Hitler published his Directive 17 to attack Britain by air and sea ahead of an invasion, see image.  The Luftwaffe during the day attacked Norwich through bombing and machine gunning of the train station which resulted in 6 killed and 54 injured. Convoys on the East Coast also attracted attention including 'Agent' and 'Arena'. At night there was widespread activity of dropping leaflets of Hitler's Reichstag speech and bombing which killed 1 and 6 injured at Pembroke Dock.  Luftwaffe losses amounted to 13 aircraft and 6 damaged, including 3 damaged as a result of a Bomber Command attack on Leeuwarden aerodrome.

Luftwaffe attacks limited to night time bombing and leaflet droppings which resulted in 2 injuries.  The Germans lost 7 aircraft and 3 damaged.

German attacks started at 23.20 and finished at 00.50 the next day, which resulted in 1 killed and 12 injured.  The reduced Luftwaffe activity was a result of dense fog surrounding their aerodromes but still lost 3 aircraft and 6 damaged.

During the day the Germans undertook attacks on convoys travelling through the English Channel which resulted in air battles around Dover.  At night, Kent was bombed, Glamorgan in the early morning of the next day, minelaying along the East Coast and around Pembrokeshire.  The Luftwaffe lost 12 aircraft and 9 damaged through operations and accidents.

German operations were limited and involved in a convoy attack off the coast of Norfolk, night time bombing of Denbighshire and Markinch, leaflet dropping over Bishopston and minelaying.  The Luftwaffe lost 7 aircraft and 6 damaged.

German attacks were confined to night time bombing which included Morpeth, York, Liverpool, Gloucester, Aylesbury, Cardiff, Poole, Templecombe, Exeter, Lands End and Clydeside.  Mine laying in the Thames Estuary and the Firth of Forth and leaflet dropping on Salford.  These attacks cost 1 civilian death and 11 injuries, the Luftwaffe lost 5 aircraft and 8 damaged including as a result of an RAF Bomber Command attack on Haamstede airfield.

This day heralded a new phase in the Battle with a series of concerted attacks against the 'Peewit' convoy.  Only 4 ships reached Swanage undamaged out of the original 20 ships, the Luftwaffe lost 29 aircraft and 19 damaged.  Night bombing commenced at 22.47, with raids against Birmingham, leaflet dropping over Halstead and Barming, by 02.15 on the next day, 7 civilians had been killed and 13 injured.

Ju 87B of I/StG3 was shot down by 145 Squadron during an attack on the 'Peewit' convoy.  The aircraft crashed South of the Isle of Wight, Oberlt M. Muller was rescued and put ashore at Portsmouth but the body of Uffz J. Kampfl was washed ashore at Veules les Roses in France.


Ju 87B of II/StG77 shot down by Flight Lieutenant A.H. Boyd of B Flight of 145 Squadron at 17.40 whilst attacking the 'Peewit' convoy.  Hptm W. Plewig was rescued but Fw K. Schauer was missing believed killed.

Ju 87B (5600) S2+LM of II/StG77 was shot down by Flying Officer P.L. Parrott of 145 Squadron at 17.40 whilst attacking the 'Peewit' convoy.  The aircraft landed at St Lawrence on the Isle of Wight with Uffz F. Pittroff captured but Uffz R. Schubert killed.  See image of aircraft wreckage.

Day light operations by the Luftwaffe concentrated on the bombing of Ilchester at 06.25 and Sunderland at 11.40.  By night attacks were on Broadchalk and Wallasey in the early hours of the next day, leaflet dropping also took place over Oxfordshire.  The Germans lost 8 aircraft and 3 damaged.

He 111H-4 5J+SH of 1/KG4 crashed whilst on a mission to lay mines in Belfast Harbour, the wreckage was scattered on Eastmans Cairn, Cairnsmore-of-Fleet in Kirkudbrightshire at 01.30, see images below.  Lt A. Zeiss, Uffz W. Hajesch, Uffz G. Fr Von Turckheim and Uffz W. Mechsner were all killed.


He 111H-3 1H+ER of 7/KG26 was shot down by Yellow Section of 79 Squadron comprising of Flight Lieutenant R.F.H. Clerke, Sergeant J. Wright and Pilot Officer G.H. Nelson-Edwards whilst on a reconnaissance mission at 11.52.  The aircraft crashed into the sea off Whitburn and Uffz O. Denner, Fw W. Haertel, Uffz G. Karkos and Uffz F. Feinekat were rescued by the Royal Navy.

Daylight raids by the Luftwaffe started with Maidstone and moved to Norwich in the evening.  During the night and into the morning of the next day, South Wales, Cornwall and Devon were bombed resulting in 18 killed, 4 seriously injured and 20 slightly injured.  Swansea bore the brunt of the bombing with 17 killed and 8 injured.

The Germans began probing heavy air attacks by both day and night.  During the day there were Luftwaffe attacks on Dover's balloon barrage and gasholder but then moved to Portland which resulted in the destruction of the signal box and railway lines, ending services to Weymouth.  Portland's oil tanks set on fire, electricity cut off to a wide area and 146 houses badly damaged.  The RAF sent 8 squadrons to defend Portland which resuled in dog fights across Weymouth Bay and significant German losses.  Night time bombing concentrated on York, South Wales, Bristol Channel, Newcastle, Tynemouth and Nottingham.  This resulted in 2 civilian deaths, 6 injured, Luftwaffe lost 40 aircraft and 16 damaged.

Ju 88A-1 7A+KH of 1(F)/121 was shot down by Green Section of 41 Squadron comprising Flying Officer J.G. Boyle, Sergeant E.V. Darling and Pilot Officer R.W. Wallens at 19.08 whilst on a reconnaissance mission.  The aircraft crashed at Newton Moor near Whitby, Fw O. Hofft, Oberlt H. Marzusch and Fw K-H. Hacker captured.  Lt H. Meyer was killed and buried at Acklam Road Cemetery in Thornaby.

Bf 109E-1 of 2/JG3 shot down by Pilot Officer H.M. Stephen of 74 Squadron whilst escorting Stukas over Margate at 14.00.  Fw H-H. Heise was killed and his body was washed ashore at Ramsgate and buried at St Lawrence Cemetery.  

Ju 88A of 3/KG54 was shot down into the Sea off Portland by 87 and 213 Squadrons  10.50 whilst bombing Weymouth.  Uffz W. Schrecker and Fw K. Stretz killed, Gefr H. Arnswald missing believed killed but Gefr F. Kleindl was rescued.
Ju 88A B3+CC of II/KG54 was shot down by Squadron Leader H.D. McGregor and Sergeant M.E. Croskell of 213 Squadron at 10.50 whilst bombing Portland Harbour.  Uffz H. Klatte baled out and captured, Oberlt W. Schade baled out but drowned with is body washing ashore at Swanage, Fw H. Basse and Fw F. Bagus were missing believed killed.

Ju 88A-1 B3+DC of II/KG54 was shot down by Sub-Lieutenant D.M. Jeram and Flight Lieutenant J.M. Strickland of 213 Squadron whilst it was bombing installations in Portland Harbour.  Aircraft crash landed at Blacknore Fort, Portland Head at 10.40 (see image) with Oberlt K. Welte, Oberfw K. Mier, Gefr W. Gehre and Flgr G. Kagerbauer were all captured.

Day attacks focused on the British early warning system of Radio Direction Finding stations at Dunkirk, Dover, Rye, Pevensey, Ventnor on the Isle of Wight, see image of Ventnor being bombed by Ju 88s of KG51.  The Germans shelled Folkestone and Dover, oil bombs dropped on Ramsgate, bombing of Portsmouth and Kent.  Luftwaffe also attacked RAF stations at Manston, Lympne and Hawkinge.  At night, Tyne, Norfolk, Suffolk, Kent, Devonshire, Cornwall, Bristol Channel and South Wales were bombed until the morning of the next day. This resulted in 54 killed and 159 injured, about two thirds were civilians.  The Luftwaffe lost 33 aircraft and 19 damaged during the day.

Bf 109E-1 of 1/JG26 was shot down by Flying Officer H.K.F. Matthews of 54 Squadron over Ashford and exploded over Standard Hill Farm in Elham at 08.30.  Oberlt F. Butterweek was killed and buried in Folkestone New Cemetery in Hawkinge.

Bf 109E-4 of 2/JG26 was shot down into the Sea close to Folkestone at 12.30 and Oberlt H.W. Regnauer was captured.

Bf 109E-1 14+ (3367) of 2/JG52 was shot down by Pilot Offier J.A.P. McClintock of 615 Squadron during combat over Hastings at 12.45.  Aircraft force landed near Berwick railway crossing, East of Lewes and the images below illustrate the pilot/aircraft before taking off and after the forced landing.  Uffz L. Zaunbrecher was captured and treated at the Princess Alice Hospital in Eastbourne.

Bf 109E-4 <-+ of III/JG54 was shot down by Flying Officer H.J. Woodward of 64 Squadron over Dover at 18.00.  The aircraft force landed at Hengrove near Margate and Oberlt A. Dresze was captured.

He 111H-3 1G+AC of II/KG27 was shot down by either a night fighter or anti-aircraft gun fire whilst attacking Bristol Docks at 02.00.  The aircraft crashed at Sturminster Marshall near Wimborne with Major F-K. Schlichting, Oberfw G. Lohning, Oberfw H. Frey, Maj H-J. Brehmer and Oberfw W. Bendrich all baled out and were captured.

Ju 88A 9K+AA of KG51 was shot down by a mixture of ground defences and Pilot Officers W. Beaumont, R.M. Hogg, Flight Lieutenant F.M. Thomas and Sergeant E.E. Shepperd of 152 Squadron at 12.25 whilst attacking Ventnor RDF station.  The aircraft crashed at Godshill Park, Isle of Wight, Oberst Dr J.V. Fisser was killed, Lt F. Schad and Oberlt W. Luderitz were captured and Sonderfuhrer A. Nothelfer was also captured but badly burned. 

Ju 88A-1 9K+CL of 3/KG51 was shot down whilst attacking Portsmouth at 13.00 with the aircraft crashing near Godstone.  Uffz K. Zimmermann, Obergefr K-H. Fahrenheim and Obergefr O. Hansmann baled out and were captured, Gefr T. Dickel was killed and buried at Ann's Hill Cemetery in Gosport.

Ju 88A-1 (3134) 9K+EL of 3/KG51 was shot down by whilst attacking Portsmouth and exploded over Thorney Island at 12.15 and the main wreckage landed in Horse Pasture Farm, Westbourne.  Oberlt H. Graf, Oberfw H-G. Czepik and Uffz W. Floeter were all killed and buried together at St Nicholas Church in West Thorney.  Gefr G. Fleischmann baled out and was captured.

Ju 88A-1 (5072) 9K+FS of 8/KG51 was shot down whilst bombing Portsmouth Docks at 12.10.  Oberlt E. Wildermuth, Oberlt O. Stark and Uffz H. Droese were all captured but Uffz K. Rosch was missing believed killed.

Bf 110D/0 (3316) 3M+MK of 2/ZG2 shot down over Portsmouth and crashed into the Channel.  Hptm H-P. Kulbel and Uffz F. Budig were both killed, the former's body washed ashore at Wimereux near Boulogne and the latter's body was washed ashore and buried at St Ann's Hill Cemetary, Gosport.

The Luftwaffe launched 'Aldertag' on Britain with attacks on a far higher scale than previously mounted.  As a result of poor weather and communications it started badly with KG2 bombers attacking Sheerness and Eastchurch airfield without their escort fighters, the image here shows considerable damage to the airfield but the bomber force suffered a large number of casualties.  Later in the day, attacks against Odiham, Farnborough, Portland, Southampton, Thames Estuary, Detling and Andover were repulsed by significant interventions by RAF Fighter Command.  The Germans lost 47 aircraft and 39 damaged.

Bf 109E-1 (5068) <+ of I/JG2 was shot down at 07.10 and the aircraft forced landed at New Salts Farm close to Shoreham aerodrome.  Oberlt P. Temme was captured.

Bf 109E of 5/JG26 shot down by 65 Squadron over Folkestone at 16.15 and the aircraft crashed at Denton.  Uffz H. Wemhoner baled out and captured on landing.

