Aufkl. Gr. 123 1942
'Bold text'1 Jan 1942 – On this date aircraft of 2(F)123 currently in Africa are ordered to return to Greece.[1]
2 Jan 1942 – Fl. K. II’s intention was for 2(F)./123 to fly a photo reconnaissance sortie to Alexandria should the weather be suitable. There is no indication that this took place.[2]
During the morning an operation conducted by an aircraft from 2(F)./123, flying from Tatoi, reported a significant concentration of motor transport in the Bardia – Sollum area.[3]
11 Jan 1942 – An aircraft from 2(F)./123, from Tatoi, flew a sea and weather reconnaissance sweep covering Appolonia – Tobruk – Arabs (?) Gulf – SE of Crete. Nothing was sighted and the aircraft landed by 12.12 hrs Z.[4]
12 Jan 1942 – An aircraft from 2(F)./123 was sent to look at Port Said and the aerodromes around it as well as those in the Gaza area. The aircraft had landed by 18.00 hrs Z.[5]
13 Jan 1942 – 2(F)./123 sent out an aircraft for an early morning sortie to look at Tobruk and some North African aerodromes. Due to adverse weather conditions this was unsuccessful.[6]
15 Jan 1942 – 2(F)./123 had a single aircraft on a photo reconnaissance sortie to Tobruk and its airfields. This early morning sortie was very likely a pre-raid reconnaissance as II./KG 26 then attacked Tobruk the following night.[7]
16 Jan 1942 – 2(F)./123 , single aircraft on a morning sortie to Alexandria. Operation broken off due to weather conditions.[8]
17 Jan 1942 – II./LG 1 had reported a convoy en route from Alexandria to Benghazi. Two aircraft from 2(F)./123 were despatched to shadow this convoy in advance of proposed attacks by Axis bombers and torpedo aircraft. Unfortunately, both crews had to abandon their sorties due to engine trouble.[9]
18 Jan 1942 – 2(F)./123 despatched a Bf 110 on a sortie to Tobruk. The task was not carried out due to “technical trouble”.[10]
19 Jan 1942 – A Ju 88 was sent to Tobruk by 2(F)./123 in a repeat of the failed operation from the previous day.[11]
21 Jan 1942 – 2(F)./123, two morning sorties operated by the staffel’s Ju 88s: (a) photo reconnaissance of Alexamdria harbour, broken off due to engine trouble and (b) photo reconnaissance of the road from Sollum – Martuba – Cirene.[12]
22 Jan 1942 – 2(F)./123, single aircraft on a photo reconnaissance flight to Alexandria harbour.[13]
23 Jan 1942 – 2(F)./123 sent out a single aircraft to perform photo reconnaissance and sea reconnaissance of Sollum – Bardia, Via Balbia and the sea area south of Crete.[14]
24 Jan 1942 - A Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 departed at 10.00 hrs Z, the crew had instructions to perform a photo reconnaissance of Via Balbia from Sollum to Benghazi. The aircraft landed at 14.10 hrs Z having had to break off from the crew’s assigned task due to the weather conditions.[15]
25 Jan 1942 – At 07.20 hrs Z a Ju 88 from 2(F)./123 departed on a photo reconnaissance sortie to Alexandria.[16]
A single Ju 88 from 2(F)./123 took off at 09.07 hrs Z for a photo/road reconnaissance of the road between Tokra and Sollum. The crew reported approx. 60 vehicles near Barce.[17]
27 Jan 1942 – An aircraft from 2(F)./123 took-off at 05.00 hrs Z for a photo reconnaissance of the Siwa Oasis, this had been requested on 25 Jan by the Panzergruppe. This task was not carried out due to technical issues. However, the crew performed the following tasks: - (a) Visual reconnaissance of the road between Buq-Buq and Sollu,m; (b) photo reconnaissance of the airfields/landing grounds at Buq-Buq, Sollum, Eladen and Tobruk and (c) photo reconnaissance of a convoy sighted at 07.25 hrs Z in Pl. Qu. 23 E 4331 – this convoy consisted of 2 motor vessels, 4 cruisers and 8 destroyers.[18]
28 Jan 1942 – 2(F)./123 sent a Ju 88 out in the morning to perform the photo reconnaissance of Siwa that had not taken place on 27 Jan 1942. Unfortunately, this sortie was also abandoned due to engine trouble.[19]
29 Jan 1942 – At 06.46 hrs Z a Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 left Tatoi to again attempt to perform a photo reconnaissance sortie to the Siwa Oasis. The crew were also tasked with performing photo reconnaissance of El Gubi aerodrome and Tobruk harbour and it’s nearby airfields. Photo reconnaissance of Tobruk was carried out. However the aircraft could not get as far as Siwa due to fighter opposition although the crew got as far as Pl. Qu. 23E 4027. At 10.00 hrs Z the crew sighted two goods trains 20 km east of Abu Feidan and at 10.25 hrs Z reported two motor vessels and escorts in Pl.Qu. 23E 4371.[20]
30 Jan 1942 – 2(F)./123 had a Ju 88 out from Tatoi on a morning sortie to cover the road from Bardia to Sidi Barrani and the railway as far as the railhead southeast of Sollum plus aerodromes in the area.[21]
31 Jan 1942 – Once again 2(F)./123 were tasked with photo reconnaissance of the Siwa Oasis, but yet again this was abandoned due to technical problems.[22]
1 Feb 1942 – Hptm. Armin Göbel appointed Staka 1(F)./123.[23]
A Ju 88 (4U+BK?) from 2(F)./123 left Tatoi at 05.20 hrs Z on a photo reconnaissance sortie to the Siwa Oasis landing at 12.10 hrs Z.[24]
3 Feb 1942 – A Ju 88 from 2(F)./123 left Tatoi at 06.00 hrs Z to perform a photo reconnaissance of the Siwa Oasis, El Gobi and Tobruk. The crew carried out the photo reconnaissance of Siwa successfully together with the railhead. Unfortunately, the rest of the tasks were not carried out due to opposing fighters. (Fliegerführer Afrika had requested the reconnaissance of Gazala, El Gobi and the rail terminus; the photo reconnaissance of Siwa was an outstanding requirement from Panzergruppe from 25 Jan 1942). The aircraft landed back at Heraklion at 13.00 hrs Z returning toi land at Tatoi at 15.00 hrs Z.[25]
4 Feb 1942 – Fliegerführer Afrika tasked 2(F)./123 with reconnaissance in the Gazala – Sidi Barrani area on behalf of Panzerarmee Afrika. The aircraft left Tatoi at 06.37 hrs Z performing a photo reconnaissance of Gazala. However, when in Pl.Qu. 23E 3354 the crew broke off operations due to a sandstorm over the rest of the area. A visual reconnaissance of Tobruk harbour took place and the crew reported the presence of four motor vessels there.[26]
5 Feb 1942 – 2(F)./123 was tasked with reconnaissance of Gazala - Tobruk aerodromes and harbour - El Ahmar – Hacheim. (in response to request from the Panzer Army). The crew had carried out their photo reconnaissance task by 08.10 hrs following this with a visual reconnaissance in the Gazala – Acroma area. They reported that no British forces were to be seen from Pl. Qu. 23E 3376-3385, but did see motor vehicles moving between Pl. Qu. 3385 to 3389. This aircraft may have landed with a damaged undercarriage.[27]
15 Feb 1942 – 2(F)./123 sortie to Alexandria. Ju 88D-1 (4U+BK, Wnr 881223) failed to return from this sortie.[28]
Date | Unit | Aircraft Type | Code | Wkr.No. | Notes |
15 Feb 1942 | 2(F)./123 | Ju 88D-1 | 4U+HK | 1223 | MIA north-west of Alexandria. Uffz Albert Mühlhaupt (F), Lt Hans Zenker (B) and two others KIA.[29] |
27 Mar 1942 - Two aircraft from 2(F)./123 departed Tatoi at 04.00 hrs Z, one for a photo reconnaissance sortie to Alexandria harbour and the other to the Sidi Barrani area. The Alexandria sortie was broken off due to unfavourable weather conditions and the photo reconnaissance sortie to Sidi Barrani broke off due to technical issues.[30]
Another aircraft (4U+GK) from 2(F)./123 left Tatoi at 09.10 hrs Z for a photo reconnaissance sortie to the aerodromes in the Fuka area. This task was carried out with no issues. At 11.35 hrs Z the crew reported sighting two large and two small vessels in Pl. Qu. 23 E 6262 on a course of 240º, these ships had a fighter escort. 4U+GK landed back at Tatoi at 14.20 hrs Z.[31]
28 Mar 1942 - A Ju 88 from 2(F)./123 took off from Tatoi at 09.00 hrs Z for a photo reconnaissance sortie to Alexandria, landing back at Tatoi at 13.45 hrs Z.[32]
29 Mar 1942 - An aircraft from 2(F)./123 departed Tatoi at 04.00 hrs Z to photograph the airfields in the Sidi Barrani area, the task was only partially completed due to the prevailing weather conditions.[33]
31 Mar 1942 – An aircraft from 2(F)./123 left Tatoi for a photo reconnaissance sortie to the airfields in the Sidi Barrani area at 03.40 hrs Z. At 06.45 hrs Z the aircraft came under fighter attack and the task was only partially carried out. The plane had landed by about 08.30 hrs Z.[34]
