Wednesday, January 6, 2016

Honored Allies Wednesday: Ian W. Bazalgette (Canada)

  

"On 4 August 1944 at Trossy St. Maximin, France, Squadron Leader Bazalgette's Lancaster of No. 635 Squadron RAF was among a formation tasked to mark German positions for the main bomber force.  When near the target, his bomber came under severe anti-aircraft fire from the ground, putting both starboard engines out of action and causing a serious fire.  As the deputy ‘master bomber’ had already been shot down, the success of the attack depended on Squadron Leader Bazalgette and despite the damage to his aircraft he pressed on to the target, marking and bombing it accurately.  After the bombs had been dropped the Lancaster dived, practically out of control.  Bazalgette regained control, but the port inner engine failed and the starboard mainplane was on fire.
He ordered the members of his crew who were able to to bail out.  He then attempted to bring the burning aircraft to safety by attempting to land the crippled plane near Senantes (Oise).  But it exploded, killing him and the remaining two wounded crew members."

From Sqn Ldr Bazalgette's Victoria Cross citation, awarded in 1944.

Thank you for your service and may you be at peace,
Brian

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