REASON FOR LOSS:

Fourteen aircraft detailed for operations. Mosquito MM150 took-off from GRAVELEY at 21.09 hours, loaded with a single 4,000lb “cookie”. The raid was led by S/L W. C. Brodie, DSO, DFM (pilot) and F/L K. R. Triggs DFC (navigator) in Mosquito Mk.XVI, serial number MM182.

One aircraft cancelled owing to a burst tyre on take-off, one aircraft missing. Of the remainder, nine aircraft bombed Berlin and three bombed secondary target’s owing to technical trouble. Only four aircraft dropped their “cookies” during the first wave on the big city. One aircraft bombed BONN and another COLOGNE due to technical failures. Over BERLIN the sky was clear and excellent results were observed both on marking the target and bombing. Opposition from the enemy was slight, a few searchlights with slight heavy flak, although a few fighter flares were observed. During the second wave, again one aircraft failed to reach the target and bombed EUSKIRCHEN using GEE. It was clear weather over the target and moderate results were observed, marking being scattered. On the whole, not a bad prang. It was however marred by the fact that two of our aircraft did not return!

One being reported as crashed in this country, with the pilot’s body being found nearby.
In F/O J. P. Morgan, the dead pilot, the Squadron lost an excellent Captain. There is no news of his navigator Sgt Sturrock, whose opened parachute has been discovered.

Extract from the No.15 Operational Training Unit ORB. Summary; 14.01.1945

This aircraft was flying from its base at GRAVELEY in bad weather and short of fuel.
The crew, F/O Morgan (pilot) and Sgt Sturrock (navigator) abandoned the aircraft near GREENHAM COMMON, Berkshire. The aircraft continued on to crash at SNELSMORE FARM, CHIEVELEY, Berkshire. Sadly the New Zealand pilot was killed when he struck the tail fin of the aircraft whilst baling-out, his body was subsequently found nearby to his wrecked machine. The navigator landed safely. Police informed HAMPSTEAD NORRIS airfield regarding the crash, however GREENHAM COMMON airfield had taken all necessary action. Both stations mounted guard over the wreck.

Further extract from No.692 Squadron ORB.

15.01.1945 News received that F/O J. P. Morgan NZ 413881 Pilot was killed when his aircraft crashed. His navigator’s parachute harness was found 12 miles south of NEWBURY.

17.01.1945 News was received late in the day that the body of 1800054 Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock. Nav “B” has been found some 3 to 4 miles away from his harness. The death of both members of crew in such tragic circumstances is deeply regretted.

cc
John Perenera Morgan (Guest)cccccccccccccccccccccccc F/O Morgan R.N.Z.A.F 413881(Guest)

Line-up of No.692 Squadron Mosquitoes, MM150 could be third from left as this is the only four bladed Mosquito the Squadron had. (IWM)

MISSIONS FLOWN BY F/O. J.P. MORGAN (NEW ZEALAND) AND NAVIGATOR SGT. J. A. M. STURROCK. No.692 SQUADRON 1944 - 45

DATE. TARGET. AIRCRAFT.

(1) 26.09.44 FRANKFURT MM176

(2) 27.09.44 KASSEL ML969

(3) 29.09.44 KARLSRUHE ML969

(4) 01.10.44 BRUNSWICK MM183

(5) 02.10.44 BRUNSWICK ML970

(6) 19.10.44 WIESBADEN MM144

(7) 22.10.44 HAMBURG PF392

(8) 23.10.44 BERLIN PF388

(9) 28.10.44 COLOGNE PF388

(10) 29.10.44 COLOGNE PF388

(11) 31.10.44 HAMBURG PF388

(12) 09.11.44 HANNOVER MM150

(13) 11.11.44 HANNOVER MM187

(14) 15.11.44 BERLIN MM150

(15) 18.11.44 WIESBADEN MM150

(16) 23.11.44 HANNOVER MM150

(17) 25.11.44 NUREMERG MM150

(18) 27.11.44 BERLIN MM150

(19) 29.11.44 HANNOVER ML970

(20) 30.11.44 HAMBURG MM150

(21) 02.12.44 GIESSEN MM150

(22) 04.12.44 HAGEN MM150

(23) 07.12.44 COLOGNE MM150

(24) 18.12.44 NUREMBERG PF388

(25) 28.12.44 FRANKFURT PF400

(26) 30.12.44 HANNOVER MM188

(27) 01.01.45 HANNOVER MM221

(28) 02.01.45 BERLIN PF388

(29) 05.01.45 HANNOVER MM182

(30) 14/15.01.45 BERLIN MM150

THE OPERATIONAL HISTORY – MOSQUITO MM150


P/O L. J. Buckley (pilot) and F/Lt L. J. Sheild D.F.C. (nav)

T/o 0134, The target was attacked in very poor weather conditions by 12 aircraft all carrying 4 x 500lb bombs. Weather conditions were fair en route but 10 minutes before E.T.A. a heavy layer of cumulus stratus was encountered right up to the target area. No T.I.s (Target Indicators) were observed and most of the aircraft bombed on GEE, which worked well right up to the target. Opposition was slight with no searchlights. Bombing time was from 0256 – 0302. No results observed. MM150 landed safely 0405.

(2) 14th July 1944 Target HANNOVER, Germany.

P/O N. D. Wilkinson (pilot) and Sgt W. B. Dale (nav)

T/o 2319, Hannover was attacked again in fair weather with a good concentration of 14 x 4000lb bombs around the T.I.s. Defences were slow in starting up, perhaps owing to the very good routing to the target. Few searchlights were seen and owing to low cloud rendered ineffective. T.I.s were excellent and floaters seen. Bombing was from 0059 – 0110 between 21.500 and 27,000 ft. Lots of cookie bursts seen (4,000 lb).
A very good raid! MM150 landed 0254.

