Ltn. Kjeld Rønhof

332 Sqn

Spitfire IX , BS401 (AH-S)

18.05.43

14:20 - 15:40

Circus 300. The Wing was going to act as 1st Figther Echelon on this operation. 12 Spitfire IX's, led by Major H. Mehre D.F.C., took off together with 331(N)Squadron. G/Capt. D.C.Morris D.F.C. also took part in this operation flying with 332(N) Squadron. For the first 20 minutes after take off, the Wing flew at sea level and then climbed rapidly to 20,000 feet. This height was reached at Hardelot. Appledore Control now took over and the Wing was vectored South and ordered to climb. Several vectors were given to port ending with 010 degrees. When just N. of Heedin at 28,000 feet, the Wing was informed of 16 e/a at 18,000 feet and these were sighted just afterwards. This Squadron turned 180 degrees and dived. E/a recognised as F.W.190's were flying in fours and in line abreast. As soon as our aircraft dived, 12 of the e/a flicked over on their backs and dived down at too greater speed for our pilots to overtake them. The remaining four e/a apparently did not see our aircraft and these were engaged. Capt. Christie W. destroyed one of them and 2/Lt. Westly E. damaged another. After this the Wing reformed and crossed the French coast at Le Touquet flying at 27,000 feet. Some red marker flak was seen at 10,000 just before crossing the French coast out. Weather:- Clear with good visibility. Slight haze over Northern France.

AIR 27/1728