Polish Air Force Operations Record Books 1940-1947

1944-06-01

COOLHAM

Weather: Cloudy with intermittent rain.
The only flying carried out today consisted of two aircraft tests between 18.00 hrs to 18.35 hrs.

1944-06-02

COOLHAM

Weather: Cloudy with showers.
17.20. 8 pilots of this Squadron took off from base for Operations Ramrod No. 960. They were to carry out fighter sweeps on roads: - ARGENTAN – FALLAISE: CAEN – DREUX. A goods train and M.T. vehicles on the roads were observed. Bomb craters were seen in the South East corner of FAUVILLE aerodrome. Weather over Dreux and the West – 9/10ths cloud at 5,000ft. Visibility 5 miles.
17.25. 5 of our pilots took off for Ranger Patrol No. 56. This patrol was carried out in the SEDAN area. Pilots attacked four goods trains and also M.T. A.A. fire was met in the area of PARIS. Strikes were seen on hangars at SEMILLY airfield. No E/A were seen. Pilots returned to base at 21.15 hrs. In addition to the above Operational flying – two aircraft tests were carried out.
P-1917 F/O M. Wedzik was detached to R.A.F. Southend for No. 14 Gyro Gunsight Instructors Course,

1944-06-03.

COOLHAM

Weather: Cloudy to Fair. Visibility 4/6 miles.
14.30. 12 of our pilots took off from base for Operation Ramrod No. 964. 8 of the aircraft were fitted as a bombers and the other four were fighter escort. Squadron was ordered to bomb 80 tank waggons at BRUZ near RENNES. This target was located and bombed from South to North at a height of 6/9,000ft. at 45º. Two direct hits were observed on the rails just North of target. Other bombs undershot. Moderate, and heavy accurate A.A. fire was met over the target area. Weather: 1/2ths at 7,000ft. Visibility 10 mls – Haze on the ground. Pilots landed back at base at 16.35 hrs. This morning two aircraft tests were carried out.
P-76795 F/Lt Tomanek, E and P.781525 F/S Nowooczyn, W reported on posting for flying duties from 84 Group Support Unit wef: 3/6/44.

1944-06-04

COOLHAM

Weather: Cloudy with intermittent rain.
No flying was carried out today.

1944-06-05

COOLHAM

Weather: Mainly cloudy throughout the day. Visibility 4/6 miles.
The only flying carried out today consisted of one local flying sortie by one pilot of 20 mins.

1944-06-06

COOLHAM

[Illegible] long awaited “D” Day.
Weather: Fine but cloudy. Visibility 4/8 miles.
20.15. 12 pilots of 306 together with pilots of 129 and 315 Squadrons took off from base. They were acting as escort to airbourne troops in gliders, part of the Invasion Forces, landing on the Continent – Operation Overlord. Our Wing acted as escort cover for airbourne forces landing in the Eastern Beach area. Every detail was carried out as planned. E/A were seen and one ship seen exploded and sunk two miles North of shore. Inaccurate, light AA. Fire came up intensely from several points. Two balloons were seen 49º59’ North at 1,500ft. Weather: Clear no cloud, slight haze. Visibility 15/20 miles. Pilots landed back at base at approx. 22.25 hrs.