Bf 109E-4 9+- of 5/JG53 was shot down by Flying Officer T. Nowierski of 609 Squadron at 16.15 in combat over the Channel near Weymouth.  Fw H. Pfannschmidt baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-4 of 5/JG53 shot down by Pilot Officer D.M. Crook of 609 Squadron during combat over the Channel at 16.15 and crashed into the Sea near Poole Harbour.  Uffz W. Hohenseldt was captured.

Bf 109E-1 of 5/JG53 was shot down by Pilot Officer M.J. Appleby of 609 Squadron over the Channel near Weymouth at 16.15.  Oberfw A. Trutwin was killed and likely buried at Sea.

Do 17Z U5+KA of KG2 was shot down by Pilot Officer J.A. Walker of 111 Squadron at 08.30 whilst bombing Eastchurch aerodrome.  The aircraft crashed on the railway at Pherbec Bridge, Barham and Oberlt H. Schlegal, Oberlt G. Ozwald, Obergefr G. Babbe and Obergefr E. Holz were all captured.

Do 17Z U5+ER of 7/KG2 shot down by Squadron Leader J.M. Thompson of 111 Squadron whilst it was bombing Eastchurch aerodrome at 06.45.  Aircraft force landed at Stodmarsh, Uffz G. Vogel, Uffz H. Arndt, Uffz W. Mahringer and Gefr H. Bauer were all captured.

Do 17Z U5+FR of 7/KG2 was shot down by Flying Officer R.M. Milne and Pilot Officer A.G. McIntyre of 111 Squadron at 07.30 whilst attacking Eastchurch aerodrome.  The aircraft crashed at Birchington and Fw F. Dannich, Fw K. Schwerdtfeger, Obergefr E. Nitzsche and Gefr A. Beck were all killed.

Do 17Z U5+DS of 8/KG2 shot down by Flight Lieutenant H.M. Ferriss, Sergeant J.T. Craig of 111 Squadron and Flying Officer R.M. Milne of 154 Squadron at 07.25 whilst attacking Eastchurch aerodrome.  Aircraft crashed on the mudflats of Seasalter, Oberlt G. Muller and Oberlt W. Morich baled out too low and were killed, Oberfw C. Langer's body was washed ashore at Graveney but Fw R. Haensgen baled out and captured with severe wounds.

Ju 88A-1 B3+DB of I/KG54 was shot down by Pilot Officer H.C. Mayers of 601 Squadron and Sergeant H.J.L. Hallowes of 43 Squadron whilst it was bombing Farnborough at 06.30.  The aircraft exploded on crashing into Phillis Wood, Treyford, see image below of wreckage.  Uffz F. Rosler, Obergefr K. Brieger and Uffz K. Seitz all baled out and captured but the pilot Oberlt J. Ostermann was likely killed in the crash but the body wasn't found.

Ju 88A-1 of II/KG54 shot down by 43 and 601 Squadrons at 06.30 whilst attacking Farnborough with the aircraft crashing into Swanbourne Lake, Arundel.  Oberlt H. Rose and Uffz H. Scholz both baled out and captured.  Fw W. Bickel baled out but died and Hptm A-W. Strauch baled out but found to be mortally wounded hanging from a tree in Worthing and died two days later.  Both of them were buried in St Andrew's Churchyard in Tangmere.

Ju 88A B3+TP of 6/KG54 was attacked by 43 and 601 Squadrons over the Isle of Wight on a mission to bomb Farnborough.  Crew ordered to bale out, Lt Siescher, Gefr Handelmeier, Obergefr Hosport and Gefr G. Niessl were captured but the pilot regained control of the aircraft and returned to his base.

Ju 88A-1 L1+BS of 8/LG1 shot down by 257 Squadron whilst attacking Andover at 16.35 with the aircraft crashing into Sidlesham.  Lt Zur See K-W. Brinkbaumer (see images below), Gefr O. Roger, Gefr J. Dietl and Hptmn A. Scheuplein were all killed and buried together in St Andrew's Churchyard in Tangmere.

Bf 110D of 13/LG1 was shot down in combat over the Channel at 11.50 and the aircraft crashed into the Sea, West of Bournemouth.  Uffz G. Lammel was killed with his body was recovered and buried at the Royal Navy Cemetery at Portland but Fw H. Datch was rescued by an MTB.

Bf 110D of 13/LG1 was shot down in combat near Bournemouth at 11.50 and the aircraft crashed into the Sea.  Lt G. Beck was killed and his body was washed ashore at Portland and buried at the Royal Navy Cemetery at Portland and Uffz K. Hoyer was missing believed killed.

Bf 110D L1+FZ of 15/LG1 shot down by Sergeant H.J. Marsh of 238 Squadron over Lulworth at 12.35 and the aircraft crashed at Swalland Farm, Kimmeridge.  Uffz W. Schumichen and Obergefr O. Giglhuber both baled out and captured.

Ju 87B of 5/StG2 was shot down by Flying Officer H. McD. Goodwin of 609 Squadron at 16.00 with the aircraft crashing at Rodden, Portesham. Uffz O. Lindenschmid and Fw H. Eisold were both killed.

Ju 87B of 5/StG2 shot down by 609 Squadron at 16.00 with the aircraft crashing into the Sea off Lulworth. Oberfw H. Leesch missing believed killed and Fw H. Schulz captured.

Ju 87B of 5/StG2 was shot down by 609 Squadron over the Channel at 16.00 with the aircraft crashing into the Sea.  Fw E. Ott was killed and his body was washed ashore at Portland on 30 August and on the same day the body of his gunner, Uffz R. Gobel was washed ashore at St Malo.

Ju 87B of 5/StG2 was shot down by 609 Squadron over the Channel at 16.00 with the aircraft crashing near Grimstone Viaduct.  Oberfw E. Haack and Uffz H. Haselmayer were both killed and buried at Brookwood Military Cemetery.

Bf 110C-4 of 1/ZG2 shot down by Sergeant L.N. Guy of 601 Squadron whilst it was escorting KG51 at 16.00 and crashed at North Baddesley, see image of wreckage below.  Lt W. Munchmeyer baled out and captured on landing at Hursley Park but Uffz F. Labusch was killed.

Bf 110C of 3/ZG26 was shot down by Flying Officer P.S. Weaver of 56 Squadron at 16.05 whilst it was escorting ErpGr210 attacking Southend.  The aircraft exploded over Warden Bay, Sheppey, Oberlt K. Fuchs and Uffz W. Ebben were both killed.

Luftwaffe attacks ranged across the Country including Dover, Folkestone, Southampton, Wiltshire, Somerset, South Wales and Sealand by day.  During the night, Dysserth near Welshpool and the East Coast of Scotland were bombed.  The Goodwin Lightship was sunk, ErpGr210 Bf 110s made a low level attack on Manston (see images below of the aircraft involved at Calais/Marck), damage to Middle Wallop as a result of bombing (see image below of damage to No 5 hangar) and an intended raid on Cardiff was destroyed by RAF fighters before getting to their target (see image below from Robert Tuck's log book).  The Germans inflicted 4 civilian deaths, 22 civilian injuries, 11 military deaths, 14 military injuries, the Luftwaffe lost 19 aircraft and 9 damaged. 

Bf 110D S9+MK of 2/ErpGr210 shot down by anti-aircraft fire whilst attacking Manston at 12.10 and the aircraft crashed onto the aerodrome.  Uffz H. Stedding was killed but Gefr E. Schank baled out and captured.

Bf 110D S9+NK of 2/ErpGr210 collided with aircraft above and exploded over Manston at 12.10. Lt H. Brinkmann and Uffz R. Mayer were both killed.

Bf 109E-1 (4827) 8+ of 1/JG26 was shot down by Pilot Officer R.F. Smythe of 32 Squadron over Dover at 12.45 with the aircraft crashing at Coldred.  Uffz G. Kemen baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-1 of 4/JG52 shot down in combat over the Channel and aircraft crashed near Dover.  Oberfw G. Weiss was killed and his body was washed ashore on 24 October at Joss Bay, Broadstairs Jetty and buried at Margate New Cemetery.

He 111P (2624) 1G+FS of 8/KG27 was shot down by 213 Squadron and Wing Commander J. Hallings-Pott, Squadron Leader J. McLean and Pilot Officer P. Ayerst of 7 Operational Training Unit whilst it was attacking Hawarden airfield at 21.00.  The aircraft crashed at Border House Farm near Chester.  Oberlt A. Wiesemann, Fw H. Rodder, Uffz W. Schaum, Uffz G. Ullmann and Uffz H. Kochy were all captured.

He 111P 1G+CS of 8/KG27 was shot down by Pilot Officer H.D. Atkinson and 213 Squadron whilst it was attacking Hawarden airfield at 19.45.  The aircraft crashed into the Sea off Charmouth, Fw O. Dubral and Fw W. Gietz baled out and captured, Fw F. Knoblich and Uffz H. Schrage both baled out but drowned with their bodies washing ashore at Puncknowle and Lyme Regis, Fw A. Wiesmeier was missing believed killed.

He 111P 1G+NT of 9/KG27 shot down by Flight Lieutenant R.S.S. Tuck and Blue Section of 92 Squadron at 18.00 en route to bomb Cardiff Docks.  Aircraft force landed at Charterhouse near Cheddar, see image below.  Oberlt E. Ohlenschlanger, Fw N. Jug, Uffz K. Sulzbach, Uffz A. Blumenthal and Gefr K. Kupsch were all captured.  

He 111P 1G+OT of 9/KG27 was shot down by Flight Lieutenants R.R.S. Tuck and A.R. Wright, Pilot Officers W.C. Watling and D.G. Williams of 92 Squadron at 18.05 en route to bomb Cardiff Docks.  Aircraft crashed at Canns Farm near Puriton (see image of wreckage amongst houses), Lt O. Uhland, Uffz J. Krenn, Obergefr H. Ramstetter, Uffz E. Flick and Gefr G. Rother all baled out and captured.

He 111P of 9/KG27 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant R.R.S. Tuck of 92 Squadron at 18.05 whilst en route to bomb Cardiff Docks.  The aircraft crashed into the Sea off Bridgwater Bay, Hptmn J. Riedel, Uffz A. Witt, Fw E. Haumann and Gefr E. Wolf were all missing believed killed, Uffz H. Dolata's body was washed ashore at on 12 September and buried at Weston-Super-Mare.

He 111P (2898) G1+AA of KG55 shot down by Pilot Officee D.M. Crook and Flying Officer J.C. Dundas of 609 Squadron at 18.30 whilst it was en route to bomb Upavon.  The aircraft crashed and exploded in the Royal Naval Armaments Depot at Dean Hill.  Oberst A. Stockl, Oberst W. Frank and Oberlt B. Brossler were all killed but Fw H. Grimmstein and Fw J. Thiel were both captured alive.

He 111H of 2/KGr100 had a fire over Cheltenham at 04.30 which led to Uffz F. Dorner baling out and being captured at Balcombe.  The aircraft recovered and returned to base.

Ju 88A-1 of 1/LG1 was shot down by Sergeants A.N. Feary, M.C.B. Boddington of 609 and 234 Squadron respectfully at 17.05 after a low level attack on Middle Wallop airfield.  The aircraft crashed at Turf Hill, North Charford, Oberlt W. Heinrici and Gefr H-W. Stark killed.  Gefr F. Ahrens captured but died the next day in Salisbury Infirmary.  Gefr E. Sauer was captured unhurt.  The deceased aircrew were buried at Devizes Road Cemetery in Salisbury.

The day would see four main attacks in large numbers designed to overwhem the RAF's defence of the Country.  The first was attacks by Stukas on Hawkinge and Lympne airfields which was met by fierce resistence by British fighter aircraft.  The second was made by Luftflotte 5 on the North East comprising He 111s of KG26, I/ZG76 escorting with Bf 110s and Ju 88s of KG30 believing they would meet little resistence with RAF fighters moved to reinforce the South East.  They met a significant response by British fighters before attacking their targets and incurred significant losses, see video clip from the Battle of Britain film.  The third attack in the afternoon targeted Martlesham Heath airfield by ErpGr210 and expanded to attacks the airfields of Rochester and Eastchurch by KG3.  The final phase in the evening incorporated attacks by large numbers of Stukas on Worthy Down and Portland, LG1 attacked Middle Wallop airfield with Ju 88s which caused serious damage and ErpGr210 intended to attack Kenley aerodrome but missed and attacked Croydon Airport (image below of the public looking at the aftermath from Stafford Road, seventh from the left) instead caused extensive damage but the Bf 110s suffered severe losses as they retreated to their home bases.  During the night, small bombing raids were mounted on Wittering, Somerset, British Channel, Liverpool, Birmingham, Shrewsbury, Hereford and Leconfield.         British casualties amounted to 79 deaths and 371 civilians injured, 8 deaths and 34 military personell injured. The day would become known as 'Black Thursday' as the Luftwaffe lost 78 aircraft and 20 damaged, more than any other day during the Battle but also made Hermann Goring reflect on the day and issue orders on tactics and operation of previouly impervious aircraft types, see image.

