patrol until they are ready.

Comic Cuts arrived today. The list of honors and awards had a few familiar names including McDonald. As for the last one, I must speak to Beery about him.



B Flight were on the late afternoon patrol and wouldn’t return for at least 90 minutes. I’d seen 41 Sqn. land an hour ago so went over to visit Beery. He was alone in his office filling out a report. When I entered, he took one look at me, motioned me to a chair then pulled a bottle of whiskey and two glasses out of a drawer.

“You look terrible, Ripper. Did that bag finally hit you back?”

“Very funny. Are you going to fill those glasses or just taunt me all afternoon?”

“Patience, my son,” he said, handing me a glass of the amber nectar. “What brings you to see your old pal Beery?”

“I came to offer congratulations,” I said raising my glass. “Your man Carroll has the DFC. I just read his name in the Comic Cuts.”

“Yes indeed. HQ are still mum on the details as to presentation or investiture.”

“How many is he on now?” I asked.

“Twenty-two as of today,” he said.

“He’ll be passing you soon enough, old man.”

“That he will,” said Beery. “Does this sudden interest in young Kevin Carroll have anything to do with 24 Squadron needing a Flight Commander?”

“It does. Wing are talking their sweet time.”

“Out of the question, my dear Ripper.”

“I knew you’d say that, Beery, but I had to ask.”

“Here, drown your sorrows with this,” he said leaning over to refresh my glass. “I don’t offer 12-year-old to just anyone you know.”


27 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

I can finally see out of my right eye. Took D330 up this morning to 17,000 feet just to be sure.

Clark was found guilty by a Field Court Martial and is to be severely reprimanded. He got off easy.

Selwyn led a mixed evening patrol. I flew as his deputy with Lambert, Barton, Farrell, Passmore, Watkins, Palmer and Daley.

Over the old neighborhood near Chipilly we dropped onto a mixed bunch of Tripes, DVIIs and Albatri.


Cleared Daley then went to Lambert’s aid. D330 well ventilated as a result.

Stayed in the fight with sluggish controls. Tried to drop onto a Fokker but D330 could barely turn to the right. These DVIIs hang on their props and do backflips! Huns scattered after a sound thrashing.

On return to Conteville, Barton, Lambert and Daley tallied one Hun apiece, and with Passmore they drove down three others.

Today was Lambert’s 10th victory. Sent forward a recommendation for the DFC.


28 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Led A Flight on the dawn patrol. We attacked the Vimy Rail Junction and after 4 passes, we left it smoking.

Reformed and climbed West to 13000 before returning to Hunland on offensive patrol. Caught a flight of 6 Albatri amongst the clouds and after a game of cat and mouse managed to flush one low.


“He fell thunderously and his armor clattered upon him.”


An amusing moment this morning after breakfast. The officer’s latrine at Conteville is a ditch 3 feet wide, 3 feet deep and 15 feet long. A 2x6” plank forms the seat of ease and the entire ditch is enclosed by a screen of canvas on poles. For additional privacy, canvas dividers separate the various booths. I was at the far (less pungent) end and obscured from view by the canvas partitions set every 2 feet when I happened to overhear two pilots of 24 Sqn who shall remain nameless.

“Well, that was proper job this morning,” said A.

“Got the wind up, have you?” replied B.

“Ha ha. Just you wait until it’s your turn. I don’t mind telling you that every Hun within ten miles was shooting at us, and the Major kept heading us back in for another run. I must have 50 holes in my machine. I say, what do you think of our new CO?”

“A bit odd. Thrashing that great sandbag every day, and carrying around a twisted cudgel instead of a proper cane. Seems a decent chap, though… for an American.”

“Not a cudgel, a vitus, old boy. As for him being American, I don’t mind that. At least he’s not acting some d@mn Cowboy.”

“He is a bit of a fire eater, what? Did you see all those wound stripes?”

“That’s not the half of it. You were on leave when we had the binge in Abbeville. Our first stop was the bath house. I was in the tub next to him. Covered with scars, I tell you! He looked like a gladiator… Go to the aid of a comrade, whatever the risk. I’m all for it, but ramming home these bloody ground strafes… Now he’s got us training for the blasted things. We’ll all have wound stripes at this rate.”

“He does lead from the front, I will say. Came banging in yesterday and shot that Fokker off Lambert.”

“You know, I heard he pulled the wings off a Pup last Spring two days running and landed neat as you please each time.”

“I heard that too. I also heard he shot down the bloody Baron. More than once”

“Rubbish!”

“It’s true. When I was on leave, some fellow from 56 was having a tale. He may have embellished. Tight as Falstaff he was.”

