| Places | |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | P01372.003 |
| Collection type | Photograph |
| Object type | Black & white |
| Physical description | Black & white |
| Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
| Copyright |
Item copyright: Copyright expired - public domain
|
Solomon Sea. 1944-02-10. A Japanese barge `captured' by Beaufighter aircraft of No. 30 Squadron, ...
Description
Solomon Sea. 1944-02-10. A Japanese barge `captured' by Beaufighter aircraft of No. 30 Squadron, RAAF. The barge was sighted empty and drifting out to sea about 40 miles south of Gasmata by two Beaufighters of No. 30 Squadron flown by Flying Officer C.H. Cornish (pilot) and Sergeant H.V. Braid (navigator) and Sergeant M.C. Morgan (pilot) and Sergeant F.G. Cassidy. Both Beaufighters were conducting a sweep along the coast off New Britain when the barge was sighted and were instructed to remain over the barge. Both aircraft stayed on station for 3 hours until they were relieved by another two Beaufighters from No. 30 Squadron flown by Pilot Officer T.G. Robertson (pilot) and Sgt R.W. Pitman (navigator) and PO Hastwell (pilot) and Flight Sergeant D. West (navigator) who remained overhead for another 4 hours until a United States Navy PT Boat arrived and took the barge in tow. Towed to Kiriwina the barge was used for recreation by Australian and United States troops. Booty from the barge, including a flag, a bugle and saki, found its way into the Squadron Aircrew Mess. (See also P1372/09/08&09) (Donated by D. West)