He 115C (3251) S4+BH of 1/506 crashed into Faldiehill, Panmure Estate, Arbroath at 04.04.  Oberfw R. Holfert and Fw P. Schroers were both killed, Lt Zur See H-E. Tonne was captured.

Bf 110D (3338) S9+AB of ErpGr210 was shot down by 32 and 111 Squadrons whilst attacking Croydon Airport at 19.00.  The aircraft crashed at Bletchinglye Farm, Cats Hill, Rotherfield, Hptmn W. Rubensdorffer (see image below, second from left)and Obergefr L. Kretzer were both killed.

Bf 110D (3374) S9+BB of ErpGr210 was shot down by Sergeant W.L. Dymond of 111 Squadron and Sergeant L.H.B. Pearce of 32 Squadron whilst it was attacking Croydon Airport at 19.15.  The aircraft crashed at Redhill aerodrome, see image below (first on the left of the wreckage).  Oberlt H. Fielder died three days after from his injuries and Uffz J. Werner baled out and captured.

Bf 110D (3339) S9+CB of ErpGr210 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant H.A.B. Russell of 32 Squadron whilst attacking Croydon Airport at 19.15.  Aircraft force landed at School Farm, Hooe, Lt K-H. Koch and Uffz R. Kahl were both captured.

Bf 110C-6 S9+TH of 1/ErpGr210 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant S.D.P. Connors and Sergeant T.Y. Wallace of 111 Squadron whilst attacking Croyson Airport at 19.05.  The aircraft crashed at Broadbridge Farm, Smallfield, Horley, Lt E. Beudel and Obergefr O. Jordan were both killed.

Bf 110C-6 of 2/ErpGr210 was shot down by Squadron Leader J. Worrall and Flight Lieutenant M.N. Crossley of 32 Squadron whilst attacking Croydon Airport at 19.05.  The aircraft crashed at Ightham, Lt H. Ortner baled out and captured but Obergefr B. Lohmann killed.

Bf 110D (3341) S9+CK of 2/ErpGr210 was shot down by 32 and 111 Squadrons whilst attacking Croydon Airport at 19.10.  Aircraft force landed at Hawkhurst, see image below (third from left).  Oberlt A. Haibisch and Uffz E. Elfner both captured.

Bf 109E-4 3+ of 3/ErpGr210 shot down by 32 and 111 Squadrons whilst attacking Croydon Airport at 19.10.  Aircraft crashed at Lightlands Farm, Frant, Lt H. Marx baled out and captured at Mark Cross.

Bf 109E-4 2+ of 5/JG51 was shot down by 151 Squadron in combat over Margate at 15.30.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea and Fw O. Steigenberger was rescued by the 'J.B. Proudfoot' lifeboat.

Bf 109E-4 of 9/JG54 shot down by Pilot Officer K.H. Cox and Flight Lieutenant W.H.C. Warner of 610 Squadron whilst on a mission to attack Biggin Hill airfield at 19.30.  Aircraft crashed at Bullwood Farm, Hartley, Cranbrook and Uffz F. Niedermaier was killed.

Do 17Z-2 of 6/KG3 was shot down by Squadron Leader J.M. Thompson of 111 Squadron in combat over the Thames Estuary at 16.00.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea off Ramsgate and Deal, Lt H-E. Walter, Fw F. Schauer, Uffz E. Kirchubel and Uffz A. Pieronczyk were all captured.

Do 17Z-2 5K+LP of 6/KG3 shot down by Squadron Leader E.A. McNab of 1 (RCAF) Squadron whilst in combat over Thames Estuary at 15.30.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea off Reculver, Lt H. Kringler and Uffz H. Depenheuer were both killed, Gefr O. Rohleder was mortally wounded on capture and buried at St Lawrence's Cemetery, Ramsgate and Obergefr W. Duda was captured.

He 111H-4 of 1/KG26 was shot down by 72 and 605 Squadrons whilst on a mission to attack Middlesbrough at 14.00.  The aircraft crashed into the Sea at Creswell Bay, Oberlt R. Roch, Uffz W. Zimmermann, Gefr E. Kulick, Gefr G. Machalett and Flgr E. Henrichsen rescued from their dinghy by Amble fishing boat.

He 111H-4 1H+FS of 8/KG26 shot down by Flight Lieutenant I.J. Muirhead and Pilot Officer C.F. Currant of 605 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Dishforth airfield at 14.00.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea off Middlesbrough, Lt A. Renner, Fw F. Baldauf, Obergefr W. Rossiger, Gefr W. Lorenz and Uffz C. Shumann were all captured.

Ju 88A-5 4D+KL of 3/KG30 was shot down by Sergeant A.L. McNay of 73 Squadron and Sergeant J. Hopewell of 616 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Driffield airfield at 13.25.  Aircraft crashed at Hamilton Hill Farm, Barnstown near Bridlington, see two images below (fourth and fifth from the top left).  Uffz L. Von Lorentz, Uffz H. Kenski, Obergefr H. Trumann and Gefr J. Gobel were all captured.

Ju 88A of 4/KG30 shot down by Pilot Officer D.S. Scott of 73 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Driffield airfield at 13.30.  The aircraft crashed at Hunmanby, Fw R. Bihr, Fw R. Pohl and Uffz S. Kursch were all killed, Uffz A. Neumeyer was missing believed killed.

Ju 88C 4D+DR of 7/KG30 was shot down by Flying Officer P.E.G. Carter of 73 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Driffield airfield at 13.30.  The aircraft crashed at Hornby, Fw G. Henneske was killed, Oberlt W. Bachmann, Uffz W. Evers and Flgr R. Walther were all captured.  

Ju 88A L1+SC of II/LG1 shot down by Flight Lieutenant Sir A.P. Hope and Sergeant L.N. Guy of 601 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Tangmere and Westhampnett airfields at 18.10.  Aircraft crashed at The Jumps, West Tisted, Oberlt S. Suin de Boutmard, Oberfw H. Grund, Fw W. Luder and Uffz K. Weiwang were all captured.

Ju 88A L1+BM of 4/LG1 was shot down by Flying Officers M.D. Doulton and W.P. Clyde of 601 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Tangmere and Westhampnett airfields at 18.00.  Aircraft crashed at Twyford, Uffz E. Poggensee, Uffz E. Kusche, Uffz H. Burkhardt and Uffz R. Muller were all captured.

Ju 88A L1+FM of 4/LG1 shot down by Flight Lieutenant S.D.P. Connors of 111 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Tangmere and Westhampnett airfields at 18.30.  The aircraft crashed at Great Ham Farm, Earnley, Uffz W. Rimek was killed, Uffz F. Dieter, Uffz O. Rezeppa and Gefr W. Hohbom were all captured.

Ju 88A of 44/LG1 was shot down by Flying Officer J.B.W. Humpherson of 32 Squadron, Squadron Leader J.V.C. Badger, Flight Lieutenant T.F. Dalton-Morgan and Flight Lieutenant F.R. Carey of 43 Squadron whilst on a mission to bom Tangmere and Westhampnett airfields at 18.30.  Aircraft crashed at Priors Leaze, Breach, Southbourne, Oberlt H. Moeller and Gefr E. Anders were both killed and buried at St Nicholas Churchyard at West Thorney, Oberfw W. Richter and Fw H. Dittmann were both captured.

Ju 88A of 5/LG1 shot down by Flight Lieutenant C.R. Davis of 601 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Tangmere and Westhampnett airfields at 18.05.  The aircraft crashed at The Jumps, West Tisted, Fw H. Pauck, Uffz K. Glitzner, Fw D. Rugge and Uffz E. Woldt were all missing believed killed.

Ju 87B of 10/LG1 was shot down by 501 Squadron during combat over the Channel at 12.00 with the aircraft crashing into the Sea near a lighthouse at South Folkestone Gate.  Hptmn R. Munchenhagen baled out and was captured but Oberfw Heyse was killed.

Ju 87B of 10/LG1 collided with high tension cables whilst being attacked by 501 Squadron at 17.30.  The aircraft crashed at Shorncliffe Crescent in Folkestone, Uffz H. Weber was killed and Uffz F-H. Kraus was mortally wounded on capture and died three days later in Royal Victoria Hospital, both buried in Folkestone New Cemetery in Hawkinge.

Bf 110D M8+CH of 1/ZG76 shot down by Pilot Officer G.H. Bennions of 41 Squadron whilst attacking coastal airfields at 13.36.  Aircraft crashed at Streatlam near Barnard Castle, Oberlt H-U. Kettling and Obergefr F. Volk were both captured.

Bf110D M8+EK of 2/ZG76 was shot down by 41, 72 and 79 Squadrons whilst attacking East Coast airfields at 13.00.  Aircraft crashed off the Northumberland coast, Fw K. Ladwein captured and Obergefr K. Lenk was missing believed killed.

Bf 110C shot down by Flight Lieutenant R.A. Barton of 249 Squadron, Flight Lieutenant J.H.G. McArthur and Flying Officer A.R. Edge of 609 Squadron whilst in combat over Portland at 17.55.  Aircraft crashed at West Wellow near Romsey, see image below of wreckage (sixth from the left).  Uffz R. Rohrich and Uffz T. Neymeyer were both killed.

Bf 110C M8+BP of 6/ZG76 was shot down by Flying Officer P. Ostaszewski-Ostoje of 609 Squadron and Pilot Officer J. Zurakowski of 234 Squadron whilst in combat over Portland at 18.06.  Aircraft crashed at North Ashey Down, Isle of Wight, Fw J. Birndorfer was shot and killed by troops on the ground and Uffz M. Guschewski was captured.

Bf 110C M8+WP of 6/ZG76 shot down by Pilot Officer J.R.B. Meaker of 249 Squadron and Flight Lieutenant J.H.G. McArthur of 609 Squadron whilst in combat over Salisbury at 17.45.  Aircraft crashed at Plaitford Common near Romsey, Fw. F. Wagner and Uffz F. Sporl were both missing believed killed, probably buried in Devizes Road Cemetery in Salisbury as unknown airmen of Germany.

Bf 110C 2N+BC of III/ZG76 was shot down by 213 Squadron during combat over Portland at 17.00.  Aircraft crashed into Weymouth Bay, Hptmn F-K. Dickore's body was washed ashore at Le Touquet on 20 September and Uffz H. Templin baled out and captured.

The Luftwaffe once again attacked in large numbers against RAF airfields and defences during the day.  The first attack at midday consisted of three formations that bombed Gosport, Lee-on-Solent, Tangmere (see image below of damage to airfield and hangars) and Poling RDF station.  In the evening, Ju 88s attacked Brize Norton with 46 training aircraft of 2SFTS were destroyed.  During the night, bombing attacks were made on the Thames, Isle of Wight, Bristol Channel, South Wales, Bury St Edmunds, Oxford, Shrewsbury, Derby and North London. As a result of all attacks, 1 civilian killed and 39 injured, the Germans lost 49 aircraft and 20 damaged.  Image below shows the funeral of Pilot Officer William Meade Lindsley Fiske's funeral on 20 August at Boxgrove having been shot down and badly burned on 16 August and died the next day.

Bf 109E-1 of 4/JG2 shot down by 610 Squadron at 17.00.  Aircraft crashed at Turzes Farm, Burwash, Oberlt W. Mockel baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-3 of 4/JG51 was shot down by Squadron Leader R.L. Wilkinson of 266 Squadron whilst in combat over Deal at 12.35.  Aircraft crashed at Hacklinge and Uffz E. Buder baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-4 2+ of 2/JG53 shot down by RAF fighters during combat over the Isle of Wight and force landed at Godshill.  Fw C. Hansen was captured.

