Report of Lt Bennington USAAF
Intercepted damaged Lancaster bomber reg SY E over N Italy at dawn. Course 175. Alt 12000. Unable to raise any response over the radio I buzzed the aircraft but could see no sign of life.
Nose turret and cockpit greenhouse showed extensive damage as did the belly and inboard port wing. Signs of fuel leakage. Rear turret was traversed and unoccupied.
I dogged the aircraft for approximately 10 min before one engine stopped and she began to lose height.
I returned to my assigned task and lost contact with the Lancaster.
RF Bennington USAAF