1944-06-07

COOLHAM

Weather: Fine but cloudy. Visibility 6 miles.
06.05. 12 pilots of this Squadron with 129 and 315 Squadron took off from base for Operation Ramrod No. 980. The Wing carried out armed recco in the area: - ARGENTAN / NEUIL / DREUX / SEES. An M.T. column was bombed by our pilots at R.2567 – direct hit and near misses seen on the road. Much movement of M.T. vehicles seen, in this area. Pilots landed at base at 08.20 hrs
09.55. 12 aircraft of this Squadron, along with 129 and 315 Squadrons took off base at Coolham. Pilots were carrying out PART II of Ramrod No. 980. The aircraft were all fitted with 500lb bombs, and our Squadron dropped them at REUZVILLE and PONT AUDEMER areas. Result was not seen for when the Squadron was bombing, 30 E/A were seen flying at 8,000ft at REUZEVILLE:- L.6409. Our Squadron made immediate contact with these aircraft. 5 Me. 109F were destroyed and three Me.109 were probably destroyed. Combat reports are attached as Appendix. Three pilots failed to return from this Operation:-
SQUADRON LEADER LAPKA, S: Was seen to abandon his aircraft and make a parachute descent. He appeared to touch down safely, but nothing has been heard of him since that time. Time: 10.35. Place: MONTFORT area – North France,
FLYING OFFICER LASZKIEWICZ, L: Also in the MONTFORT area about 19 miles South of LE HAVRE, this Officer was last seen to drop his bomb in the above area. Nothing since has been heard of him.
FLIGHT LIEUTENANT GECA, B: When the Squadron was bombing above target in MONTFORT area, it is reported that this pilots aircraft appeared to be caught in the blast from from its own bombs, and after a few seconds time, the aircraft crashed in flames, and was a total wreck. This report, of course can not be ascertained, as all the other pilots on this Flight were in combat with E/A at that time. It is therefore not known whetherthe pilot managed to escape by parachute or weather he was still inside that aircraft on crashing. Nothing more has been heard of F/Lt GECA.
The above three pilots were accordingly reported as “Missing wef: 7/6/44”. Next of kin were duly informed. All personnel of the Squadron feel very deeply, the loss of S/Ldr Lapka, S.
The remaining pilots returned to base at approx. 11.30 hrs.
16.30. 8 pilots of this Squadron took off from base for Part III of Operation Ramrod No. 980. Pilots carried out armed recco, in the ARGENTAN area. A railway junction was bombed two miles NW. of ARGENTAN and near misses were seen. 6 E/A were met two miles East of ARGENTAN and a further four met S.E. of Caen. Combats took place. See Appendix. Squadron claims 6 Me. 109 dest.2 Me. 109F prob. And one Me. 109F dam. Two of our aircraft were damaged in combat – one Cat. […] & the other Cat. A/C. Pilots returned to base at 19.00 hrs without loss.
13.10. Two of the Squadron pilots carried out a weather recco in the CAEN area, taking off from base at Coolham and touching down there on return at 14.55 hrs. Pilots had nothing to report as Flight was without incident.
20.10. 6 pilots from 306 Squadron took off from base to carry out Part IV of Operation Ramrod No. 980. This consisted of armed recco in the area of REUIL. Route followed was:- ARGENTAN – REUIL: DREUX – SEES: Bombs were dropped on the intersection where rail track crosses the road North West of DREUX. Two hits were seen on the track, and also near misses. Weather: No clouds, good visibility. Pilots landed back at Coolham at 22.00 hrs.

1944-06-08

COOLHAM

Weather: Fair to cloudy. Visibility 6 miles.
05.55. 8 pilots took off from base to carry out armed recco in the area of FALLAISE / ALENCON / VIRE in Operation Ramrod No. 982. Bombs were dropped on LE MERLERAULT railway station and two direct hits were seen. A train – probably armed – was strafed at T.8407. Light flak was met. Clouds 9/10ths at 7,000ft. Misty. Visibility 5/6 miles. P-1594 F/Lt Budrewicz, R did not return from this Operation. Nothing is known regarding what happened to this pilot. It is thought that he had engine trouble with his aircraft and made a forced landing in France. Other pilots landed back at Coolham by 07.55 hrs. F/Lt Budrewicz was accordingly reported “Missing wef: 8/6/44”.
09.05. 6 pilots of 306 Squadron took off from base for Part II of Ramrod No. 982. These pilots carried out further armed recco. Bombs were dropped on FALLAISE railway yards. 15 groups of 30 waggons each were hit. All the bombs fell on the yards and waggons. Weather: 8/10ths cloud at 4,000ft. Visibility four miles: From Beaches and 25 mls inland. Inland, weather 8/10ths cloud at 4,000ft with excellent visibility. No E/A, and little flak met. Pilots landed at Base on return 11.10 hrs. P-0317 F/Lt MARCINIAK, J was posted from No 315 Polish Squadron for flying duties and to Command wef: 7/6/44 and appointed to the Rank of A/S/L wef: that date.

1944-06-09

COOLHAM

Weather: Cloudy with slight rain. Visibility 4 to 6 miles. No flying whatsoever was undertaken today. P.1753 F/O GIERYCZ, G arrived on posting from 84 Group Support Unit for flying duties wef: 9/6/44. P-1855 F/O BEYER, A pilot was admitted to R.A.F. Station Hospital Halton.