(3) 15th July 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav)

T/o 2335, 12 aircraft set off carrying 1 x 4000lb, but owing to technical failures 2 aircraft were unable to reach the target. 1 bombed DUSSELDORF and the other DUISBURG. The remaining aircraft reached BERLIN, but owing to heavy cloud part of the route, T.I.s and route markers were obscured. Opposition was moderate but 4 aircraft saw fighters and ML959 was attacked. Bombing on G.D.R. from 0131 – 0143 at 25,000 – 26,500 feet. Attack scattered over area of opposition. MM150 landed 0415.

(4) 16th July 1944 Target HOMBERG, Germany.

S/L E. J. Saunderson D.S.O, D.F.C. (pilot) and F/L R. H. W. Clarkson D.F.C. (nav)

T/o.2300, This was only a moderately successful attack as the bombing was rather too scattered for the small size of the target. The T.I.s well concentrated, but owing to cloud only half the crews saw them, the rest bombing on G.D.R. All aircraft carried 4,000lb bombs, which they deposited between 0029 – 0034 hours from between 23,000 and 26,000 feet. Searchlights were ineffective owing to cloud but there was moderate to intense heavy flak. MM150 landed safely 0153 hours

(5) 17th July 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O N. D. Wilkinson (pilot) and Sgt W. B. Dale (nav).

T/o 2329. For this trip the weather was clear and the night dark, nor were the searchlights slow to take advantage of this situation. The flak at the target was negligible but there was some fighter activity, F/L V. S. Moore, D.S.O. being the victim of no fewer than ten fighter attacks from just after he had bombed and when he was coned in the searchlights. Only by taking evasive action of a most violent nature did he manage eventually to shake of this dogged; if somewhat misguided, member of the Luftwaffe. The bombing was somewhat scattered. Apart from two early returns due to aircraft trouble, all our aircraft unloaded their 4,000lb bombs on the T.I.s between 0416 hours and 0151 hours from between 23,000 and 26,000 feet. A moderately successful attack. MM150 landed 0355 hours.


(6) 18th July 1944 Target BUER, Germany.

W/O G. T. Collinson (pilot) and Sgt L. Youens (nav).

T/o 2345. This was quite an easy trip for the Squadron. Going in ahead of the heavies (4-engined bombers) to draw off the fighters, we encountered very little opposition except searchlights. Bombing was from 22,000 feet on G. D. R. 6 aircraft carrying 1 x 4,000lb cookies bombed at 0125. Heavy raid was excellent. MM150 landed 0310.

(7) 19th July 1944 Target BREMEN, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2257. With one exception all the aircraft unloaded their 4,000lb bombs on the T.I.s between 0044 and 0048 hours from between 24,000 and 27,500 feet. The exception was an aircraft that had trouble, and bombed at 0051 hours on G.D.R. – the T.I.s having disappeared into cloud by then – from 23,000 feet. The attack was quite fair on the whole, some of the bomb bursts being close to the T.I.s. The flak was moderate and the searchlights were ineffective owing to cloud, fighter signals were also seen. MM150 landed 0235.

(8) 23rd July 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W.D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2311. 9 of our aircraft attacked the city again with 1 x 4,000lb bombs. Route was very good with a little cloud cover and about 7/10th stratus cumulus cloud over the target. This hampered lights effectively and there was slight flak. T.I.s went down on time and were fair on concentration. Many cookie bursts seen in the T.I area. Bombing from 0120 – 0129 at 24,000 – 27,000 feet. MM150 landed 0336.

(9) 24th July 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/L R. G. St C. Wadsworth (pilot) and F/O R. F. Scholes D.F.C. (nav).

T/o 2343. With monotonous regularity the Squadron attack this target. To-night’s was a WANGANUI attack and the 4,000lb bombs went down between 0159 – 0204 hours from between 25,000 – 27,000 feet. The bombing was good, the searchlights were effective and there was slight to moderate heavy flak. Fighter flares were seen but no fighters. A successful attack. MM150 landed 0410.
NOTE: This was F/L Moore’s last trip with the Squadron and made his total operations up to the formidable figure of 120. While tendering our congratulations we realize that his experience and keenness will be greatly missed in the future.

(10) 25th July 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2331. Owing to mechanical defects only 7 aircraft bombed BERLIN. The remaining 2 attacked BREMEN. Weather was good at target with snall amounts of low cloud. T.I.s were scattered and bombing not so good. Opposition was somewhat different with many lights and moderate flak. Searchlight coning was severe. Aircraft carried 1 x 4,000lb cookie and bombed at 0130 – 0133 hours from 24,000 – 27,000 feet. MM150 landed 0353.

(11) 26th July 1944 Target HAMBURG, Germany.

F/O B. D. McEwan (pilot) and F/O J. Harbottle (nav).

T/o 2255. High cloud somewhat hampered this attack so that some crews did not see the T.I.s. Not withstanding this there was some quite good bombing. This cloud also upset the effectiveness of the numerous searchlights, while flak was moderate. All the aircraft carried 4,000lb bombs which they dropped between 0012 and 0022 hours from between 25,000 – 28,000 feet. MM150 landed 0210.

(12) 27th July 1944 Target STUTTGART, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2322. In this successful attack the aircraft unloaded their 4,000lb bombs on the T.I.s between 0124 and 0134 hours from between 25,000 – 25,500 feet. The bombing was well concentrated around the T.I.s.The opposition consisted of slight moderate flak only. The opinion was expressed that the inhabitants of STUTTGART are not nearly so well looked after as those of BERLIN in the way of defences. MM150 landed 0327.

(13) 28th July 1944 Target HAMBURG, Germany.

F/L R. S. Don (pilot) and F/O G. I. Allan (nav).

T/o 2313. 6 of our aircraft carrying 1 x 4,000lb cookies covered our heavy attack by constant windowing a minute before the heavies arrived, they drew quite a bit of flak and bombed T.I.s dropped by No.139 Squadron which were very well concentrated. Heavy attack developed a few minutes later and appeared most successful. Bombing was from 22,000 feet at 0107 – 0112 hours. MM150 landed 0311.

