February 23, 1945



    118 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 425, 426, 427, 429, and 432 Squadrons were ordered on an attack at Essen. The crews were over the target at between 15,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 232,000 lbs of high explosives and 569,000 lbs of incendiaries. According to reports, the target was cloud covered but severe damage was caused to the Krupp complex.

    F/O D. Falconer, F/O J. Hechter and F/O B. Cowieson from 415 squadron were hit by flak, not serious.

    F/Lt D. Buchanan from 420 Squadron returned early as they were unable to raise the undercarriage.
    F/Lt R. Flynn returned early after they lost the gaggle in cloud.
    S/Ldr F. McCarthy was hit by flak, there were holes in the stbd wing and the aerial was shot off.

    F/O G. Lareau from 425 Squadron was hit by flak, not serious.

    P/O J. Durand from 432 Squadron was hit by flak, not serious.