Do 17Z-3 of 3/KG2 was shot down by Flight Sergeant F.W. Higginson, Flight Lieutenant P.S. Weaver and Sergeant C. Whitehead of 56 Squadron in combat over Whitstable beach at 16.55.  Aircraft exploded and the crew buried in Whistable churchyard which included Oberlt H-J. Brandenburg, Gefr K. Hirsch, Gefr E. Genter and Flgr H. Koch.

DO 17Z-2 of 3/KG2 shot down by Pilot Officer B.J. Wicks of 56 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Hornchurch airfield at 16.55.  Aircraft crashed at Summerfield, Staple, Lt H-G. Mollenbrok and Uffz P. Hess baled out and captured.  Gefr G. Reinicke and Gefr J. Golob baled out too low and were killed.

He 111P G1+LM of 4/KG55 was shot down by Pilot Officers A.V. Clowes and G.E. Goodman of 1 Squadron and 602 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Heathrow airfield at 16.55.  Aircraft crashed at Upper Frithfold Farm, Northchapel near Petworth.  Hptmn W. Sabler, Fw E. Muller, Fw W. Magerhans, Gefr A. Szymanowski and Uffz E. Schmidtke were all killed when the aircraft exploded.

He 111P G1+HP of 6/KG55 shot down by Pilot Officer K.T. Lofts of 615 Squadron and Squadron Leader D.A. Pemberton of 1 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Heathrow airfield at 17.15.  Aircraft force landed at Anningtons Farm, Bramber.  Oberlt W. Wieland, Fw H. Langstrof and Uffz W. Appell were all captured.  Uffz A. Hattendorf was killed and Uffz G. Pulver died of his injuries three days later.

He 111P (1582) G1+FR of 7/KG55 was shot down by Blue Section of 602 Squadron  whilst on a mission to bomb Heathrow airfield at 17.05.  Aircraft force landed at High Salvington near Worthing.  Lt R. Theobald, Uffz R. Hornbostel and Gefr H. Glaser were all captured.  Uffz A. Weber and Gefr J. Moorfeld were both killed.

Do 17Z-2 of 7/KG76 shot down by Flight Lieutenant H.M. Ferriss, Squadron Leader J.M. Thompson and Sergeant J.T. Craig of 111 Squadron in combat over Tonbridge  at 12.45.  Aircraft crashed at Moatlands, Brenchley, Paddock Wood.  Oberfw A. Wachter and Fw E. Klumb were both killed.  Oberfw E. Reidel and Oberfw E. Brauer were both missing believed killed.  The remains of the crew were buried in Tonbridge Cemetery.

Ju 87B-2 (5580) T6+HL of 3/StG2 was shot down by Squadron Leader J.V.C. Badger of 43 Squadron and 602 Squadron whilst bombing Tangmere airfield at 13.00.  Aircraft crashed on the Selsey Road near Church Norton Junction.  Uffz E. Konig and Uffz J. Schmid were both captured.

Ju 87B of 3/StG2 shot down by 43 and 601 Squadrons whilst bombing Tangmere at 13.00.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea, West of Selsey Bill, Uffz P. Bohn and Obergefr J. Bader were both rescued by a Royal Navy launch.

Ju 87B (5618) T6+KL of 3/StG2 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant C.R. Davis of 601 Squadron and 43 Squadron whilst bombing Tangmere airfield at 13.05.  Aircraft crashed at Bowley Farm, South Mundham.  Fw H. Rocktaschel died the next day from his injuries and Oberfw W. Witt was killed.

Ju 87B of 3/StG2 shot down by 43 and 601 Squadrons whilst bombing Tangmere airfield at 13.00.  Aircraft crashed at Honar Farm, Pagham, Uffz P. Linse and Obergefr R. Messerschmidt were both killed.

Ju 87B of 7/StG2 was shot down by RAF fighters during combat over the Isle of Wight at 13.00.  Aircraft crashed into Poole Harbour, Fw G. Grafenhain rescued but Uffz J. Voight was missing believed killed.

Bf 110C A2+GL of 6/ZG2 shot down by Flying Officer H.N.E. Salmon of 1 Squadron during combat over Eastbourne at 17.30.  Aircraft crashed into the grounds of Aldro School.  Oberlt E. Hollekamp  baled out too low and killed when he hit the roof of 'Hillbrow', Gaudick Road and Fw R. Schurk baled out but drowned and his body washed ashore on 4 September.

Bf 110C of 5/ZG76 was shot down by RAF fighters during combat North of Brighton.  Lt W. Lemmer and Obergefr J. Lewandowski were both missing believed killed.

Bf110C of III/ZG76 shot down by Squadron Leader A.V.R. Johnstone of 602 Squadron during combat over Upwaltham at 17.50.  Aircraft crashed near Amberley, Obergefr H. Jentsch baled out and captured.

Bf 110C 2N+AP of 9/ZG76 was shot down by Pilot Officer H.W. Moody of 602 Squadron at 17.45.  Aircraft crashed at Lee Farm, Clapham, Oberlt O. Schlaffer and Obergefr F. Obser were both captured.

The Luftwaffe didn't mount any daylight raids as a respite from the previous two days but also planning for a major assault on the next day.  During the night limited bombing was conducted with incendiary bombs dropped at Minworth and West of Stafford.  The bombing cost the lives of 2 civilians and 25 injured with the Germans losing 5 aircraft and 1 damaged.

The German attacks on Britain on this date became known as the 'Hardest Day' with both sides inflicting serious damage on the other.  At midday RAF Kenley was attacked at low level by 9/KG76 using Do 17Z which destroyed hangars, buildings, water works and pumping station but the unit also suffered significant casualties as a result of determined resistence from ground and air defences, see images below.  RAF airfields at Biggin Hill, West Malling and Croydon Airport were also attacked and sustained damage.  Later in the afternoon, airfields at Ford, Gosport, Thorney Island and the RDF station at Poling suffered attack and significant damage.  During the night, the Luftwaffe made more small bombing raids on Digby, Grantham, South Wales and Bristol.  Of the course of the day, 29 civilians were killed and 147 injured, 16 military persons died and 64 injured.  The Germans lost 71 aircraft and 33 damaged including as a result of a Bomber Command attack on Vlissingen airfield.  As a result of severe losses the Luftwaffe withdrew the Stuka from the Battle.

Bf109E-4 of 6/JG2 was shot down during combat over the Isle of Wight at 14.20 with the aircraft crashing at Tapnall Farm near Freshwater.  Oberlt R. Moller-Friedrich baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-4 (1990) 13+ of 2/JG3 shot down at 13.50 with the aircraft force landing in Abbey Field, Leeds, Kent.  Oberlt H. Tiedmann evaded capture for twelve hours.

Bf 109E-4 of III/JG3 shot down and crashed near Bredhurst at 13.40.  Lt E. Von Fonderen was missing believed killed.

Bf 109E-4 (2755) of 8/JG3 was shot by Squadron Leader D.A. Pemberton of No 1 Squadron over Staplehurst at 18.15.  The aircraft crashed at Blue House Farm, Milebush and Obergefr W. Basell killed.

Bf 109E-4 of 7/JG26 shot down by Flying Officer A.F. Eckford and Pilot Officer K. Pniak of 32 Squadron during combat over Canterbury at 17.30.  Aircraft crashed at Elmstead Court, Barham and Oberlt W. Blume captured.

Bf 109E-1 of 7/JG26 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant P.M. Brothers and Pilot Officer B. Wlasnowolski of 32 Squadron in combat over Canterbury at 17.30.  Aircraft crashed into a wood at Chilham and Lt G. Muller-Duhe was killed. 

Bf 109E-4 6+ of 1/JG27 shot down whilst escorting Stukas over the Isle of Wight at 14.40 with the aircraft crashing into the Sea off Sandown.  Lt G. Mitsdorfer baled out and rescued by shoreboat.
Bf 109E-4 (1455) 6+- was shot down over the Isle of Wight at 14.35 and the aircraft force landed on Shanklin Down.  Oberlt J. Neumann was captured.

He 111H-3 V4+GK of 2/KG1 was shot by 65 Squadron and Squadron Leader M.N. Crossley of 32 Squadron at 13.30 after it had bombed Biggin Hill airfield.  The aircraft force landed at Snargate near Dymchurch, Lt R. Ahrens, Oberfw E. Katzmarski, Uffz G. Schneider and Flgr K. Natzke were all captured but Uffz H. Gericke died in Rye Hospital.

He 111P (1408) of 5/KG27 was rammed by Avro Anson L9164 flown by Sergeant B. Hancock of 6 FTS at 23.50 whilst about to bomb Windrush aerodrome.  The aircraft crashed at Blackbitch Farm, Aldsworth and Oberfw A. Dreher, Uffz R. Schmidt, Uffz H. Rave and Uffz E. Cohrs were all killed.

He 111H-2 A1+FR of 7/KG53 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant H.R. Hamilton of 85 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb North Weald airfield at 17.50.  The aircraft crashed into the Sea off Ramsgate, Oberlt F. Zipse, Uffz W. Grasser, Gefr W. Reinhardt, Gefr G. Worch and Gefr H. Mailander were captured afer spending twenty six hours at Sea in their dinghy.

He 111H-2 A1+FS shot down by Flying Officer P.S. Weaver of 56 Squadron and Pilot Officer W.P. Hopkin of 54 Squadron at 17.35 whilst on a mission to bomb North Weald airfield.  The aircraft force landed at Small Gains Farm, Foulness, Lt W. Leber, Fw H. Feick, Uffz K. Hilgert, Gefr K. Erfurt were all captured but Fw J. Wild baled out and died the died the next day from his injuries.

Do 17Z (\2504) F1+IH of 1/KG76 was shot down by Flying Officer A.F. Eckford of 32 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Kenley airfield at13.20.  The aircraft crashed in Mill Lane, Hurst Green and Oberlt W. Stoldt, Uffz P. Gengel and Kreigsberichter W. Surk (war correspondence) were all killed but Oberfw W. Lautersack and Fw J. Beck baled out and captured.

Ju 88A of 5/KG76 shot down by Flight Lieutenant J.G. Sanders of 615 Squadron, Pilot Officers A.F. Laws, J.J. O'Meara and E.G. Gilbert of 64 Squadron, Flight Lieutenant P.M. Brothers and Pilot Officer B. Wlasnowolski of 32 Squadron after attacking Kenley airfield at 13.30.  Aircraft crashed at Ide Hill and Oberfw A. Eichhorn, Stabsfw H. Vetter, Fw K. Geier and Gefr K. Skuthan were all killed.

Ju 88A F1+GP of 6/KG76 was shot down by Sergeant P.C.P. Farnes of 501 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb West Malling airfield at 13.40.  Aircraft crashed at Church Farm, Aylesford and Oberfw K. Krebs was killed but Fw O. Watermann, Uffz H. Loffler and Sonderfuhrer Lt Buchmeier baled out and were captured.

Do 17Z-2 F1+DT of 9/KG76 shot down by a combination of ground defences and Pilot Officer R.J.W. Brown and Sergeant W.L. Dymond of 111 Squadron whilst attacking Kenley airfield at 13.30.  Aircraft force landed at Leaves Green near Biggin Hill, Hptmn J. Roth and Oberlt R. Lamberty captured badly burned, Hptmn G. Peters and Oberfw V. Geier and Fw H. Eberhard baled out and captured.

Do 17Z-2 F1+HT of 9/KG76 was shot down by ground defences during attack on Kenley airfield at 13.20.  Aircraft crashed into 'Sunnycroft' building in Golf Road on the perimeter of the airfield, Oberlt H-S. Ahrends, Oberst Dr O. Sommer, Uffz J. Dietz, Fw K. Greulich and Fw J. Petersen were all killed.

Ju 87B-1 of 3/StG77 shot down whilst bombing Thorney Island airfield at 14.30 with the aircraft crashing at North Barn, Chidham.  Oberlt D. Lehmann and Uffz H. Winiarski missing believed killed.

Ju 87B of 3/StG77 was shot down by Pilot C.K. Gray of 43 Squadron whilst attacking Thorney Island airfield at 14.30.  The aircraft crashed at Spring Gardens, Cutmill, West Ashling, Oberlt H-J. Schaffer and Uffz E. Klotmann were missing  believed killled.