(14) 29th July 1944 Target FRANKFURT, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2359. The weather was so bad that only two crews saw the T.I.s, the others letting their 4,000lb bombs go down on D.R. Bombing times were between 0144 and 0152 hours and heights between 23,000 and 31,000 feet; no results observed.
Three crews encountered slight flak in the target area, the remainder nothing at all.
MM150 landed 0304.

(15) 5th August 1944 Target WANNE-EIKEL, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2217. Carrying 4 x 500lb bombs each of our aircraft bombed the T.I.s between 2349 and 2353 hours from between 25,000 and 27,000 feet. There were searchlights in cones and the flak was intense. This was the first visit of the Squadron to this target, and from the reception given, it is thought that the natives hoped it would be the last. 2 of our aircraft were hit by flak, although there was no serious damage done. A successful attack. MM150 landed 0057.

(16) 6th August 1944 Target CASTROP-RAUXEL, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2154. As the T.I.s went down late, many crews let their 4,000lb bombs go on D.R. This bombing was somewhat scattered but the bombing subsequent to the T.I.s going down was excellent. One large fire was seen. Bombing times were 2345 – 2353 hours and heights of 23,000 to 27,000 feet.The opposition consisted of moderate intense flak and numerous searchlights in cones. 2 aircraft were damaged by flak. One crew had to turn back with aircraft trouble. MM150 landed 0057.

(17) 10th August 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/L C. H. Burbidge (pilot) and Sgt I. L. H. Ramage (nav).

T/o 2216. This was quite a successful attack with 4,000lb bombs with the T.I.s well cocentrated, and the bombing quite good. Unfortunately one aircraft had to jettison its bomb in the Zuider Zee (Holland) because of engine trouble, while another had to bomb HANOVER.
Bombing times were 0025 – 0030 hours, at heights from 21,000 – 27,000 feet. 10/10 cloud in the target area prevented the searchlights getting through while the flak was only slight to moderate although accurate enough. No trace of fighters was seen. MM150 landed 0257.

(18) 13th August 1944 Target HANNOVER, Germany.

F/L C. H. Burbidge (pilot) and Sgt I. L. H. Ramage (nav).

T/o 2218. All the crews dropped 4,000lb bombs on the T.I.s between 2351 and 2356 hours, from between 24,000 – 28,000 feet. The T.I.s were a little late and somewhat scattered, but the bombing amongst them was good. The flak was slight to moderate and the numerous searchlights were slightly hampered by haze. A fair trip. MM150 landed 0147.

(19) 16th August 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/L C. H. Burbidge (pilot) and Sgt I. L. H. Ramage (nav).

T/o 2230. As a spoof raid for a heavies attack elsewhere, this raid seems to have been a success, but as an attack on BERLIN it was rather unsatisfactory. Three crews bombed on D.R. as no T.I.s were seen by them, whilst F/Sgt A. Ballands had to jettison his 4,000lb bomb in the HAMBURG area, one of his petrol tanks having been hit from flak. Flak at the target was slight, while the searchlights were largely ineffective due to cloud. Bombing times were 0045 – 0055 hours and heights from 24,000 to 27,000 feet. MM150 landed 0255.

(20) 17th August 1944 Target MANNHEIM. Germany.

F/L R. I. P. MacKenzie (pilot) and Sgt F. A. David (nav).

T/o 2225. It is quite some time since we visited MANNHEIM, so 11 of our aircraft carrying 1 x 4,000lb bombs carried out an excellent attack on some very good marking. Two fires were started near the T.I.s one giving off quite a bit of black smoke. Bombing was concentrated from 24,000 – 28,000 feet between 2355 – 0001 hours. There were many searchlights but they were not very effective and flak was moderate. A very good raid! MM150 landed 0145 hours.

(21) 28th August 1944 Target ESSEN, Germany.

F/L C. H. Burbidge (pilot) and Sgt I. L. H. Ramage (nav).

T/o 0012. Cloud cover to target made the trip uneventful on the way over. Weather cleared considerably with only slight haze at ESSEN. Oboe marking – T.I.s down on time 0125, but first ones not too good. Successive T.I.s from 0127 to 0129 were better concentrated. Bombing fairly good despite numerous heavy cones and some heavy flak predicted in searchlights. 4,000lb bombs dropped from 0129 to 0131 hours from 26,000 to 29,500 feet.
MM150 landed 0307 NOTE: F/O B. D. McEwan ((MM141) returned to base with cookie still on board.

(22) 30th August 1944 Target FRANKFURT, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2121. Successful bombing raid with 10/10 cloud cover up to 27,000 feet to within 30 miles of MANNHEIM – spoofing point. MANNHEIM opened up with slight heavy flak and many searchlights – the target area was visible clearly due to the moon and clear visiblity with 5/10 stratus cumulus at 6,000 feet. T.I.s down on time – Red/Greens and very good marking observed. Bombing well concentrated around T.I.s – a few dummy T.I.s and fires were noticed at the west side of target. Times of bombing were from 2315 to 2320 hours from 25,000 to 30,000 feet. Opposition was slight heavy flak and a few non-effective searchlights. MM150 landed 0105.

(23) 31st August 1944 Target DUSSELDORF, Germany.

F/L T. W. Galloway D.F.M. (pilot) and Sgt J. S. Morrell (nav).

T/o 2208. Weather at target was fairly clear excepting 6/10 stratus cumulus at 6/8,000 ft. Marking by Red/Green was scattered and bombing from 2344 to 2348 at 26 – 27,000 feet was average. Opposition was slight heavy flak and a few searchlights. No fighters were seen.
MM150 landed 0113.