9 Apr 1942 – 2(F)./123 sortie to Alexandria.
Date | Unit | Aircraft Type | Code | Wkr.No. | Notes |
2(F)./123 | Ju 88D-5 | 4U+JK | 1541 | Shot down by Hurricane of 213 Sqdn on Fleet patrol off Alexandria. Aircraft.[35] |
13 Apr 1942 – 2(F)./123 had a planned sortie for a Ju 88 to photograph aerodromes in the Fuka area. This task was not carried out due to issues with the weather.[36]
16 Apr 1942 – A Ju 88 from 2(F)./123 successfully completed a photo reconnaissance sortie to airfields in the Fuka area. The aircraft had landed by 12.15 hrs Z.[37]
17 Apr 1942 – Ju 88 from 1.(F)/123 operated in the area Start Point – Beachy Head. Sighted no shipping, may have intended to take photographs but reported lack of cloud cover. Hand landed by 19.05 hrs Z.[38]
An Me 109 from 1.(F)/123 was recorded as flying from the direction of Cherbourg at 1435 hrs Z, crossed the Isle of Wight (St Catherine’s Point to Cowes) and carried out a reconnaissance of Hamble, Gosport and Portsmouth at 20,000 ft.[39]
A Ju 88 of 3.(F)/123, operating from Lannion, is believed to have flown around Eire (St George’s Channel – North Channel – West Coast of Eire). At 05.15 hrs Z the crew reported sighting an 8,0000 ship together with two other vessels. At 05.29 hrs they reported a convoy of 6 vessels of 10,000 and three other ships. At 06.04 hrs Z the crew reported sighting a 10,000 ton ship, which was probably an outward bound troop transport, and another vessel accompanying it.[40]
18 Apr 1942 – A Ju 88 of 1.(F)/123 flew a reconnaissance of the Channel from Start Point to Beachy Head. No shipping was sighted and the aircraft had landed by 19.00 hrs Z.[41]
3 Ju 88s from 2(F)./123 were out on early morning sorties covering 20 – 22º E, nothing was sighted and all aircraft had landed by 09.00 hrs Z, one aircraft is reported to have landed at Derna.[42]
19 Apr 1942 - A single Ju 88 of 3.(F)/123 flew an early morning sortie up the West Coast having taken off at 03.00 hrs Z. The crew sent a position report as 15 W 6513. The crew reported shipping sightings in the vicinity of the Isle of Man. RAF Fighter Command recorded this aircraft as turning southwards from just south of the Isle of Man. The aircraft landed at 08.35 hrs Z.[43]
A Ju 88 of 1.(F)/123 flew a reconnaissance of the Channel from Start Point to Beachy Head. It was recorded as being in area up until 17.55 hrs Z.[44]
2 Ju 88s from 3.(F)/123 flew patrols that included the south coast of Eire. One landed at 16.10 hrs Z and the other at 17.22 hrs Z. One of these aircraft may have encountered an enemy fighter while landing.[45]
20 Apr 1942 – JU 88 (4U+BH) of 1.(F)/123 flew the usual Channel reconnaissance sortie from Beachy Head to Start Point. It was in area up to approximately 17.10 hrs Z, sighted no shipping and landed at about 18.30 hrs Z.[46]
A Ju 88, from 2(F)./123, on a ferry flight overflew Mersa Matruh harbour, nothing reported.[47]
23 Apr 1942 – 1(F)./123 had an early morning Ju 88 operating along the French coast – Fecamp – Barfleur looking for an expected British Commando raid. No British shipping was sighted.[48]
Another Ju 88 from 1(F)./123 was out on a Channel reconnaissance sortie covering Start Point to Beachy Head. The aircraft was “in area” up until 18.10 hrs Z but made no sighting reports.[49]
2(F)./123 had a Ju 88 (4D+LK) fly from Rhodes to look at Port Said harbour. This aircraft landed at Tatoi by 15.55 hrs Z.[50]
3(F)./123 had two Ju 88s out. The first was on a sortie to the Scilly Isles – Carnshore Point – North Channel - 20 m N. of Malin Head. The aircraft was “in area” between 16.34 and 19.50 hrs Z. The crew did not report any sightings of shipping. On the outward leg of the sortie they gave weather reports including ground fog for Wexford harbour.[51] The second Ju 88 was sent on a reconnaissance sortie to Exeter, prior to the night raid on that city.[52]
24 Apr 1942 - 1(F)./123 sent one Ju 88 on a photo reconnaissance sortie to Luce Bay ( West Freuch aerodrome?). The route was roughly as follows: To North Channel, west of Wigtownshire. Turned east and flew over Newton Stewart, to about 15 m west of Dumfries. The crew reported taking the required photographs at 09.31 hrs Z at Pl. Qu. 15 W 551 (West Freuch). The aircraft had landed by 14.05 hrs Z.[53]
A further Ju 88 from 1(F)./123 was sent to cover the Beachy Head – Start Point section of the Channel. Ground control warned the crew of fighters in the St. Alban’s Head and Portsmouth areas. Nothing was sighted. The aircraft landed by 18.25 hrs Z, this may have been at Morlaix.[54]
During a POW interrogation it was suggested that an aircraft from either 1(F)./123 or 3(F)./123 had been sent to do a post raid reconnaissance of Exeter and that the raid results were so poor that a further attack was then scheduled.[55]
Ju 88 4U+YL may have been the aircraft sent to Exeter for a post raid reconnaissance, this was also prior to the second raid that took place this night. This aircraft was expected to land at 18.15 hrs Z. In addition three further Ju 88s from this unit may have acted as flare-droppers for the Exeter raid (I./KG 100 and KGr 106).[56]
A Ju 88 from 2(F)./123 departed Derna at 06.15 hrs Z to look at the aerodromes in the Fuqa and El Daba areas. This sortie was abandoned due to engine problems and the aircraft landed back at Tatoi by 10.25 hrs Z.[57]
25 Apr 1942 – A number of 1(F)./123 Bf 109s operated from Lannion on early morning sorties. Two possibly performed photo reconnaissance of south coast ports or airfields, they were known to have operated over Start Point, Plymouth and Fowey. Two more Bf 109s (?) performed photo reconnaissance of Exeter – post raid reconnaissance following the previous night’s attack.[58]
A Ju 88 (4U+AH) was flying over the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man and the entrance to the North Channel. This crew reported the sighting of 10 motor vessels on a north westerly course at 11.55 hrs Z in Pl.Qu. 15 W 5414. The plane landed at Morlaix but then took off and landed at Villacoublay at about 17.00 hrs Z.[59]
Ju 88 4U+CK of 1(F)./123 covered the Channel from Beachy Head to Start Point. The crew reported two minesweepers at 17.08 hrs Z in Pl. Qu. 05 E 0161. The aircraft landed at 18.34 hrs Z.[60]
3(F)./123 sent a Ju 88 to the west of the Scillies and to the mouth of St. George’s Channel. Ground control ordered the crew to report on any improvement or deterioration in the weather that they encountered en route. The request for weather information may have related to the forthcoming attack on Bath. At 17.55 hrs Z in Pl. Qu. 15 W 6387 (west of Carnsore Point) the crew reported the sighting of the SS. Llanstephan Castle and three escorts. This aircraft landed at 20.30 hrs Z.[61]
3(F)./123 also had two other Ju 88s on late afternoon/evening sorties to St. George’s Channel and the Irish Sea. The crews reported a total of nine ships sailing independently plus a small convoy all between 18.30 and 20.10 hrs Z. Both aircraft had landed by 22.06 hrs Z.[62]
26 Apr 1942 – Two Bf 109s from 1(F)./123 operated across the Channel, making landfall near Portland Bill at 13.56 hrs Z at a height of about 30,000 ft. These aircraft circled in the direction of Warmwell aerodrome before turning towards the Channel Islands. One of these aircraft was positively identified, at 13.46 hrs Z, as a Bf 109 by pilots of 308 Sqdn RAF operating from Bolthead. This Bf 109 was chased but escaped into cloud.[63]
A Ju 88 from 1(F)./123 operated to the west of the Scillies at least as far as Pl. Qu. 15 W 803 at 15.23 hrs Z.[64]
4U+CH from 1(F)./123 was out on a late afternoon Channel sweep between Beachy Head and Start Point, landing at 8.50 hrs Z.[65]
A number of Bf 109s were, recorded by the British, on sorties over the Channel and between Bridport and the Isle of Wight. These may have been related to the planned attack on Bath.[66]
3(F)./123 had two Ju 88s out, the first was heard at 03.50 hrs Z but there was no clue as to the crew’s mission. The other aircraft was a late afternoon/early evening sortie possibly to the western end of the Channel, this crew landed at 20.00 hrs Z.[67]
27 Apr 1942 – 1(F)./123 sent one Ju 88 on a sortie to Bath plus anti-shipping reconnaissance in the Bristol Channel. [68]
1(F)./123 sent two Bf 109s to the south west of England. This was an early morning sortie to assess the results of the raids on Exeter. These aircraft flew from the direction of Lannion to the Seaton-Lyme Regis area and then on towards Exeter, at 10.20 hrs Z. They were sighted at 10.30 hrs Z 10 miles east of Berry head by Spitfires flying from Bolt Head. The bf 109s then turned towards Exeter and were last seen 3 miles west of the town flying in a westerly direction.[69]
1(F)./123 had a Ju 88 operating in the Channel between Start point and Beachy Head up until 12.00 hrs Z.[70]
A Ju 88 (4U+CH) from 1(F)./123 was on a late afternoon Channel sortie covering the area from Start Point to Beachy Head up until 18.20 hrs Z. No shipping was sighted and the crew landed by 18.39 hrs Z.[71]
Another Ju 88 (4U+GH) was logged by the British “Y” service but may have been a non-operational flight.[72]
3(F)./123 had a JU 88 land at Lannion at about 20.15 hrs Z.[73]
28 Apr 1942 – 2(F)./123 had a number of Ju 88s operating from Kastelli early in the morning. These were to cover a line 22º E to Caso - Rosetta Mouth and also to perform a photo reconnaissance of Alexandria harbour. No shipping was sighted, two aircraft broke off early due to technical problems. All aircraft had landed by 09.25 hrs Z.[74]
29 Apr 1942 – 3(F)./123 sent a 1 Bf 109F-5 from Lannion which circled the Bristol and Bath area from 11.31 hrs. Drop tanks from this aircraft fell at Pill around 12.00 hrs. Photos were taken of Nailsea, Avonmouth and Bath.[75]
May 1942 – at this time Hptm. Hermann Palm was Staka of 3(F)./123.[23]
4 May 1942 – 3(F)./123 sent Ju 88 4U+EL (Ltn. Blenders) to light up Cowes (nr Portsmouth) – sortie startede at 22.13 hrs and finished landing at Creil at 00.24 hrs. 4U+EL sustained flak damage but no injuries.[76]
22 May 1942 – 17.57 hrs Ju 88 (Ltn Wichert) sortied from Lannion to England returning at 22.43 hrs.[76]
30 May 1942 – Ju 88D (4U+FK) of 2.(F)/123 flew a sea reconnaissance between El Daba and Alexandria.[77]
10 Jun 1942 – Lannion subjected to a bombing attack and 3.(F)/123 had 6 killed and 3 wounded as a result of this raid.[78]
14 Jun 1942 – An aircraft of 2(F)./123 photographed the convoy “MW 11” which had sailed from Alexandria on 11 June 1942.[79]
17 Jun 1942 – Photo recce by aircraft of 2(F)./123 of Alexandria Harbour revealed the following – 1 Battleship Queen Elizabeth Class in floating dock; 2 cruisers of Southampton class; 3 cruisers of Dido class; 1 cruiser of Aurora class; 1 AC cruiser; 14 destroyers (one of which in dry dock); 9 escort vessels; 4 submarines; 2 hospital ships (one of which aground); 4 passenger ships; 5 tamkers and 37 freighters.[80]
18 Jun 1942 – Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 sent by Fliegerkorps X on photo recce sortie to Quantara – Senke area.[81]
Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 14.00 hrs Z for an off-shore recce from Sidi Barani – Alexandria.[82]
19 Jun 1942 – 6 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 were sent up at 04.00 hrs Z for sea recce of eastern area, aircraft down by 08.00 hrs Z – convoy of 13 units including 6 freighters seen heading to Alexandria, presumed to be a convoy from Tobruck which had previously been sighted by Luftwaffe units on 18 Jun 1942.[83]
Also 1 Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 was sent off at 05.00 hrs Z for a photographic recce sortie covering airfields in the Sidi Barani – Fuka area.[84] Aircraft landed at 10.00 hrs Z.[85]
20 Jun 1942 – 2(F)./123 photograhed the following North African airfields – Sidi Azzeiz, Amseat, Sollum, Halfaya, Gasr El Arid (North and South), Bir Tashida, Amseat II, Zaweit El Hachina and Capuzzo. Tented ancampment south of Sollum and Halfaya Pass unchanged.[86]
6 JU 88 of 2(F)./123 operated at 03.00 hrs Z for sea recce of the eastern area. In addition a Ju 88 of the same unit landed at 05.15 hrs Z following a photo recce of the Sollum area.[87]
Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 14.20 hrs Z for an off-shore recce from Sidi Barani to Alexandria, the aircraft landed back at 18.00 hrs Z.[88]
21 Jun 1942 – 1 Ju 88 and 1 Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 landed at 09.30 hrs Z after performing a photo recce sortie covering the area Mersa Matruh to Alexandria. Mersa Matruh railway photographed. Accurate Flak experienced at Halfaya, Zigdin El Ahmar and Abu Misheifa.[89]
1 Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 left Gadurra (Rhodes) at 04.00 hrs Z on a sortie, landing at Kastelli at 10.00 hrs Z following and intermediate landing at Gadurra. [90] This aircraft photographed the south coast of Cyprus as far as Famagusta, airfields in the Nicosia area and troop concentrations at Karavostasi. Visual observation revealed no troop concentrations at Karavostasi.[91]
22 Jun 1942 – 2 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123 took off at 04.00 hrs Z to carry out photographic and visual reconnaissance of roads and railway from Sollum to Alexandria and or airfields from Sollum to Fuka. From visual recce the following was found – very heavy traffic moving east on the road Sollumto Mersa Matruh; very heavy railway traffic in both directions on the route Mersa Matruh – Abu Feidan; Abu Feidan – Sollum , no traffic observed.[92]
Other activity that day included additional sorties by 3 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123.[93]
1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 sent off at 14.30 hrs Z for off-shore recce of the North African coast from Sidi Barrani to Alexandria.[94]
23 Jun 1942 – 4 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123 in conjunction with aircraft of I./LG 1 took off at 04.00 hrs Z for a reconnaissance of the eastern area. [95]
1 Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 took off at 04.30 hrs Z on a photo recce sortie to the Quattara Depression. This aircraft landed at 05.30 hrs Z, sortie abandoned due to technical issues.[96]
1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 05.00 hrs Z on a sortie to photo the roads and railway in the Fuka to Alexandria area. Again this sortie was broken off due to technical issues.[97]
A Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 then took off at 09.00 hrs Z to perform the sorties that had to be broken off earlier – photo recce of the roads and railway from Fuka to Alexandria and of the Quatara Depression.[98]
Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 landed at 17.15 hrs following a photo recce of the road from Sidi Barrani to Fuka and the railway from Mersa Matruh to Fuka. A Ju 86 landed at 15.30 hrs Z after a photo recce sortie to the area from Qutaifiya to Burg El Arab. Another Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 landed at 18.30 hrs Z following an off shore recce of the North African coast from Sidi Barrani to Alexandria. [99]
24 Jun 1942 - 3(F)./123 sent a sortie from Lannion at 05.28 hrs up St Georges Channel, across Wales, down the Bristol Channel and across the Scilly Isles and back to Lannion at 10.44 hrs. This was a “first flight” for a newly constituted crew.[76]
2(F)./123 operated 3 Ju 88s from 03.00 hrs to 10.00 hrs Z on recce of the eastern area.[100]
1 Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 photograhed roads and railway from Mersa Matruh to Alexandria operating between 06.00 hrs and 12.00 hrs Z.[101]
In addition a Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 performed an off-shore recce from Sidi Barrani to Alexandria between 14.00 and 18.00 hrs Z.[102]
25 Jun 1942 – A Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 landed at 12.00 hrs Z following a photo and visual recce sortie of the roads and railway between Mersa Metruh and Alexandria, in addition it had a look at Alexandria Harbour. Results of the visual recce included – 3000 approx. motor vehicles between Mersa Metruh and Alexandria, mainly moving eas and El Daba railway station heavily occupied.[103]
A total of 3 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123 were despatched for recce of the “eastern area”. A further Ju 88 of this unit took off at 13.00 hrs Z on an offshore recce sortie covering the area between Mersa Metruh and Alexandria.[104]
26 Jun 1942 – 1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took of at 03.45 hrs Z for a photo recce sortie covering the area between Mersa Metruh and the Siwa Oasis.[105]
5 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 were up from 04.00 hrs Z on a sea recce of the “Eastern Area” - these aircraft had landed by 08.00 hrs Z.[106]
A single Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 04.15 hrs Z to perform a photo recce sortie covering roads, railways and airfileds in the area Mersa Metruh to El Alamein, the aircraft landed at 08.15 hrs Z. The aircraft photographed motor transport concentrations and field positions between El Alamein and the Qattara Depression. Constructions of field positions, facing north and northwest, was observed at Bir El Mukheisin as well as strong field positions on the chain of heights at Qattara.[107]
Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 landed at 10.10 hrs Z following a photo recce sortie of Alexandria Harbour and the seaplane base at Natrun together with the road west of the Nile. This aircraft was attacked by an Allied aircraft on the return leg of the sortie (the aircraft was believed to be a Spitfire) at approx 11300 m, an unexploded cannon shell was lodged in the cockpit and the pilot lost consciousness from lack of oxygen. However, he did succeed in returning to base on one engine. [108] [109]
A Ju 88, also of 2(F)./123, took off at 13.00 hrs Z for an offshore recce covering the area between Sidi Barrani and Alexandria.[110]
27 Jun 1942 - 1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 03.00 hrs Z for a photo recce sortie covering the area from Mersa Matruh to the Siwa Oasis.[111]
4 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123 took part in a sea recce of the “eastern area”, taking off at approx. 04.00 hrs Z.[112]
1 Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 took off at 04.30 hrs Z for a photo recce of the area between Alexandria and Cairo, it landed at 09.30 hrs Z.[113]
1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 landed at 18.15 hrs Z following a sea recce sortie that covered the area from Cape Kenayis to Alexandria.[114]
2(F)./123 had 3 aircraft serviceable out of 11 available.[115]
A Ju 88 of 3.(F)/123 flew a midday sortie encompassing the Scillies, St George’s Channel and Caernavon Bay. The plane had reached it’s furthest point by 11.31 hrs Z having reported shipping being sighted at 11.00 hrs Z off Cardigan. Fighters were reportedly encountered at 11.23 hrs Z. The aircraft had landed by 14.00 hrs Z.[116]
Ju 88 of 1.(F)/123 was operating in the English Channel in the area south of The Needles and south of Portland Bill between 20.40 and 21.35 hrs Z. No shipping reports were made and the crew were continually warned regarding RAF fighters by their ground controllers.[117]
A Ju 88 of 3.(F)/123 operated in the western portion of the English Channel, no shipping was reported and the aircraft had landed by about 14.50 hrs Z.[118]
A Ju 88 of 3.(F)/123 was operating in the evening in the Bristol Channel, this was believed to be a preliminary reconnaissance for a night minelaying operation. The plane had landed by about 21.30 hrs Z.[119]
28 Jun 1942 – At 02.55 hrs Z a JU 88 of 2(F)./123 took off on a photo recce sortie covering the area encompassed by El Daba – El Alamein – Qattara Depression. The aircraft landed at 07.00 hrs having completed the assigned task.[120]
4 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123 took off at 03.53 hrs for a sea recce between 22 East and Alexandria.[121] This was completed by 08.45 hrs Z.[122]
A single Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 was despatched to photograph Haifa and Beirut, it was to use Gadurra as an intermediate landing ground.[123]
One Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 was required to photograph “construction” in the Nile Valley.[124]
1 Ju 88 of 3.(F)/123 performed a late afternoon/early evening reconnaissance sortie to an area south of the Isles of Scilly. By 18.26 hrs Z it had reached the furthest point for the mission. No shipping was sighted.[125]
A separate Ju 88 of 3.(F)/123 went out on an evening flight to the St. George’s Channel. At 19.40 hrs Z the crew reported sighting a ship in Pl. Qu. 15 W 63 (west of Cardigan Bay). At 19.50 hrs Z groung control instructed the crew to break off their flight and return. The aircraft landed at 20.27 hrs Z.[126]
A single Bf 109 of 1.(F)/123 sortied to the Eglish Channel in the Selsey Bill area. It was recorded as being “in area” at about 19.51 hrs Z. No shipping was sighted and ground control warned the pilot regarding fighters in the area.[127]
3, possibly 4, Ju 88s of 1.(F)/123 operated in the English Channel between Beach Head and Portland. The operated in the area between 20.48 and 21.51 hrs Z. These crews were continually warned about RAF fighters operating in the area. No shipping was sighted by these aircraft which operated at low altitude. All had landed by 22.40 hrs Z.[128]
29 Jun 1942 – A Ju 88 of 1.(F)/123 departed before 02.00 hrs Z on a photo reconnaissance sortie to Weston-super-Mare. The aircraft crossed the English coast in the vicinity of Portland. This was a follow-up to the raid that had taken place the previous night. However, it is unlikely that usable photographs were obtained as the crew reported fog patches in the target area. The Ju 88 was noted as re-crossing the French coast south of Cherbourg.[129]
1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 02.30 hrs Z to photograph Haifa and Beirut.
