The Easy Trip by Flt Sgt Bill Knaggs June 1944

[Sparks100]

Hello chaps / ladies,

Over the past few weeks my dad has become pals with a remarkable character by the name of Bill Knaggs. It turns out Bill was a 106 Sqn Lancaster Bomb Aimer during the war and was shot down over Occupied France on the night of 24/25 June 1944. Bill has written a book about the mission and his subsequent time evading the enemy with the help of the Resistance.

I thought I'd publicise the book a little if that's okay - The Easy Trip.

More details plus how to purchase are here:

http://www.rafbf.org/books/easytrip.htm

Bill was one of two survivors out of the crew of seven, whose ages ranged from 18 to 22. Three Scots, three Australian and one Englishman.

It's titled The Easy Trip after an RAF Intelligence Officer who advised there would be little anti-aircaft fire in the target area and no night fighter opposition expected.

Thanks for reading.

[sitigeltfel]

Bill was shot down while attacking the V1 site at Val Ygot near Pommereval, just inland from Dieppe. I live near there for most of the year and he paid a visit a year or so ago which was given a good deal of coverage in the local press.

The site is beautifully maintained by a local heritage group and if you are in the area it is well worth a visit. This is their site, which is in French of course.

http://maridor.free.fr/francais/ardouval.htm

Most of the buildings suffered a good degree of damage but have been well restored and you can see a V1 on the launch ramp pointing menacingly towards London. A number of large bomb craters still ring the site, giving testament to the work done by Bill and his comrades. Due to their actions the Nazis were never able to make a live launch from there.

[Sparks100]

Sad to report that Bill has passed away.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/tayside_and_central/7207348.stm