R5538 OF-H from 97 Squadron



On 27th April 1942, the crew of Lancaster R5538 OF-H from 97 Squadron took off at 2020 hrs from RAF Lossiemouth on the North East coast of Scotland to participate in an attack on the German Battleship Tirpitz which was moored at the time in Fættenfjord in Norway.

The crew reported clear weather for the operation. Bombs were dropped on the target from 6000 feet and bursts were seen in the water near the Tirpitz (or estimated position on coast where Tirpitz was believed to have been). Smoke screen was encountered. Further bombs were dropped on battery positions and all types of flak were observed.

The aircraft and crew returned safely to RAF Lossiemouth landing at 0436hrs on 28th April 1942.

Rank
Name
 Force Crew Position Age
Home Town
 Fate
F/O BLAKEMAN Pilot Returned
P/O BLEASE 2nd Pilot Returned
F/Sgt SHRYBMAN Navigator Returned
Sgt NICOLL W/Op Air Gunner Returned
Sgt ALLEN Front Gunner Returned
P/O WEIR Mid Gunner Returned
Sgt MCKENZIE Tail Gunner Returned

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