109 Halifaxes from 419, 420, 424, 425, 427, 428, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were ordered on an attack of the rail yards at Le Mans. The crews were over the target at between 12,000 and 14,500 feet, releasing 1,043,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the rail yards were severely damaged and 2 nearby factories were also damaged. There was however some french casualties surrounding the rail yards.

F/O W. Barclay from 419 squadron, flying Halifax II JD-459 coded VR-Q, hit a pillbox on takeoff. The mid under turret and tail wheel were torn off. They flew out to sea and jettisoned the load and returned to crash land. On landing they slid across the perimeter track and hit a vehicle, injuring the driver. The crew was not injured.

F/Lt R. Deegan from 420 squadron landed at Hartford Bridge on return.

F/Sgt H. Kirkby from 424 squadron returned early as one engine was u/s. They landed safely at base on 3 engines.

F/O J. Taylor and F/O B. Wilmot from 425 squadron returned early as they were unable to raise the under carriage.

P/O H. Vallee from 428 squadron returned early as the stbd outer was u/s. They landed safely at base on 3 engines.

F/O J. Wilson from 429 squadron returned early as they were unable to raise the flaps or under carriage.
 
 
 

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