65 Squadron, Tangmere, 17th September 1940We're off ops for the rest of the 16th due to a shortage of aircraft. Unlike pilots, supply from the factories via the Maintenance Units seems rarely to be able keep us up to anything like full strength. On the next day, we manage to put up seven, for a scramble against a raid, once again with an interception point NE of London, well outside our Sector's area.
We're soon getting away and leaving Tangmere behind. The weather is clearer than of late, so there's that to be grateful for,
I slide the cockpit canopy forward, turn onto our assigned Vector to the north-east, and begin to climb.
I ease off to allow the boys to catch up. Red 2 and 3 slip ahead briefly...
...but are soon sliding back into position.
I have to allow a bit longer for a pair who are lagging a bit, noting that there's a bit more cloud the further we go. It doesn't much hamper our visibility, but if it gets any worse it could hamper visual observation of raids from the ground, which we rely on over land as the RDF coverage is only out to sea.
Before long, we're beginning to cross London, at about fifteen thousand if I recall right.
We've been vectored to the other side of the capital - we have a way to go yet. The skies are clear above us, so the risk of us being caught by surprise from on high - 'bounced' - should be low.
A check with the Controller confirms we are still on the right track for the raid, now about 18 miles ahead...
...so on we go. By now, we've crossed the Thames and are over London's north-eastern suburbs. Not long now...I hope...!
...to be continued!