208268 Sgt. Wilfred Worthington Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve 106 Squadron from:Gorton, Manchester (d.9th July 1943) I was 12 years old when I heard that my Uncle Wilfred Worthington was missing and presumed dead. What I understand was, that the Lancaster was on fire, and the Canadian pilot was trying to return to base. I believe but, not certain, that 2 or 3 of the crew managed to bail out at a low altitude. My Uncle Wilfred was on the radio, the aircraft then blew up with full bomb load and nothing was found of the rest of the crew or aircraft. I have tried to find out the facts of that mission, if anyone can help it would be appreciated.
Additional Information: | There were 3 106 Squadron Lancasters lost on this operation:
ED720 - 1st Lt Rosner - shot down at Cambrai, France
R5573 - Sgt McLean - shot down at Harze, Belgium
ED360 - F/Sgt Bristow - returned early and crashed near Wisbech, Cambs
My cousin was the Wireless Operator of Rosner's crew.
You are correct that 2 of the crew members from your uncle's crew survived, although injured, but the rest of the crew died in the crash. The Pilot was actually British.
I have quite a detailed account of the operation as told by Sgt Fred Smooker, the sole survivor from ED720 so let me know if you would like to know more.
Clive Smith
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