2 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 were sent off at 03.30 hrs Z as part of the sea recce sorties to the “eastern area”.[130] One of these Ju 88s landed at 07.45 hrs Z having photographed Acre as well as Haifa harbour and oil depot together with Beirut harbour. It reported that from visual recce Beirut harbour was unoccupied. [131]
1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 was sent off, at 13.30 hrs Z, for an offshore recce covering the North African coast from Cape Kanais (Ras El Kanais) to Alexandria, this aircraft landed at 18.00 hrs Z having observed 4 patrol boats and a minesweeper off Alexandria Harbour.[132]
A Ju 88 of 1.(F)/123 was on a weather and photo reconnaissance of the East Midlands and East Anglia areas of England. It may have been intended that it was to look at the damage caused by Luftwaffe bomber aircraft that had only just left the target area. It was “in area” at 01.50 hrs Z and reported the weather at that time. The aircraft was sighted by a Defiant flying in the vicinity of March at 01.21 hrs Z, combat ensued and the Ju 88 was claimed as damaged. At 02.13 hrs the Ju 88 was recorded as flying on one engine.[133]
Ju 88 of 3.(F)/123 took off from Lannion at about 18.00 hrs Z for the normal evening reconnaissance sortie to the western English Channel and the north coast of Cornwall. At 19.55 hrs Z this crew reported the sighting of convoys WP 179 and PW 178 near Trevose Head, the convoys were passing each other at the time.[134]
30 June 1942 – 2(F)./123 had 5 aircraft serviceable.[135]
1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 11.30 hrs Z on a sea recce in the area Beirut – Haifa – Port Said also making a photo recce of Beirut and Haifa harbours.[136] This aircraft landed at 18.00 hrs Z, the interpretation of the photographs of Haifa and Beirut included the following information:-
At Haifa – one escort vessel ; one guardship; 4 tankers; 7 freighters.
At Beirut – 3 small vessels; 5 freighters; one freighter off St Georges Bay.
Defensive AA at Haifa was reported to be inaccurate. This aircraft was pursued by two fighters from Haifa to Beirut. The sea recce intended for the route Haifa – Beirut – Crete was not carried out due to fuel shortage.[137]
1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 wa sent off at 13.30 hrs Z for a sea recce of the North African coast from Cape Kanais (Ras El Kanais) to Alexandria.[138] This sortie was abandoned due to technical issues and the aircraft landed at 16.45 hrs Z.[139]
1 Jul 1942 – 3 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123 took off at 11.30 hrs Z on a sea recce of the “Eastern Area” with no sightings, these aircraft had landed by 16.30 hrs Z.[140]
1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 was sent on a photo recce covering the following : Haifa – Beirut – Port Said.[141] Photo recce of Haifa and Beirut at approx 14.00 hrs Z revealed the following:-
Haifa – 2 ships (possibly cruisers); 3 destoyers; 4 escort vessels; 3 small naval vessels; 1 hospital ship; 8 freighters; 1 passenger ship and 4 tankers.
Beirut – 7 small freighters and 2 tankers.[142]
2 Jul 1942 – 3 Ju 88s from 2(F)./123 and 1 Ju88 from Westa 26 took off at approx., 04.10 hrs Z for a recce of the “Eastern Area”.[143]
1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 11.00 hrs Z for a sea recce mission that covered Port Said, Haifa and Beirut – if possible it was instructed to photograph Haifa and Beirut.[144] Haifa harbour and airfield photographed, Beirut not photographed due to camera failure. Visual recce of Port Said revealed the following:- 2 Medium vessels entering the harbour with two others in the harbour.[145]
Beirut harbour – 1 patrol vessel leaving, 3 medium motor vessels and possibly 10 barges.[146]
Another Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 13.30 hrs Z for a sea recce of the area encompassing Arab’s Gulf (Khalij el-Arab) as far as Alexandria.[147] Aircraft landed at 17.00 hrs Z.[148]
3 Jul 1942 – Starting from 04.00 hrs Z 2 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123 together with an aircraft of Westa 26 were sent out on a sea recce sortie covering the east coast of Crete, Alexandria and the coast as far as Haifa.[149]
2(F)./123 strength 11 aircraft of which 8 serviceable.[150]
Photo recce of Suez Harbour by a Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took place, the aircraft had landed by 22.00 hrs Z. Visual recce of the anchorage identified 49 vessels of which 12 were fairly large merchant ships. Accurate and heavy Flak prevented an exact visual recce. As the aircraft made its way back the crew observed a fighter screen established over Cairo.[151]
4 Jul 1942 – Bir El Abd was to be serviceable for night landings, in addition supplies of DK1 had been sent to this airfield as it was intended for it 'to be used by Ju 86 aircraft from 2(F)./123.[152]
5 Jul 1942 – Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 02.30 hrs Z for photo recce mission to Suez.[153] This appears to have been completed by 08.45 hrs Z.[154]
A further 3 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123 took off at 03.50 hrs Z for a sea recce sortie covering the coast of Crete to Alexandria and then on to Haifa.[155] These aircraft landed at 09.30 hrs Z following the photo recce of Haifa harbour – they reported encountering heavy but inaccurate flak at Haifa.[156]
1 JU 86 of 2(F)./123 was up at 11.00 hrs Z on a mission to photograph the area west of the Nile Delta.[157]This aircraft was unable to carry out the mission due to technical difficulties and landed at Qoteifiya (?).[158]
Total aircraft available to 2(F)./123 on this day reported as 11 with only 2 serviceable.[159]
6 Jul 1942 – all Ju 86 aircraft of Fliegerkorps X reported as being unserviceable.[160]
Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 was sent off at 05.40 hrs Z for a photo recce sortie covering Beirut, Tripoli and Famagusta. The aircraft landed at 13.00 hrs Z following an intermediate stop at Gadurra (Rhodes).[161]
2 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123 (together with one from Westa 26) set off at 10.15 hrs Z on a sea recce flight from the east coast of Crete to Alexandria and Haifa and to photograph Port Said.[162] This was completed at 18.00 hrs Z – French units were still at Alexandria and ignificant shipping was sighted at Port Said.[163]
7 Jul 1942 – 2 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 together with a single Ju 88 of Westa 26 ttok off at 02.30 hrs Z on a sea recce from the eastern tip of Crete to Alexandria then to follow the coast to Haifa. The aircraft had returned by 09.30 hrs Z. Haifa Harbour had been photographed – but the was heavy Flak at Haifa as well as an encounter with two fighter formations. In addition there was a strong fighter screen over Port Said.[164]
Another Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 also took off at 02.30 hrs Z for a sortie to photograph the railway from Haifa southwards to El Kantara.[165]
08 Jul 1942 - Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 up at 04.00 hrs Z for photo recce of the area west of the Nile Delta, the crew abandoned the task due to damage to the aircraft’s fusalage.[166]
3 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123 together with another of Westa 26 were off by 14.30 hrs for a recce of the sea are encompassed by Crete – Port Said – Tobruk.[167] Aircraft on this operation landed by 18.45 hrs Z, having photographed Alexandria harbour.[168]
9 Jul 1942 – 3 Ju 88s of 2(F)./123, together with the usual Ju 88 of Westa 26, departed at 09.45 hrs Z for a recce that covered Crete →Port Said →Tobruk. A strong fighter screen prevented photographs of Port Said harbour being taken. An oblique photo of Alexandria harbour was successfully taken.[169]
1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 took off at 13.45 hrs Z and landed at 18.45 hrs Z having photographed Port Said and Alexandria.[170]
10 Jul 1942 – 1 Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 together with 1 Ju 88 of Westa 26 were up at 02.45 hrs on sea recce covering the area 24 to 27 degrees East, southwards of 35 degrees North.[171]
A Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 was off at 02.30 hrs Z to photograph Syrian airfields.[172]
A Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 was up at 03.15 hrs Z for a photo recce sortie to the west of the Nile Delta. The mission was broken off at 04.30 hrs Z due to engine trouble, the aircraft landed at 06.20 hrs Z [173]
A further JU 86 sortie by 2(F)./123 was flown at 09.00 hrs Z as a replacement for the previous mission to photograph the west of the Nile Delta.[174]This aircraft landed at 15.20 hrs Z
One Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 was up at 09.20 hrs Z to photograph airfields in Palestine.[175]
One Ju 88 up at 13.40 hrs Z on reconnaissance of sea and harbours between Alexandria and Jaffa.[176]
One Ju 86, of 2(F)./123, landed at 15.20 hrs Z after completing a photo reconnaissance sortie of the road from Alexandria to Cairo; fortifications at Bir Victoria and airfields in the area of the Natrun Lakes.[177]
