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402nd FS Combat Report - 15/12 - Attack Armour, Julich Before I commence our report, I'd just like to acknowledge the regrettable loss of Maj Payne-Less. Despite his diminutive form, he was a towering figure in the 370th FG; ably leading the 485th FS through countless scrapes to become a ground pounding, jerry-downing, knicker flinging legend and the longest serving member of the group. A dark day made darker also by the unfortunate loss of their promising young Lt Reginald. Consolatory drinks are on the 402nd tonight. We proceeded to the target area as a five-ship armed with 4x 1000lb bombs; strong intel reported a build-up of armour approaching Julich from the NE. This was confirmed by the bomber boys of 410th who were on a recce in the area before our ingress, thanks for that guys! Sure enough, a significant number of tank columns and artillery were found in the midst of their advance hammering our boys on the frontline. With light to medium flak keeping us in check, a series of well-coordinated attacks rendered the armour well and truly buggered, with particular mention to Lt Crown flying as white two who pickled two and smacked two in one run. Whilst the majority of red flight continued to deal with various ground targets, white lead Capt Fruitbat spotted a gaggle of enemy aircraft high to the South West, tangling with our Florennes stable-mates of the 474th who had been escorting us. It quickly became obvious that our friends from the other side of the field were having quite a hard time of it, so with all hands on deck the 402nd made swift work of the enemy threat. Another mention here to white two who managed to smack down two 190s! During the melee, Lt Sparten – red three – had a slight coming together with the enemy and had to hit the silk; much like my own misfortune last mission. Luck was once again on our side however, as he was soon picked up by friendly units on the frontline. Well done chaps, it was a little hectic at times but an impressive haul of air and ground targets with a great display of teamwork and situational awareness nonetheless.

A few from me, featuring more of the stunning 2.7 clouds.

Have to say Les Payne, sir, I hope you are not "hung like a Baboon, their "overhanging bit" is not very attractive you know. Secondly, it would be an honour to be your wingman should Top Brass see fit to allow it

RIP Painless. Should mention how effective the 1000 lb bombs were on the tanks. Near misses were kills.

Welcome to the Dogz Seagoon, you silly, twisted boy you. Don't forget to draw yourself a fresh pair of legs (with opposable knees) from the quartermaster and make sure to use a pen in case the nefarious enemy bring an eraser. Should you ever need to know the time, Jabo has it writted down on a piece of paper. Looking backwards to flying with you!

And a 4k video of Thursdays nights antics, including my crap landing.... only because some nice flybys by Chris in his P51🙈