Ju 87B-1 (5518) shot down by Sergeant H.J.L. Hallowes of 43 Squadron whilst attacking Thorney Island airfield at 14.30.  Aircraft crashed into Fishbourne Creek, Oberlt J. Wilhem and Uffz A. Worner both baled out and captured.

Ju 87B-1 of 2/StG77 was shot down during an attack on Thorney Island airfield at 14.30 with the aircraft crashing into the Sea off Dunnose Head, Ventnor.  Lt H. Sinn baled out and rescued by the shoreboat 'Spencers' but Uffz J. Schmitt was killed and buried at St Nicholas Churchyard, West Thorney.

Ju 87B-1 of 3/StG77 shot down whilst attacking Thorney Island at 14.30 with the aircraft crashing vertically at Whitehouse Farm, West Broyle, Chichester.  Uffz E. Kohl and Uffz A. Dann were both killed, the latter was buried as unknown airman in Christchurch Cemetery in Portsmouth.

Ju 87B-1 of 3/StG77 was shot down whilst attacking Thorney Island airfield and the aircraft crashed into the Channel off Selsey Bill at 14.35.  Oberfw G. Riegler and Gefr O. Langwost were rescued by lifeboat 'Canadian Pacific'.

Ju 87B-1 (5167) S2+UN of 5/StG77 shot down by Sergeant B.E.P. Whall of 602 Squadron whilst attacking Ford airfield at 14.23.  Aircraft force landed at Ham Manor Golf Course at Angmering with Oberfw K. Schweinhardt was captured but Oberfw W. Geiger died of his wounds later in the day.

Ju 87B of III/StG77 was shot down by Sergeant B.E.P. Whall of 602 Squadron whilst attacking Poling RDF station at 14.25.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea off Littlehampton with Uffz W. Moll's body washed into the Newhaven Harbour on 26 August and Uffz A. Schwemmer's body was washed ashore in France.

Bf 110C-4 (3102) U8+BB of I/ZG26 shot down by Squadron Leader A.R.D. MacDonell of 64 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 13.45.  Aircraft crashed at Dering Farm, Lydd, Oberlt R. Proske and Uffz H. Mobius were both captured.

Bf 110C-2 of 1/ZG26 was shot down by ground fire and Pilot Officer J.L. Flinders of 32 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 13.45.  Aircraft crashed at Rough Common, Harbledown with Uffz R. Mai and Uffz J. Gebauer were missing believed killed.

Bf 110C-4 of 3/ZG26 shot down by Flying Officer P.S. Weaver of 56 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 13.40.  Aircraft crashed at Bonnington, Oberfw W. Stange and Uffz H. Hesse were missing believed killed.

Bf 110C of 4/ZG26 was shot down by Pilot Officer C.F. Gray of 54 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 17.30.  Aircraft crashed into Smith's Sandpits, Alton Park Road, Clacton with Hptmn H. Luttke and Uffz H. Brillo were both missing believed killed.

Bf 110C 3U+AM of 4/ZG26 shot down by ground fire and Squadron Leader G.A.L. Manton of 56 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 17.30.  Aircraft crashed at Leysdown on Sheppey with Uffz H. Jackel died in the aircraft and Uffz T. Rutters was captured but badly burned.

Bf 110C 3U+CM of 4/ZG26 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant H.R. Hamilton, Pilot Officer A.G. Lewis and Sergeant F.R. Walker-Smith of 85 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 17.30.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea off North Foreland, Fw F. Gierga rescued but Uffz G. Baar missing believed killed.

Bf 110C (3060) 3U+IP of 6/ZG26 shot down by Sergeant P.E.M. Robinson of 56 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 13.40.  The aircraft crashed at Pluckley and Oberfw A. Kiefel and Uffz J. Hemmersbach were both killed.

Bf 110C of 6/ZG26 was shot down by 56 Squadron and Pilot Officer G.E. Goodman of 1 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 13.45.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea off Folkestone, Uffz G. Wollin was killed with his body recovered and buried at Folkestone New Cemetery in Hawkinge but Fw H. Stange was captured.

Bf 110C (3102) 3U+EP of 6/ZG26 shot down whilst escorting bombers at 13.35 and the aircraft crashed at St Mary's Marsh, Blackmanstone near Newchurch.  Lt H-J. Kastner and Uffz W. Kaffenberger were both captured.

Bf 110C of 6/ZG26 was shot down by Pilot Officer M.H. Mounsdon of 56 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 13.40.  Aircraft crashed at Platts Heath, Lenham with Oberlt H. Hellmuth and Fw F. Winter missing believed killed.

Bf 110C of 8/ZG26 shot down by Pilot Officer J.L. Flinders of 32 Squadron and Sergeant H. Chandler of 610 Squadron whilst escorting bombers and the aircraft crashed at Godstone.  Fw H. Klare and Uffz D. Brunger both missing believed killed.

Luftwaffe mounted a number of limited day and night raids following days of high tempo operations and substantial losses.  The Llanheath oil tanks at Pembroke Dock by two aircraft which set on fire 8 of the 15 tanks (each containing 12,000 tons), the fires were under control by 03.00 the next day.  A further attempt later in the day was made on Mere Oil Fuel Depot in Portland but the bombs missed their target.  During the night Bridlington Post Office and Telephone Exchange were bombed at 01.00 and put out of action.  Over the course of the day, 23 killed and 98 civilians injured, military personnel had 14 killed and 96 injured.  The Germans lost 11 aircraft and 2 damaged.

Both sides revised their respective strategies with 11 Group only intercepting aircraft over Britain and the Hermann Goring issuing a communique, see image above.

Ju 88A-1 (7069) 9K+FR of 7/KG51 was shot down by 602 Squadron whilst on a mission to attack Little Rissington airfield at 14.30.  The aircraft crashed into the Sea off Bognor, Fw J. Moser's body washed ashore the next day, Fw W. Haak's body washed ashore fifteen days later, Fw M. Schachtner's body was washed ashore and buried in France and Uffz K. Bauchauer's body washed ashore at Littlehampton fifteen days later.

The Luftwaffe launched one major raid of 190 aircraft and this was driven back over the Thames Estuary and also a machine gunning attack on Manston airfield.  During the night limited bombing raids were made on Shaftesbury, East Anglia, West of England, South Wales, Newton Abbott and Neath.  During the day 15 civilians killed and 104 injured, military personnel had 10 injured.  The Germans lost 8 aircraft and 4 damaged.

Do 17Z-3 5K+FT of 9/KG3 shot down by Squadron Leader J.R. Kayll, Flying Officer D.H. Hone and Pilot Officer C.R. Young of 615 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Eastchurch aerodrome at 14.15. Aircraft crashed at Capel Hill Farm in Leysdown, Fw E. Rudinger was killed, Fw K. Boke, Fw K. Brehmer and Gefr R. Heinrich all baled out and captured.

Ju 88A-1 4D+IS of 8/KG30 was shot down by Squadron Leader W.A.J. Satchell and Green Section of 302 Squadron whilst on a mission to attack Thornaby airfield at 19.10. Aircraft crashed at Patrington near Hull, Uffz W. Rautenberg was killed, Oberfw W.H. Kruczinski captured but died from his wounds two days later, Uffz F-G. Wolff and Fw H. Keller both captured.

FW 200 of I/KG40 shot down by anti-aircraft fire from a cargo steamer during an anti-shipping mission over the Irish Sea. Aircraft crashed near Cloghane, County Kerry, Oberlt K. Mollenhauser, Reg Rat Dr E. Kruger, Oberfw R. Beumer, Oberfw L. Wockner, Uffz H. Bell and Gefr K. Kyck were all interned in Ireland.

Luftwaffe activity by day and night was limited as a result of adverse weather but mounted small scale nuisance raids.  Bombing caused the deaths of 17 civilian deaths and 99 injured, military personnel had 9 fatalities and 106 injured.  The Germans lost 14 aircraft and 1 damaged.

Do 17Z-3 of U5+FK of 2/KG2 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant G. Powell-Sheddon, Sub-Lieutenant R.E. Gardner and Pilot OfficerJ.B. Latta of Blue Section,  242 Squadron during a mission of Norfolk at 12.30.   The aircraft crashed at Conifer Hill, Starston, Lt H. Ermecke killed, Uffz G-D. Wulf, Uffz H. Hermen and Sonderfuhrer Lt K. Rasche all baled out and captured.

Do 17Z U5+CS of 8/KG2 shot down by Flight Lieutenant P.S. Weaver and Flying Officer R.E.P. Brooker of 56 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Wyton airfield at 18.26.  The aircraft crashed at Gippeswyk Park, Ipswich, see image below of image (first on the left).  Lt K. Kzienzyk, Flgr H. Stertz, Uffz H. Behnke and Gefr J. Sollfrank all baled out and captured.

Do 17Z-3 of KG3 was shot down by Flying Officer D.H. Watkins and Red Section of 611 Squadron whilst on a mission over the East Coast at 12.35.  Aircraft crashed into the North Sea off Skegness, Fw M. Zimmermann and Uffz V. Wiegrand were missing believed killed, Uffz B. Skibitzki was washed ashore at Brancaster on 9 September and buried St Mary's Churchyard, Great Bircham and Gefr E. Schlafer was found off Yarmouth and buried at Sea.

Do 17Z-3 of 4/KG3 shot down by Pilot Officers J.W. Lund and M.P. Brown and Red Section of 611 Squadron whilst on a mission over the East Coast at 12.40.  The aircraft crashed into the North Sea off Scolt Head, Branchester Roads, Lt H. Kruger's and Oberfw W. Stolle's  bodies were washed ashore at Branchester, Uffz H. Kaschner's body was washed ashore at Branchester and buried at St Mary's Churchyard, Great Bircham, Oberfw E. Kotulla was also killed and his body washed ashore.

Do 17Z-3 5K+AP of 6/KG3 collided with 5K+BP aircraft during an attack on the East Coast at 13.30 with the wreckage coming down at Farlesthorpe near Alford.  Oberlt H. Schwarz and Oberlt U. Matschoss both baled out and captured.  Oberfw W. Loos and Uffz H. Lehman were both killed.

Do 17Z-2 5K+BP of 6/KG3 collided with 5K+AP aircraft during an attack on the East Coast at 13.30 with the wreckage coming down at Bilsby near Alford.  Uffz G. Pollmann, Uffz F. Paterrok, Gefr H. Langer and Gefr K. Ludwig all baled out and captured.

Ju 88A-1 4D+LT of 9/KG30 crashed into the North Sea whilst on a reconnaisance mission to Edinburgh at 23.55, East of Berwick.  Fw P. Meyn and Gefr W. Lauer were missing believed killed but Obergefr K. Tutschek and Fw P. Porrmann rescued after twelve hours in their dinghy.

Ju 88A-1 of 1/KG54 was shot down by Squadron Leader J.S. O'Brien and Pilot Officer R.F.T. Doe of 234 Squadron at 14.15.  The aircraft crashed at King's Sombourne, Oberlt M-D. Birkenstock, Obergefr G. Freude, Uffz R. Schulze and Gefr F. Becker were all killed and were burried in an unregistered grave, see image of marker below.

Ju 88A-1 B3+BM of 4/KG54 shot down by a combination of anti-aircraft fire and Squadron Leader C.W. Williams, Pilot Officer H.A.C. Bird-Wilson and Pilot Officer J.K. Ross of Blue Section of 17 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Brize Norton airfield at 16.15.  Aircraft crashed at Marsh Farm, Earnley with Hptmn L. Maiwald, Oberfw H. Apollony, Uffz K. Miethner and Uffz H. Hempel were all captured.

The Luftwaffe undertook two major raids during the day and increased their activity overnight.  The 'Totem' convoy going past Deal early in the afternoon suffered the first major attack and RAF Manston would be the next target, this was followed up with a night raid at 01.25.  The 'Topaz' convoy was attacked sailing past Wick by Ju 88s of KG30.  During the night there were bombing raids on Aberdeen, Pontefract, Hampshire, Bristol, South Wales, Bradford, Hull, Middlesbrough, Sheffield, Huddersfield, Harrow and Tongham.  There were 9 civilian deaths and 65 injured, 3 military personnel were injured.  The Germans lost 3 aircraft and 6 damaged.

Ju 88A-1 7A+AL of 3(F)/121 was shot down by Pilot Officer W. Beaumont of Green Section of 152 Squadron whilst on a reconnaissance mission over the Bristol Channel at 16.00.  Aircraft crashed at Upcott Farm, Beaford, Obergefr W. Kuhweide baled out and died, Lt R. Pfundtner, Oberlt Baudler and Flgr A. Leber were all captured.

