Halifax LV860 damaged in the air, returned to Leeming airfield.
On the night of 16th / 17th August 1944 the crew of this 429 Squadron aircraft undertook an operational flight to bomb Kiel and took off from Leeming airfield at 21.32hrs. A flak burst close to the Halifax saw fragments enter the fuselage and the navigator was wounded in the right thigh. The crew continued and released their bomb load onto target markers from 20,000 feet at 00.13hrs. Despite the navigator loosing alot of blood and in pain the crew returned to Leeming and landed at 02.36hrs. The navigator was subsequently awarded the DFM for his actions on this night, Gazetted on 13th October 1944. The citation reads "In August 1944, Flight Sergeant Lefave was navigator of an aircraft detailed to attack Kiel. While over the target the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire and Flight Sergeant Lefave was wounded in the leg and abdomen. Although suffering great pain he continued his navigation, displaying great fortitude and devotion to duty. On his return to base did he disclose his injuries. Flight Sergeant Lefave is a capable navigator whose coolness in the face of the enemy has been an inspiration to all." His injuries saw him being replaced as navigator in this crew.
Pilot - P/O Norman Charles Muir RCAF (J/87026).
Navigator - Sgt Emile Joseph Lefave RCAF (R/187643). Injured.
Bomb Aimer - Sgt Lloyd John Innes RCAF (R/180909).
Wireless Operator / Air Gunner - Sgt Peter John Felix Mitchell RCAF (R/203563).
Air Gunner - Sgt George Theodore Hallam RCAF (R/258208).
Air Gunner - Sgt Lorne Joseph Moore RCAF (R/254210).
Flight Engineer - Sgt John Michael Wemyss RAFVR (1820590).