84 Sqn in the Western Desert
I've uploaded some of Arthur's photos that illustrate the Squadron's period in the desert in Nov/Dec 1941. They completed almost a full tour of 27 ops, as part of Operation Crusader. This was the British Commonwealth's first success against Rommel, causing him to withdraw, as he was outflanked by the 14th Army's advance, and effecting the relief of Tobruk.
All raids were in formations of 6, 12, 18 or 24 Blenheims; three RAF and a Free French squadron forming No.270 Wing. Normal bomb load was four 250-lb bombs, with fuses fitted at the nose and tail. The nose fuse was usually fitted with an extension rod, causing the bomb to explode above ground level, thus maximising blast, rather than the bomb burying itself. Bombs would be released when the lead aircraft was seen to release it's load, so as to concentrate the impact zone.
Above: a crew in their (personally) dug-out sleeping bay at Landing Ground 75.
Above: the CO, Wg Cdr Clayton Boyce. Short but dynamic and strictly 'no nonsense'. Much given to raising his voice.
Above: Arthur's gunner... in an excellent frame of mind. They had just returned from an operation (photo below) in which they were attacked by ME 109s. The gunner was fully occupied, and was satisfied that he had hit two German aircraft. Unfortunately four escorting Hurricanes were lost.
Above: a target photo from a full squadron attack on enemy transport at El Adem. The black dots are dispersed vehicles. Intelligence estimated that 53 vehicles were destroyed.
(More photos to follow. Previous photos on this period in the desert are on p.15 & 16)