TARGETS IN FRANCE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 150, 28 June 1943, Page 5

TARGETS IN FRANCE

FORMATIONS OF AMERICAN BOMBERS Recd. 9.25 p.m. London, June 27. A number of formations of American heavy bombers and R.A.F. light bombers in daylight yesterday attacked enemy airfields and industrial targets in France. Some heavy bombers encountered adverse weather. Those which were unable clearly to identify their targets did not drop their bombs. The majority of the heavy bombers were not escorted and hr 1 many combats, destroying a considerable number of enemy planes. [Thunderbolts supporting other bombers also had numerous combats, shoot- ' ing down three enemy planes. Many [squadrons of R.A.F., ’ Dominion and 1 Allied fighters participated in these [operations. Five of our bombers and ! seven of our fighters are missing. One [ fighter pilot is safe. ! Major-General Davenport Johnson, ; commander of the 2nd United States ■Air Force, stated at Washington: "The Germans have thrown everyI thing they have against the American heavy bombers but were unable to inflict critical losses. American losses in the European theatre have been approximately 6 per cent., which is not too heavy.” General Johnson added: “If we can stay under 10 per cent, we can take it.” VICTIMS OF N.Z. PILOTS (Special Correspondent—N.Z.P.A.) Recd. 6 p.m. London. June 25. The New Zealand Typhoon Squadron, escorting Typhoon bombers to an airfield at Abbeville, destroyed two Focke-Wulfs 190, bringing the squadron’s score to 19L The Focke-Wulfs were shot down by Squadron Leader Desmond Scott, D.F.C. and bar (Greymouth) and Flight Lieutenant Arthur Umbers (Duneain), whose totals are i now 7* and li respectively.