Luftwaffe activity by both day and night was hampered by adverse weather.  The image here shows the damage caused to Barclays Bank at 112 High Street in Wealdstone, miraculously the Bank Manager, his wife and son were sleeping in the upper portion of the property and survived unscathed.  Other centres of attack included Bristol, South Wales, East Anglia, Middlesbrough, Harrogate, York, Birmingham, Cornwall and Kent.  This resulted in 25 civilian deaths and 42 injured, 3 military personnel killed and 11 injured.  The Germans lost 8 aircraft and 7 damaged.

Do 17Z U5+EA of KG2 was shot down by anti-aircraft fire whilst attacking factories in Coventry at 09.20.  The aircraft crashed at Spring Wood, Lodge Farm, Wickham Brook.  Oberlt H. Hellmers, Oberfw G. Wagner, Fw A. Dietl and Uffz P. Seidal were all captured.

The Luftwaffe would launch six major raids during the day concentrating on airfields, ports and rail communications.  The first concentrated on Dover in the early morning but repulsed by RAF fighter defences.  The second and third concentrated on sustained bombing of RAF Manston (image below shows the damage to the airfield which resulted in the RAF station being down graded to emergency use), Ramsgate and Dover.  The fourth raid attacked the outskirts of London with bombs dropped on Upminster, Dagenham and Essex.  The fifth raid focused on Portsmouth (images below show the Harbour Railway Station on fire and damage to Clark’s Corner in St James’s Road in Southsea) and Southampton causing substantial damage.  The final attack got as far as Maidstone but again beaten back by determined defence.  During the night, London (start of the Blitz), Birmingham, Devon, Bristol, Gloucester, South Wales, Liverpool, Sheffield, Bradford, Hull, Middlesbrough, Kent, Hampshire, Reading, Oxford, East Anglia and Newcastle were bombed.  Minelaying missions off the Thames Estuary, East Anglia, North Foreland and Flamborough Head.

Bf 109E-4 10+ of 6/JG2 shot down during combat over the Isle of Wight at 16.30 and the aircraft crashed on Shanklin Down.  Fw G. Ebus baled out but drowned with his body recovered by Royal Navy launch and buried at St Ann's Hill Cemetery at Gosport.

Bf 109E-1 12+I of 9/JG3 was shot down at 16.00 with the aircraft crashing at Broom Hill Farm, Camber.  Uffz W. Kaiser was captured.

Bf 109E-4 8+I of 9/JG3 shot down at 16.10 with the aircraft crashing off Reculver. Lt H. Achleitner baled out and rescued.

Bf 109E-4 (5587) 10+ of 6/JG51 was shot down by 32 and 264 Squadrons whilst escorting attacks on Manston airfield at 12.55.  Aircraft crashed at East Langdon, see image below of the aircraft after landing, Oberfw H. Beeck was captured.

Bf 109E-1 9+ of 1/JG52 shot down by Pilot Officer G.D. Gribble of 54 Squadron whilst engaged in combat over the Thames Estuary at 15.45.  The aircraft force landed at Minster Road, Westgate, see image below of aircraft after landing, Fw H. Bischoff was captured.

He 111H-2 of 9/KG53 was shot down by Sergeant W.L. Dymond of Yellow Section of 111 Squadron and Pilot Officer M.H. Young and Segeant L.P. Russell of 264 Squadron whilst bombing Hornchurch airfield at 16.00.  The aircraft crashed at Layer-de-la-Haye, Uffz A. Kramer, Obergefr E. Gleissner and Fw E. Salomo were all killed, Major K. Ritscherle baled out but drowned in South Essex Waterworks and Uffz G. Schaffner baled out and captured.

He 111H-2 A1+BT of 9/KG53 shot down by 615 Squadron whilst bombing Hornchurch airfield at 16.10.  Aircraft crashed at Langford Grove Road, Langford, Oberlt G. Huhn, Oberfw J. Schmid, Fw W. Jagher and Fw G. Ultsch were all killed, Gefr H. Zaunigk baled out and captured.

He 111H-2 A1+DT of 9/KG53 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant P.S. Weaver of 56 Squadron whilst bombing Hornchurch airfield at 17.20.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea off Brightlingsea, Uffz L. Dorn, Uffz O. Schmieding and Gefr W. Gollnitz were all missing believed killed, Hptmn H. Von Lonicer and Uffz E. Pegatzki baled out and rescued by Royal Navy launch.

He 111H-3 A1+KT of 9/KG53 shot down by a combination of anti-aircraft fire and Squadron Leader J.R. Kayll and Pilot Officer J.A.P. McClintock of 615 Squadron whilst bombing Hornchurch airfield at 15.50.  Aircraft crashed at Clay Tye Hill, Bulphan, see below for two images of wreckage, Lt W. Luttigen, Uffz O. Lackner, Fw A. Fraas, Uffz K. Platzer and Uffz H. Hermans were all captured.

He 111H-2 A1+LT of 9/KG53 was shot down by Pilot Officer J.L.W. Ellacombe of 151 Squadron whilst bombing Hornchurch airfield at 16.15.  Aircraft force landed at Samuels Corner, Landwick, Great Wakering.  Oberlt G. Winter, Fw A. Engelhardt, Uffz O. Wieck, Uffz H. Schmidt and Gefr W. Maurer were all captured.

Bf 109E-1 of 2/LG2 shot down by Flying Officer K.J. Marston of 56 Squadron whilst escorting an attack on Hornchurch airfield at 16.00.  Aircraft crashed at Mackledons Farm, Bobbing, Uffz H. Moller was killed.

Bf 109E-4 of 2/LG2 was shot down by Pilot Officer B.J. Wicks of 56 Squadron whilst escorting an attack on Hornchurch airfield at 16.00.  Aircraft crashed on the banks of the River Crouch near Canewdon RDF Station, Uffz A. Buschmeyer baled out and captured.

Luftwaffe day attacks came in late in the day and centred on Portland and Weymouth, there was also raids on Pembroke Dock, Scilly Isles, Dover, Isle of Sheppey and Fighter Command airfields.  During the night there were widespread attacks on Tynemouth, Hartlepool, Stockton, Birmingham, Walsall, Coventry, Southampton, Plymouth, Acklington, White Waltham and Croydon.  Total civilian casualties amounted to 24 killed and 88 injured.  In revenge for German bomber attacks on London during the previous night, Bomber Command launched a limited bombing of Berlin.  Luftwaffe lost 23 aircraft and 11 damaged.

Bf 109E-1 of 1/JG53 was shot down by Pilot Officer W. Beamont of 152 Squadron, Flying Officer R.P. Beamont of 87 Squadron and Sergeant R.T. Llewellyn of 213 Squadron whilst in combat over Weymouth at 17.40.  Aircraft crashed at Tatton House Farm, Buckland, Gefr J. Broker captured but badly burned.

Bf 109E-4 of 6/JG53 shot down by Flying Officer K.W. Tait of 87 Squadron whilst in combat over Weymouth at 17.30.  Aircraft crashed at Chesil Beach, Hptmn A. Maculan missing believed killed.

Bf 109E-4 of I/JG54 was shot down by Pilot Officer C.F. Gray of 54 Squadron whilst in combat over Dover at 19.35.  Aircraft crashed at St Nicholas at Wade, Oberlt H. Held was killed.

He 111P G1+CT of 9/KG55 shot down by Flight Lieutenant J.G. Sanders of 615 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Harwell aerodrome at 00.30.  Aircraft crashed in the Channel off Hastings.  Fw A. Schmaderer baled out and rescued from the Sea, Gefr W. Klesatschek was killed and Lt G. Jerusel, Fw P. Niedel and Fw H. Alt were all missing believed killed.

Bf 110C-4 3M+AH of 1/ZG2 was shot down by Sergeant A.N. Feary of 609 Squadron and Flying Officer P.C. Webb of 602 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 18.00.  Aircraft crashed at Creech Barrow near Wareham, Oberlt G. Goetz and Uffz K. Haupt baled out and captured.

Bf 110C-4 (2123) 3M+CH of 1/ZG2 shot down by Squadron Leader H.S. Darley and Pilot Officer E.Q. Tobin of 609 Squadron, Flying Officer Count M.B. Czernin of 17 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 18.00.  The aircraft crashed at Winfrith, East Chaldon, Warmwell, Lt K. Westphal and Uffz J. Brief were both killed.

Bf 110C-4 (3208) 3M+KH of 1/ZG2 was shot down by Pilot Officers N. le C. Agazarian and G.N. Gaunt of 609 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 18.00.  Aircraft crashed at Priory Farm, East Holme, Uffz S. Becker and Obergefr W. Wotzel both baled out and captured.

Bf 110C-4 (3532) of 8/ZG76 shot down in combat over Portland at 17.30 with the aircraft crashing at Tatton House Farm, Buckland Ripers.  Fw M. Dahne and Obergefr F. Muller were both missing believed killed.

The Luftwaffe launch major attacks by both day and night concentrating on air defences, ports and industry.  The first major raid came at midday that aimed to attack Kenley and Biggin Hill airfields but driven back by substantial fighter defences and bombing was diverted to Folkestone, Margate and Broadstairs.  The second wave of attacks aimed at Hornchurch, North Weald and Debden airfields, the attack on the latter airfield succeeded as commanders fearing an attack on London diverted defences accordingly.  The last major raid of the day was spread across a thirty mile front which bombed Portsmouth and Southampton.  During the night bombing commenced at 21.25 and continued to 03.00 the next day.  London, Midlands, Devon, Bristol, South Wales, Newcastle and Middlesbrough were the targets with mine laying off Plymouth, Whitby, Tyne, Orkneys and Kinnairds Head.  Civilian casualties amounted to 36 killed and 124 injured.  The Germans lost 43 aircraft including 2 seaplanes destroyed by bombing of Tromso and 14 damaged.

Bf 109E-4 (5383) of 2/JG2 was shot down by a combination of anti-aircraft fire and Pilot Officer A.E.A. van den Hove d'Ertsenrijck of 43 Squadron in combat over Portsmouth at 17.25.  Aircraft crashed at Blendworth, Horndean, Oberlt H-T. Grisebach baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-4 (5289) of 4/JG3 shot down by Flying Officer K.J. Marston of 56 Squadron whilst in combat with a Defiant at 12.25.  Aircraft crashed on Chislet Marshes, Grays Farm, Reculver, Uffz W. Finke was killed.

Bf 109E-1 (3874) of 6/JG3 was shot down by Flying Officer K.J. Marston during combat over Thanet at 12.20.  Aircraft crashed at Shuart's Marshes, St Nicholas at Wade, Uffz F. Buchner was killed and his body recovered in 1984.

Bf 109E-1 1+ of 2/JG52 was shot down by fighters over Ramsgate at 15.15 with the aircraft crashing at Acol, Isle of Thanet.  Obergefr W. Malecki was captured.

Bf 109E-1 2+ of 2/JG52 shot down by fighters over Ramsgate at 15.30 with the aircraft crashing near the Club House, Sandwich Golf Club.  Fw A. Bacher was captured.

Bf 109E-1 of 3/JG52 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant J. Ellis of 610 Squadron during combat over the Channel at 11.55.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea near Copt Point, Fw A. Zieger was rescued.

Do 17Z-3 U5+GK of 2/KG2 shot down by 85 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Hornchurch airfield at 15.45.  Aircraft crashed at Eastchurch, Major M. Gutzmann, Uffz H. Buhr, Uffz A. Schmolzer were all captured but Oberlt S. Hertel was killed.
 
Do 17Z-3 U5+LK of 2/KG2 was shot down by Pilot Officer P.A. Worrall and Sergeant G. Allard of 85 Squadron, Sergeant J.R. Kilner and Flight Lieutenant G.A.W. Saunders of 65 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Hornchurch airfield at 15.40.  Aircraft force landed on Rochford airfield, Hptmn H. Fosse, Uffz T. Lunghard, Uffz E. Schmidt and Obergefr J. Roeder were all captured.