“That makes all the difference...”
_____________________________

Gods be praised! Captain Tom Falcon Hazell MC, A-Flight’s new Commander, arrived this afternoon. 20 Victories last year with No. 1 Squadron.


29 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Another hat trick. Selwyn, Lambert and Daley each sent down a Hun.

No word yet on yesterday’s Albatros.


30 June 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

Joined C flight on the mid-morning patrol. No e/a sighted.

Evening dispatch rider brought confirmation of the Albatros. One Hundred Thirty-eight


1 July 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

6.40 Patrol of enemy lines in front of Bapaume. Hazell led a mixed patrol of Barton, Selwyn, Hellett, Wren, Daley and Lambert. This was Wren’s first combat patrol. North of Beaumont Hamel – a flight of 6 Fokker DVIIs 2000 feet below.

I caught a white-tailed Hun on the bounce and put a quick burst into him. I went high and rolled back in.


I dove on him as he broke right. 30 rounds from Vickers and Lewis slammed into his cockpit.

The dying pilot snapped backwards as if arching his back. The reflex pulled the DVII up on its nose and into me! I pulled the stick into the back left corner and shoved the rudder bar all the way to the stop but I was carrying too much speed.

A tooth rattling crunch that followed felt and sounded like an exploding tree…

I scanned the machine in a panic. Both wings intact but not the tail.


D330 flew on, groaning in protest.

The ominous creaking put the wind up me but good. Turning for the lines I saw the broken Fokker falling to earth in flaming pieces. The damaged tail created tremendous drag. With the throttle wide open D330 barely made 80 mph. I needed to land. Made for nearest aerodrome.


Safely down at Valheureux, home of 56 Squadron!

Telephoned Conteville and arranged a recovery crew, then I joined Major Euan Gilchrist in the mess for breakfast. Gilchrist is a genial South African who also leads from the air. After a wonderfully heavy meal, and a quick visit to the hangars to see old friends, I returned to Conteville in the 56 Squadron Crossley. 1/AM Swift drove like the wind, as always.
D330 would be out of commission for the foreseeable future.

On the afternoon patrol, Lowe and Barton scored. Daley sent a balloon down in flames for his 6th victory.


2 July 1918
No. 24 Squadron
Conteville, France

No flying for me today, or so I thought. Nichols, Webb and Flight Sgt Fisher must have worked through the night to get D330 fitted with a new tail. When I arrived at the hangar this morning her fuselage was completely devoid of canvas. By late afternoon she was thoroughly inspected, back in her frock, and ready for a test flight.

Spent the day with Lawson on reports, reports, reports. Also wrote a letter recommending Daley for the DFC. In addition to knocking down Huns, his work attacking ground troops has been exemplary.

A delightful hour on the bag waiting for the afternoon patrol. Huns staying home today. No e/a spotted by either flight.

Colliding Fokker confirmed. One Hundred Thirty-nine

Fullofit - Yes you're probably right about the chronic shortages biting. Thankfully Klaus still has his DVII and put it to good use there. Klaus's heart will have beat doubly fast when he saw the Breguets. However that first one was obviously a balsa wood lookalike, the way it came apart after a couple of rounds. Either that or Klaus's mechanic put a few explosive rounds in to his guns. Then he makes sure of the second one which was tough and made tougher when it's engine stopped. It's impossible not to overrun them when they're like that and the gunner was still very active. Let's hope they get confirmed this time.

Carrick - Henri was on a gasbag hunt which turned into a two seater hunt. Henri came off worst it seems and it ended up with a fliegerdenkmal as the Germans say. At least he walked away from it.

Epower - Wowsers that was like a full novel. Great read. A lot of coming and going at 24 leaving them a bit short and had Oliver running around trying to find a new Flight Commander. This even led him to 41 Squadron and 'Beery' Bowman's office. Kevin was wondering why his ears were burning that day. Funny that the Major never mentioned the meeting to Kevin. Perhaps he was concerned about 'stoking the flames' but he needn't have worried, Kevin is very happy where he is.

So Clark couldn't even handle the supply depot without getting into serious trouble. You just can't help some people.

As for the flying, 24 seem to have it sorted. They have so many top pilots it's not surprising but still, they're performance over the period was first rate. The commander's was right up there with the best. He made mincemeat of those two seaters even if a couple couldn't be confirmed. That run in with the DVII was hair raising though, that kind of stalling fall they do is strange. Thankfully it only took a chunk out of Oliver's tail and he was able to get down. Then another run in with a two seater leaving Winningstad with a real shiner. He must have been praying for that x-ray to come back ok. 139 confirmed kills, a remarkable achievement in the circumstances.