1944-06-10

COOLHAM

Weather: Cloudy – Visibility 4 to 8 miles.
07.05. Four pilots took off from Base at Coolham. Operation was Ramrod No. 986 Part. I. Our pilots carried out armed recco on roads: - DOMFRONT – CAEN: MORTAIN – CAEN. Bombs were dropped on M.L.T Vehicles South East of CAEN and two near misses were seen. When the aircraft were overhead – the motor transport stopped, personnel taking cover under the tress nearby. Very intense flak was met in this area. Intense movement of single lorries – all well dispersed.
P-76795 F/Lt TOMANEK, E did not return from this Operation and he was accordingly reported as missing wef: today. No details are available. Other pilots landed base at 08.40 hrs.
10.50. Four pilots took off from base for Part II of Operation Ramrod No. 986. They carried out more armed recco. on roads:- CAEN – DOMFRONT: CAN – MORTAIN: CAEN – ARGENTAN. Our aircraft were warned of approaching E/A when over the Beaches, in France. Our pilots immediately dropped all their bombs in anticipation of combat. No E/A were seen however. Clouds 6/10ths at 4/10,000ft.
13.50. 4 pilots took off from Base for Part III of Ramrod No. 986. They carried out further armed recco. on the above roads. Pilots released their bombs through breaks in the clouds. A road bridge was bombed. Position and result of bombing could not be observed owing to clouds. Clouds 10/10ths at 3/6,000ft in several layers, with rain. Our pilots landed at Base 15.30 hrs.
20.30. Three pilots took off from Base and carried out a patrol in the FALLAISE area. They patrolled on the following roads:- LA FAILLAISE / AREGENTAN / and LAIGLE. Pilots bombed a partly burning warehouse 7 miles South East of ARGENTAN Q.0442 – direct hits been seen. 10/10ths cloud at 6,000ft. Visibility 15 miles. Pilots landed back at Base at 22.40 hrs. Other flying today consisted of local flying and several aircraft tests.
P-2478 P/O SWISTUN, G arrived, posted from No. 1 AAS. For flying duties wef: 10/6/44. P-1917 F/O WEDZIK, M returned from R.A.F. Station Southend on cessation of Gyro Gunsight Instructors Course.

1944-06-11

COOLHAM

Weather: Fair becoming cloudy. Visibility 10 miles.
No flying carried out today.
P-1855 F/O BEYER, A returned from R.A.F. Hospital Halton. P-2478 P/O SWISTUN, G who arrived on posting yesterday, was posted to No. 315 Polish Squadron wef: 11/6/44.

1944-06-12

COOLHAM

Weather: Fair becoming cloudy. Visibility 4 to 10 miles.
09.30. Three pilots of our Squadron carried out armed recco in the area: - CAEN – VERNEUIL – ALENCON – DOMFRONT – VIRE – FLEIS – CAEN, taking off from Base. Six bombs were dropped on a railway station at BRIDUZE U.0115. Direct hits were seen on ten trucks, and also on waggoons and trucks at a point U.0309. Weather in above area: - 8/10ths cloud at 3/4,000ft. Pilots landed Base 11.30 hrs.
12.10. Four pilots took off from Base and carried out further armed recco in the area CAEN – ARGENTAN – ALENCON. Bombs were dropped on an intersection of road and railway at T.6533. Direct hits were seen on the track and near misses to 5 M.T. Vehicles seen on the road. Weather: - 4/10ths cloud at 4,000ft Visibility 15/20 miles. The town of VIRE was observed to be still burning. Pilots returned to Base at Coolham at 14.15 hrs.
12.40. Four pilots from 306 Squadron, with pilots of 129 Squadron, took off from Base to Bomb JUVIGNY and the woods to the South. JUVIGNY was bombed, and several near misses were observed. A large lorry was strafed at Z.1388 and it was left burning. This vehicles was thought to be a wireless tender, 10 M.T. vehicles were seen burning on a road at a point U. 2521. Weather: Clouds 5/10ths at 4,000ft. Visibility 20 miles. Pilot landed at Coolham at 14.40 hrs. Other flying carried out toady consisted of three aircraft tests only.
P.780965 W/O Pilot ROGOWSKI, J arrived on posting for flying duties wef: 10/6/44 from 2 A.G.S.
P-1594 F/Lt BUDREWICZ, R returned to this Unit after being reported as ”Missing” wef 8/6/44. F/LT BUDREWICZ reports that after attacking an armed train at T.8407 his aircraft was hit with some of the flak. He managed to fly to our lines, over the Coast near to B.4 landing strip. When about two miles off – his aircraft caught fire, and he baled out. This pilot made immediate contact with our troops in that area, and was returned to this Unit, by the first available boat. F/Lt BUDREWICZ, R seemed none the worse for his experience. He was granted six days leave immediately. Action was taken immediately to report his safety through the usual channels.