Do 17Z-3 U5+LR of 7/KG2 shot down by 1 (RCAF) Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Debden airfield at 15.30.  Aircraft crashed at Highams Farm, Waldon Road, Thaxted, Fw W. Hohenstadter and Uffz R. Gussmann both baled out and captured but Oberlt K-H. Heidenreich and Fw J. Panczak were both killed and buried in Saffron Walden Cemetery.

Do 17Z-3 (1207) U5+ of 7/KG2 was shot down by 1 (RCAF) Squadron after bombing Debden airfield at 15.40.  Aircraft force landed at Whepstead, Bury St Edmunds, Uffz F. Knorky, Uffz H. Schaffer, Uffz W. Simon and Gefr L. Schadt were all captured.

Do 17Z-2 U5+TR of 7/KG2 shot down by 1 (RCAF) Squadron after bombing Debden airfield at 15.30.  Aircraft crashed at Cole End, Wimbish, Lt P. Kreiger, Uffz S. Illing, Uffz K. Winter and Gefr G. Schneider all baled out and captured.

Do 17Z-2 (1160) 5K+AR of 7/KG3 was shot down by fighters whilst on a mission to bomb West Malling airfield at 13.32.  Aircraft force landed on the Goodwin Sands, Fw W. Essmert, Uffz H. Reinhardt and Uffz R. Ritzel all rescued but Gefr Huhn was killed.

Do 17Z-3 (2646) 5K+ER of 7/KG3 shot down by fighters on a mission to bomb West Malling airfield at 12.55.  Aircraft force landed at Foreness Point, Isle of Thanet, Uffz R. Haupt was rescued, Lt K. Eggert was rescued but died of his wounds two days later, Obergefr W. Knochenmuss was killed and Obergefr K. Ramm was captured.  The two crew members who died are buried in Margate Cemetery.

He 111P G1+BB of I/KG55 was shot down by Squadron Leader A.V.R. Johnstone of 602 Squadron, Squadron Leader J.V.C. Badger of 43 Squadron and 17 Squadron whilst on a bombing mission to Portsmouth at 16.30.  Aircraft force landed at Helliers Farm, Wick, Littlehampton, Oberlt I. Krenn, Uffz H. Degan, Uffz H. Morrack, Fw A. Schreck and Uffz W. Schneiders were all captured.  

He 111P (2124) G1+DM of 4/KG55 shot down by Sergeant B.E.P. Whall of 602 Squadron, Pilot Officer H.L. North of 43 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Portsmouth Docks at 16.30.  The aircraft force landed on East Wittering beach, Lt A. Metzger was captured but Fw J. Urhahn, Uffz R. Schander, Uffz R. Paas and Flgr R. Fessel were all killed.

He 111P (2165) G1+GM of 4/KG55 was shot down by Pilot Officer H.L. North of 43 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Portsmouth Docks at 16.45.  Aircraft crashed at West Brook Farm, Waterlooville, Uffz O. Schufft, Uffz F. Marmer, Flgr J. Wimmer were all captured but Oberfw O. Hennecke baled out too low and killed, buried in St Ann's Hill Cemetery in Gosport.

Bf 110D/0 3U+CM of 4/ZG26 shot down by Flight Lieutenant D.C. Bruce of 111 Squadron, Flying Officer I.B. Westmacott of 56 Squadron and Pilot Officer E. Frechtner of 310 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 15.15.  Aircraft crashed at Great Tey, Oberfw K. Rosler and Uffz H. Heinrich were both killed.

Bf110C-4 3U+AT of 9/ZG26 was shot down by Pilot Officer F.B. Sutton of 56 Squadron, Pilot Officer P.J. Simpson and Sergeant T.Y. Wallace of 111 Squadron in combat at 15.25.  Aircraft crashed at Crabtree Farm, Great Bentley, Fw W. Opper and Uffz P. Nick were both killed.

Luftwaffe activity was limited by both day and night and confined to reconnaissance over the South East and light attacks on Scilly Isles airport and London.  Civilian casualities amounted to 29 deaths and 70 injured.  The Germans lost 11 aircraft and 10 damaged.

Do 17P 5D+JL of 3(F)/31 was shot down by Squadron Leader M.V. Blake and Pilot Officer B.B. Considine of 238 Squadron whilst engaged on a reconnaissance mission at 10.30.  Aircraft force landed at Hurdwick Farm, Tavistock, Lt W. Haffan, Fw G. Klauschenke and Gefr J. Schlesjel were all captured.


He 111H-2 (5376) V4+CD of III/KG1 shot down by anti-aircraft fire whilst on a mission to bomb factories in Coventry at 02.31.  Aircraft crashed in Manor Avenue, Caterham, see image below of wreckage.  Major W. Fanelsa, Fw F. Meyer, Oberfw A. Vetter, Oberfw E. Braunsburger and Gefr G. Zimpel all baled out and captured.

The Luftwaffe launched four major raids during the day and heavy bombing operations during the night.  The first raid was a joint attack on Eastchurch and Rochford airfields, the latter airfield was attacked again after midday.  Over the course of the afternoon a large force of German fighters flew over Kent to draw up RAF fighter defences.  During the night, London, Liverpool, Sheffield and Midlands were heavily bombed with minelaying in the Wash, East Anglia, Thames Estuary, Beachy Head, Shoreham, Lyme Bay, Bristol Channel and Liverpool Bay.

Bf 109E-4 (941) of I/JG3 was shot down by Sergeant R.F. Hamlyn of 601 Squadron and Flight Lieutenant P.S. Weaver of 56 Squadron in combat over Dover at 16.25.  Aircraft crashed at Church Farm, Church Whitfield (see image below of wreckage visited by Winston Churchill shortly after the crash).  Lt H-H. Landry baled out but died of his injuries on 23 September 1940.

Bf 109E-4 (5146) of III/JG3 shot down by Sergeant J.K. Norwell of 54 Squadron during combat at 12.40.  Aircraft crashed at Pudding Island, Shuarts Marshes, Oberfw K. Trebing  was killed.

Bf 109E (2743) of JG26 was shot down by fighters whilst in combat over Canterbury at 08.50.  Aircraft crashed at Chartham Downs, Oberlt G. Beyer baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-4 (1353) 13+1 of 7/KG26 shot down by 501 Squadron whilst on an escort mission to Eastchurch at 09.30.  Aircraft crashed at Goodnestone House Farm, Goodnestone, Fw K. Straub was captured.

Go 145B (1115) SM+NQ of JG27 accidently landed on Race Hill, Hope-in-the-Valley, Lewes at 17.40.  Uffz L. Buckle was captured.

Bf 109E-4 (5395) of JG51 was shot down by 501 Squadron whilst in combat over Canterbury at 09.10.  Aircraft crashed at South Barham Farm, Denton, Oberlt E. Kircheis baled out and captured with a broken leg.

Bf 109E-4 (1523) 14+ of 7/KG51 shot down by Sergeant G. Smythe of 56 Squadron and Pilot Officer G.K. Gilroy of 603 Squadron during combat over Dover at 16.55.  Aircraft crashed in Garden Wood, Poultham Farm, South Alkham, Oberfw A. Dau (see image below on capture smoking a cigarette) baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-1 (6204) 4+ of 1/JG54 was shot down by Squadron Leader G.L. Denholm of 603 Squadron whilst in combat over Dungeness at 19.15.  Aircraft crashed at Copt Hill Farm, Capel, Fw O. Schottle was captured.

Do 17Z-3 (4251) 5K+LP of 6/KG3 shot down by Squadron Leader J.A. Leathart of 54 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Hornchurch airfield at 12.45.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea, North of Foreness Point.  Lt P. Krug, Gefr A. Burghardt (see image below being carried on a stretcher), Gefr W. Gailer and Flgr A. Bruckmann were all rescued by fishing boats 'Persevere', 'Golden Spray' and lifeboat 'J.B. Proudfoot'.

Luftwaffe daylight attacks were reduced but night time bombing stepped up with a particular emphasis on Liverpool, see images below of intelligence maps and property damage.  Daylight attacks included the Scilly Isles, Wareham and Dover, the latter was an attempt to engage RAF fighters with a large numbers of German fighters but commanders realised that and didn't engage on those terms.  During the night, Tyne, Hartlepool, South Wales, Manchester and Liverpool which received the heaviest bombing of any British city of the War thus far.  Civilian casualties amounted to 7 killed and 60 injured.  The Germans lost 23 aircraft and 9 damaged.

Bf 109E-4 (5338) 8+ of 2/JG3 was shot down by Sergeant G.B. Booth of 85 Squadron whilst in combat over the Channel at 15.25.  Aircraft crashed near Pevensey RDF station, Oberfw B. Lampskemper was captured.

Bf 109E-1 (1134) of 4/JG3 shot down by fighters in combat over Hastings at 16.10.  Aircraft crashed at Johnsons Lodge Field, Green Farm, Hooe, Oberlt J.Kipper was killed.

He 111H (3438) 1G+EL of 3/KG27 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant A.R. Wright of 92 Squadron whilst flying over Bristol at 23.45.  Aircraft crashed into a house at Downton, Hale, Fordingbridge, see image below of wreckage.  Oberlt H-J. Hunerbein, Uffz J. Schlosser, Uffz D. Siebers and Obergefr P. Walpert all baled out and captured.

This day would see the hardest fighting of the Battle of Britain thus far with four major attacks mounted during the day and widespread bombing throughout the night.  In the morning raids centered on Eastchurch and Biggin Hill aerodromes.  The evening attack had a devasting effect on the Vauxhall Motor Factory in Luton with more than 30 killed and Biggin Hill aerodrome.  The airfields at Kenley, North Weald, Hornchurch, Debden, Lympne, Luton and Detling were all bombed.  During the night, London, Midlands, Manchester, Wrexham, Derby, Nottingham, Leatherhead, Dorking and Essex were bombed.  Civilian deaths numbered more than 40 killed and 285 injured.  The Luftwaffe lost 41 aircraft and 11 damaged.

Bf 109E-4 (2765) 1+- of 4/JG2 shot down in combat over Chatham at 16.55 with the aircraft crashing at Walderslade.  Oberfw K. Harbauer was killed.

Bf 109E-1 (3771) 12+ of 3/JG27 was shot down by Flying Officer B.J.G. Carbury of 603 Squadron whilst in combat over London at 16.45.  Aircraft force landed at Westwood Court near Faversham, Fw E. Arnold was captured.

Bf 109E-1 (6270) 6+ of 3/JG27 shot down by Sergeant A.R. Sarre of 603 Squadron during combat over London at 17.00.  Aircraft force landed at Park House, Westwell, Oberlt E. Axthelm was captured.

Bf 109E-4 (1643) <-+ of II/JG54 collided with Oberlt Rath during combat over Biggin Hill at 11.55.  Aircraft crashed at Oxted and Lt R. Ziegler was captured.

Bf 109E-4 (6072) 6+ of 4/JG54 collided with Lt R. Ziegler during combat over Biggin Hill at 11.55.  Aircraft crashed at Fickleshole Farm, Chelsham, Oberlt H. Rath baled out and captured.

He 111H-2 (2720) V4+BV of 5/KG1 was brought down by Pilot Officer E.J. Morris of 79 Squadron whilst in combat over Reigate at 11.12.  Aircraft crashed at Swires Farm, Capel, Oberfw W. Hornig, Oberfw G. Stahlberg and Gefr Dr K. Heimel were all killed.  Hptmn R. Bass and Oberlt P. Frohlisch were both captured.

He 111H-2 (5444) V4+GV of 5/KG1 shot down by Sergeant G. Allard of 85 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Farnborough at 11.30.  Aircraft crashed at Mannings Heath, Oberlt P. Waechter and Gefr G. Malbeck were both killed.  Obergefr W. Monninghoff, Gefr H. Struger and Gefr W. Hofer were all captured.

He 111H-2 (5125) V4+MV of 5/KG1 was shot down by Sergeant R.A. Beardsley of 610 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Farnborough at 11.40.  Aircraft crashed in the Sea off Folkestone, Uffz E. Burger, Gefr H. Hildebrandt, Gefr H. Roggemann, Gefr W. Feierabend and Gefr W. Klappholz were all rescued by boat and captured.

He 111H-2 (3305) V4+HV of 5/KG1 shot down by Pilot Officer J.P.B. Greenwood of 253 Squadron whilst on a bombing mission to Farnborough at 11.35.  Aircraft crashed at Haxted Farm, Lingfield, Gefr W. Reis was killed, Fw H. Schnabel, Uffz E. Paeslack, Uffz E. Stark and Gefr H. Groth were all captured.