(24) 1st September 1944. Target BREMEN, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2112. Route markers good – moon giving excellent visibility conditions. T.I.s Red & Green dropped on time – in good concentration. Early bombing dropped close by first Red Green and started fires (small) which showed up ground detail. Dockside and waterways were visible, other bombing good from 27,000 to 24,000 feet from 2243 – 2247 hours.
Opposition consisted of a few searchlights (“clueless”) and quite heavy accurate flak. Fires were visible from 50 miles out and target area still clear. MM150 landed 0048.

(25) 4th September 1944 Target KARLSRUHE, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2357. This was an excellent raid both on marking and bombing being good. All aircraft carried 4,000lb bombs which they aimed at the T.I.s between 0159 and 0203 hours from between 25,000 and 27,000 feet. There was no opposition at all, but MANNHEIM evidently under the impression that it was going to be the target and could be seen waving searchlights around and producing dummy T.I.s. MM150 landed 0351.

(26) 5th September 1944 Target HANNOVER, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2322. Owing to the weather only one or two crews saw any T.I.s, but even so they disappeared before they could bomb. The bomb load was 1 x 4,000lb bomb each, and the bombing times were between 0059 and 0118 hours and heights between 21,000 and 27,000 feet. The opposition was almost negligible, consisting of very slight flak. MM150 landed 0242.

(27) 7th September 1944 Target KARLSRUHE, Germany.

F/O B. D. McEwan (pilot) and F/O J. Harbottle (nav).

T/o 2353. The T.I.s were difficult to see owing to cloud but bomb bursts were seen near them. Apart from F/L Wadsworth who had an engine out just after take off and crash landed at Wratting Common, all our crews dropped their 4,000lb bombs between 0200 and 0208 hours from between 25,600 and 27,000 feet.The opposition consisted of slight flak. Both F/L Huggett (PF388) and F/O Plum D.F.C. (ML970 landed at Manston on one engine. MM150 landed at 0343 hours.

(28) 8th September 1944 Target NUREMBURG, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2049. This was a very successful attack with 4,000lb bombs. The bombing around the T.I.s was very good with one large and one small fire being seen. Squadron bombing times were between 2250 and 2257 hours and heights were between 25,000 and 28,000 feet.
The opposition consisted of moderate heavy flak, but cloud made searchlights ineffective. F/L Don (MM144) saw a jet propelled aircraft.
MM150 landed at 0104 hours.

(29) 9th September 1944 Target BRUNSWICK, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2117. This was a first class attack with 4,000lb bombs, the bombing being well concentrated around equally well concentrated T.I.s. Squadron bombing times were 2300 to 2306 hours and heights from 24,000 to 30,000 feet. There was some slight heavy flak but no searchlights. Three fires were seen. MM150 landed 0039.

(30) 11th September 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2031. This was a first class attack with 4,000lb bombs in the teeth of bitter opposition – cones of searchlights, moderate heavy flak, and an attack by a fighter. The marking and bombing were good, crews evidently not being deceived by the dummy T.I.s that were about. Bombing times were 2300 to 2313 hours and heights from 26,000 to 27,000 feet. The raid was a great improvement on the previous night’s effort. MM150 landed 0053 hours.

(31)

12th September 1944 Target GELSENKIRCHEN AND WANNE-EIKEL, Germany.

1st DAYLIGHT RAID OF THE SQUADRON

F/L R. G. C. Wadsworth (Acting Squadron Leader) and F/O R. E. Scholes D.F.C. (nav).

This was the first daylight raid in the history of the Squadron. F/O MacKinnon and F/L Shackman went to GELSENKIRCHEN and the others to WANNE-EIKEL The main idea was to “window” in ahead of the heavies, although 4,000lb bombs were also carried. Bombing times were 1324 to 1329 hours (GELSENKIRCHEN) and 1353 to 1404 hours (WANNE-EIKEL) and heights were 22,000 to 24,500 feet. The bombing was done visually in the face of intense heavy flak. MM150 landed 1457 hours.

(32) 15th September 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2339. This was a fairly successful, but bitterly contested raid on the Big City with 4,000lb bombs. The bombing was quite good and was done between 0200 and 0205 hours from between 25,000 and 27,000 feet. Searchlights were extremely active in cones and backed up by moderate to intense heavy flak and fighter activity. The “dummy City” was, as usual, well to the fore. MM150 landed 0415 hours.

(33) 16th September 1944 Target BRUNSWICK, Germany.

F/L L. Shackman (pilot) and Sgt McGlynn (nav).

T/o 0019. Owing to high cloud some crews saw no T.I.s, while others saw a diffused glow from them in the cloud. F/O MacKenzie (ML970) had technical trouble and bombed KOBLENZ instead with his 4,000lb bomb from 27,000 feet at 0157 hours. The others bombed the target from between 26,000 and 28,000 feet, between 0230 and 0236 hours. The opposition consisted of slight heavy flak. Owing to the weather, not a very successful raid. MM150 landed 0412 hours.

(34) 17th September 1944 Target BREMEN, Germany.

F/O F. H. Dell (pilot) and F/O R. A. Naiff (nav).

T/o 1930. This was a first class attack with 4,000lb bombs, both the marking and bombing being excellent. Bombing times were between 2120 and 2126 hours and heights between 25,000 and 27,000 feet.The opposition consisted of cones of searchlights and moderate heavy flak. F/L Don’s aircraft (MM144) was hit by fire from a fighter. MM150 landed at 2245 hours.

(35) 18th September 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 1922. This was a very poor attack owing to what few T.I.s there were being very late and scattered. The result was that the majority of crews bombed on D.R. with a somewhat scattered effect. Bombing times were 2154 to 2206 hours and heights of between 24,000 to 27,000 feet. Opposition consisted of many searchlight cones and slight to moderate heavy flak. MM150 landed 2339 hours.

(36) 23rd September 1944 Target BOCHUM, Germany.

F/L G. E. Green (pilot) and F/L J. A. Perry (nav).