1944-06-13

COOLHAM

Weather: Cloudy to Fair. Visibility 3 to 5 miles.
Throughout today, pilots carried out two aircraft tests. There was no other flying.
P-1303 F/Lt WISOREK, M reported on posting from 8 AGS wef: 10/6/44, for flying duties.
P-1899 F/O TRONCZYNSKI, S discharged from Paderewski Hospital at Edinburgh, returned to Unit.
P-76795 F/LT TOMANEK, E reported back to this Unit. This pilot was reported “Missing from Air Operations” wef: 10/6/44. F/Lt TOMANEK, E reported that after Squadron had bombed M.T. S.E. of CAEN, his aircraft was hit by enemy “Flak”. He managed to make a forced landing 5 miles NNW of CAEN. A fire broke out in the aircraft after it had been hit with “Flak”. F/Lt TOMANEK managed to fly to our lines. He passed over Caen at 1,000ft, and eventually made a good crash landing. He then contacted our tropps, and was later returned to England by air. This pilot has duly been reported “Safe”. He was granted leave immediately.

1944-06-14

COOLHAM

Weather: Fair to Cloudy. Visibility 4 to 9 miles.
06.35. 8 OF THE Squadron pilots took off from base to take part in Operation Ramrod 998. They carried out armed recco. in the area of: - FAILLAISE / ARGENTAN / MONAT – LE – PIN / LIAGLE. 16 Bombs were dropped on 6 o 7 M.T. vehicles at U.3420 and 4 M.T. vehicles at U.1631. The results of this bombing was not seen as the transport dispersed into the woods. 60 trains minus engines seen at U.6455. A large barge – length about 500ft – was seen at L. 6694 sailing W. Our pilots returned to Base at 08.20 hrs approx.
15.30. 4 pilots took off from Base for further armed recco. Pilots were on the look out for road & rail movements, in the area: - ARGENTAN – DREUX. Bombs were dropped at R.2338 and near misses were seen. On the road DREUX – ST. LUBIN, over 40 petrol lorries, moving North West, were strafed. Head of the column was at R.2040. 16 of these lorries were left in flames. A large column of black smoke was given off. East of CAEN, weather was 3/10ths cloud at 4,000ft. Visibility 10 miles. Pilots landed back at Coolham at 17.30 hrs. Other flying throughout the day included local flying by one pilot, and two aircraft tests

1944-06-15

COOLHAM

Weather: Fair. Visibility 4 to 8 miles.
11.10. Four pilots of this Squadron took off from base to participate in the bombing of U.1069 – CUVERVILLE. They flew to CUVERVILLE in France and dropped their bombs there. Two or three hits were seen in the village. I M.T. vehicle was knocked out at MORTAGNE. A Staff car was strafed at EVREUX and it was seen to explode. Weather: 2/10ths at 2,000ft. Visibility good – improving on return. Pilots returned to base at 13,.30 hrs approx.
Other flying today consisted of local flying, guns tests, and aircraft tests. P.782825 W/O Pilot LOSKA, E reported on posting for flying duties from No. 10 A.G.S. wef: 14/6/44.

1944-06-16

COOLHAM

Weather: Fair to cloudy. Visibility 4 to 8 miles.
13.00. 7 pilots of this Squadron took off from Base for Operation Ramrod No. 1008. These pilots carried out armed recco in the area of EHEUF / LOUVRIES / RIVER EURE / DREUX / NOGENT / ST. GERMAIN / BERNAY. One Section comprised of four aircraft, bombed and strafed M.T. vehicles at R.3836 East of DREUX, and left them all damaged. The other aircraft dive bombed AUTHEIK railway station at R.2975. Direct hits were seen on trucks and waggons. Pilots landed at Base at 15.20 hrs. Other flying carried out today consisted of local flying and several aircraft tests.
P-2217 F/O TUREK, T pilot, proceeded to R.A.F. Hospital Uxbridge, for an appointment with specialist.

