Ltn. Kjeld Rønhof

332 Sqn

Spitfire IX , BS395 (AH-M)

04.04.43

13:45 - 15:45

Ramrod 51. At 1345 hours, 12 aircraft of this Squadron, led by Capt. Christie W., took off together with 331(N)Squadron to act as withdrawal cover to 70 Fortresses from Billancourt. Two of our aircraft, Yellow 1 and 2, returned to base at 1450 hours owing to supercharger trouble. The Wing climbed from base, arriving in the Rouen area at 27,000 feet at 1430 hours. The bombers were about 5 minutes late, and when moving out to the French coast, a number of e/a were seen. They were about 25 strong – F.W.190's and M.E.109's mixed. 331(N) Squadron bounced a group of four e/a and soon after this Squadron engaged the enemy. These combats continued until the Fortresses were 25 miles out to the sea. About 10 miles out from the French coast, two of four F.W.190's attempting to make a beem attack on the last box of bombers, were seen to be shot into the sea. Weather:- small amount of cloud – visibility very good. Most of our pilots landed at forward bases to refuel and later returned to North Weald.
Claims:-
2/Lt. M.Eriksen D.F.M. 1 M.E.109 destroyed and another damaged.
Sgt. Herfjord K. 1 M.E.109 probably destroyed.
2/Lt. Westly E 1 M.E.109 and 1 F.W.190 damaged.

AIR 27/1728