Lancaster ND356 damaged in the air, landed at Carnaby airfield.
On 17th September 1944 the crew of this 100 Squadron aircraft took off from Grimsby at 16.25hrs to bomb defences positions in the Vlissigen / Walcheren area of the Netherlands. The crew released the bombs
from 11,000 feet at 18.00hrs but the aircraft was damaged by a flak burst just below the nose of the aircraft which caused extensive damage. The hydraulics were damaged and the lower fuselage was holed in
several places. Unfortunately a fragment of flak struck the bomb aimer's face with the bulk of it hitting his microphone on his flying mask saving him from a more serious injury. The pilot was also wounded.
The aircraft's flaps did not work so the crew diverted to land at Carnaby around 19.25hrs.
The pilot was later awarded the DFC for his actions on this trip. Gazetted on 3rd November 1944, the citation reads.. "In September, 1944, Flight Lieutenant Scott, as pilot and captain of aircraft, was detailed to
attack Vlissigen. In the target area heavy anti aircraft fire was encountered and Flight Lieutenant Scott was wounded in the arm but he pressed on with his attack. Shortly after the bombs had been released the
aircraft was hit and much damage was sustained. Flight Lieutenant Scott was again wounded, this time in the face. Although the starboard engine had been rendered useless, the hydraulic system put out of action
and the control surfaces and trimming gear affected, Flight Lieutenant Scott flew the aircraft to an airfield where he landed it safely without the aid of flaps. He displayed a high standard of skill, fortitude
and bravery in most trying circumstances."
Pilot - F/Lt Hedley Francis Scott RAFVR (129286).
Flight Engineer - Sgt James Bell McQuaid RAFVR (1582360).
Navigator - F/O John Henry Harwood RAFVR (138478).
Air Bomber - W/O J S Sanderson RCAF (R/147830). Wounded.
Wireless Operator / Air Gunner - Sgt R J Jones RAFVR (1469567).
Air Gunner - Sgt C A Johnson RAFVR (2102742).
Air Gunner - F/Sgt James Charles O'Riordan RAAF (424449).