T/o 1924. This was an excellent attack with 4,000lb bombs, the marking and bombing being good. Bombing times were 2044 to 2047 hours and heights 25,000 to 27,000 feet.
Three big explosions were seen. There was slight heavy flak, while cloud prevented more than a few searchlights from being effective.
MM150 landed 2217 hours.

(37) 25th September 1944 Target MANNHEIM, Germany.

F/L G. R. Green (pilot) and F/l J. A. Perry (nav).

T/o 1904. Thick layers of cloud up to 23,000 feet prevented accurate observation of T.I. markers, bombing being somewhat scattered. Bombing with 4,000lb cookies was from 2040 to 2045 hours at 24,000 to 27,000 feet. The defences consisted of moderate to heavy flak in the form of a barrage centred over the marked area. No searchlights were in evidence.
F/O L. J. Brennan and F/O T. J. Bolger PF393) did not return from this raid. MM150 landed at 2240 hours.

(38) 26th September 1944 Target FRANKFURT, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2246. A very successful raid carried out by 12 aircraft each carrying a 4,000lb bomb. The weather over the target was clear, T.I.s being well placed with all bombs falling in the selected area. Bombing runs were made from between 25,000 and 27,000 feet.
Times of release being between 0030 and 0036 hours. Slight opposition was encountered with few searchlights and little flak.
MM150 landed 0216 hours.

(39) 27th September 1944 Target KASSEL, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

There was practically 10/10th cloud cover over the target which made this raid difficult to assess, but so far as could be judged, both the marking and the bombing were good.
Bombing times were 2100 to 2109 hours and heights from 25,000 to 27,000 feet.
Each aircraft carried a 4,000lb bomb. There was moderate heavy flak and despite clear skies over the target area no searchlights. Fires were started. MM150 landed 2247 hours.

(40) 30th September 1944 Target HAMBURG, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav)

T/o 1832. This was an attack with 4,000lb bombs with good marking and bombing.
Bombing times were 2013 to 2016 hours and heights 25,000 to 31,000 feet.
The opposition consisted of fighter activity, moderate to intense heavy flak, and some not very effective searchlights. Fires were started. F/O MacKenzie (MM141) returned early and crashed at WARBOYS. He received some injuries in the crash, but luckily his navigator Sgt H. Welch was unhurt. MM150 landed at 2211 hours.

(41) 1st October 1944 Target BRUNSWICK, Germany.

F/O W. E. Evans (pilot) and Sgt S. F. Stockwell (nav).

T/o 2218. An unsatisfactory raid as the T.I.s were late and disappeared rapidly into cloud, the result was that some crews had to bomb on D.R.
Bombing times were 0002 to 0010 hours and heights 24,500 to 27,000 feet. Each aircraft carried 1 x 4,000lb bomb. The opposition consisted of moderate heavy flak. In spite of an almost full moon no fighter activity was observed. MM150 landed at 0150 hours. F/O J. P. Morgan and Sgt J. A. Mck. Sturrock flew on this mission in MM183.

(42) 2nd October 1944 Target BRUNSWICK, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 1840. This was a much better raid than that of the previous night. On this raid the marking and bombing were quite good. Bombing times were 2035 to 2045 hours and the heights 24,000 to 27,000 feet. The flak was moderate, but in spite of clear skies in the target area there were no searchlights there. Quite a good effort which started fires.
MM150 landed at 2214 hours. F/O J. P. Morgan and Sgt Sturrock flew this mission in ML970.

(43)

3rd October 1944 Target KASSEL, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2045. This was an unsuccessful raid with 4,000lb bombs. Over the target area the Squadron encountered 10/10ths cloud with tops 15,000 to 18,000 feet with the result that only three crews saw any T.I.s at all, and they only saw them momentarily. Bombing times were 2229 to 2240 hours and heights 24,000 to 25,000 feet. Only one crew reported any flak, while two crews reported seeing a jet fighter at 2255 hours in the ESSEN area. MM150 landed safely at 2359.

(44) 5th October 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 1758. Six crews were put on to the mail run tonight.
The 4,000lb bombs were dropped on to the T.I.s from 25,000 feet between 2039 to 2044 hours in the face of cones of searchlights and slight flak, there was also some fighter activity.
The bombing was somewhat scattered although the marking was fair. In view of the length of the flight plan (4 hrs 35 mins) it is hardly surprising that two aircraft had to land at WOODBRIDGE short of petrol. The dummy city was well to the fore tonight. MM150 landed 2231 hours.

(45) 13th October 1944 Target COLOGNE, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 0358. A layer of cloud over the target prevented accurate observation of results. Most aircraft bombed the red glow of the T.I.s in cloud from 0520 to 0525 hours from 25,000 to 27,000 feet. All aircraft carried one 4,000lb bomb. The defences consisted of slight to moderate barrage and predicted flak. MM150 landed at 0636.

(46) 14th October 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/Sgt W. A. Maxwell (pilot) and Sgt V. C. Hooper (nav).

T/o 0102. A small scale attack made in clear weather. All aircraft carried a 4,000lb bomb and released between 0305 and 0307 hours from 25,000 to 27,000 feet.
The defences did not open up until the attack had developed and most crews were out of the target area before the usual intense flak started. The searchlights also were not very active.
MM150 landed at 0525 hours. F/O F. H. Dell and F/O R. A. Naiff (MM184) did not return from this sortie.

(47) 15th October 1944 Target HAMBURG, Germany. (2nd PHASE)

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 1840. The second phase of the attack was similar to the first in as much as T.I.s were late and some bombs were dropped on G.D.R., bombing generally being very scattered. Bombing was from 2009 to 2012 hours from 25,000 to 26,000 feet. 4,000lb bombs being carried by all the aircraft. Little flak and a few searchlights seen. F/L C. Batten bombed WILHELMSHAVEN, his bomb doors opening on take off and so reducing his air speed. He bombed T.I.s of the heavy raid at 2002 hours from 22,000 feet. MM150 landed at 2230 hours.