1944-06-17

COOLHAM

Weather: Cloudy at first becoming fair later on in the day. Visibility 4 to 10 miles.
06.50. Four of the Squadron pilots took off from Base for Operation Ramrod No. 1012. These pilots flew to CORMEILLES – Q.6598. There, they dive bombed in the railway station, and several direct its were observed. The area around River LA DIVES was seen covered with water. Pilots landed at Base at 08.25 hrs.
10.45. Four more of the Squadron pilots took off from Base, this time for Operation Ramrod No. 1012 – Part II. Pilots were ordered to carry out armed recco in the following area:- ST. GERMAIN / MORTAIGNE / NOGENT / LE MANS / VAIGES / MAYENNE / DOMFRONT / ST. GERMAIN. This task had to be abandoned, however, due to the bad weather. 10/10ths clouds at 3,000ft, with visibility of 4 miles, at that time. All of the eight 500lbs bombs carried by our aircraft were dropped into the sea. Pilots returned to Base by 11.55 hrs.
15.35. Eight if our pilots took off from Base for Operation Ramrod No. 1012 – Part III. Pilots dive bombed a railway station at V.9199. Two trains, each having 30/40 waggons well loaded, were hit. 12 direct hits were observed. Three petrol waggons and trailers were strafed on road at T.8645. They were forced off the road and destroyed. Squadron pilots landed at base 18.10 hrs.
20.00. 8 pilots of 306 Squadron took off from Base at Coolham and carried out Part IV of Operation Ramrod No. 1012. These pilots carried out a dive bombing attack of a railway embankment at U.20732. Four direct hits were seen on the track, and all the other bombs were near misses. Two F.W. 109s were seen flying NNE at “0” feet, 10 miles South West of NOGENT. Our pilots peunced onto these E/A – they were attacked and shot down by four pilots. F/LT POTOCKI and F/LT JELINSKI claim 1/2 each of one F.W. 190. F/O BEYER and F/SGT POMIETLARZ claim 1/2 each of the other F.W. 190. Pilots landed at Base on their return at 22.25 hrs.
P-0927 F/O FIGIEL, The Squadron Adjutant proceeded on posting to 72 M.T.L.R.U. wef: todays date. P-1243 F/O BIALSKORSKI reported to the Unit on posting as Squadron Adjutant wef: todays date.

1944-06-18

COOLHAM

Weather: Fair at first, turning cloudy later in day. Visibility 4 to 6 miles.
10.00. Two pilots from this Squadron took off from Base and carried out a weather recco over NORMANDY. They had nothing of interest to report on their return to base at 11.45 hrs. Weather: East of BAYEAUX / VIRE clouds 10/10ths at 2/4,000ft with visibility 6/8 miles below clouds. West of this area – Clouds 2 to 3/10ths at 2,000ft. Visibility 20 miles. Four bombs were dropped on to the railway yards at ST. DESIRE. Results were unseen. Pilots landed back at Base at 11.45 undamaged.
17.40. Seven of this Squadron pilots took off from Base for Operation Ramrod No. 1015. 129 and 315 Squadrons also took part in this Operation. The Wing were ordered to bomb the LISIEUX BERNAY TUNNEL. This target was not located however, as the weather in that area was too bad. One pilot returned from the Operation early due to mechanical trouble in his aircraft. Pilots dive bombed a road in the woods at U.1268 and bombs were seen to hit the road. At this point two Mes. 109F were sighted flying due North – these E/A disappeared into cloud and no contact was made. Meagre, inaccurate flak came up from several points. F/Sgt Nowoczyn, W, the pilot who returned early to Base, dropped his two 500lb bombs into the sea. Pilots landed 19.15 hrs.
P-2217 F/O TUREK, T, Pilot, returned from Uxbridge. Some local flying sorties were flown also throughout today.

1944-06-19

COOLHAM

Weather: Fair. Visibility 3 to 6 miles.
The only flying carried out today consisted of local flying in the afternoon by two pilots.

