Ltn. Kjeld Rønhof

332 Sqn

Spitfire IXc , BS248 (AH-O)

21.04.43

11:35 - 13:00

Circus 290. 11 Spitfire IX's of this Squadron, led by Major Thorsager F., took off together with 331(N)Squadron. The W/Cdr., flying an a/c from this Squadron, was leading the Wing with 331(N) Squadron. Course was set for Beachy Head where the coast was crossed at 10,000 feet. Flyin on a course of approx. 145 degrees, the Wing climbed gradually as they crossed the Channel. The W/Cdr. Decided not to go higher than 17,000 feet as there was 10/10th cloud at this height. Le Treport was reached 40 minutes after take-off and the Wing swept inland towards Abbeville when they saw the bombers and their escort crossing coast and went out behind them on the way back to the English coast. When approx. 10 miles off the coast, the Wing turned North and followed the French coast to Cap Gris Nez increasing angels to 24,000 feet as cloud decreased to 5/10th at 25,000 feet in the Boulogne area. On reaching Cap Gris Nez, a wide starboard orbit was bringing the Wing a few miles inland. As nothing was seen, the Wing recrossed the French coast near Boulogne and set course for base. No flak was experienced and no e/a or shipping seen.

AIR 27/1728