Tirpitz’s N.Z. Attackers Tell Thrilling Story

Northern Advocate, 13 April 1944, Page 5

Tirpitz’s N.Z. Attackers Tell Thrilling Story

(Special) LONDON, April 12 Fuller details of the part New Zealanders took in the action against the Tirpitz are now available. In Barracuda squadrons which bombed the warship were Lieutenant H. Emerson (Auckland), who it is believed scored a hit amidships; sub-Lieutenants Williams iWoodville) who was the last to attack: D. A. Brown (Auckland) and De Rowe (Christchurch). Sub-Lieutenant Williams said: "I could scarcely see the ship. She was covered with black smoke, through which I could see a red glow.” In fighter squadrons, which not only gunned the Tirpitz, but also shot up flakships, patrol craft and shore gun emplacements, were Lieutenants R. Harrison (Auckland). C. St. George (Auckland), Sub-Lieutenants P. Canter and D. Munro (Auckland), W. Edney (Petone), A. Sharpe (Wanganui), and A Duff (Dunedin).

Here are some of their impressions, recounted shortly after returning' from the raid:—

Completeness cf Air Power

“Most impressive was the completeness of air cover. It seemed to fill every area of the sky. By the time the second strike arrived the Tirpitz was almost obscured by a smoke screen. Ack ack defences were thoroughly awake, yet flak was inaccurate. r

"Fighters straffed the Tirpitz through a smoke screen purposely to draw attention from the Barracudas. It gave us a great feeling of satisfaction, to see .bombs obviously falling on the target.':;We almost queued up to strafe gun positions and flak ships. In fact, we did queue up to attack one patrol vessel displaying the Nazi flag prominently. Finally we escaped by jinking up and down gullies and ravines, and flew out to sea, and there were the ships. It was a relief to see that none was molested and that they had turned into the wind and were waiting to receive us.” Commander Praises New' Zealanders The commanding officer of the aircraft carrier from which the New Zealanders operated, paid tribute to them. “I am proud of my New Zealanders. They are line fellows, keen as mustard, and always anxious to have a crack at the Hun. They are excellent in. the air and good to have in a ship.”