One Ju 88, of 2(F)./123, landed at 17.30 hrs Z after and intermediate landing at Gadurra, following a reconnaissance of airfields between Rafah and Haifa – in addition it looked at the airfields and seaplane bases at Haifa.[178]
12 Jul 1942 - 1(F)./123 sortie to the western part of the English Channel.[179]
20 Jul 1942 – Ju 88D-1 (4U+KH) of 1.(F)/123 flew the staffel’s 1000th sortie. This was a shipping reconnaissance mission operating between Portland and Plymouth. The crew were Lt. Arndt (B), Fw. Kunze (F), Uffz. Hartwig (Bs) and Fw. Höfs (Bf).[180]
Oblt Meisel of 2.(F)/123 flew a photographic reconnaissance sortie, to Alexandria and the surrounding airfields, in Ju 86P (4U+SK).[181]
24 Jul 1942 - 2(F)./123 sortie covering the area Haifa-Port Said-Alexandria.[182]
Ju 86P (4U+SK) from 2.(F)/123 flew a photo reconnaissance sortie to Alexandria.[183]
26 Jul 1942 – 2(F)./123 Met recce sortie ended north of El Alamein when the Ju 88A-5 was shot down by a Spitfire.Hptm Heinrich Beyziegel made POW.[76]
2 Aug 1942 - 1(F)./123 sortie to the south of the Isle of Wight.[184]
4 Aug 1942 – Ju 88A-5 (4U+KK) of 2.(F)/123 on Convoy escort between Suda and Derna.[185]
6 Aug 1942 – Ju 88A-4 (4U+UK) of 2.(F)/123 flew a sea reconnaissance of the coast near Alexandria.[186]
8 Aug 1942 – Ju 88A-4 (4U+EK) sea reconnaissance of the North African coast, sighted a Gloster Gladiator.[187]
9 Aug 1942 – Ju 88A-1 (4U+CK) of 2.(F)/123 departed on a photographic reconnaissance sortie to Haifa. The order was carried out but only oblique photos were taken due to the aircraft coming under attack by defending Spitfires.[188]
10 Aug 1942 - 2(F)./123 sent an aircraft on a reconnaissance sortie towards the Nile Delta.[189]
Ju 86P from 2(F)./123 from Crete possibly overflew fleet when Malta Spitfires were being flown off. [190]
13 Aug 1942 – Ju 88A-1 (4U+CK) of 2.(F)/123 was sent out on a reconnaissance sortie in search of enemy escorts. Nothing was sighted.[191]
15 Aug 1942 – Ju 88A-4 (4U+EK) of 2.(F)/123 was engaged in a sea reconnaissance sortie covering the coastal region between Tobruk and Alexandria. Near El Alamein 7 aircraft (possibly Spitfires and Hurricanes) were sighted attacking ground targets.[192]
16 Aug 1942 – Two Ju 88s of 2.(F)/123 departed before 07.00 hrs Z on reconnaissance of Eastern Mediterranean and roving reconnaissance of Alexandria and Port Said. One of these aircraft returned early due to technical issues and the other landed at Mersa Matruh following engine trouble.
A Ju 86P departed at 08.00 hrs Z to photograph Haifa, this aircraft landed at Rhodes at 09.30 hrs Z – task to be completed on 17 Aug 1942.[193]
2.(F)/123 reported 14 aircraft on strength of which 7 were serviceable.[194]
17 Aug 1942 – 2 Ju 88s of 2.(F)/123 were up at 09.15 hrs Z on a sea reconnaissance of the eastern Mediterranean and reconnaissance of Alexandria to Port Said.[195]
Ju 86P of 2.(F)/123 flew the port reconnaissance sortie to Haifa.[196]
2.(F)/123 reported a strength of 15 aircraft with 8 serviceable.[197]
18 Aug 1942 - 2.(F)/123 reported a strength of 15 aircraft with 4 serviceable.[198]
19 Aug 1942 – At 18.30 hrs a Ju 88 was despatched on a security reconnaissance to the west coast of England.
3.(F)/123 sent out a Me 109 at 20.19 hrs on a security reconnaissance to the English south coast.[199]
20 Aug 1942 – Aircraft of 2.(F)/123 photographed the following airfields – Ismallia, Deversoir, Fayid, Gineifa, Kabrit and Shallufa. The results from the photographs were not published until 22 Aug due to delays in the interpretation because the photographs were taken when there was 7/10 cloud.[200]
Ju 88 of 2.(F)/123 flew a photographic reconnaissance of Port Said and Suez, roads and aerodromes between Suez and Cairo, aerodromes around Cairo together with suspected minefields between Giza Khatatba and Teiriya.[201]
1.(F)/123 had a Ju 88 out on the early morning reconnaissance of the eastern portion of the English Channel. The operation was carried out successfully, although nothing of any significance was seen.[202]
A Ju 88 of 3.(F)/123 took off at 06.57 hrs on a security reconnaissance patrol. No shipping traffic was detected in the entire reconnaissance area.[203]
An Me 109 from 3.(F)/123 left at 09.32 hrs on a similar security reconnaissance patrol and also had no sightings to report.[204]
3.(F)/123 sent out an Me 110 (departed at 07.04 hrs) on a sea reconnaissance in the area NW of Brest. No shipping was sighted although a twin- engined aircraft was seen in Pl.Qu. 15W/7072 on a course of 200º.[205]
21 Aug 1942 – The Ju 88 that flew the Port Said and Suez reconnaissance the previous day landed back at Kastelli at 12.30 hrs Z after an intermediate landing at Qasaba.[206]
3.(F)/123 – Me 109 evening security patrol off the English south coast. No shipping sighted.[207]
A number of Ju 88s from 2.(F)/123 operated in the afternoon south of Crete towards the north African coast between 23º and 32º. The crews reported no sightings and had all landed by 16.20 hrs Z.[208]
22 Aug 1942 – At dawn 2.(F)/123 had 14 aircraft on strength of which 5 were serviceable.[209]
Fliegerführer Xs intentions were to send a Ju 86 from 2.(F)/123 on a photo reconnaissance sortie to the Nile Delta on 23rd Aug 1942.[210]
23 Aug 1942 - Oblt Bournot, Uffz. Merz, Fw. August Fastenrodt and Ofw Alfred Nitsch[211] flew on 2./123's 2000th combat sortie.[212]
2 Ju 88s of 2.(F)/123 took off at 04.00 hrs Z on a sea reconnaissance of the eastern Mediterranean and to search for a damaged submarine. The submarine was found and contact was established. At 09.30 hrs Z the protecting aircraft reported that the submarine was being shadowed by a British aircraft – this resulted in 3 Me 110s being scrambled to provide escort and to chase off the shadower.[213]
2 Ju 88 of 2.(F)/123 took off at 04.00 hrs Z on a sea reconnaissance of the eastern Mediterranean, this included a roving reconnaissance of Haifa and Port Said.[214]
24 Aug 1942 - Ju 86R-1 of 2(F)./123 departed Kastelli at 05.40 hrs on a sortie to the Nile Delta. The route was Kastelli – Baltim – Demietta – Ismalia – Abu Suweir – Bilbais – Cairo – El Amirija – Kastelli taking in Port Said, Cairo and Alexandria. The aircraft was crewed by Lt. Hessinger (F) and Fw. Schäfer (B).[215] Aircraft was up at 03.45 hrs Z and took photos of aerodromes in the central Nile Delta.[216]
A Ju 88 of 2.(F)/123 together with a Wekusta aircraft took off at 12.15 hrs Z on a sea reconnaissance for the protection of Axis convoys. Aircraft landed at 16.45 hrs Z – nothing sighted.[217]
1 Ju 88 of 2.(F)/123 up at 17.15 hrs Z fro “Experimental” night photo reconnaissance of Port Said.[218]
Ju 88 of 2.(F)/123 landed at 21.45 hrs Z from night photography of Alexandria. It reported coming under accurate AA fire and encountering night-fighters over the sea.[219]
6 Sep 1942 – 2.(F)/123 had a Ju 86 R-1 (W.Nr. 5101) crashland at Bir el Abd following combat.[220]
9 Sep 1942 - 2(F)./123 sent a sortie out to the sea area off Port Said.[221]
10 Sep 1942 - 1(F)./123 sortie to the eastern part of the English Channel.[222]
17 Sep 1942 - 3 Ju 88s from 2.(F)/123 operated from Kastelli at midday flying via the eastern end of Crete on three separate routes to Sidi Barrani and Port Said all had landed back at Kastelli by 16.20 hrs Z, no sightings were reported by the crews.[223]
18 Sep 1942 - 2.(F)/123 had 3 Ju 88s operating, in the afternoon, to the south and south-east of Crete on convoy protection. None of the aircraft made any sightings and all had landed by 17.00 hrs Z.[224]
19 Sep 1942 - 2.(F)/123 had two Ju 88s (including 4U+EK) up from Kastelli by 11.00 hrs Z on separate sorties to the sea area south of Crete including Sidi Barrani and Alexandria. These aircraft were apparently out searching for Allied Naval forces but did not report seeing any. At 13.00 hrs Z and 13.45 hrs Z they reported Allied bomber formations. Both aircraft had returned to Kastelli by 15.40 hrs Z.[225]
20 Sep 1942 - 3 Ju 88s from 2.(F)/123 performed the afternoon sea reconnaissance south of Crete, taking off by 12.05 hrs Z. No sightings were reported and the aircraft had landed by 17.00 hrs Z.[226]
21 Sep 1942 - A number of Ju 88s from 2.(F)/123 operated in the afternoon south of Crete towards the north African coast between 23º and 32º. The crews reported no sightings and had all landed by 16.20 hrs Z.[227]
22 Sep 1942 - 2.(F)/123 had a number of Ju 88s operating from mid-morning towards the North African coast. Crews from these planes reported sighting Allied bomber formations off the Nile Delta that were heading in a westerly direction.[228]
23 Sep 1942 - By 11.00 hrs Z a number of Ju 88s from 2.(F)/123 were out on an exhaustive reconnaissance of the same area that had been searched on the previous day. The crews did not report any sightings and the aircraft had landed by 16.20 hrs Z.[229]
24 Sep 1942 - A number of Ju 88s from 2.(F)/123 were sent out on sea reconnaissance south of Crete, operating in the same area as the aircraft on 23 and 22 Sep. No sightings were made. The aircraft had landed by 16.20 hrs Z.[230]
25 Sep 1942 – 5 Ju 88s from 2.(F)/123 were identified following similar routes to previous days in the area south of Crete towards the North African coast. No shipping was sighted but a couple of enemy aircraft reports were sent in to their controllers.[231]