1944-06-20

COOLHAM

Weather: Fair – visibility 6 to 8 miles.
06.45. 8 pilots and aircraft of the Squadron took off from Base for Operation Ramrod No. 1022 para. 3E-Z.3224, alongside other Squadrons of 133 Wing. This Operation was carried out as planned and the target was bombed. Two near misses were seen just of the target, and another just West of the target. Moderate flak was met over target area. 15 miles S.E. of LE TOUQUET at 10,000ft, an object was seen to burst in the sky and give off glittering strips. On the way to the target area, one of our pilots noticed that one of his bombs was fitted wrongly. He dropped this bomb into the sea. Our pilots landed at Coolham, on their return at 08.20 hrs.
11.15. A further eight pilots with Squadron aircraft took off from Coolham with 315 Polish Squadron to bomb target Z.3224 – REMAISNIL – Operation Ramrod No. 1022 Continued. 5 direct hits were seen and also several near misses – all in the target area. The railway at RUE – G.6803 was located and 40 loaded waggons, covered up with tarpaulins, but without locomotives were seen. At G.7607 a hangar was seen in woods, and from it, a railway waggons was moving. Pilots landed back at Base at 12.55 hrs.
15.05. 8 pilots from this Squadron, together with 129 and 315 Squadrons took off from Base for Operation Ramrod No. 1024. In this Operation, our pilots were briefed to bomb the railway track at 7680. This was duly carried out, and direct hits were seen. M.T. was slowed up and destroyed at R.5940 and again at Q.7581. At Q.6358, meagre, light flak came up, but it was inaccurate however. More M.T. was destroyed at U.3129. Pilots landed at Coolham 17.40 hrs.
19.30. 12 pilots of this Squadron took off again from Base. 129 and 315 Squadrons also took part. This time pilots were to carry out bombing of railway trucks at R.6725 – RAMBOUILLET. Of the 12 aircraft from this Squadron, 8 were fitted with bombs and 4 went along as fighter escort. Bombs were dropped on the railway tracks at RAMBOUILLET. Most of the bombs dropped just North of the intended place and landed in the woods nearby. Intense flak was sent up from NANTES / GOSSICOURT. Weather over target area” – 4/10ths cloud at 8,000ft. Thick haze. On their return from this Operation, our pilots touched down at Base at 21.30 hrs.

1944-06-21

COOLHAM

Weather: Cloudy – visibility three miles at first, improving to 8 miles later in the day.
19.55. 11 pilots and aircraft from 306 Squadron with 315 Squadron took off from Base for Operation Ramrod No. 1027. Of the Squadron aircraft – 8 were fitted as fighter bombers and the other 3 as fighter escort. Bombs were dropped on to railway junction at Q.8444 and direct hits were reported by our pilots. Flak was met at several points. The route taken by the pilots was as follows: - DREUX / VERSAILLES / CHATRES / NOGENT and LE ROTROY. When at a point R.2907, the aircraft piloted by P.784855 F/Sgt MROZOWSKI, W of this Squadron was seen to be hit by flak. Pilot baled out, but no further information has been received. This pilot was reported as “Missing” wef: 21/6/44. Other Squadron pilots returned to base by 22.40 hrs. Advance Party left 133 Wing Headquarters to make arrangements prior to the movement of that Unit, and its sub-Units, including 306 Squadron, to R.A.F. Station HOLMESLEY SOUTH on 22/6/44.

1944-06-22

COOLHAM

Weather: Cloudy, and slight rain.
12.05. 12 pilots and aircraft of this Squadron took off from Base to take part in Operation – 2. TAF. Operations Order No. […]. Our Squadron and the other two Squadrons in the Wing – 129 and 315, were to carry out a low flying attack in the area South of CHERBOURG, without bombs. Mission was carried out as planned. Gun positions, batteries, railway trucks, roads and the whole area generally was strafed. 15 to 20 medium tanks at O.108209 was also strafed. A Battery of 6/8 88 mm guns was spotted at O.156189. At O.1617 a large explosion, like ammunition dumps. Exploding was heard by our pilots. Pilots returned to Base at Coolham at 13.45 hrs approx. All ground personnel of the Squadron proceeded to R.A.F. Station HOLMESLEY SOUTH, in the road convoy of 133 Wing Headquarters. A party of airmen and Sgt. Mielczarek, Z – Fitter I was left behind at Coolham to clear up 306 Dispersal Point, these airmen came on their transport later to the new Station.
17.30. 19 pilots took off from Coolham and flew Squadron aircraft to Holmesley South. They landed at that station at 17.55 hrs.
No other flying was carried out today.

