First off, <> Repoman. <> Allies.
The Axis looked at Frame # 1 as a large challenge…to say the least. Anytime you have one side dedicated attack and one side dedicated defense it is a substantial challenge for the attackers. Throw in the close proximity of the Allied targets and fields, and it made for a very tough hill to climb indeed.
Luftangriff Gelb met stiff and determined resistance 20 miles from target. The AK’s and 65th did a great job getting the force through the first wave of defenders. The JG11 strike element of (6) BF110’s was able to evade and continue toward target. The entire Gelb force than regrouped and continued northwest toward target P107, only to be intercepted again by another large force of Allied planes. Again the Axis fighter escort did an outstanding job of tying up the enemy, while the attack planes again attempted to evade.
We almost made it clear, but then, while somewhat separated from the 109’s, we were again intercepted by two small units of allied fighters, and were boxed in.
All that, before the Friday Night Gremlins reared their ugly heads. Of the (6) Bf110’s making up the Luftangriff Gelb attack package, (2) discoed, (1) crashed during evasive maneuvering (Doh!…that was me), and one fell victim to enemy fighter planes. Unable to even penetrate the English Coastal defenses, the survivors of Gelb turned for France and rearmed at A38 for another strike.
After re-arm we were able to get some penetration, but not nearly enough to make up for the heavy losses inflicted upon us by the initial defending squadrons.
Salute to the Allies for achieving exactly what you needed to achieve, and exactly that, which we attempted through our strategy to deprive you of:
Local Air Superiority!
Nice job all. A tough but fun Frame from this CO’s perspective.