26 Sep 1942 – 6 Ju 88s were recorded as operating in the afternoon out of Kastelli. They were operating in the area Crete – Africa as far as a line Rafah – southern tip of Rhodes; Haifa – Port Said. A number of ships were sighted between 13.55 hrs Z and 14.10 hrs Z. The aircraft had landed by 16.12 hrs Z. [232]
27 Sep 1942 – 5 Ju 88s from 2.(F)/123 operated exhaustive morning reconnaissance sorties over the eastern Mediterranean. The routes were probably similar to those flown on previous days. No sightings were reported.[233]
28 Sep 1942 – 5 Ju 88s from 2.(F)/123 following similar routes to previous days scoured the eastern Mediterranean to no avail. All had landed by 16.15 hrs Z.[234]
29 Sep 1942 - 5 Ju 88s from 2.(F)/123 followed similar routes to previous days over the eastern Mediterranean. All aircraft were off by 11.10 hrs Z. At 15.05 hrs Z a formation of 9 multi-engined aircraft were sighted on a westerly course. No shipping sightings were reported. All aircraft were down by 16.00 hrs Z.[235]
1 Oct 1942 – An aircraft of 1.(F)/123 (probably a Bf 109) was active in the English Channel from 14.30 hrs Z when it was located to the north of the Cherbourg Peninsula flying on a northerly heading towards St Albans Head. At 14.34 hrs Z the crew reported a single ship in Pl. Q. 15 W 3161 on a northerly course. Shortly afterward it then sighted a convoy of about 11 ships (PW 225?). Ground control warned the aircraft to be aware of British fighters between 14.39 and 14.44 hrs Z.[236]
A further reconnaissance sortie by 1.(F)/123 took place after 16.35 hrs Z searching for the same convoy. This aircraft (again possibly a Bf 109) flew from Cap de La Hague to within 15 m. of St. Albans Head before returning. Ground control warned the pilot, at various stages of the flight, that there were British fighters in the vicinity, the aircraft landed after 17.00 hrs Z.[237]
Multiple additional Bf 109 sorties were flown on this date, one of which was a sortie to the Eastern English Channel – active from 08.55 hrs Z, convoy sighting reported at this time. Convoy reported to consist of at least 8 4-6,000 t ships with others (this was convoy CE 122). At 09.03 hrs Z this aircraft was warned by the ground controller of British fighter activity.[238]
Two aircraft from 1.(F)/123 operated the evening Channel security patrol, they were picked up by the British “y” service at 17.25 hrs Z. They were ordered to search for a convoy in Pl. Qa. 15 W 416 – 418, this was possibly PW 225 reported earlier. One of these aircraft encountered British fighters at 19.38 hrs Z. [239]
3.(F)/123 had three aircraft out from Rennes patrolling the Bay of Biscay. Two aircraft had landed by 18.26 hrs Z. The third aircraft was repeatedly called between 17.49 and 18.05 hrs Z and again between 18.22 and 18.58 hrs Z to no avail.[240]
2 Oct 1942 – 3.(F)/123, 2 aircraft of this staffel were sent out on sorties to the Bay of Biscay departing at 12.50 and 13.00 hrs Z respectively. Both aircraft reported fighted during their flights (at 16.32 and 16.54 hrs Z). Both aircraft had landed by 19.00 hrs Z.6
3 Oct 1942 – 3 aircraft from 3.(F)/123 flew from Rennes for an early evening sortie over the Bay of Biscay. They had landed bt 20.25 hrs Z with no sightings to report.7
7 Oct 1942 - 1(F)./123 sortie to the southern coast of England.[241]
Weather conditions in the English Channel on this date were not good. Two Bf 109s (Lt. Frank and Uffz. Hohfeld) of 1.(F)/123 departed Théville for a sortie to the Portland-Weymouth area. Only the Bf 109 piloted by Lt. Frank returned to Théville. Once Lt. Frank had landed an additional two aircraft were sent out to search for any sign of Uffz. Hohfeld and his aircraft, nothing was found.[242]
A Ju 86 of 2(F)./123 from Kastelli was intended to photograph Haifa and Beirut but due to technical issues the flight terminated at Rhodes.[243]
8 Oct 1942 – A Ju 86 from 2(F)./123 photographed Beirut at 08.00 hrs Z, airfields at Paphos, Limassol and Akhelia were photographed between 09.33 and 09.53 hrs Z. It was also intended to photograph Haifa but weather conditions precluded this.[244]
9 Oct 1942 – 2.(F)/123 sent Ju 86P (4U+SK) on a photo reconnaissance sortie to Haifa harbour.[245] The task was carried out at 09.50 hrs Z, the crew probably used Gaduria as an advance landing ground.[246]
12 Oct 1942 – 2(F)./123 provided 3 Ju 88s as part of the close escort for the “Col Di Lana”/”Millelire” convoy.[247]
14 Oct 1942 – 2(F)./123 had five Ju 88s out from Kastelli covering the eastern Mediterranean in the early afternoon. All had landed by 15.30 hrs Z.[248]
19 Oct 1942 -3(F)./123 reconnaissance sortie to the east coast of England.[249]
28 Oct 1942 - 2(F)./123 lost a Ju 88D-1 (Wk Nr 430365) at Derna due to engine trouble.[250]
Nov 1942 – Maj. Walter Kaatsch appointed Staka of 2(F)./123.[23]
5(F)./123 formed at St. Pol.[251]
1 Nov 1942 - 2(F)./123 sent a sortie out to the sea area off Alexandria.[252]
Date | Unit | Aircraft Type | Code | Wkr.No. | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 Nov 1942 | 2(F)./122 | Ju 88D-1 | 4U+EK | 430270 | Lost Near Alexandria. All four crew killed – Uffz Alfred Kleinschmidt (F), Uffz Erwin Wagner (B), Uffz Albert Schwarz (BS) and Ogfr. Werner Bode (Bm).[253] |
3 Nov 1942 | 2(F)./122 | Ju 88D-1 | 430387 | Crash landed at Mersa Matrouh due to engine trouble.[253] | |
3 Nov 1942 | 2(F)./122 | Ju 88A-5 | 883068 | Crashed into the sea due to engine trouble – crew rescued by Seenot.[253] | |
11 Nov 1942 | 2(F)./122 | Ju 88R-1 | 860479 | 15 % damage sustained on landing at gadurra, Rhodes[253] |
23 Nov 1942 – 2(F)./123 lost two Ju 88s as a result of a raid on Kastelli – Ju 88D-1trop (430324) 70% damaged and Ju 88D-2trop (880805) 95% damaged.[253]
1 Dec 1942 – 2(F)./123 lost a Ju 88D-6 on a test flight[253]
Date | Unit | Aircraft Type | Code | Wkr.No. | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 Dec 1942 | 2(F)./123 | Ju 88D-6trop | 4U+YK | 430097 | Lost on a test flight from Kastelli. Aircraft destroed and crew killed.The crew were Oblt. Benno Biereye (F), Uffz Otto Höling (B), Uffz Fritz Fleischer (Bs) and a civilian Oskar Lindinger.[253] |
3 Dec 1942 – the 109 Kdo of 1.(F)/123 was formally upgraded to a separate staffel – 4.(F)/123. Twelve aircraft were transferred from 1.(F)/123 to 4.(F)/123 at around this time:
No. | Type | Notes |
---|---|---|
3 | Bf 109F-4/R2 | Rb 20/30 installed but upgraded by the Staffel to have an Rb 50/30. |
5 | Bf 109F-4/R3 | Rb 50/30 |
1 | Bf 109F-4/Z | High-altitude aircraft equipped with GM-1 and Rb 50/30 camera. |
2 | Bf 109G-1/R2 | High-altitude aircraft equipped with GM-1 and Rb 50/30 camera. |
1 | Bf 109G-1/R3 | Rb 50/30 |
Oblt. Rüeck was Staffelführer and the unit was to establish itself at Théville rather than stay at Buc.[254]
5 Dec 1942 – Two aircraft from 3.(F)/123 operating out of Rennes flew a security patrol over the Bay of Biscay. British listening service picked up the aircraft at 14.49 hrs Z. Neither crew sighted any shipping and the ground station reported that both aircraft had landed by 16.40 hrs Z.[255]
A Bf 109 of 1.(F)/123 operated a shipping reconnaissance sortie off Selsey Bill. This aircraft was first located about 27 miles south-west of St. Catherine’s Point at 15.02 hrs Z, it flew SE and then S being last located 26 miles ENE of the Pointe du Barfleur at 15.11 hrs Z. At 14.45 hrs Z at Pl. Qu. 15 W 1137 it reported sighting 3 ships with a balloon barrage. Then at 15.00 hrs Z a convoy was sighted on a westerly course in Pl. Qu. 15 W 1144, this also was reported to have had a balloon barrage.[256]
Two aircraft from 1.(F)/123 flew a late evening security patrol over the western Channel. They had landed by about 01.00 hrs Z 6 Dec 1942.[257]
6 Dec 1942 – An aircraft from 1.(F)/123 flew the late afternoon security partol over the Western Channel. The aircraft was first noticed at 16.25 hrs Z, it was noted off Selsey Bill at 16.57 hrs Z and Bolt Head at 17.27 hrs Z. Ground control repeatedly warned the crew about British fighters.[258]
7 Dec 1942 – 2 aircraft from 3.(F)/123 flew the routine afternoon Bay of Biscay security patrol. Landing were expected at 16.15 hrs Z and 16.35 hrs Z respectively.[259]
An aircraft of 1.(F)/123 operated the afternoon security patrol to the Western Channel, operating from Guyancourt, take off was approximately 15.30 hrs Z. It was to fly out over the Iles Chausey on the outward flight and to return via somewhere between Lannion and Paipol.[260]
8 Dec 1942 – 2 aircraft from 3.(F)/123, operating from Rennes, flew a security patrol over the northern Bay of Biscay. The crews reported at 15.15 and 15.37 hrs Z that no shipping had been sighted. At 16.36 hrs Z the ground station reported that both aircraft had landed. [261]
The routine evening security patrol of the western Channel was performed by a crew of 1.(F)/123, this aircraft was times to take off from Guyancourt at 15.30 hrs Z. The aircraft landed at Villacoublay at 18.12 hrs Z.[262]
10 Dec 1942 – British “Y” service recorded two flights by 1.(F)/123 on this date, they were:-
(a) an unidentified sortie with wireless traffic picked up at 11.37 hrs Z, this aircraft was plotted in the Le Havre area and it’s expected landing time was 14.34 hrs Z.