1944-06-23

HOLMESLEY SOUTH

Weather: Fair – with good visibility.
11.10. 12 pilots from 306 Squadron took off from Base – eight as fighter bombers, and the rest as escort. These pilots carried out armed recco. in the area: - BUREAUX / VERSAILLES / CHATRES. Bombs were dropped on the railway station at VERNEUIL, and two direct hits were seen on the railway lines and buildings. A mixed formation of E/A was met West of DREUX and combats ensued. See Apendix. S/LDR MARCINIAK, F.LT BUDREWICZ, F/LT TOMANEK, and F/SGT MICHALKIEWICZ did not return from this Operation. Nothing has been heard of them since, and they have been accordingly reported as “Missing wef: todays date”.
P-0317 S/Ldr Marciniak, J: After Combat had been made with E/A for a period of about 5 mins S/Ldr Marciniak was heard to say over the R/T that he had four enemy fighters on the tail of his aircraft. After this short conversation, our pilots heard nothing further of their S/Ldr
P-1594 F/Lt Budrewicz, R: and P.76795 F/Lt Tomanek, E: Whose two pilots were both seen in combat with the E/A. F/Lt Budrewicz was heard to say over the R/T that he was taking cover in the clouds, but apart from this, no other information can be given by other pilots on this Operation.
P.784123 F/Sgt Michalkiewicz, K: This pilot was last seen in combat with the E/A, and no other particulars have been received.
P-1856 F/Lt POTOCKI, Ws aircraft was also damaged in combat, but this pilot made a good landing on one of our Emergency Landing Strips in that area, but the aircraft was U/S. F/Lt Potocki, returned to the Unit later in the day, having flown from France in a light aircraft. Our pilots claim a “Bag” of 5 FW.1290s and 5 Me.109 destroyed and 2 F.W. 190 damaged on this Operation. Next of Kin of the Missing pilots were informed of the Casaulty. Other pilots landed Base 13.00 hrs.

1944-06-24

HOLMESLEY SOUTH

Weather: Fine with good Visibility.
10.55. 8 pilots of 306 Squadron, with pilots of 315 Squadron also took off from Base having been detailed to bomb 4901E/B.13 and to Sweep 10 miles East of EVREUX Operation 84G/19. Four of our aircraft were fitted with bombs and the other four were fighter escort. Bombs were dropped in the target area and near misses observed just South of 4901E. Railway buildings were hit. When our pilots had finished their bombing, a formation of 40 E/A were encountered and engaged. Our Squadron claims 3 Me.109F destroyed and one Me.109F probably destroyed. The rest of the formation of E/A turned sharply and made off. There was no loss of wither pilots or aircraft. See Appendix, for combat reports. Pilots landed at Base at 13.10 hrs.
15.30. Eight of our pilots took off from Base again, this time for Operation 84G/23 – Armed Recco. of rail and roads. 129 and 315 Squadrons were also part of the Operation. The Wing carried out armed recco in the area ALENCON / LAVAL / DOMFRONT. Our pilots were acting as fighter escort. Direct hits were seen by our pilots on the railway station at MAYENNE and many near misses on the track at that point. Over target area, weather was 2 to 3/10ths cloud at 4,000ft. Good visibility. No E/A were seen and little “Flak” was sent up on this trip. Pilots landed back at Base by 17.55 hrs, without loss.

1944-06-25

HOLMESLEY SOUTH

Weather: Fine but cloudy. Moderate visibility.
13.15. 9 pilots took off from Base with 129 and 315 Squadrons. On this Operation the Wing was to bomb a railway bridge between BRIOUZE and LA FERTE MACE – 84G/32. Bombs were dropped on to a railway bridge at N.0307 and hits observed both on the bridge and on the railtracks there. Other bombs were seen to be very near misses. Weather over target area was 8/10ths cloud at 5,000ft. visibility 30 miles. Pilots landed back to Base by 15.50 hrs.
06.10. 8 pilots of our Squadron together with pilots of the Squadron in 133 Wing took off from Base to take part in Operation 84G/27/ In this Operation , our pilots were acting as escort to other aircraft fitted as fighter bombers. The Operation proceeded as planned and hits were observed on three bridges at CONCHES and also on the railway tracks theme. Weather over target area was good, no clouds. Pilots landed at 08.20. hrs. back at base.
P-1915 F/O H. PIETRZAK was posted to 315 Polish Squadron as Flight Commander wef: todays date.