(48) 22nd October 1944 Target HAMBURG, Germany.

F/L L. Shackman (pilot) and Sgt A. B. McGlynn (nav).

T/o 1652. On this raid a master bomber was used, 7 aircraft receiving the adjusted zero hour instructions. Although there was 8/10ths stratus cumulus cloud obscuring the area, markers burst well above in good concentration and good bombing was seen. Bombing using 4,000 pounder’s was between 1857 and 1902 hours from 25,000 feet. There were no searchlights seen but flak was reported by F/O A. MacKinnon to be heavy. He and F/O J. P. Morgan received slight flak damage to their tailplanes. Quite a successful show. FIDO was used successfully on return. MM150 landed at 2031 hours. F/O. J. P. Morgan and Sgt Sturrock were flying PF392 on this mission.

(49) 28th October 1944 Target COLOGNE, Germany.

F/O P. J. Q. Back (pilot) and F/O D. T. N. Smith D.F.C. (nav).

T/o 1903. A very successful raid. Weather was clear and the target was already burning from the afternoon raid by heavies. Markers were successfully dropped on time and the Squadron released all their bombs in four minutes. Several crews obtained a visual of the city as the river showed up well. They bombed with the usual 4,000 pounder’s between 2031 and 2035 from 25,000 feet. Flak seen was slight, but accurate. On the way out several crews saw jet aircraft. Explosions were seen during the bombing, and crews reported that the raid should have been very successful. MM150 landed at 2150. F/O J. P. Morgan and Sgt Sturrock flew on this raid in PF388.

(50) 29th October 1944 Target COLOGNE, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 1818. This was a successful raid with 4,000lb bombs, both the marking and bombing being good. Bombing times were 1958 to 2003 hours and heights from 24,500 to 25,000 feet. Fires were still burning from the previous night. The opposition consisted of moderate but accurate heavy flak and a few searchlights. Jet propelled fighters were also seen. MM150 landed 2115 hours. F/O J. P. Morgan and Sgt Sturrock participated on this raid flying PF388 again.

(51) 30th October 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany. (1st PHASE)

F/L F. Hill (pilot) and F/O J. Simkin D.F.M. (nav).

T/o 1724. This was an unsatisfactory small scale raid. 10/10ths cloud up to 29,000 feet, completely obscuring the markers. Crews bombed on G.D.R. except for S/L Wadsworth who had technical trouble and bombed COLOGNE. The usual 4,000lb bombs dropped from 27,000 feet between 1956 and 2005 hours. Slight flak was reported in the COLOGNE and LEIPZIG areas. A jet aircraft was seen at 40,000 feet between HAMBURG & HANOVER. MM150 landed at 2148 hours.

(52) 31st October 1944 Target HAMBURG, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and F/Sgt W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 1915. The usual 4,000lb bombs were used in this attack. The route was well marked, and the marking of the target concentrated. Some crews succeeded in bombing the T.I.s before they disappeared into cloud, others bombing the floater above. Bombing by this Squadron was concentrated, all being released within two and a half minutes. Good bursts were seen in the area. Bombing was carried out between 2128 and a half to 2131 hours from 25,000 feet. Flak was heavy and accurate and fighters were seen. MM150 landed at 2344 hours. F/O J. P. Morgan and Sgt Sturrock flew PF388 again for this mission.

F/L L. Shackman and Sgt A. B. McGlynn (MM181) did not return.

(53) 1st November 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/L C. Batten (pilot) and F/L B. Menage (nav).

T/o 1707. An excellent raid to start off the new month.
Weather conditions over the target were clear and the well concentrated markers were seen to have dropped over the centre of the city. The usual 4,000 pounders were all dropped in a very short interval, between 1949 and 1953 hours from 25,000 feet, not giving the opposition a chance. Flak was slight, there were a few searchlights and two jet aircraft seen. MM150 landed at 2224 hours.

(54) 2nd November 1944 Target OSNABRUECK, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and W/O W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 1712. Not a very successful raid. Weather was 10/10ths cloud and marking very scattered. Crews bombed the centre of them and did report fires. Bombing was carried out with 4,000 pounders between 1913 and 1918 hours from 27,000 feet. There was no opposition over the target, one jet fighter being seen later. MM150 landed at 2030 hours.

(55) 3rd November 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/L R. J. Momo (pilot) and F/O W. H. Hughes D.F.M. (nav).

T/o 2348. Only two T.I.s were dropped on this raid, but all crews saw and bombed them successfully. The markers dropped were concentrated and on time, enabling all crews to bomb within one minute of each other. There was 10/10ths cloud over the area, but bomb flashes seen were concentrated. The usual 4,000 pounders were dropped from 25,000 feet between 0159 and 0200 hours, a creditable achievement. There was moderate flak with the usual dummy T.I.s to the north. Fighter flares were numerous, one Ju 88 seen. MM150 landed 0438 hours.

(56) 4th November 1944 Target BOCHUM, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and W/O W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 1815. On this small scale windowing raid for the heavies, both crews successfully windowed dropping their 4,000 pounders on G.D.R. The markers fell just as they turned away from the area and good concentrated bombing was seen. Both crews bombed from 23,000 feet at 1922 to 1925 hours. Weather was clear, resulting in heavy flak opposition with searchlights. A smoke screen was put up over the area.
Two heavies were seen to collide at 1855 hours. MM150 landed safely at 2056 hours.

(57) 5th November 1944 Target STUTTGART, Germany.

F/O W. J. Mepham (pilot) and W/O W. D. Crooks (nav).

T/o 2139. This was a successful raid with 4,000lb bombs, both the bombing and marking being good. Bombing times were 2331 to 2345 hours and heights 25,000 to 27,000 feet. The opposition consisted of moderate heavy flak. In spite of the weather being clear there were no searchlights. MM150 landed 0154 hours.

(58) 8/9th November 1944 Target HANNOVER, Germany.

