War Canoe Mission 117 AAR : Kiel

We encountered enemy nightfighters over water and over Germany. One Bf110 was shot down by Cpl. Betley with the nose guns. With the continent approaching, another 110 hit us, killing our tail gunner Cpl. Alfred Kimber.

Over target, no flak hit us and Sgt. Betley was spot on with our bombs (est. 70% hit). As we turned for home, another Bf110 made a run at us and missed. On his second pass, Sgt. Betley hit him, causing him to miss his shot and disappear in the night.

Remainder of the flight home was uneventful. We checked on Cpl. Kimber and found him dead, shot in the head.

Respectfully Reported,
Matthew Anderson, P.O. RNZAF / RAF Bomber Command Pilot — Lancaster War Canoe