Waspie
SMF Supporter
Just been sent this by Navy Wings.
May be of some interest to some of you history buffs out there.
Doug
Titled - Channel Dash by 825 Naval Air Squadron, 12th February 1942
Heroes
On the 12th of February, 1942, six Swordfish torpedo bombers took off from RAF Manston to attack three German capital ships who were steaming at full speed up the English Channel protected by a screen of destroyers, E boats and several squadrons of fighter aircraft.
Salute
The CO of Manston stood outside in the snow and saluted each aircraft as it took off. He didn't expect any to return. None did.
Courage & Duty
Despite knowing the odds against them, and the slim chance of survival, the six aircraft pressed home their attacks. All six were shot down.
Of the 18 aircrewmen who set off, only 5 survived and 4 of these were wounded.
Victoria Cross
The Flight Leader, Lt Commander Eugene Esmonde, had only recently been presented with a DSO for his part in the attack on the Bismarck. He continued to lead the attack even after one wing was shot away. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross.
Respect
German Vice Admiral Otto Ciliax commented:
"... a handful of ancient planes, piloted by men whose bravery surpasses any other action by either side that day.”
Commemoration
Navy Wings exists to bring to public attention, the little known story of actions like this and many others over more than a century of Fleet Air Arm innovation, achievement and sacrifice.
May be of some interest to some of you history buffs out there.
Doug
Titled - Channel Dash by 825 Naval Air Squadron, 12th February 1942
Heroes
On the 12th of February, 1942, six Swordfish torpedo bombers took off from RAF Manston to attack three German capital ships who were steaming at full speed up the English Channel protected by a screen of destroyers, E boats and several squadrons of fighter aircraft.
Salute
The CO of Manston stood outside in the snow and saluted each aircraft as it took off. He didn't expect any to return. None did.
Courage & Duty
Despite knowing the odds against them, and the slim chance of survival, the six aircraft pressed home their attacks. All six were shot down.
Of the 18 aircrewmen who set off, only 5 survived and 4 of these were wounded.
Victoria Cross
The Flight Leader, Lt Commander Eugene Esmonde, had only recently been presented with a DSO for his part in the attack on the Bismarck. He continued to lead the attack even after one wing was shot away. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross.
Respect
German Vice Admiral Otto Ciliax commented:
"... a handful of ancient planes, piloted by men whose bravery surpasses any other action by either side that day.”
Commemoration
Navy Wings exists to bring to public attention, the little known story of actions like this and many others over more than a century of Fleet Air Arm innovation, achievement and sacrifice.