He 111H-2 (2750) V4+DW of 6/KG1 was shot down by Pilot Officer C.O.J. Pegge of 610 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Farnborough at 11.20.  Aircraft crashed at Roy Hill, Hadlow Down near Uckfield.  Oberfw K-H. Rauschert and Flgr R. Zinnogger were both killed, Oberfw K. Riemann, Fw R. Vester and Uffz W. Stein all baled out and captured.

He 111H-2 (5532) A1+JL of 3/KG53 shot down by Flying Officer J.W. Cutts and Sergeant P.O. Davis of 222 Squadron and Pilot Officer N.P.W. Hancock and Sergeant H.J. Merchant of 1 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Hatfield at 16.35.  Aircraft crashed at Lifstan Way, Southend.  Fw E. Von Kuehnheim, Uffz A. Saam and Uffz O. Fischer were all killed.  Lt W. Rosler and Uffz H. Gall both baled out and captured.

He 111H-2 (3142) A1+BN of 5/KG53 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant E.J. Gracie of 56 Squadron after bombing Radlett airfield at 16.30.  Aircraft crashed at Colne Engaine, Halstead, Oberfw T. Dietrich was killed.  Fw A. Hummel, Fw F. Steinberg, Fw A. Fellner and Uffz T. Hugenschutz were all captured.

He 111H-2 (2782) A1+JP of 6/KG53 shot down by Flight Lieutenant G.E. Ball and Flying Officer N.K. Stansfeld of 242 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Radlett airfield at 16.35.  Aircraft force landed at Goodman's Farm close to Manston aerodrome.  Fw F. Eckert was killed and buried at St John's Cemetery in Margate and  Gefr H-G. Kohler died three days later from his injuries and buried at St Lawrence's Churchyard at Ramsgate.  Gefr A. Klapp, Gefr F. Gluck and Fw K. Stockl were all captured.

He 111H-2 (6818) A1+GP of 6/KG53 was shot down by Pilot Officers K.H. Blair and F. Surma of 151 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Radlett airfield at 16.30.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea off the Isle of Sheppey, Uffz G. Rascher, Uffz W. Roempert, Uffz H. Wagner, Uffz A. Schall and Uffz G. Keuerleben were all rescued from their dinghy and captured.

He 111H-2 A1+CR of 7/KG53 shot down by Flight Lieutenant W.H. Rhodes-Moorhouse, Pilot Officer H.T. Gilbert, Sergeant R.N. Taylor and Pilot Officer T. Grier of B Flight, 601 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Radlett airfield at 16.30.  Aircraft crashed near The Rectory, Hunsdon, Gefr F. Reiss was killed.  Gefr L. Stilp died later in the day from his injuries.  Fw W. Kusserow, Fw G. Distler and Lt E. Fischbach were all captured.

Bf 110D/0 (3315) A2+HK of 5/ZG2 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant G.P. Christie of 242 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 16.50.  Aircraft crashed at Rochfords Nursery, Durrants Road, Ponders End.  Hptmn A. Schuldt and Uffz K. Dyroff were both killed.

Bf 110C-2 (3496) 3U+KP of 6/ZG26 shot down by Wing Commander F.V. Beamish and Flying Officer I.B. Westmacott of 56 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 16.30.  Aircraft force landed at Mill Hill Farm, Rettenden, Uffz R. Franke and Uffz W. Hubner were both captured.

Bf 110C (3257) M8+BM of 4/ZG76 was shot down by Pilot Officer W.L. McKnight of 242 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 16.55.  Aircraft crashed at Enfield Sewage Farm, Wharf Road, Ponders End.  Hptmn H. Wagner and Stabsfw A. Schmidt were both killed.

Bf 110C (3615) M8+MM of 4/ZG76 shot down by Flying Officer L.W. Paszkiewicz of 303 Squadron and Pilot Officer B.J. Wicks of 56 Squadron whilst escorting bombers at 16.30.  Aircraft crashed at Barley Beans Farm, Kimpton, Oberfw G. Anthony was killed and buried at Hitchin Cemetery.  Uffz H. Nordmeier baled out but paralysed as a result of heavy landing.

The Luftwaffe attacks during the day would inflict the greatest losses on the RAF of the whole Battle and by night bombing of British cities continued.  Three major raids developed in the early morning, midday and evening along with reconnissance of the Thames Estuary, Hornchurch and Kenley airfields to assess damage already inflicted.  Over the course of the morning the Germans bombed North Weald, Debden, Eastchurch airfields and Duxford was targeted but repulsed through determined attacks.  At midday, raids were launched against Croydon Airport and Biggin Hill airfield with a seperate bombing attack against Hornchurch airfield.  The final raid again targeted Biggin Hill and Hornchurch airfields (see image of text from the Operations Record Book).  During the night. Liverpool, Mersey Estuary, Leeds, Bradford and Stepney in London were bombed.  Total civilian casualties amounted to 49 killed and 598 injured.  The Luftwaffe lost 38 aircraft and 25 damaged.

Bf 109E-4 (5339) of 3/JG3 was shot down by Flying Officer B.J.G. Carbury and Pilot Officer B.G. Stapleton of 603 Squadron and Flight Sergeant F.W. Higginson of 56 Squadron during combat over London at 18.50.  Aircraft crashed at Whalebone Lane Gunsite, Chadwell Heath, Oberlt J. Loidolt baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-4 (1503) of 3/JG3 shot down by Sergeant J. Stokoe of 603 Squadron during combat over London at 18.20.  Aircraft crashed in the gardens between Anne Street and Robert Street in Plumstead, Oberlt W. Binder was killed.

Bf 109E-4 (1082) 4+ of 3/JG3 was shot down by Pilot Officer R. Berry of 603 Squadron whilst in combat over London at 18.45.  Aircraft crashed at Shoeburyness beach, Oberlt H. Rau was captured.

Bf 109E-1 (3175) of 4/JG3 shot down by RAF fighters during combat over London and aircraft crashed into the Channel off Dover.  Lt R. Von Larisch's body was recovered from the Sea, identified and buried at Sea.

Bf 109E-4 (1475) of 6/JG3 was shot down by Pilot Officer W.H. Millington of 79 Squadron whilst in combat over Kent at 18.30.  Aircraft force landed on Lydd Ranges near Dungeness, Oberlt K. Westerhoff was captured.

Bf 109E-1 (4806) of I/JG26 shot down by Flying Officer B.J.G. Carbury of 603 Squadron during combat over Hornchurch at 12.45.  Aircraft crashed at Bridge Road, Rainham and Oberlt L. Hafer baled out and was killed when his parachute didn't open and his body was found in Ingrebourne Creek.

Bf 109E-1 (6309) of 7/JG26 was shot down by Pilot Officer B.E. Christmas of 1 (RCAF) Squadron whilst escorting bombers to Hornchurch at 17.40.  Aircraft crashed at Knatts Valley, Stansted, Uffz H. Liebeck baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-1 (3464) of 7/JG26 shot down by Flying Officer B. Van Mentz of 222 Squadron whilst escorting bombers to Hornchurch at 18.30.  Aircraft crashed at Mill House Farm, Allington, Fw H. Klar was captured.

Bf 109E-4 (1184) 10+1 of 9/KG26 was shot down by Pilot Officer C.F. Gray of 54 Squadron whilst escorting bombers to Hornchurch at 18.45.  Aircraft force landed at Jubilee Hall Farm, Ulcombe, Oberlt W. Fronhofer was captured.

Bf 109E-4 (5105) 13+ of 1/JG77 shot down by Flight Lieutenant M.L. Robinson of 601 Squadron whilst escorting bombers to Hornchurch at 13.00.  Aircraft force landed at Gates Farm, High Halden near Tenterden, Oberlt H-J. Ehrig captured.

Bf 109E-1 (3652) 9+ of 1/JG77 was shot down by Flight Lieutenant H.K. MacDonald of 603 Squadron whilst escorting bombers to Hornchurch at 13.25.  Aircraft crashed at Court Farm, Hunton, Fw W. Evers died of his injuries and buried in Maidstone Cemetery.

Bf 109E-1 (4068) 8+ of 1/JG77 shot down by 501 Squadron whilst escorting bombers to Hornchurch at 13.20.  Aircraft crashed at Boxley, Uffz F-X. Keck baled out and captured.

Bf 109E-1 (6092) of 1/JG77 was shot down by Sergeant R.N. Taylor of 601 Squadron and Flight Lieutenant A.I. Robinson of 222 Squadron whilst escorting bombers to Hornchurch at 13.20.  Aircraft force landed at Shornemead Fort, Gravesend, Fw G. Kramer captured.

Bf 109E-1 (4448) 4+ of 1/JG77 shot down by Pilot Officer G.D. Gribble and Sergeant J.K. Norwell of 54 Squadron whilst escorting bombers to Hornchurch at 13.15.  Aircraft crashed at Brook House Farm, Navestock, Romford, Lt J. Petrenko rescued from the wreckage and admitted to hospital.

Bf 109E-1 (4076) of 2/JG77 was shot down by Flying Officer B.J.G. Carbury of 603 Squadron and Flight Lieutenant D.E. Gillam of 616 Squadron during combat at 09.30.  Aircraft crashed at Elham Park Wood, Oberlt E. Priebe baled out and captured.

Do 17Z-2 (3264) 5K+KM of 4/KG3 shot down by Flying Officer W.P. Clyde of 601 Squadron after bombing Hornchurch airfield at 13.25.  Aircraft force landed at Eastwick Farm, Burnham-on-Crouch.  Oberlt H. Gahrtz, Gefr E. Neumann and Oberfw A. Bulach were all captured but Uffz E-A. Bock died of his wounds three days later.

Do 17Z-3 (2669) 5K+LM of 4/KG3 was shot down by RAF fighters and anti-aircraft fire whilst bombing Hornchurch at 13.40.  Aircraft force landed at Sandwich Flats near Princes Golf Club (see image below of smoking wreckage).  Oberfw W. Lange, Uffz F. Krostopotsch, Fw H. Berndt (see image of him on stretcher) and Fw H. Wunsch were all captured.

Do 17Z-3 (3414) 5K+GN of 5/KG3 shot down by RAF fighters after bombing Hornchurch airfield at 13.45.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea near South Goodwins.  Uffz H. Blasche, Fw E. Gudat and Uffz W. Sonntag were all captured but Fw B. Nickel missing believed killed.

Do 17Z (3316) F1+BK of 2/KG76 was shot down by Sergeant M.H. Pocock of 72 Squadron whilst on a mission to bomb Hornchurch at 18.05.  Aircraft force landed at Newchurch, Dungeness.  Lt J. Kleppmeier, Uffz A. Bloss, Oberfw H. Lang and Fw H. Pfaehler were all captured.

Bf 110D/0 (3381) S9+GK of 2/ErproGr210 shot down by RAF fighters whilst attacking West Malling airfield at 13.15.  Aircraft force landed at Stansted, Wrotham Hill.  Uffz Glaske captured but Obergefr K. Schweda killed.

Bf 110 of 14/LG1 was shot down by Pilot Officer H.T. Gilbert of 601 Squadron whilst in combat over Thames Estuary at 09.05.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea near Foreness, Lt K-J. Eichorn rescued by a fishing boat but Uffz R. Growe missing believed killed.

Bf 110 L1+AK of 14/LG1 shot down by Flight Lieutenant C.R. Davis of 601 Squadron whilst in combat over the Thames Estuary at 09.10.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea near Nore lightship, Fw G. Fritz and Obergefr K. Dopfer were both captured.

Bf 109E-7 (5600) of 3/LG2 was shot down by Pilot Officer M. Feric of 303 Squadron whilst in combat over Biggin Hill at 18.45.  Aircraft crashed at Chathill Park Farm, Crowhurst.  Oberlt H. Von Perthes baled out but died of his wounds on 14 September at Royal Herbert Hospital in Woolwich.

Bf 110D (3396) 3U+HS of 8/ZG26 shot down by Flying Officer L.R.G. Mitchell of 257 Squadron whilst in combat over the Thames Estuary at 08.30.  Aircraft crashed into the Sea between Colne Point and East Mersea.  Oberlt E. Von Bergen and Uffz H. Becker baled out and rescued by Royal Navy launch.