F/O J. P. Morgan (pilot) and Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock (nav).

T/o 0157. 10/10ths cloud over the target area made this raid with 4,000lb bombs difficult to assess. All crews however, managed to bomb either the T.I.s or the glow from them, in the cloud. Bombing times were 0329 to 0334 hours and heights 24,000 to 25,000 feet. The opposition consisted of moderate heavy flak. The bomb bursts seen were in the target area.
MM150 landed at 0544 hours.

(59) 15th November 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O J. P. Morgan (pilot) and Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock (nav).

T/o 1707. In this mail run trip most of the crews managed to unload their 4,000lb bombs on the T.I.s before they disappeared into cloud. The marking was fair, but it was impossible to assess the bombing beyond stating that it was in the area marked. Bombing times were 1949 to 1953 hours and heights 25,000 to 27,000 feet The opposition- or lack of it – was rather staggering, two crews reported slight flak and the rest nothing at all. MM150 landed 2204 hours.

(60) 18th November 1944 Target WIESBADEN, Germany.

F/O J. P. Morgan (pilot) and Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock (nav).

T/o 1701. Clear weather with good marking made this raid quite a successful one. Apart from F/L Nairn (ML970) which was 17 minutes behind due to technical trouble before take off, bombing times were close and results good, a fire being started. 4,000 pounders were dropped from 25,000 to 27,000 feet between 1849 and 1853 hours (ML970 at 1907). Opposition was almost non-existent, few searchlights and slight flak. No fighters. MM150 down at 2030.

(61) 23rd November 1944 Target HANNOVER, Germany.

F/O J. P. Morgan (pilot) and Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock (nav).

T/o 1657. Marking on this raid was in two groups about a mile apart. Crews bombed in cirrus cloud, the target also being covered in 10/10ths at 13,000 feet. As a result very little was seen of the bombing. Due to weather conditions and the doubtful marking it is impossible to estimate the success of the raid. The usual 4,000 pounders were dropped from 25,000 feet between 1845 and 1853 hours. Flak was moderate, no searchlights. MM150 landed 2040 hours.

(62) 25th November 1944 Target NUREMBERG, Germany.

F/O J. P. Morgan (pilot) and Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock (nav).

T/o 0110. On this raid there was only 5/10ths stratus cumulus at 10,000 feet enabling all crews to see the markers, which were fairly well placed apart from some dropped by inexperienced crews. Good bombing was carried out, and a large fire started. With the exception of (PF388) who bombed Mannheim at 0229 due to technical trouble. Crews bombed successfully between 0258 and 0305 from 25,000 to 27,000 feet. There was moderate predicted flak – no fighters were seen. MM150 landed 0550.

(63) 27th November 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O J. P. Morgan (pilot) and Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock (nav).

T/o 1653. Again the “Big City”, and not very successfully. Four crews had technical difficulties, (PF392) bombed OSNABRUCK and (MM144) HANOVER. (PF388) and (ML940) were forced to jettison and return early. Weather conditions were clear with slight haze, but marking was generally scattered, also many dummy markers seen. Some good bombing on the correct markers was seen however. Crews bombed from 27,000 feet between 1905 and 1914 hours with the usual 4,000 pounders. One crew reported being coned in searchlights and received moderate flak. Apart from this, defences were almost non-existent. MM150 landed 2115 hours.

(64) 29th November 1944 Target DUISBURG, Germany.

F/L F. Hill (pilot) and F/O J. Simkin D.F.M. (nav).

T/o 0110. Our first effort at a daylight raid in formation. Unfortunately, our markers failed to appear, and the crews bombed visually, timing their release from the waves ahead. The results were not very successful. Flak was slight, the chief worry of the crews being the difficulty in maintaining their position in formation. 4,000lb bombs were used from 25,500 feet and all bombed at 1301 hours. MM150 landed 1415 hours.

(65) 30th November 1944 Target DUISBURG, Germany.

F/L W. D. F. Huggett (pilot) and F/O R. Hammersley (nav).

T/o 1020. A second daylight attempt, which proved much more successful. The crews led by two markers bombed in formation, releasing their cookies with the markers. The bombs were seen to fall in the centre of a pall of smoke rising from the area after the first wave of aircraft.
On leaving the target the smoke had reached about 10,000 feet. Time of bombing 1236 from 27,000 feet. There was no opposition.

(66) 30th November 1944 Target HAMBURG, Germany.

F/O J. P. Morgan (pilot) and Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock (nav).

T/o 1839. Not a very successful raid. Marking was late and not very concentrated. Apart from (ML966) who bombed on G.D.R. at 2045, crews did bomb the T.I.s and report bombing to be quite accurate. 4,000lb bombs were used, bombing being carried out from 25,000 feet between 2035 and 2036 hours.
Flak was quite heavy and accurate. Three crews did not get off. MM150 landed 2210 hours.

(67) 2nd December 1944 Target GIESSEN, Germany.

F/O J. P. Morgan (pilot) and Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock (nav).

T/o 2335. A change from the usual effort; a pin-point target bombed from 6,000 feet.
This raid was quite successful, marking being good, and a small fire being started by concentrated bombing. Bombing times were between 0058 and 0110 hours. Some crews obtained a visual and reported the raid to be “Bang On”!
Broken cloud drifted over the area at about 2,500 feet. There was slight opposition which was ineffective. MM150 landed at 0305 hours.

(68) 4th December 1944 Target HAGEN, Germany.

F/O J. P. Morgan (pilot) and Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock (nav).

T/o 1804. Not a very satisfactory raid. Marking was very scattered, none of the primary ones being seen. 8/10ths cloud at 10-12,000 feet prevented a visual and crews aimed at the centre of the best concentration, one crew reported two small fires. Bombing with the normal 4,000 pounders was carried out from 25,000 feet between 1910 and 1919 hours. There was practically no opposition. Two aircraft returned early due to technical trouble. MM150 landed 2054 hours.