(b) Wireless traffic picked up at 16.34 hrs Z. First located 15 miles south of Portland Bill at 16.44 hrs Z flying west on a zigzag course and passed within 4 miles of Start Point at 17.18 hrs Z, was within 20 miles of Plymouth at 17.22 hrs Z. This aircraft was expected to land at Villacoublay at 18.40 hrs Z.[263]
11 Dec 1942 – 3 aircraft of 3.(F)/123 operated an afternoon security patrol over the Bay of Biscay. No shipping was sighted and the ground station reported that the aircraft had landed by 16.43 hrs Z.[264]
1.(F)/123 sent out the usual morning and evening security patrols over the western Channel. The morning patrol had landed by 11.02 hrs Z. The evening patrol was repeatedly warned about British fighter between 16.47 hrs and 17.43 hrs Z. The aircraft had landed by 19.21 hrs Z.[265]
20 Dec 1942 – 2(F)./123 despatched a new Ju88D-1 on a sortie to Port Said.[253]
Date | Unit | Aircraft Type | Code | Wkr.No. | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 DEc 1942 | 2(F)./123 | Ju 88D-1 | 4U+KK | 430273 | Lost on a sortie to Port Said. Aircraft destroyed and crew killed.The crew were Uffz. Hans Zweigert (F), Lt Hans Schulze (B), Uffz Heinz Dansaver (Bs) and Ogfr. Kurt Dabelstein (Bm).[253] |
24 Dec 1942 - Fw. Alois Ripplinger (Bf 109G-1 Wnr.14135 White 22 + ) and Lt. Bernhard Frank (Bf 109G-1 Wnr.14133 White 19 +) of 4./(F)123 were shot down at very low level by F/Sgt Frank Murphy (Typhoon Ib R8744/SA-M)and F/O G. G. Thomas (Typhoon Ib R8781/SA-H) of No.486 (NZ) Squadron. (See here for the Combat Report by Thomas and Murphy)Both Messerschmitt’s and their pilots were lost 20 - 30 miles SSE of St. Catherine’s Point on the Isle of Wight.[266]
31 Dec 1942 – One Ju 88 of 2(F)./123 was up at 05.00 Hrs Z and down at 07.45 hrs Z. Off shore reconnaissance from Ras el Tin to Ras Kanayis.[267]
Another aircraft of 2(F)./123 took off at 08.50 hrs Z on a roving reconnaissance off Port Said returning at 12.50 hrs Z.[268]
Links
Michael Holm's Luftwaffe 1939-45
References
- ↑ DEFE3/748 – CX/MSS/583/T1
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ 23.0 23.1 23.2 ,Stankey and de Zeng – Career Summaries -Luftwaffe Officers 1935-45
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ Les yeux de Kesselring 2.(F)/123 2dme Partie- Charles Aubusson
- ↑ Shores et al – Mediterranean Air War 1940-45 vol2 p 187
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ Shores et al – Mediterranean Air War 1940-45 vol2 p 200
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli) SALU 451 (west)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli) SALU 451 (west)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli) SALU 451 (west)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli) SALU 452 (west)
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli) SALU 453 (west)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli) SALU 453 (west)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli) SALU 453 (west)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli) SALU 454 (west)
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ http://fishponds.org.uk/luftbri8.html
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/99 (Via Remi Traconelli)
- ↑ HW13/107 via Andrew Arthy
- ↑ http://fishponds.org.uk/luftbri8.html
- ↑ 76.0 76.1 76.2 76.3 Gastanger/von Well – The Easter Bunnies.
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee. - pg 210. Flugbuch Oblt. Meisel.
- ↑ RL2-III 29.6.42 Pg 3 Entry 25
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee. - pgs 200-201.
- ↑ CX/MSS/1097/T19 MK7038 DEFE3/759 pg 47.
- ↑ CX/MSS/1095/T14, T15 and 1095/T21 DEFE3/759 pg 27
- ↑ CX/MSS/1098/T3,4,6,20,31,18 MK7074 DEFE3/759 pg 86
- ↑ CX/MSS/1098/T8, T11 MK7049 DEFE3/759 pg 60
- ↑ CX/MSS/1098/T8, T11 MK7049 DEFE3/759 pg 60
- ↑ CX/MSS/1098/T3,4,6,20,31,18 MK7074 DEFE3/759 pg 86
- ↑ CX/MSS/1102/T34 DEFE3/759 MK7150 pg 178
- ↑ CX/MSS/1102/T14, T29 DEFE3/759 MK7152 pg 181
- ↑ CX/MSS/1102/T1 and 2 DEFE3/759 MK7178 pg 210
- ↑ CX/MSS/1106/T8 DEFE3/759 MK7218 pg 255
- ↑ CX/MSS/1106/T8 DEFE3/759 MK7218 pg 256
- ↑ CX/MSS/1106/T8 DEFE3/759 MK7218 pg 256
- ↑ CX/MSS/1110/T11 DEFE3/759 MK7268 pg 316
- ↑ CX/MSS/1110/T11 DEFE3/759 MK7268 pg 317
- ↑ CX/MSS/1110/T20 DEFE3/759 MK7277 pg 328
- ↑ CX/MSS/1114/T33 DEFE3/759 MK7372 pg 433
- ↑ CX/MSS/1114/T33 DEFE3/759 MK7372 pg 434
- ↑ CX/MSS/1114/T33 DEFE3/759 MK7372 pg 434
- ↑ CX/MSS/1114/T33 DEFE3/759 MK7372 pg 434
- ↑ CX/MSS/1114/T2, T22, T25 DEFE3/759 MK7368 pg 429
- ↑ CX/MSS/1118/T17 DEFE3/759 MK7425 pg 496
- ↑ CX/MSS/1118/T17 DEFE3/759 MK7425 pg 497
- ↑ CX/MSS/1118/T17 DEFE3/759 MK7425 pg 497
- ↑ CX/MSS/1125/T4 DEFE3/760 MK7520 pg 23
- ↑ CX/MSS/1125/T6 DEFE3/760 MK7520 pg 28
- ↑ CX/MSS/1125/T10, T19 DEFE3/760 MK7543 pg 48
- ↑ CX/MSS/1125/T10, T19 DEFE3/760 MK7543 pg 47
- ↑ CX/MSS/1125/T10, T19 DEFE3/760 MK7543 pg 48
- ↑ CX/MSS/1125/T13 DEFE3/760 MK7572 pg 82
- ↑ CX/MSS/1127/T2 DEFE3/760 MK7573 pg 83
- ↑ CX/MSS/1125/T13 DEFE3/760 MK7572 pg 82
- ↑ CX/MSS/1129/T13 and T24 DEFE3/760 MK7619 pg 132
- ↑ CX/MSS/1129/T13 and T24 DEFE3/760 MK7619 pg 132
- ↑ CX/MSS/1129/T13 and T24 DEFE3/760 MK7619 pg 132
- ↑ DEFE3/760 MK7661 pg 176
- ↑ CX/MSS/1129/T35 DEFE3/760 MK7948 pg 484
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 522, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 522, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 522, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 522, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ CX/MSS/1131/T17 and 19 DEFE3/760 MK7682 pg 197-8
- ↑ CX/MSS/1131/T17 and 19 DEFE3/760 MK7682 pg 197-8
- ↑ CX/MSS/1132/T40 DEFE3/760 MK7742 pg 261
- ↑ CX/MSS/1132/T40 DEFE3/760 MK7742 pg 261
- ↑ CX/MSS/1130/T7 DEFE3/760 MK7632 pg 146
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 523, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 523, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 523, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 523, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 524, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ CX/MSS/1135/T31 DEFE3/760 MK7829 pg 352
- ↑ CX/MSS/1136/T1 DEFE3/760 MK7841 pg 365
- ↑ CX/MSS/1136/T1 DEFE3/760 MK7841 pg 365
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 524, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/99 SALU 524, via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ CX/MSS/1139/T12 DEFE3/760 MK7880 pg 408
- ↑ CX/MSS/1139/T23 – 1137/T9 MK7895 pg 424
- ↑ CX/MSS/1140/T7,10,15 MK7919 pg 449
- ↑ CX/MSS/1139/T23 – 1137/T9 MK7895 pg 424
- ↑ CX/MSS/1140/T29 DEFE3/760 MK7931 pg 462
- ↑ CX/MSS/1142/T31 and T39 DEFE3/760 MK7979 pg 516
- ↑ CX/MSS/1142/T31 and T39 DEFE3/760 MK7979 pg 516
- ↑ CX/MSS/1143/T21 DEFE3/760 MK7994 pg 533
- ↑ CX/MSS/1143/T13, 1144/T2 DEFE3/761 MK8017 pg 20
- ↑ CX/MSS/1146/T40 DEFE3/761 MK8044 pg 47
- ↑ CX/MSS/1147/T16,21,14 DEFE3/761 MK8081 pg 85
- ↑ CX/MSS/1147/T16,21,14 DEFE3/761 MK8081 pg 85
- ↑ CX/MSS/1146/T40 DEFE3/761 MK8044 pg 47
