We took off and assumed our place in the bomber stream without incident. As we crossed the German coast a Ju 88 Tame Boar caught us by surprise. While Jerry did little more than superficial damage, there as a tense moment as 20mm rounds ricocheted around inside the bomb bay. Fortunately, they didn't disturb our volatile cargo. I put Witch O' the Moonlight through her paces as Jerry made a few more passes. Though the additional effort didn't do the Hun any good, it did give Arthur (W/O Thomas) enough time to send Jerry to Valhalla.
Approaching the target, the cloud cover as made thicker by the smoke from the fires caused by earlier arrivals. No Tame Boars came to meet us, though Witch did get coned, guiding a Bf 109 Wild Boar to us. This Jerry flew like a novice. Still, he managed to hit us, though only superficially. Either tiring of the game or running out of ammunition, Jerry eventually broke off the attack. The Ack-Ack was light as promised and despite being lit up for all the world to see, we were not hit. Arthur placed the bombs on target, estimate 60% effects. There was no welcoming committee waiting as Witch left the target and turned for home.
Our next and last encounter of the night occurred south of Brunswick. This time Roger (Sgt Bandman) spotted the Tame Boar, a Bf 110 and hit one of Jerry's engines, starting a fire. I commenced evasive action and after a half-hearted attempt the crippled EA limped off for home.
The landing at Lincoln went off without a hitch and the maintenance lads say they'll have the minor damage (9 Peckham Points) patched up in plenty of time for the next mission.
F/O James Tewsbury, Commanding
Witch O' the Moonlight