Kjeld Christian Johan Pedersen

1 Sqn

Spitfire IX L.F. , MK726

17.09.44

12:25 - 14:35

12 Spitfire IX LF (90 gallon tanks) led by Wing Commander Powell took part in Operation Market as escort patrol 10 miles west of position 'B' to position 'D'. Patrolled area from 13.00 to 14.00 hrs. as planned. Saw flak positions being attacked by Mustangs and Spitfires South of Gravendeel D.8255. About six stationary tanks or self propelled guns seen south side of River Maas approx E.1548 at 13.30 hrs. Alongside were about six barges. Open R.R. wagons in siding D.8748. Two gliders seen on the ground E.2447. At 13.07 hrs. vertical vapour trail seen north of Hague, reported over R.T. Weather north of line Bruges - Eindhoven 5/10ths cloud at 4000 ft. South of line 10/10ths at 4000 ft. Visibility good above and over land and sea.

From form 540: At midday Airborne operation "Market" took place. The Form "D" which arrived in the small hours of the morning was over twelwe feet long and fully indicated the size of the operation which was the largest ever carried out. The objectives were key points behind enemy lines in Holland and the intention of Airborne troops was to disrupt the Huns supply lines, destroy communications and fight their way though to link up with our land forces to the South. The Sqadron's role in this vital operation was low level escort to parachute aircraft, gilders and tugs and as one pilot aptly put it - "the sky was 10/10ths allied aircraft". The whole operation went according to plan. Odd flak positions were suitably dealt with. Whilst on patrol another vertical "con-trail" was seen N. of Hague and this was reported over the R/T. All our fellows returned safely to base.

AIR 27/4

Yellow 3