- ↑ CX/MSS/1147/T16,21,14 DEFE3/761 MK8081 pg 85
- ↑ CX/MSS/1148/T17 DEFE3/761 MK8100 pg 105
- ↑ MSS/1150/T11 DEFE3/761 MK8173 p187
- ↑ CX/MSS/1153/T39 DEFE3/761 MK8205 pg 220
- ↑ CX/MSS/1163/T22 DEFE3/761 MK8431 pg 479
- ↑ CX/MSS/1155/T10 DEFE3/761 MK8236 pg 254
- ↑ CX/MSS/1157/T28 DEFE3/761 MK8289 pg 317
- ↑ CX/MSS/1155/T10 DEFE3/761 MK8236 pg 254
- ↑ CX/MSS/1157/T28 DEFE3/761 MK8289 pg 316
- ↑ CX/MSS/1157/T28 DEFE3/761 MK8289 pg 317
- ↑ CX/MSS/1159/T18 DEFE3/761 MK8315 pg 345
- ↑ CX/MSS/1157/T12 DEFE3/761 MK8275 pg 300
- ↑ CX/MSS/1161/T22 DEFE3/761 MK8369 pg 407
- ↑ CX/MCC/1161/T17 DEFE3/761 MK8378 pg 416
- ↑ CX/MSS/1161/T17 DEFE3/761 MK8378 pg 418
- ↑ CX/MSS/1162/T8 DEFE3/761 MK8383 pg 423
- ↑ CX/MSS/1160/T12, 17, 18, 20 and 24 DEFE3/761 pg 547-8
- ↑ CX/MSS/1160/T12, 17, 18, 20 and 24 DEFE3/761 pg 547-8
- ↑ CX/MSS/1168/T30, T53 DEFE3/762 MK8530 pg 34
- ↑ CX/MSS/1168/T30, T53 DEFE3/762 MK8530 pg 34
- ↑ CX/MSS/1171/T11 DEFE3/762 MK8592 pg 102
- ↑ CX/MSS/1175/T18,20 DEFE3/762 MK8628 pg 143 & CX/MSS/1175/T6,7 DEFE3/762 MK8622 pg 136
- ↑ CX/MSS/1175/T6 &T7 DEFE3/762 MK8622 pg 136
- ↑ CX/MSS/1175/T30 & 32 DEFE3/762 MK8637 pg 152
- ↑ CX/MSS/1175/T30 & 32 DEFE3/762 MK8637 pg 152
- ↑ CX/MSS/1175/T30 & 32 DEFE3/762 MK8637 pg 152 & 153
- ↑ CX/MSS/1175/T30 & 32 DEFE3/762 MK8637 pg 153
- ↑ CX/MSS/1176/T14 & 15 DEFE3/762 MK8662 pg 186
- ↑ CX/MSS/1176/T14 & 15 DEFE3/762 MK8662 pg 186
- ↑ CX/MSS/1176/T14 & 15 DEFE3/762 MK8662 pg 186
- ↑ CX/MSS/1177/T2 & 5 DEFE3/762 MK8664 pg 188
- ↑ Kampforte (1st Verlustmeldungen) Offiziers Stellenbesetzung Aufkl.Gr. 123
- ↑ Radeber – The Knullenkopfstaffel pgs 242-245. Plus a photo D:\wekus\Documents\Documents\Luftwaffe\Luftwaffe History\Images\123 – 120.jpg which is Nr 3 of a series of 9 taken by Sdf. Röder of Prop-Kp. Lw. 3 on 20.7.42. The date in the above entry is based on the date on the photo and not on the entry 18.7.42 in Radeber’s book. This photo is certainly part of the series that appear in Radeber’s book.
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee – pg 210 – Flugbuch Oblt Meisel.
- ↑ Kampforte (1st Verlustmeldungen) Offiziers Stellenbesetzung Aufkl.Gr. 123
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee – pg 210 – Flugbuch Oblt Meisel.
- ↑ Kampforte (1st Verlustmeldungen) Offiziers Stellenbesetzung Aufkl.Gr. 123
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee – pg 210 – Leitstungsbuch Uffz. Edinger
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee – pg 210 – Leitstungsbuch Uffz. Edinger
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee – pg 210 – Leitstungsbuch Uffz. Edinger
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee – pg 210 – Leitstungsbuch Uffz. Edinger
- ↑ Kampforte (1st Verlustmeldungen) Offiziers Stellenbesetzung Aufkl.Gr. 123
- ↑ “Malta – The Spitfire Year – 1942†- Chris Shores et al.p469
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee – pg 210 – Leitstungsbuch Uffz. Edinger
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee – pg 210 – Leitstungsbuch Uffz. Edinger
- ↑ DEFE3/770-1 MKA 2019 pg 21
- ↑ DEFE3/770-1 MKA 2083 pg 90
- ↑ DEFE3/770-2 MKA 2143 pg 14
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee – pg 210 – Flugbuch of Lt. Hessinger.
- ↑ DEFE3/770-2 MKA 2147 pg 18
- ↑ DEFE3/770-3 MKA 2288 pg 26
- ↑ Luftflotte 3 Einzelmeldung Nr 3 vom 21.8.42
- ↑ DEFE3/770_4 MKA 2444 pg 74
- ↑ DEFE3/770_4 MKA2489 pg 121
- ↑ RL7-III/749 – Einzelmeldung Nr 12 vom 20.8.42
- ↑ RL7-III/749 – Einzelmeldung Nr 16 vom 20.8.42
- ↑ RL7-III/749 – Einzelmeldung Nr 16 vom 20.8.42
- ↑ RL7-III/749 – Einzelmeldung Nr 12 vom 20.8.42
- ↑ DEFE3/770_4 MKA2489 pg 121
- ↑ RL7-III/749 – Einzelmeldung Nr 3 vom 21.8.42
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ DEFE3/771_1 MKA 2511 pg 12
- ↑ DEFE3/771_1 MKA 2529 pg 30
- ↑ Full crew from Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee. - pg 212
- ↑ Chris Goss posting to TOCH 4 Jan 2009.
- ↑ DEFE3/771-1 MKA 2575 pg 80
- ↑ DEFE3/771-1 MKA 2576 pg 82
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee. - pg 213
- ↑ DEFE3/771-3 MKA2692 pg 25
- ↑ DEFE3/771-3 MKA2692 pg 25
- ↑ DEFE3/771-3 MKA2740 pg 87
- ↑ DEFE3/772-1 QT25 pg 28
- ↑ RL2-III/1183 6.10.42 pg 3 entry 45.
- ↑ Kampforte (1st Verlustmeldungen) Offiziers Stellenbesetzung Aufkl.Gr. 123
- ↑ Kampforte (1st Verlustmeldungen) Offiziers Stellenbesetzung Aufkl.Gr. 123
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/102 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/102 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/102 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/102 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/102 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ Kampforte (1st Verlustmeldungen) Offiziers Stellenbesetzung Aufkl.Gr. 123
- ↑ HW13/102 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ Der Adler mit dem Fernrohr – Radeber, Ommert and Schlee. - pg 210 Flugbuch Oblt. Meisel.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ HW13/109 via Remi Traconelli.
- ↑ Kampforte (1st Verlustmeldungen) Offiziers Stellenbesetzung Aufkl.Gr. 123
- ↑ Avions 108-110
- ↑ http://www.ww2.dk/air/recon/aufkl123.htm
- ↑ Kampforte (1st Verlustmeldungen) Offiziers Stellenbesetzung Aufkl.Gr. 123
- ↑ 253.0 253.1 253.2 253.3 253.4 253.5 253.6 253.7 253.8 Avions 108-110
- ↑ Rabeder – The Knullenkopfstaffel pg 277
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 684 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 684 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 684 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 685 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 686 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 686 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 687 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 687 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 689 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 690 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ HW13/103 Salu 690 via Remi Traconelli
- ↑ E-mail from Dave Wadman 10 Dec 2021 including photo of Ripplinger and Combat report signed by Murphy and Thomas.
- ↑ DEFE3/792 VM090 pg 100
- ↑ DEFE3/792 VM090 pg 100
Cornwell, Peter - The Battle of France Then and Now
Dierich, Wolfgang - Die Verband der Luftwaffe, 1939 - 45
Foreman, John - The Battle of Britain, the Forgotten Months
Goss, Chris - Do 17 in Focus
Green, William - Warplanes of the Third Reich
Griehl, Manfred - Strahlflugzeug Arado Ar 234 Blitz
Mason, Francis - Battle over Britain
Price, Alfred - The Luftwaffe Data Book
Ramsey, Winston et al - The Battle of Britain, Then and Now
Ramsey, Winston et al - The Blitz, Then and Now
Rosch, Barry - Luftwaffe Codes, Markings and Units 1939-45
Shores, et al - Fledgeling Eagles
Shores, et al - Air War for Yugoslavia, Greece and Crete 1940-41
Shores, et al - Malta – The Hurricane Years 1940-41
Shores, et al - Malta – The Spitfire Year – 1942