1944-06-26

HOLMESLEY SOUTH

Weather: Rain all day. Wind Gusty.
No flying was carried out today.
P-76748 S/Ldr NIEMIEC, P reported on posting from 316 Polish Squadron to Command wef: 23/6/44.

1944-06-27

HOLMESLEY SOUTH

Weather: Fine and Fair. Visibility Good.
05.50. Two of this Squadron pilots took off from Base and carried out a weather recco in the area of CAEN and CHERBOURG. Pilots landed back at Base after flying 1hr 05 mins, without having anything to report. Weather: East of Caen: 8/10ths cloud at 3,000ft with good visibility West of CAEN – No clouds – Visibility very good. No E/A seen.
10.20. 11 pilots and aircraft of this Squadron alongside 315 Squadron, flew to R.A.F. FORD, and from that Station at 12.20 hrs took off to bomb the rail junction at SEFLERE T.875182 and to sweep CHATEAUX CONTIER BRIDGE. Four direct hits were seen on the railway track. Flak was met at T.8818 along N.E. of target. Clouds 8 to 10/10ths at 3,000 ft. Intermittent rain. No E/A were seen. Pilots landed at Ford at 14.30 hrs. Other aircraft and pilots of the Squadron. flew to Ford through the day. Ground crews proceeded to R.A.F. Holmsley South to Ford by M.T. Vehicles, on the movement of 133 Wing to that Station.
20.35. 12 pilots and aircraft of this Squadron took off from the new Base at Ford with 315 Squadron and carried out a fighter sweep in the area of FLEURS – ARGENTAN – and EVREUX. This flight was uneventful, and our pilots had nothing of interest to report their return to base at 22.30 hrs approx. Clouds 5 to 6/10ths at 6,000ft.

1944-06-28

FORD

Weather: Wet, intermittent rain throughout the day. Gusty.
No flying was carried out today.
P-2667 P/O MIGOS, F: P-2681 P/O WACNIK, K: P-2684 P/O ZYGMUND, E: P.703045 F/Sgt Zaworski, J and P.780369 F/Sgt Zalenski. J. reported on posting for flying duties wef: todays date, from 84 G.S.U.

1944-06-29

FORD

Weather: Fine. Visibility Good.
07.35. Twelve pilots of this Squadron took off from Base, together with pilots of 129 and 315 Sqdns. The Wing was to act as fighter cover to aircraft which were bombing Q.4236, and were to carry out armed recco in that area. Pilots reported that the target was well bombed. Our pilots saw six direct hits and other near misses. Intense and accurate light flak was met in the target area. Flak sent up from this point seemed greater than the target warranted. Six to seven holes in the ground were observed in this area. Purpose of these holes is not known and should be investigated. Pilots landed back at Base by 09.35 hrs.
15.20. Eleven pilots and aircraft from the Squadron took off again from Base. In this Operation, our pilots were acting as close fighter escort to 129 Squadron which was proceeding to bomb target 4900/B32/. Our squadron covered 129 Sqdn aircraft as arranged. Target was bombed – 22 direct hits and 2 near misses were seen on this target. Two staff cars and one lorry were destroyed at LISIEUX. Intense, light flak was met at Q.6545. The aircraft piloted by P.781525 F/Sgt Pilot NOWOCZYN, W developed undercarriage trouble shortly after take off, the pilot could not take part in the Operation, having to return to Base after flying for about 40 mins. Other pilots landed at Base by 17.15 hrs.

1944-06-30

FORD

Weather: Cloudy at first, with drizzle. Turning fine with good visibility later in day.
18.35. Eight pilots and aircraft of this Squadron together with 129 and 315 Squadrons, took off from Ford to dive bomb target 4901E/9 and sweep area:- FALAISE – ARGENTAN. Bombs were seen to drop in the target area but no hits were seen of bridges. Single M.T. vehicles were seen moving North. One single M.T. vehicle was destroyed at U.0334. Some heavy and light flak was met en route. Clouds 6/10ths at 5,000ft. Visibility 2/30 miles. A/c landed Base 20.50.
P-0446 F/Lt SPORNY, K received information through 84 Group Routine Orders that he has been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, an immediate award in recognition of gallantry.
displayed in flying operations against the enemy. F/Lt SPORNY received several messages of congratulation throughout the day.

[Illegible]
Squadron Leader, Commanding
No. 306 POLISH Squadron R.A.F.