The continuing career of Albert "Mushroom" Ward:



19 Aug 1916 @ 06h22 Artillery spotting for shot fall and troop movement west of Lens

Escort of 2 Nieuport 11’s from RNAS-1 out of Furnes

I lead the flight with Sheely and Huskisson accompanying. We had scattered cumulous between 3000 and 4500 ft. Our flight to the line was quiet and peaceful. Upon starting our recon circuit I noticed 6 enemy craft coming towards the line. I did an about face and seeing 5 DH.2’s coming across our path I positioned us North West of them in hopes they would drive the enemy craft back across the lines. I waited and circled for awhile and then headed back towards the lines but one persistent antagonist kept coming towards us so I engaged him and drove him down. Shortly thereafter another showed up on the scene and I engaged him as well sending him down. Two more came at us and Huskisson took one and I the other I drove mine down and then withdrew from the line slightly circling looking for my mates who soon joined me. We then headed for Hesdigneul our nearest base and landed safely. I took some hits during the melee and I was told my craft would need 1 day repair time. We have sufficient spares so this will not stop me from continuing to do my duty. We all headed to the mess for breakfast and some hot coffee and I put in three claims and Huskisson one.

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19 Aug 1916 @ 15h08 Artillery spotting for shot fall and troop movement south of Diksmuide.

I lead the flight with Sheely, Parsons and Hervey accompanying. “A” Flight sent Shook, Mesurier, Booker, Soar, and Huskisson to follow on alternating circuits. We had rain with heavy cloud from 4000 to 5000 ft. which broke somewhat over the lines. We did not encounter any enemy machines and having completed the mission, we landed at Furnes safely with no aircraft lost or damaged. When we arrived back at Coudekerque the C.O advised me that my three outstanding claims and Hiskisson’s claim from the morning mission had been confirmed. He also said that my performance with the squadron has been noted by the brass and that only good things can come of it. As I left the C.O.’s office I only hoped that it wouldn’t mean a paper pushing job or re-assignment to a training unit in England. I told the boys about the confirmed kills and we all headed over the mess to celebrate. Huskisson and I will be footing the bill. Huskisson who is quite an accomplished pianist was quickly given a beer and started in with some rowdy songs and we all joined in. Hopefully the rain will get worse overnight and we won’t have to fly in the morning.


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