We took off from our base looking forward to getting a crack at the jerries. Things were calm until we reached a point north of The Netherlands. It was at this point that an ME 110 jumped us. We were surprised as it made a run against us. Despite taking some hits in the waist and starboard wing they were superficial and caused no damage to worry about.
We continued on until we reached the target area. At this point we were surprised by another ME 110. Shots ripped across our port and starboard wings. At this point we lost the number one engine. Fortunately we were able to drive the fighter off before more hits were made.
We continued on the bombing run and were hit with flak. The damage was superficial and we made the run. We were off target though because of the flak hit.
On the way out another ME 110 jumped us and once again made a surprise attack. We were hit and lost the number three engine. The prop was feathered and we were able to continue.
Despite the added time and the added risk on the trip home it was an uneventful return flight and we managed to return to England and land the plane safely.