(69) 5th December 1944 Target LUDWIGSHAVEN, Germany.

F/O S. P. Brunt (pilot) and F/Sgt R. J. Sutherland (nav).

T/o 2043. A very successful raid. Markers dropped so close that it was impossible to count them. An explosion at H. hour slightly N.W. of the area lit up the whole of the sky. Three minutes later, another explosion in the area left a large pall of smoke. Ground detail was ascertainable through broken patches of low cloud. Crews bombed at 25,000 feet from 2228 to 2232 hours.
Opposition was moderate with searchlights that did not attempt coning. F/O Trotman (MM144) landed at LILLE, FRANCE after his navigator had baled out. Both got down safely. MM150 landed at 0030 hours.

(70) 7th December 1944 Target COLOGNE, Germany.

F/O J. P. Morgan (pilot) and F/Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock (nav).

T/o 1644. No results of this raid were seen due to 10/10ths cloud solid up to 20,000 feet. Marking was reasonable and crews managed to bomb successfully on them before they disappeared into cloud. The usual 4,000 pounders were used, bombing height being 25,000 feet and times between 1828 to 1831 hours. There was only slight opposition, which warmed up a little towards the end of the raid. MM150 back at 2020 hours.

(71) 9th December 1944 Target BERLIN, Germany.

F/O C. Wild (pilot) and Sgt P. Ketley (nav).

T/o 2007. With only 3/10ths patchy cloud this would have been a good raid but for the scattered marking. The dummy city was in full force: T.I.s of all colours being dropped. Searchlights were numerous but ineffective. Flak was only slight. 4,000 pounders were used by all except F/O W. B. Smith (MM180) who used 4 x 500lb bombs. This aircraft was last heard crossing the North Sea on return. Bombing times were 2201 to 2211 hours from 27,000 feet. Several crews reported the presence of fighters indicated by White Boozer. MM150 landed 0019 hours.

(72) 7th January 1945 Target HANNOVER, Germany.

F/O P. B. Doran (pilot) and Sgt D. H. Beckett (nav).

T/o 2112. White sky markers were seen and in places indicators glowed, which pilots bombed. Bombing difficult to assess due to cloud obscuring the target, but several pilots reported accurate bursts. Opposition was slight with no fighters seen. MM150 landed 0031 hours.

(73) 10th January 1945 Target HANNOVER, Germany.

F/O W. B. Smith (pilot) and F/Sgt L. A. Williams (nav).

T/o 1704. On this occasion there was clear weather conditions over the target and many crews report seeing ground detail with snow on the ground. All the crews bombed on yellow T.I.s which went down on time, and were a good concentration. Bombing was also reported to be quite good and a large column of black smoke was seen rising from the middle of the marked area. Flak was slight to moderate and searchlights were mainly ineffective. All aircraft dropped 4,000lb bombs between 1903 and 1909 hours from 24,000 to 27,000 feet.
On return to base a snowstorm with a cloud base of approximately 500 feet made landing very difficult. All aircraft eventually got down alright, but five landed away from base. S/L Wadsworth (PF430) and F/L Crow (MM221) both landed on one engine, F/O Girvan (MM149) crashed on the runway owing to an undercarriage leg collapsing due to hydraulic failure, the crew were uninjured. MM150 got down safely at 2050.

(74) 14/15th January 1945 Target BERLIN, Germany

Fourteen aircraft detailed for operations. Mosquito MM150 took-off from GRAVELEY at 21.09 hours,
loaded with a single 4,000lb “cookie”. The raid was led by S/L W. C. Brodie, DSO, DFM (pilot) and F/L K. R. Triggs DFC (navigator) in Mosquito Mk.XVI, serial number MM182. One aircraft cancelled owing to a burst tyre on take-off, one aircraft missing. Of the remainder, nine aircraft bombed Berlin and three bombed secondary target’s owing to technical trouble. On return there was a low cloud base and MM150 (F/O J. P. Morgan NZ413881 Pilot) had VHF receiver on station frequency Channel “A” but this was u/s and they were unable to land. The pilot eventually stated that they were baling-out near Greenham Common, Berkshire. The aircraft crashed 4 miles N of Newbury, Berkshire.

19.01.1945 F/L A. R. Galbraith and F/O C. Wild represented the Squadron at the funeral of F/O J. P. Morgan at R.A.F. Regional Cemetery, CAMBRIDGE.
27.01.1945 F/L G. E. Bradbury D.F.C. represented the Squadron at the private funeral of Sgt J. A. M. Sturrock.

Maori pilot, Flying Officer John Morgan front row far right (Guest)


After the internment a piece of Pounamu (NZ greenstone or Jade) was engraved with Morgan's image
and affixed to the grave at the base of the headstone.This has now vanished and this is of great concern to the family.

Overall view of the crash site of MM150, July 2003 (Brownless)


Pilot's seat harness release was returned to John's family in New Zealand via Dag Guest (Brownless)


Dag Guest with Perry Morgan’s sister Bernice Tainui when she received the harness 

cccccccccccccccccccccccccccccbuckle we returned to her family, sadly Bernice passed away not long after.

cc
John Morgan’s grave after the removal of stone ccccccccccccccccccccccccccccc John Sturrock's grave (Brownless)cccccccc

Burial details:

F/O Morgan lies in the Cambridge City Cemetery; Grave 15719 and Sgt Sturrock can be found in New Southgate Cemetery; Section A.C. Grave 963.

(Mosquito MM150 was recoverd in 2003, please see Archaeology page,
14/15.01.1945 No.692 Sqdn. Mosquito XVI MM150 F/O Morgan)

Researched and compiled by Melvin Brownless with special thanks to Dag Guest (NZ), David King, Neil Lumley, July 2003 (Updated July 2013).

Sources; PRO, Kew. Air 29/587 and Air 27/2216 (Aircrew Remembrance Society archive)